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 NEWS AND HAPPENINGS ...
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Spring means time for planting. Here, a Durham youth sews seeds for the upcoming growing season. Courtesy Todd Selig
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The big news in Durham this week is that American Idol contestant Alex Preston made it to the finals of the competition and is coming to the UNH campus and Durham tomorrow afternoon. To read the Foster's article, click HERE. More details are provided below..
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AMERICAN IDOL HOMETOWN HERO PARADE SCHEDULED IN DURHAM FOR SATURDAY AT 4:30 PM
The American Idol Home Town Hero parade scheduled for Saturday in Durham, May 10, 2014, contingent upon Preston making it to the finals of the competition, will form at the Oyster River Middle School parking lot on Dennison Road and traverse down Garrison Avenue around 4:30 PM, across Madbury Road back onto Garrison towards UNH Thompson Hall and Durham's Main Street.
Police will block Main Street from Garrison to Edgewood where the majority of the filming and crowd formation will occur.
Roadway barriers will be placed at both ends of Main Street @ Edgewood and Garrison. For those familiar with annual events in Durham and at UNH, this is the set up utilized for University Day each fall.
Once the parade is ready to proceed towards the Whittemore Center, Durham and UNH police will halt traffic just west of Depot Road where the parade will enter and begin disbanding for the free concert that will occur in the Whittemore Center at 7:00 PM.
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ZONING CHANGE PROPOSED BY EDC FOR DURHAM BUSINESS PARK
Durham’s Economic Development Committee (EDC) approached the Planning Board and asked for an additional use to be added to the approved table of uses for the Durham Business Park, which is located on Route 4, right on the Oyster River.
This area has been designated for commercial development for more than ten years, yet nothing has happened. Of the 27 acres of land that exist within the property, only six remain developable because wetland and shoreline setbacks increased over the years.
For the last three years, representatives from the Town have reached out to multiple commercial developers, brought them to the site, and made local commercial realtors aware of the opportunity at monthly CIBOR meetings at Pease: http://www.nhcibor.com/
In addition to his own marketing efforts, Eric Chinburg, who purchased the Durham Business Park from the Town of Durham, hired a well-known commercial Realtor, Bob Machewka of One Commercial Realty, to assist in his effort. Unfortunately, no interested parties were found who wanted to locate in the area.
So, the next question was - is there a market for this kind of property?
Durham, when it established the Business Park, was very well aware of its prominent setting right on the Oyster River and Route 4 and wanted to ensure a visually pleasing development. Therefore, certain design standards and the establishment of a review committee for all proposed projects are written into the legal restrictions for the property filed at the Registry of Deeds.
While visually pleasing design is very important, it also adds significantly to the construction cost of any commercial building. Metal buildings, for example, are not permitted, even if they were "dressed up".
Our neighboring communities did not sit idle during the last ten years and created desirable and significantly cheaper commercial space, space with which the Durham Business Park cannot compete at the present time.
The need for office space has declined over the last decade because technology makes society more mobile and flexible. It was necessary for employees to be at a given work location in the past; however, many workers can remotely access their company computer systems today and don't have to necessarily be close to their employer’s physical office.
Interestingly, all developers looking at the property came up with the same use - elderly independent living.
The EDC has discussed that elderly independent living has several advantages:
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active persons over the age of 55 add little demand on Town services, like ambulance, police, schools, etc.
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they add to the vitality of the Town and are very engaged in public service
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they are attracted to UNH while not having to live right next to students, whose lifestyles don't match at times.
The location of the Durham Business Park is ideal for a residential setting, next to the Oyster River with the possibility of a public dock, beautiful natural environment, close vicinity to Jacksons Landing, Wagon Hill, Durham and Portsmouth. An upscale development would also add a great housing option for our own residents should they decide to downsize and change their lifestyle.
The zoning change the Economic Development Committee proposes takes a very balanced approach as follows:
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Elderly independent living would be a conditional use, giving the Planning Board an additional tool to make the development very appealing
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If the Town gives up its commercially developable land at the business park, the EDC would like to see a positive impact on Durham's tax base. Six single family homes on 6 acres will not accomplish this.
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The EDC discussed a zoning change that prescribes certain density to ensure the tax base increases by a minimum of 10 million dollars. The maximum density is limited by the lot sizes and a required mix of building styles.
The Planning Board has scheduled a Public Hearing for May 14, 2014 to take up this matter. Feedback can be sent to the Planning Board via Dir. of Planning & Community Development Michael Behrendt at mbehrendt@ci.durham.nh.us.
Resources Links:
Minutes of the February 25, 2014 EDC
Minutes of the November 19, 2013 EDC meeting
In front of the Planning Board
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On Monday, May 5, 2014 at 10AM, owners Wendy Brooks and Sarah Grandy held a Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting ceremony for their business, the Main Street Makery. Courtesy Loren Selig
MAIN STREET MAKERY GRAND OPENING RIBBON-CUTTING
Main Street Makery features creations of New England artisans, including jewelry, pottery, fiber arts, and home accents. The Makery offers colorful craft kits, a special feature of the store, with a kit for every age and ability. Go green with “upcycled” crafts made from reused objects. A full line of workshops will be offered starting in late summer.
Owners and Makers Wendy Brooks and Sarah Grandy are Durham residents who are fulfilling a dream to bring the community together in a way that inspires people.
Main Street Makery is located at 42A Main Street between The Candy Bar and Durham House of Pizza. For more information, visit Facebook at Durham Main Street Makery or visit http://www.mainstreetmakery.com/.
Regular hours will be Tuesday-Saturday, 10AM - 6PM.
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REMINDER TO ALL DOG OWNERS, LICENCES 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
This week spray foam insulation was installed in the Town Council Chambers. The spray foam process was applied to all the exterior walls and new roofing areas and provides a greater thermal barrier which has a higher insulation rating than conventional fiberglass rolled insulation. 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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DO YOU KNOW YOUR PARTY AFFILIATION?
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 Clerk's Office 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 2 evening sessions for this purpose on Monday May 12 and Tuesday June 3, both 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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UNH stduents were all throughout the Town on Monday afternoon in celebration of Cinco De Mayo. Courtesy Police Captain David Holmstock
CINCO DE MAYO IN DURHAM
Many residents observed on Monday of this week the large groups of students traversing through downtown.
Last year was the first time Durham had any issue with Cinco de Mayo and on that Sunday, we only a had small compliment of officers on duty.
Due to the officers already being busy on other matters in 2013, they did not observe the large gathering on Madbury Court until a call complaining of the noise was received. When the officers arrived they were met with thrown bottles, rocks and other debris. Additional help was called in from State Police and neighboring communities and finally the crowd was moved.
This was also the first time we heard the phrase, “day drinking” and not wanting to be “surprised” again, the Durham Police Department formulated an operational plan that provided numerous officers to be proactive moving groups, not allowing parties to form, and coordinated our extensive efforts with UNH administration, housing and police.
What residents observed on May 5th with large crowds was very much suspected and planned for as Monday was not only the last day of classes, but also Cinco de Mayo. Tuesday was considered a study day so there were no exams and no classes AND the weather was good! All these factors pointed to the need for police to be prepared. The challenge for the police department is that once they move the young people from one location, they go to the next but we know that if we do not move them, police are faced with the almost certain evolution that the event will disintegrate into a civil disturbance scenario.
Overall we were pleased with all the officers, State Police, UNH Police, Strafford County Sheriff’s Department, and Durham Police, all of whom showed restraint, dealt professionally with those that warranted arrest, and saw to it that those so intoxicated were transported to Wentworth-Douglas for treatment. While there were 70 arrests over the weekend, the collaboration with UNH administration and hall directors proved a positive attribute to our plan and the outcome.
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Durham, UNH, and Strafford County officers taking a much needed break over the weekend at a lemonade stand orchestrated by two enterprising Oyster River Middle School students to support the End 68 Hours of Hunger program. Courtesy Sean Kelly
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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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Durham PD's newest Police Officer, Brett Pestana, was sworn in on Monday this week. Above, his father, Wayne Pestana, finishes pinning on his badge. Courtesy Police Captain David Holmstock
DURHAM POLICE DEPARTMENT WELCOMES NEW POLICE OFFICER BRETT PESTANA
Brett Pestana of Westford, MA was hired by the Durham Police Department on May 5, 2014. Brett is a 2013 graduate of Plymouth State University, with a Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice. He is a graduate of the 263rd Part-time Police Academy and previously worked as a Part-time Police Officer in Hampton, NH. He will attend the 164th Full-Time Academy that will be held from May 19 to August 22, 2014.
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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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SPRING CLEANUP-BULKY WASTE CLEANUP BEGAN MONDAY, APRIL 28TH
Materials were to be curbside NO EARLIER than April 26th and NO LATER than 7AM on April 28th. The Public Works Department is about 90% through the Town at this point, not including roads they will do today. Some years we are completely finished by now, however this year we had a delay for another project during the first week and are down one staff member so it is taking us a little longer. Remember, electronics that require a sticker will still need it for curbside, DPW will be by to grab these last. You can purchase electronics stickers at the DPW during the week from 8-4:30, closed 12-12:30 for lunch. If you did not get your bulky waste items out on time, you can bring to them to the Transfer Station and recycling center tomorrow, Saturday, May 10th with your residential permit. If you have any questions, please call Public Works at 868-5578.
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HYDRANT FLUSHING
The Town of Durham and the University of New Hampshire exercised gate valves two weeks ago and began hydrant flushing this Monday, May 5th, which will continue through Friday, May 16th. Flushing is done at night between the hours of 9:00 PM and 7:00 AM. These procedures are necessary to eliminate the buildup of sediment in the water mains. Flushing of the mains and gate valve exercising may cause temporary discoloration of the water however the water remains safe for drinking. This discoloration will disappear with normal household use. It is suggested that sensitive laundry not be washed if the water is obviously discolored. Try not to draw water if you observe flushing in your area. Please call the UNH Water Supply at 862-1390 or the Department of Public Works at 868-5578 with questions and/or concerns.
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CELEBRATE BIKE/WALK TO WORK DAY ON FRIDAY, MAY 16TH
Bike or walk to work on Friday, May 16 and enjoy a free breakfast at Murkland Courtyard (note the new location), as UNH joins other Seacoast-area employers and towns for the 12th annual Seacoast Bike/Walk to Work Day. Coordinated by Healthy UNH, the breakfast runs from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. For more information, including locations of other commuter breakfasts around the Seacoast, click HERE.
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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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DURHAM/UNH WATER SYSTEM ADOPTS CROSS CONNECTION CONTROL PROGRAM
The UNH/Durham Water System has recently adopted a Cross Connection Control Program to satisfy New Hampshire Code of Administrative Rules, Env-Ws 364. These regulations require public water systems have backflow prevention devices installed at every service connection, and each backflow device must be inspected by a certified inspector and tested at least once per year. This regulation will affect commercial properties on the water system only.
Facilities that pose an elevated risk to the system must be tested twice per year. The purpose of this regulation is to protect the public drinking water supply from back siphoning of potentially harmful substances into the distribution system from the interior plumbing of individual buildings or exterior irrigation systems.
Letters were mailed to owners of commercial properties requesting that they contact New England Backflow to have their Backflow Devices inspected. This inspection is being paid by the Town however owners will be required to have their backflow devices tested at their own cost. The Town is required to send testing reports to NHDES to satisfy the regulations. We appreciate your cooperation in our effort to protect your drinking water!
Documents regarding the Cross Connection Control Program may be obtained by contacting Assistant Town Engineer, April Talon, P.E. at Public Works Engineering Divisio, 603-868-5578.
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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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POWER OF ONE PROJECT
For her World Cultures class Power of One Project, Oyster River High School freshman Alice Sperry would like to help girls' education and is hosting a screening of Girl Rising and starting a petition for the Education For All Act. To read more about Alice's project, click HERE.
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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 ANNOUCES 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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In the fall of 1973, Durham Point resident Nancy Sandberg (middle) and her neighbors Sharon Meeker (on left) and Phyllis Bennett (on right) formed the grassroots organization “Save Our Shores” and thwarted the attempt by wealthy shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis’s ghost company Olympic Refineries, Inc. to build what was called “the world’s largest oil refinery” along the shore of Great Bay at Durham Point. Durham resident Dudley Dudley (not pictured) was also an integral part of this event. At the May 5th Town Council meeting, they were presented with a Resolution commemorating the 40th annivesary of the historic 1974 Town vote to prohibit construction of the oil refinery. To read the resolution, click HERE. Courtesy Todd Selig
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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 recorddata 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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THE LATEST PRODUCTIONS FROM DCAT STUDIOS
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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Living on Mount Washington, Saturday & Sunday @ 10:30 AM & 8:30 PM
Join us for an insider’s view of what it’s like to live on Mount Washington, the home of the world’s worst weather! Durham native Sam Hewitt shows pictures, tells stories and answers questions about his current position as an intern at the Mount Washington Observatory. DPL Staff member Nicole Moore also talks about her nine one-week stints as a volunteer cook on the rock pile. This program is also available on our On Demand site.
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Granite State Outdoors, Saturday & Sunday @ 4:00 PM
In this episode, get some ideas on how to feed our winter feathered friends, head out on the ice with Dave Genz, the father of modern ice fishing and take a look back at a moose round up. These stories and more, brought to you by your New Hampshire Fish and Game Department. Connecting you to life outdoors. This video is not available on the Town’s On Demand site.
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Streamwalk, Saturday & Sunday @ 7:00 PM
Come along with Streamwalk volunteers as the get up close and personal with the Lamprey. Learn how their observation help officials and landowners use and enjoy the river wisely. This video is not available on the Town’s On Demand site.
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These videos are also available for viewing on the Town’s On Demand site.
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On Wedneday this week, approximately 40 Liberty Mutual employees volunteered their time to assist the Town Hall in moving boxed records from the second and third floors to a storage unit located in the salt shed behind Town Hall. In addition, Liberty employess helped with cleanup of Town grounds and planting flowers throughout Town. Courtesy Craig Stevens
Liberty Mutual staff spread wood chips on a trail at Wagon Hill Farm this week. Courtesy Craig Stevens
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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.
Agricultural Commission - Monday, May 12, 2014. To view an agenda and other information, click HERE.
Zoning Board of Adjustment - Tuesday, May 13, 2014. To view an agenda and other information, click HERE.
Planning Board - Wednesday, May 14, 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.
When asked what they liked best about their visit to Wagon Hill Farm, one fifth grader responded, "We liked the community part, because it seems like everyone is really happy at the gardens!” Courtesy Chris Hall
Camp R.E.A.C.H. - Did you miss the deadline for registration? No worries! We still have some spots available until, and you can sign up anytime before 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.
Interpretive Trail Project (Learning Expedition) - UPDATE: On Wednesday, May 7, fifth graders from Oyster River Middle School held an "Expert Day" at Wagon Hill Farm, as part of their Wagon Hill Interpretive Trail (Learning Expedition) project. Students interviewed a variety of community experts, including: oyster researchers from UNH and the Nature Conservancy, members of the Community Garden Steering Committee, the NH Old Graveyard Association, LandCare Associates, and the Appalachian Mountain Club. These experts provided brief presentations, and helped deepen the students’ understanding on a variety of topics related to Wagon Hill, including: grasslands, stone walls, the Davis cemetery, Great and Little Bay, and Oyster River. The students will use this information as they collaborate with the P&R Committee and other Town entities to create educational and historical signage for the trail system.
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, please fill out the form and return to Parks & Recreation Director Stefanie Frazee: Parade Registration Form
Volunteers Needed – Wednesday, May 14th: We are looking volunteers from our community to help with this year’s Bike Rodeo at ORMS. Students will spend the day rotating through various stations, learning about: rules of the road, signaling, bike maintenance, helmet safety, etc. Basic familiarity with bikes is preferred, but not required. If you’d like to help during this fantastic event, please email Parks & Recreation Director Stefanie Frazee: sfrazee@ci.durham.nh.us OR SRO Holly Malasky: hmalasky@ci.durham.nh.us
Fitness for Life: View our weekly calendar and class descriptions HERE!
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Save the Date:
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Bike Safety Rodeo - Wednesday, 5/14
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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
The annual QuackFest rubber duck race will be held on Saturday, May 10th on the Oyster River at Durham Landing. See more information below.
QuackFest 2014 Annual Rubber Duck Race, sponsored by Growing Places and Durham-Great Bay Rotary, Saturday, May 10, 2014, 11:00 AM-1:30 PM, Oyster River-Durham Landing. Ducks launch at 12:30 PM. Ducks for sale at Growing Places or on day of the event. $5/each or 5 ducks for $20. Free children's activities. Rotarians grilling up hot dogs and hamburgers.
Freedom Cafe of Durham Awareness Vigil for tragic kidnapping of almost 300 girls in Nigeria on April 14th - Saturday, May 10, 2014, 9:30-10:00 AM. Meet at Freedom Cafe (10 Mill Road, Durham).
Letter Carriers' Annual Food Drive, Saturday, May 10, 2014. Durham Post Office letter carriers (city and rural) collect food donated by customers when their mail is delivered. Carriers will collect food left by mailboxes, or food may be dropped off at the Post Office anytime during the week. All food collected will go to the local food pantry for residents who may need assistance. Last year, letter carriers collected 5500 pounds of food and are hoping to collect more this year thanks to all Durham residents.
Fish Migration Day, hosted by the Lamprey River Advisory Committee and NH Fish and Game, Saturday, May 10, 2014, 10AM -12Noon, McCallen Dam in Newmarket. Participants will help measure and count fish that are trying to return to fresh water habitat after spending time at sea. For more information, click HERE.
Third Annual ORHS Tech-Cycle Event, Saturday, May 10, 2014, 9AM - 5PM, ORHS lower senior parking lot. Bring any old electronics or appliances as well as any scrap metal. Donations requested to help support the River's Edge robotics team and allow for safe disposal of harmful chemicals. For questions, contact ORHS3499@gmail.com.
Lamprey River Watershed Workshop, Adopting Stormwater Standards - Using Green Infrastructure to Improve Stormwater Management in Your Community, Tuesday, May 13, 2014, 4 - 6:00 PM, Epping Town Hall, 157 Main Street. To learn more, click HERE.
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 hallway box office outside of cafeteria, Durham MarketPlace May 14,15,16 4-7PM, or call Armida Geiger at 868-7156. Box office open 1 hour prior to show. Doors open 1/2 hour prior to show.
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.
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.
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DURHAM PUBLIC LIBRARY PROGRAMS AND EVENTS
Watercolors by Jane O'Connell are on display in the upstairs gallery at the Durham Public Library in May. Courtesy DPL
Baby Lap-Sit, Sat. May 10th, 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 fingerplay ring each week! All are welcome.
Power of One Lego House Building Competition, Sat. May 10th, 2:00-4:00 p.m. - Join ORHS students for this fun Power of One project to help bring awareness of homelessness in the U.S. Come and build houses out of Legos. Kids of any ages are welcome with their families. If you want you can donate any personal hygiene items, food, beverages, or socks for the Crossroads House in Portsmouth! Come and have some fun!
Chess and Board Game Afternoon (ages 10 & up), Monday May 12th 3:00-4:00 p.m. – This week come and play/learn the board game “Ticket to Ride”. Join us every Monday afternoon now in the Young Adult room for a game of chess (or other board games).
Pre-school Storytimes: Tues. May 13th and Thurs. May 15th at 10:30 a.m. –The theme is: Bugs and Snakes!
McGregor Memorial EMS First Aid Course, Tues. May 13th, 6:00-8:00 p.m. - Visit cprsafe.org for information and to register. Fee is $20.00.
Bookeaters (Middle School Book Group), Weds. May 14th, 2:45-4:00 p.m. - Join us for this Middle School Book Group. Walk from the middle school after school. This month's book is "The Genius Files: Mission Unstoppable" by Dan Gutman. Ruth Wharton-MacDonald is the facilitator. All are welcome. Pizza is served. Books are available at the library.
Lego Club, Thurs. May 15th 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 16th, 10:30 a.m. – This week: Nature/Gardens! 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 16th 3:00-4:30 p.m. – Stop by the Children’s craft room on Fridays for a fun craft.
NH Humanites Book Group. 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.
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. More details to come.
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!
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 was poet laureate of Portsmouth, NH, 2003 - 2005. Don't miss this exciting evening with one of the premier poets of the Seacoast.
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.
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.
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!
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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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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