Friday Updates - May 27, 2016

Friday, May 27, 2016

The late John Hatch of Durham created the stained glass above located inside the Memorial Union Building (MUB) on the UNH campus. More information is provided below.  Courtesy Todd Selig

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Monday, May 25th is Memorial Day.  

The origins of Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, lie in the Civil War.  Southern women laid claim to the custom of a day set aside to decorate the graves of the war dead.  Union veterans laid claim to a specific date, May 30th, but it wasn't until after World War II that North and South were willing to observe Memorial Day on the same date. 

If you are observing the weekend as most Americans do as the semi-official start of the summer vacation season, please pause occasionally to reflect on the meaning of the holiday. (See more on Durham's planned Memorial Day ceremonies below.)

If you know of others within the community who might want information about Memorial Day in Durham, please forward this edition of the "Friday Updates" along to them!

MEMORIAL PARK FLAG

To commemorate Memorial Day and one of our beloved residents and veterans whom we lost a few years ago, DPW has flown the flag of resident George Frick, known by all as “Curly” in Memorial Park. 

Wishing all a peaceful Memorial Day.

MEMORIAL DAY PARADE - MONDAY, MAY30, 2016

Durham Parks & Recreation and the Town of Durham are honored to invite Durham citizens to its 68th Annual Memorial Day Parade and celebration! The parade will begin at Mill Pond Road, in front of Mill Pond on Monday, May 30th at 10AM. Please arrive at the site no later than 9:30AM if you would like to walk or ride with us.


Immediately following the welcoming announcement, the parade will proceed down Mill Pond Road, and turn left onto Newmarket Road. From there, another left will be made onto Dover Road/Main Street, toward downtown and Memorial Park, where the second ceremony will take place.

There will be live music, musket salute, invocation, and other special announcements.

An additional ceremony will also take place at the Memorial Union Building circle, but will not be part of the parade procession.

NEW HAMPSHIRE'S OFFICIAL STATE WAR MEMORIAL IS LOCATED IN DURHAM AT THE UNH MEMORIAL UNION BUILDING 

Many Durham residents may not realize that New Hampshire's official state war memorial is located right here in Durham on the campus of the University of New Hampshire.   Situated on the third floor of the MUB, the Memorial Room reflects that distinction and honors all New Hampshire residents who perished while in military action from World War I through present day. Funds to create this building as a war memorial came from alumni, the state, businesses and civic groups.

 

In 1953, when Governor Hugh Gregg signed a proclamation declaring the UNH Memorial Union as the State's official war memorial (prior to building construction that was completed in 1957), he wrote that it was “desirable that as many youth of the state as possible should know and revere the courage and the sacrifice of New Hampshire men and women who served their country.”

 

Gregg and the many community members who worked to create the building wanted it to be a place to prompt discussion and thought, a place for quiet reflection, and a place of inspiration.  By placing this building and this room in the state’s Land Grant University in Durham, it was hoped that generations of students to come would be inspired to have these discussions.

The Artist — the Late Durham Resident/UNH Professor John Hatch

The windows in the MUB's Memorial Room were designed by Durham resident and UNH Art Professor John Hatch. Hatch taught at UNH from 1949 - 1985 and was best known as a painter of landscapes. Hatch captured the essence of New Hampshire in his paintings of the White Mountains and the Isles of Shoals.

 

Prior to his death in 1998, Hatch was honored as a “New Hampshire Living Treasure” by Governor Jeanne Shaheen who presented him with the biennial Governor's Award in Arts.

 

When plans were being made in the 1950’s for the construction of the building and the Memorial Room, John Hatch was honored with the opportunity to design a tribute window. Hatch had served in World War II in the Pacific campaign as a map topographer. Hatch was a new faculty member and had yet to earn the acclaim that would come to him later in his career, so some in the University community were surprised in his selection for this special job.

 

The doubts continued when his very modern design for the windows was approved over a traditional cathedral-style stained glass look. It was the only window Hatch ever made although he painted murals and created maps (such as the large map of Durham in the Town Hall foyer) and paintings throughout the University and in other public buildings including Durham’s Town Hall.


Today, the windows are a revered piece of public art in Durham on the UNH campus.

The Process

The window was manufactured by and funded through a grant from Monsanto Chemical Company in Detroit, with the help of Stanley King, class of ’26, who was then director of sales. The only of its kind in the world, the window uses safety glass and required the development of a new paint pigment that was lightfast, translucent and strong in color. For the pigment to have a translucent quality, it needed to be ground for 70 hours. Each panel of optically ground glass is 1Ž4 of an inch thick, and made of three sheets of plastics and a film of paint sandwiched between two panes of glass.

Renovations
In 1995, the Memorial Union Building underwent extensive renovations and the location of the Memorial Room and the windows shifted from the west end of the building to its current location at the east end of the third floor. John Hatch supervised their removal and storage.
 
With concerns about how the windows would fare in the move, Hatch’s collaboration with the construction company ensured their preservation. Today, students and visitors from across New Hampshire and beyond are able to enjoy the windows from an improved vantage point and can be reminded of the meaning of the building's status as a war Memorial.

TOWN OFFICES CLOSED MONDAY IN OBSERVANCE OF MEMORIAL DAY

A final reminder that all Town offices will be closed on Monday, May 30, 2016, in observance of Memorial Day. All Town offices will reopen for regular business on Tuesday, May 31, 2016.

Transfer Station and Refuse/Recycling Schedule Changes for the Memorial Day Holiday

NO CURBSIDE COLLECTION ON MON 5/30/16 - Delayed one day all week. Monday collection on Tuesday, Tuesday collection on Wednesday, etc.

TRANSFER STATION CLOSED SAT 5/28/16 

NO COMMERCIAL COLLECTION ON FRI 6/3/16. 

JOIN THE DURHAM HISTORIC ASSOCIATION'S JUNE 5TH PICNIC

Pack up a picnic supper on June 5th and head out to Durham Point for the annual picnic of the DHA at Mathes Garrison Farm, home of Nancy and Malcolm Sandberg at 15 Langley Rd.

The Greek Revival farmhouse built in 1861 by Jacob Mathes sits near the site of 17th century Mathes Garrison overlooking the Oyster River and Little Bay.

Arrive at 5PM to set up your lawn chairs or picnic blanket and enjoy the history of this area.

IMPORTANT NOTICE REGARDING WATER/SEWER BILLS

The first half water/sewer bills went out recently and are due June 16th.  The new rate for water is $5.35 and for sewer $7.30.  It has come to the Town Clerk's attention that the rates printed on the new bill were the old rates; water $4.82 and sewer $6.83. This error was clerical only, the amount due was correctly calculated using the new rates.  The Town Clerk's Office apologizes for this error and regrets any concern this may have caused.     

 

PROPERTY TAX BILLS

The property tax warrant for the 1st half 2016 property taxes has been approved and the bills will be mailed out by Tuesday, May 31st, due Friday, July 1st.

As always, if  residents are unable to pay the entire amount by the due date, it is to their advantage to pay as much as they can and as often as they need. This will decrease the amount of interest that will accrue.

Questions and concerns should be addressed to the Town Clerk-Tax Collector's Office at 603-868-5577.

 

A family of Canada Geese swimming in the Mill Pond

Courtesy Bernie Casey

COUNCIL ADOPTS 2016-2017 GOALS

At its meeting on May 23, 2016, the Town Council adopted goals for the coming year.  As in the past, these goals are intended to be reflective of Town aspirations over the next 1-3 year timeframe.  

 

It is our hope that all of the Town’s various boards, committees, and commissions will review the list and work to incorporate these key elements into their own work plans.

 

Standards of Performance

• Embrace openness in the transaction of public business while conducting Town affairs in a manner that is just and best demonstrates a genuine respect for different ideas, opinions, and perspectives.
• Encourage all Town boards, committees, and commissions to align their efforts with the Council goals and to collaborate and communicate frequently with each other and with the community at large.
• Ensure that the Town staff and resources secured by the Town provide exemplary expertise, guidance and support to Town boards, commissions and committees.

Key Objectives

• Pursue long-term economic and environmental sustainability and resiliency, anticipating the community’s and the region’s future needs through a framework that formally integrates the consideration of multiple elements including society, ecology, economics, transportation, agriculture, recreation, food and drinking water, climate, and energy resources.
• Continue cooperative and collaborative efforts with UNH to enhance mutual intellectual, cultural, environmental, social, and economic benefits associated with hosting New Hampshire’s state university. Negotiate equitable agreements for the delivery of services and provision of infrastructure used by both the Town and UNH and develop long-term policies that reduce the burden on the Town and clarify town-gown land ownership.
• Having expanded the tax base through student housing construction, focus on revitalizing Durham’s commercial core in ways that enhance the sense of community and better provide for the needs of our residents, while maintaining our small town character, rural pastoral gateways, and cultural history.  
• Regain and enhance the integrity of Durham’s traditional family neighborhoods.
• Finalize police station expansion design and project approval by Town Council or by referendum, as appropriate.  
• Select site and finalize design for a new fire station.  
• Develop a plan and assess the merits of pursuing initiatives for new or existing public facilities to meet the present and future needs of the community to include, among others:

1. Shoreline stabilization and trail plans for Wagon Hill Farm that consider the Stewardship Plan for the property.  
2. Dam/culvert deficiencies and water quality at the Littlehale Pond.  
3. Restoration of the Mill Pond.  
4. Integrated or stand-alone wastewater/stormwater permits through the US EPA.
5. Additional green space and/or public space or facilities that could be utilized for public events, activities, or programming such as art exhibitions, musical events, a Farmers’ Market, or a community center in order to further enhance the lives of Durham residents.  With this in mind, efforts will begin in order to realize unique opportunities if and when they appear.

• Provide the resources so the Planning Board may complete the Future Land Use Chapter of the Master Plan by the end of calendar year 2018.  
• Strengthen the community and enhance its social capital by supporting an array of recreational, artistic, and educational opportunities; celebrating and sustaining Durham’s history and natural setting; and developing initiatives that promote public transportation options and ensure safe walking and biking.
• Task the administrator with developing a budget for 2017 that holds General Fund expenses at current levels except for contractual increases including wages and benefits and a cost of living adjustment for non-unionized personnel.  Develop a Capital Fund budget using increases in revenue projected and any increase in the tax rate if necessary.  Specific itemized expenses for initiatives or projects that exceed this budgetary threshold but are deemed by the Administrator to increase efficiencies over time, are consistent with other Council goals, or are important for the general welfare of the community as part of the proposed budget shall be highlighted and include itemized rationale, as well as offsetting revenue as appropriate, for the Council’s discussion and consideration as part of the annual budget process.  
• Identify and address the needs of our citizens to ensure they are well-served by the Town.
• When developing new regulations or assessing the benefits of existing codes that could be simplified or eliminated altogether, endeavor to make living in Durham less complex and less burdensome for our residents.  

NOTE:  Order of the goals does not imply priority. Goals for previous councils can also be viewed HERE.

 

Pictured at the Harmony Homes groundbreaking ceremony this week, left to right:  Michael Sievert, MJS Engineering; Dennis McCann, Dir. Strafford County Economic Council; Tim Noonan, Building Contractor; Mary Ellen Humphrey, Durham Ec. Dev. Director; John Burcke, Newbury Port Bank; John Randolph, Developer/Owner; Todd Selig; Kitty Marple, Town Council Chair; Andrew Corrow, Durham Planning Board Chair;  Michael Behrendt, Durham Dir. of Planning; Steve McHenry, Architect.  Photo Courtesy Craig Stevens, DCAT Studios

DURHAM BUSINESS PARK GROUND BREAKING FOR HARMONY HOMES - Located on Route 4 along the Oyster River

A groundbreaking ceremony was held this past Wednesday morning in Durham for Harmony Homes, a new 60-bed assisted living facility on previously–owned town land on the Oyster River.  Harmony Homes, which currently operates a facility in Durham, will begin construction next month on one of three phases of development on the 28 acres of property. Durham applied for and was recently awarded a $500,000 Community Development Block Grant by the New Hampshire Community Development Finance Authority, which will provide a loan to Harmony on the Bay, LLC. 

Read about the ground breaking in Foster’s Daily Democrat HERE.

A video of the groundbreaking ceremony can also be seen on the Town’s Facebook site.

SEACOAST GROWERS FARMERS’ MARKET TO BE LOCATED AT JACKSON’S LANDING AGAIN IN 2016

Despite efforts to identify an alternative, in-town walkable location for the Durham Farmers’ Market, we were unable to nail down a suitable alternative.  Consequently, the market will again be located at Jackson’s Landing as has been the case for the last two years.

The Durham Farmers' Market will begin Monday, June 6th from 2:15 - 6PM and run every Monday until October 3rd.

THE SPECIAL OLYMPICS STATE SUMMER GAMES ARE COMING TO DURHAM

On Friday, June 3rd and Saturday, June 4th more than 800 athletes will go for the gold in aquatics, athletics, bocce, equestrian, and powerlifting.

 

Be a fan in the stands at the Opening Ceremonies on Friday June 3rd at UNH's Cowell Stadium in Durham.  This inspiring event will kick off with a parade of athletes at 6pm, followed by various speakers and performances.  A parade of Law Enforcement vehicles at 7:30pm will prepare the crowd for the main event...RELAYS!  Athletes will compete under the stadium lights in 4x100M and 4x400M traditional and unified relays. The ceremonies will culminate with a fireworks display at 9:00pm.

 

Be a part of the Games by volunteering!  Volunteers are needed throughout the week…especially at the events listed below.  For more information and to sign up, visit www.sonh.org.

Running Long Jump – 6/3 7:30am – 10:30am

Track A Staging – 6/4 8:00am – 2:30pm

Recycling – 6/3 9:00am – 6:00pm, 6/3 7:00pm – 10:00pm, 6/4 9:00am – 5:00pm

 

CEMENT POURING AT OYSTER RIVER HIGH SCHOOL FIELD

A significant part of the new fields at the Oyster River High School involves pouring a large amount of concrete.  For the best results the “pour” needs to be accomplished in sequence and this creates a time challenge for the construction folks.  For this instance, the Durham Police have authorized the pour to commence at the fields at 5:30AM on Thursday June 2nd.  This will be a one-time inconvenience and residents are thanked in advance for the understanding and patience as this project comes to fruition.

 

DOGS RUNNING AT LARGE

There have been several reports of dogs off leash that have been consuming Durham Police time of late.  Town ordinances require that a dog be on a leash no longer than 8 feet at all times when off the private property of the owner.  If the dog bolts from the owner’s property to harass or frighten people this is a violation of the Town Ordinance.  We all love our pets but there are some who may be frightened of a dog they are not familiar with and it is ultimately the owner’s responsibility to ensure that their animal is restrained when off their property limits.

MINUTE TAKER NEEDED FOR EDC

Minute taker Sue Lucius is no longer able to cover the minutes of the Economic Development Committee (EDC) due to a change of meeting times to the morning.  As a result, the Town is in need of a part-time minute taker to cover the minutes of the EDC.  The pay is around $20.00/hr. and is undertaken done on an hourly basis.  Meetings typically last for two hours plus the time needed to finalize the minutes. Good writing skills are a must.  Interested individuals can contact part-time Economic Development Director Mary Ellen Humphrey at mehumphrey@ci.durham.nh.us. 

PAVING WORK HAS BEGUN IN DURHAM FOR 2016

The 2016 approved Capital Fund Road Program Budget ($344,000) and Sidewalk Budget ($81,500) represent this year’s approved road-resurfacing/sidewalk program, which is part of the Department of Public Works 16 year road-resurfacing plan.

 

Public Works combined the sidewalk program with this year’s road program bid process to leverage the best pricing regarding asphalt paving. The sidewalk project this year is the Mill Road sidewalk. In addition a small amount of paving at the Wastewater Treatment Plant was included in this bid package.  

 

This year’s road resurfacing program includes an asphalt shim, 1”overlay and shoulder gravel back-up/widening where applicable on the following Town roads:  Cedar Point Road, Mill Road and Watson Road  

 

In addition, 20 storm water catch basin frames/grates and sewer manhole frames/covers will be adjusted to the new paved surface per NHDOT specifications.

 

The initial coat of pavement on Mill Road was applied this week.      

 

Department of Public Works employee Sam Hewitt cleaning up the sidewalk at the corner of Main and Madbury Streets on Wednesday this week. Courtesy DCAT Studios

EVERSOURCE TO ENHANCE POWER LINES ON MILL ROAD SERVICING FACULTY NEIGHBORHOOD AND PORTIONS OF DOWNTOWN - System improvements in response to Durham requests.

At Durham’s request, Eversource will be enhancing electric reliability to Mill Road feeding portions of downtown Durham and the Faculty Neighborhood this summer.  The company will be installing the much awaited spacer cable (also known as Hendrix cable) on Mill Road.  This is a real improvement for Durham residents within the project area.  Spacer cable provides additional protection in the event a branch or tree comes down and impacts it.  As part of the project, Eversource will remove the Durham substation and replace the existing aged poles, currently 35-40' with 50', to accommodate the new cable.  Although this project will also improve electric reliability, it is not related to or part of the Seacoast Reliability Project, which will also improve reliability to the Seacoast area.

 

Newly submitted conceptual design for the Mill Plaza site received by the Planning Department on 5/25/16.  Courtesy Durham Planning Office

MILL PLAZA REDEVELOPMENT SUBMITS REVISED DESIGN TO PLANNING BOARD AS PART OF DESIGN REVIEW PROCESS

This week, the owner of the Mill Plaza, Colonial Durham Associates, submitted revised conceptual plans for the redevelopment of the 10-acre parcel.  The applicant will return to the Durham Planning Board on June 8th to discuss the revised plans and ideas/specifics regarding the project with the board.  


The revised plans include a memorandum from the applicant’s architect, The Cecil Group, which states the following:  

"This conceptual plan is a response to questions and comments from Town officials and members of the public at earlier stages of the design review process, and the settlement between the Town and Colonial Durham. Representatives from the project team met with members of the public and tenants in two separate meetings on Saturday, May 14 to discuss possibilities for the site and to gather input from meeting participants about different options for siting the proposed uses.

The location of uses within this plan reflect those discussions, while incorporating development goals and tenant considerations. A major assumption is that both Hannaford and Rite Aid remain in their current positions within the site. Both have long-term leases which must be taken into account in the site planning process.

The site plan strives to create compact footprints for surface parking by consolidating as much parking as possible below residential building and landscaped terrace. A diagram shows safe movements for pedestrians and bicyclists between the formal site entrance at Mill Road and the pedestrian entrances off Chesley Drive and Main Street.

A priority was the relationship between the Mill Plaza and Main Street. Two commercial buildings continue the village edge from Main Street along Mill Road to the site entrance. The first building is a small two-story addition to the end of the existing building which would activate and frame the sidewalk and Bicentennial Park. The second building is a single-story bank with a drive-thru window. Within the interior of the site, a new two- story commercial building defines the courtyard for primary customer parking.”

Interested residents can obtain more information on the Town’s web site HERE.

Separate and apart from the submission of a new design for the proposed project, part-time Economic Development Director Mary Ellen Humphrey, Planner Michael Behrendt, and Administrator Todd Selig are planning to meet with executives from Hannaford on Thursday of next week to gain a better understanding of the supermarket’s future plans, which we believe involves an expansion of some type, and to encourage the company to work closely with the Mill Plaza owner to consider relocating the supermarket to another part of the property as part of the redevelopment envisioned there. 

SOIL AND ROCK SAMPLING WITHIN EVERSOURCE RIGHTS-OF-WAY FOR SEACOAST RELIABILITY PROJECT TO TAKE PLACE IN DURHAM - Beginning in Late May/Early June

As part of the Seacoast Reliability Project, Eversource and its contractors will be conducting engineering field investigations which include soil and rock sampling within its right-of-way. Eversource’s contractors will be taking soil and rock samples near the proposed overhead transmission structure sites to help evaluate the condition of the soils on the right-of-way.

Sampling typically takes 1-2 days per location, with equipment remaining on site for the duration. Some minor vegetation trimming or removal may be needed to access the sampling locations. Plywood and/or wood mats may also be used temporarily to protect environmentally sensitive areas. The mats will be removed at the conclusion of the soil sampling.

This field work is part of the preparations for the Seacoast Reliability Project (SRP), designed to improve the reliability of the transmission system in the area. On April 12, Eversource submitted an application to the New Hampshire Site Evaluation Committee for approval to construct this project. The siting process is currently under way and is expected to conclude by mid-2017. Pending receipt of regulatory approvals, construction is scheduled to begin shortly after. Please note that these surveys are NOT part of the construction process.

Work Locations

This field work will take place within the boundaries of the existing Eversource right-of-way corridor that is being proposed for the Seacoast Reliability Project. The right-of-way begins at Madbury Substation, and crosses Madbury Road, Route 4, Main Street, Mill Road, Route 108, Timberbook Lane, Cutts Road, Frost Drive, Sandy Brook Drive, Longmarsh Road, Durham Point Road, Gundalow Landing, Little Bay Road, Nimble Hill Road, Fox Point Road, Spaulding Turnpike and Woodbury Avenue, ending at the Portsmouth Substation.

Work Schedule

Survey and staking will begin in late May followed by the soil and rock sampling which is anticipated to be complete by mid-summer.

 

TOWN COUNCIL CONSIDERS ORDINANCE TO CHARGE NON-RESIDENTS FOR USE AT WAGON HILL FARM - No charge for residents displaying valid resident/taxpayer (dump sticker) sticker on vehicles.

The Town Council is considering charging non-residents to park at Wagon Hill Farm.  On Monday evening, the Council voted unanimously to hold a public hearing on the proposal on June 20. If passed, it will cost non-residents $3 to park at the farm while remaining free for residents with use of their resident/taxpayer (dump) stickers.  The town purchased the property from a private landowner, the Tirrell Family, in 1989 at a cost of $3.1 million.  Per the proposed ordinance, there would be two mechanisms that non-residents can use to park at the farm — a daily parking pass that can be purchased by accessing an envelope from a collection post or an annual permit for $35 that would hang from a driver's rear-view mirror.  Monies collected would be put to use for the long-term maintenance and care of the property. Read the article on this in the Foster’s Daily Democrat HERE.

 

Robert Leochler played his Tin Whistle while enjoying the beautiful weather on Wednesday afternoon this week. Courtesy DCAT Studios

TOWN COUNCIL RECEIVED PRESENTATION ON PROPOSAL TO CONSTRUCT ADDITION/RENOVATION AT DURHAM POLICE DEPARTMENT

The Town Council received a presentation regarding an addition and renovation to the Durham Police Station at Monday night's Town Council meeting.  The project is one of the specific goals adopted by the Council for 2016-2017.  Architect Bill Schoonmaker provided the Council with a progress report relative to the design and cost projections to date for the project.  At this juncture the project, which is still under active development, is estimated cost about $1.9 million+/- ($1.73 million for construction + architectural services and other TBD misc. costs).  The current station at 86 Dover Road has been in use since 1997. The next steps are to finalize the design, further refine the estimated pricing, and continue discussions with the Town Council, and then if deemed appropriate by the Council, place the item on the ballot as a town referendum in March 2017, with a 2017 construction date. Read about this project in the Foster’s Daily Democrat HERE.

The ORMS 5th Grade Dragonfly Team produced 7 distinct informational posters this week dealing with climate change as part of a public presentation at the Library on Wednesday evening.  A collage of the 7 images combined as shown above spells C L I M A T E.  Courtesy Todd Selig

ORMS 5TH GRADE STUDENTS DISCUSS THEIR FINDINGS CONCERNING CLIMATE CHANGE | About 60 community members learned from 5th grade students of Oyster River Middle School on May 25th!

Fifth Graders of Oyster River Middle School, the Dragonfly Team, have been learning about climate change from their teachers and from experts at Strafford Regional Planning, UNH Cooperative Extension, and NH Sea Grant. In April, students learned from these experts about the differences between climate and weather, the changes we are seeing and can expect in the future, and what NH communities can and are already doing to plan with climate change in mind. Students recorded what they have learned onto posters in response to questions about climate change and presented findings to about 60 residents on Wednesday of this week, May 25th, at the Durham Public Library.  It was a very interesting evening.

Over 70 individuals attended the solar power workshop on Tuesday, May 24th. Courtesy DCAT Studios

SOLAR POWER WORKSHOP/TOUR A SUCCESS

On Tuesday, May 24th, more than 50 participants joined James Hasselbeck of ReVision Energy and Charlie Forcey of the Durham Energy Committee for a tour of the nearly complete Oyster River Forest Solar Farm at the gravel pit off of Packers Falls Road. 

Later that same day, over 70 residents from all over the seacoast attended a Solar 101 workshop presented by Andy Duncan of the Lakes Region Community College. This presentation will be available on DCAT on Demand and covered residential solar PV systems and installations topics including, panel placement, permitting and grid interconnection, financing, incentives, and installer selection.  This event is being sponsored by the Durham Energy Committee, the Lee Energy Committee, the Stratham Energy Commission, the Rye Energy Committee, the Dover Energy Commission, the Seacoast Area Renewable Energy Initiative (SEAREI), the Seacoast Regional Energy Hub and other local area energy groups. 

Thank you to Breaking New Grounds for donating coffee, Squamscot Beverages of Newfields for providing discounted beverages, and ReVision Energy for donated refreshments.

ANNUAL BOARD OFFICER TRAINING SESSION WITH ADMINISTRATOR SELIG SCHEDULED

Each year, Todd Selig invites the chair/vice chair of Durham’s boards/committees to meet with him as an orientation to the chair/vice chair position, issues regarding the right to know law, an orientation concerning Council goals, and many other matters. 

All members of board/committees are welcome to attend, as is the public.  

 

The session this year will be held at 7 PM on Monday, June 27, 2016, in the Town Council chambers.  It will be televised on DCAT beginning at 7 PM.

 

AGRICULTURAL COMMISSION WEEKLY MINI FILM SERIES

Durham's Agricultural Commission's has begun featuring a Mini Film Series in the weekly "Friday Updates".  Each week a short video on an agricultural topic will be posted that Commission members hope subscribers will enjoy and find helpful.

 

This week's mini film: How to Plant and Grow Tomatoes.  

Memorial Day Weekend is the traditional date for starting warm loving vegetables like tomatoes, eggplant, and peppers. Learn the best way to plant tomatoes with this video and don’t forget to come to the Memorial Day parade to see the Agricultural Commission’s garden float and animals.  

 

Trees along Main Street downtown decorated with beautiful knitted designs blooming with flowers. Courtesy DCAT Studios

OYSTER RIVER WOMENADE ANNUAL "YARN-BLOOMING"

On Thursday this week, Oyster River Womenade's annual "Yarn-Blooming" was put on display on Main Street in Durham with trees on Main Street being covered in beautiful knitted designs blooming with flowers.


The goal of "Yarn-Blooming" is to help raise awareness for Oyster River Womenade, a local organization that provides monetary support to community members in times of hardship, for example, help with medical expenses,

fuel costs, or automobile repairs.   

 

Communities that are directly helped by OR Womenade are:  Newmarket, Madbury, Lee, and Durham.  OR Womenade's belief is that by helping someone with a short-term crisis, we can help their situation from spiraling out of control.  

 

For more information about OR Womenade, please visit their website HERE.

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.

Historic District Commission - Thursday, June 2, 2016

All meetings recorded on DCAT are available on DVD at the Durham Public Library for checkout and viewing.

DCAT CABLE CHANNEL 22

Economic Development Director Mary Ellen Humphrey and Megan Senter, Manager of the Soupery & Juicery located at 30 Main Street. Courtesy DCAT Studios

Currently in production is the latest episode of “In the Biz, Durham Business Spotlight”, so keep your eyes open for its release date.  In this episode, EDC Director, Mary Ellen Humphrey chats with Megan Senter, manager of the Soupery & Juicery in downtown Durham.  Learn a little bit of what you didn’t know about our newest business.  You can also see how they make one of their delicious concoctions. 

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DCAT 22 On Demand has made a change to the Town's Video On Demand service. The switch to the new VOD service began on Monday, April 18th. All of the videos that were available on the old site have been ported over, and are up and running for the public's viewing pleasure on the new site.  


The new site address: https://dcat22.viebit.com/


Please contact: dcat@ci.durham.nh.us with any questions

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If you happened to miss the Seed Starting Workshop in the Community Room at the Durham Public Library, don’t fret DCAT Studios was there to record and prepare the video for replay.  There are many awesome tips by presenter: Jeremy DeLisle, UNH Cooperative Extension. I can’t go into detail simply because I’m not a gardener, but if you are,  then this is don’t miss TV.  This video will replay on DCAT Channel 22 on Saturday & Sunday @ 4:00 PM.  This program will also be available on DCAT On Demand.  Total video run time: 1:30

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The Durham Agricultural Commission is working with farmers and gardeners in the area to give you a behind-the-scenes video tour of local farms and gardens.  The videos are produced by Durham resident & DCAT 22 Volunteer, Phil Kincade and present a seasonal look at our working landscape.  This video is currently only available for viewing on DCAT On Demand (DCAT 22 Studios folder).

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The last week of March saw author KD Mason arrive at the Durham Public Library.  You won’t want to miss his explanation of his decision to become a writer and how he dreamed up his main character, plus so much more.  Mason is witty and extremely entertaining.  DCAT 22 was there to record what was missed by those who decided to stay home and watch Dancing with the Stars, rather than come to the Library for snacks and cool author.  DCAT 22 replay: Saturday & Sunday @ 1:30 PM.  This program will also be available on DCAT On Demand.  Total video run time: 1:00

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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.

FROM THE SUPERVISORS OF THE CHECKLIST

The New Hampshire  State Primary is September 13.  In New Hampshire, anyone who is registered to vote may do so in a Primary (unlike in some other states) but must vote the party with which they are registered (Republicans vote for Republican candidates, Democrats vote for Democratic candidates). 

Undeclared voters may pick the ballot they wish to use. The Supervisors are sure that most residents who wish to be Undeclared or in a party different from the one they voted for in February have done so, some residents have not done that yet..

May 31 is the last day party affiliations can be changed before the Primary. 

The Supervisors believe they have made all of the changes that have been requested so far, but urge residents to check to make sure they are where they want to be.  A new (as of April 26) checklist has been posted at the Town Hall and at the Durham Post Office (in the room with the mail boxes). Don’t be disappointed in September!

QUAD WAY AND ACADEMIC WAY SUMMER ROAD CLOSURES

On Monday this week, portions of Academic Way and Quad Way were closed to vehicle and pedestrian traffic as the University reconstructs utilities and streetscapes in Lower Quad.

The road sections will remain closed until project completion in mid-August.


This project is managed by UNH.  For more information please visit the UNH Facilities website.

 

LIONS, AND TIGERS, AND... BEARS ON DURHAM POINT ROAD!

As spring season rapidly approaches, Durham residents may discover some unexpected and unwelcome visitors such as ... a black bear. 

For the last couple of years, Durham residents have encountered bears in areas that have never seen a bear before.  Bears are scavengers and they will eat absolutely anything that is available or has a food scent. Town dumps, campsites, gas grills, dog dishes, compost piles, gardens and bird feeders are just a few of their targets. Black oil sunflower seeds are simply too high a quality of food (high in fat and protein) for bears to ignore, explains Fish and Game Bear Biologist Andrew Timmins.

Natural bear foods during spring and summer are generally high in carbohydrates and low in protein and fat. As a result, birdseed is high on the menu! If bears have previously acquired sunflower seeds at your home, they will be back looking for more. So take down birdfeeders and secure other attractants. It is widely recommended that bird feeders be taken in at night and put back out in the morning.

New Hampshire Wildlife officials recommend that homeowner’s take the following action to reduce the chances of a bear visiting their home by taking a few simple precautions:

• Stop all bird feeding by April 1.
• Clean up any spilled birdseed and dispose of it in the trash.
• Secure all garbage in airtight containers inside a garage or adequate storage area, and put garbage out on the morning of pickup, not the night before.
• Avoid putting meat or other food scraps in your compost pile.
• Don't leave pet food dishes outside overnight.
• Clean and store outdoor grills after each use.
• Finally, never feed bears!

These steps will help to ensure that your backyard does not become attractive to bears and other wildlife, which is important because it prevents property damage by bears and because it keeps bears from becoming nuisance animals.  For more information on preventing conflicts with black bears, click HERE.

PARKS AND RECREATION PROGRAMS AND EVENTS

Durham Parks and Recreation, its Director and Committee, strive to offer a wide range of quality programs, parks, and facilities that encourage all community members to participate in healthy, fun, and enriching activities. Together, they celebrate the essential role public recreation plays in fostering a cohesive and vibrant community.

Online Program Registration- Now Available!

Durham Parks & Recreation is excited to announce the addition of online program registration and payments to our department!  You can find program and department information by visiting us HERE.  Please create an account on the left hand side of the page, which will allow access to register for programs.  Please be sure to ask questions, and let us know if something isn’t operating correctly.  

 

2016 Summer Day Camps with Durham Parks & Recreation

Durham Parks and Recreation is offering nine exciting weeks of Summer Day Camps beginning June 27th- August 26th 2016!

 

Full or half day options available along with a five-week partnership camp with ORCSD Camp R.E.A.C.H.  DPR provides an afternoon camp option to each of their morning camp sessions! Camp R.E.A.C.H. will run weekly from July 11th-August 12th Monday- Thursday with an optional Friday Field Trip.  Scheduled trips include, Jenness Beach, Water Country, an Island Kayak Adventure, Blitz Air Park & Mini Golf, and Hampton Beach & Ice Cream!!!

 

DPR also has some great fun-filled and educational camp options before the July 11th start of Camp R.E.A.C.H. and after R.E.A.C.H concludes on August 12th.  Campers can look forward to Wicked Gross Science Camp, Super Hero Physics Camp, an Adventure Paddle Camp, Extreme Earth Camp, Youth Yoga Camps and Wicked Cool Med. School Camp!!

 

Registration is open for any of our camp weeks!   For more information or to register please visit us HERE.

 

Stargazing At Wagon Hill Farm

Durham Parks & Recreation and UNH Astronomer John Gianforte - The SkyGuy, have teamed up to offer Stargazing at Wagon Hill Farm!  We will be offering an interactive stargazing workshop on the second Saturday of each month beginning in May.  Participants can join us in the orchard at Wagon Hill Farm where we will view the moon, Jupiter, constellations, and more!  In the case of inclement weather, join us at Churchill Rink!  $10/person, $20/family.  Please pre-register with Durham Parks & Recreation by Thursday of each listed stargazing dates.

Stargazing Dates & Times
Saturday, June 11th- 8:45-9:45pm

Saturday, July 9th- 9:00-10:00pm

Family Camp Out at Wagon Hill Farm

Saturday, June 25th – Sunday June 26th

4:00pm-9:00am

$30/family

June is National Camping Month and DPR is celebrating with a special night out camping at Wagon Hill Farm with the family!  We will have a BBQ dinner, scavenger hunt, storytelling and s’mores by the campfire.  Optional sunset kayak tours will also available with Seven Rivers Paddling.

A camping checklist will be provided to those registered.  Pre-registration with DPR is required by Friday June 17th.

 

Bird Walk for Beginners

Join local bird enthusiast Kylee and Vince Nogg at the Oyster River Forest for a leisure walk to seek out resident and migrant birds and the sights and sounds they have to offer.  All ages and abilities are welcome to attend.  Bring binoculars if you have them.  Meet at the entrance of Oyster River Forest off from Packers Falls Road not later than 7am.  Register HERE by June 10th.  Participation is FREE.

Family Camp Out at Wagon Hill Farm

Saturday, June 25th – Sunday June 26th

4:00pm-9:00am

$30/family

June is National Camping Month and DPR is celebrating with a special night out camping at Wagon Hill Farm with the family!  We will have a BBQ dinner, scavenger hunt, storytelling and s’mores by the campfire. Optional sunset kayak tours will also available with Seven Rivers Paddling. A camping checklist will be provided to those registered. Pre-registration with DPR is required by Friday June 17th.

FREE Balance Workshop with Sally Baker, PT

Better balance prevents falls and injuries.Join Sally Ann Baker PT from Durham Physical Therapy as she shows you easy balance exercises, which will help restore some of the flexibility, and strength you remember.

As we get older, falling can result in more than the bruises we might have experienced in our youth; it can rob us of our independence.  Every year thousands  of older people experience broken hips and head injuries. Don’t join this group!

Join Sally Thursdays at 12pm at the Durham Recreation Parks & Recreation building located in the old court house on 2 Dover Road, for a half hour of fun, gentle, preventive exercise, a no sweat approach, which will arm you against the uneven surfaces. Balance Workshop will run through June 30th, and will resume in the fall.

Save The Date:
Yoga at Wagon Hill Farm

Thursdays from 5-6pm beginning June 9th.  Bring a mat or a blanket and meet at the wagon!  Participation is FREE.

 

Music By The Bay Summer Concert at Wagon Hill Farm

Thursday, July 14th 6-8pm, featuring: Sum x 4

Pack a picnic dinner, gather friends and enjoy live music at the picturesque waterfront setting at Wagon Hill Farm! Additional parking available in the orchard.  FREE!

Picnic in the Park with The Little Red Wagon

Thursday, July 21st 5:30-7:30pm at Jackson’s Landing

Pack a picnic dinner, play at the playground and enjoy a 45 minute theatre performance- Luna Goes to Mars by The Little Red Wagon from UNH Theatre & Dance.  FREE!

Community Archery Clinic with Archery in Motion

Wednesdays at Churchill Rink, July 27th- August 17th 10-11am

Ages 7+, $70/pp.  Community Archery Clinic is geared for both youth and adults! Pre-register with DPR by July 20th.  Space is limited.

Music on Main Summer Concert

Thursday, August 4th 6-8pm, featuring: Fling.

Join us on Main Street for an evening of live music and family fun! FREE
 
Learn To Fish Workshop and Field Day with NH Fish & Game!

Dates/times and details are in the works! Stay tuned!!
 
Art in the Park

Dates/times and details are in the works!  Stay tuned!!

COMMUNITY PROGRAMS AND EVENTS

ORHS Presents Footloose The Musical, Friday, May 27 - Sunday, May 29, 2016. Presented with great music, dancing, and singing by the ORHS Student Players.

ORHS Hat Tournament hosted by ORHS senate and faculty, Saturday, May 28, 2016, ORHS, to raise money for social studies teacher, Pam Raiford who is battling cancer. Event will include food, music, and children's events. More information HERE.

Annual Plant Sale - Hosted by Strafford County Master Gardeners Association, Sunday, May 29, 2016, 10AM - 2PM, Durham Town Hall parking lot, 8 Newmarket Road. Large variety of perennials, annuals, vegetables, herbs, and trees available at discounted prices. Master gardeners available to answer questions. Contact Traci Bisson, tracibisson@metrocast.net. 

Silent Film Night at Portsmouth Music Hall, with the ORMS Jazz Band and Studio Orchestra, under the direction of David Ervin, Marc LaForce, and Andrea von Oeyen, Saturday, Jun 11, 2016, 7:00 PM. The silent film classic The Navigator, featuring Buster Keaton. Tickets/$16, can be purchased at the ORMS or The Music Hall Box Office: 603-436-2400, 28 Chestnut Street, Portsmouth, NH.  Online purchase HERE.

8th Annual Bobcat Bolt 5K and Kids Fun Run, Saturday Jun 18, 2016, OR High School, 9AM - 5K start; 10:15AM - Kids Fun Run. Pancake Breakfast 9-11AM (free for runners, $5 for spectators). ORMS Jazz Band will entertain. Register at www.bobcatbolt.com. In memory of Josh and Nate Hardy, proceeds benefit Oyster River youth initiatives.

Registration for UNH Summer Camps Is Ongoing. Many UNH summer youth programs/sessions have spots available for registration. UNH offers more than 40 camps and programs to entertain and educate K-12 youth, ranging from traditional summer day camps to specialty athletic camps to arts camps, STEM programs, and a variety of other academic subjects. Day and overnight programs are available. For a full list of camps and to register, click HERE.

 

DURHAM PUBLIC LIBRARY PROGRAMS AND EVENTS

The library will be closed on Monday May 30 in observance of Memorial Day.

Children’s and Young Adult Programs:

Children's Summer Reading Program - Join us for our fun 5 week summer reading program!   "On Your Mark, Get Set...READ!"  Registration begins Monday, June 13th.  Program runs from June 27th through July 29th.  Keep track of your minutes read and win weekly prizes.  We also keep track of all our minutes read together.  There will be fun programs; Movie nights, Storytimes, 9-12 year old group, Team Art, Kick-off with Storyteller Simon Brooks, Music on the Library Lawn, 6-8 year old group, Young Adult Writing program, Nature Art Nights, Firemen, Police and EMS visits with their trucks, yoga, karate, finale with Bryson Lang, juggler and comedian and much more.  Trivia, guessing jar and even a "Barrel of Monkeys" (ages 2 -12 years).  Don't miss it!
Boston Bruins Mascot, Blade, and Ice Girls to visit Summer Reading – The Durham Public Library has been chosen by the Boston Bruins summer reading outreach program, “When You Read, You Score!”, to have the Bruins Mascot, Blade, and Ice Girls visit! Blade will visit and children will be able to have their picture taken with Blade.  We’ll hear a story about Blade, play some Boston Bruins trivia with the Ice Girls, where you can win awesome prizes from the team and then also make a fun hockey craft.  The date of the program is still being determined, but check our summer reading calendar soon for details.  Go, Bruins!
The library now has two Kindles for kids to check out and two Kindles for Young Adults to check out.  The kids Kindles are loaded with lots of great books, apps and videos while the YA Kindles have favorite YA titles to check out.  See the Children’s/YA Librarian at the Children’s desk to check one out.
Reminder:  Patch club will be stopping as of May 31st and begin again on Sept. 1st.  Join the Reading Patch Club!  Ages 2-12 years - Earn patches and a tote bag for hours that you read! Program sponsored by The Friends of the Durham Public Library.

 

Adult  Programs:

Oyster River ASD Friends Tues. May 31, 6:30 pm - The Autism Perspective Guests Chris Suosso & David Koenig share life experiences & describe how to make life easier for people on the spectrum by discussing solutions that worked for them and in part by explaining to people who are neurotypical, their perspectives and how they experience the world. Informative for professionals that work with adolescents & adults with ASD.  Contact Julie  jsmithnh@icloud.com
Ole Time Auto Event Sat.  June 4, 2016 10am-1pm - Gearing up for the Antique Auto Show! 11:00 am,  Author Michele Albion, The Quotable Henry Ford.  Popcorn and Hoodsie Ice Cream cups while supplies last.  Contact Armida 603-590-1117 or  ageiger@ci.durham.nh.us  

Friends of the DPL monthly meeting Wed. June 1, 1pm social time, 1:30 meeting.  All are welcome to attend.
Alzheimer's Cafe  Fri. June 3,  10:30am-12noon - An informal gathering for dementia patients still residing in their own homes and their caregivers. Contact Nicole Moore DPL 868-6699
First Aid class Tue. June 7, 6-8 pm - McGregor Memorial EMS offers class in First Aid.  Register HERE.
Acoustic Open Mic Wed. June 8, 6:30 pm - Perform, listen, relax, enjoy refreshments.  Hootmeisters: Peg Chaffee and Cheryl Sager of "Nice n Naughty" fame. Held in the library cafe.
Book Sale- Children and Young Adults Books Sat. June 11, 10-1 - Books .50   Wooden Laser Cut Liberty Puzzles available for purchase.  Held by the Friends of the  DPL n the Craft/Storytime room.
2 Day Book Sale Fri. June 17, 3-5 and Sat. June 18 10-1 - Most books $1-$2   Wooden Laser Cut Liberty Puzzles available for purchase, while supplies last.  Held by the Friends of the DPL, indoors on the second floor.
Exercise Your Mind-READ - Adult July Reading Program - Mon. June 27    Weekly puzzles, weekly prize drawings!  Watch for details. Contact Armida Geiger 603-590-1117.
Durham Photo Contest: July 4, 2015 through July 4, 2016 - $300 Cash Prize for the Winner! Contest is sponsored by a Durham resident, to capture the beauty, character, and identity of Durham using seven photographs that express Durham’s character. More information can be found on the library website.

MUSEUM PASSES -- The Friends of the DPL sponsor passes to twelve different museums.  Try the Portland Museum of Art, 45 minutes away in historic Portland, Maine.  Free admission to general and special exhibits for two adults and six children. Reserve online using the library website. Pick up the reserved museum pass at the circulation desk.

 

For more information, visit the Durham Public Library website.

WEEKLY ARREST REPORT

*Academic year commences the third week of August through graduation at UNH in May.

ACADEMIC YEAR ARREST DATA CONCLUDED

Arrest data in Durham is very unique and deserves a more detailed explanation due to the number of police agencies operating within the jurisdictional boundaries of Durham (UNH Police, State Police, State Liquor Enforcement and Durham Police) as well as the significant influx of student aged visitors during the UNH academic. 

The Durham Police monitor all of the statistical arrest data from these agencies in three categories: first is accomplished weekly, secondly by the UNH academic year and finally, by the calendar year mirroring the Town’s financial budget.  Each category allows for a better understanding of the demands facing the department during these periods.


Demographical information of those arrested in Durham, i.e., does the person attend UNH or not is determined after the arrest when names of those arrested are sent to the University for analysis. 

Over the past 10 years, the statistical range of students versus non-students has remained within the 60/40 range.  This academic year (2015/16) was no different with the final academic year percentage at 60% UNH student and 40% non-student! 

While the total arrests occurring within this academic year is 8% higher than last year’s data, arrests by Durham Police dropped by 55. The matrix below highlights the increase of this academic year due to a 23% increase in arrests by UNH Police:

Chief Kurz is conducting a more detailed analysis of why Durham PD arrests are down but is focusing upon the success of the POP officer in dealing directly with off-campus student rentals as well as the migration of student rentals from pocket residential neighborhoods into the numerous student housing complexes significantly reducing calls for service and the necessity to make arrests. 

With that said, it is clear that with fluctuating data it is difficult to detect consistency that points to a trend other than the reality that the UNH academic year is a busy time for the Durham Police!

Arrests Within Durham

2015/16 Academic Year

********************************************************

MEMORIAL DAY CLOSING

Each year for Memorial Day we close with the following poem written in 1915 by John McCrae, a Canadian physician, poet, and solider who died in France in 1918.

_____________________

In Flanders Fields

By John McCrae

 

In Flanders fields the poppies blow

Between the crosses, row on row,

That mark our place; and in the sky

The larks, still bravely singing, fly

Scarce heard amid the guns below.

 

We are the Dead. Short days ago

We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,

Loved, and were loved, and now we lie

In Flanders fields.

 

Take up our quarrel with the foe:

To you from failing hands we throw

The torch; be yours to hold it high,

If ye break faith with us who die

We shall not sleep, though poppies grow

In Flanders fields.

Have a safe and peaceful Memorial Day weekend. 

Todd

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