Friday Updates - October 28, 2016

Friday, October 28, 2016

A US Postal Service employee pulled off busy Route 4 on to Cedar Point Road last Sunday to rearrange packages before continuing with deliveries. Courtesy Todd Selig

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The date for trick or treating in Durham is Sunday (October 30th) from 5 - 7:30 PM. The police department will once again have officers on bicycles in residential neighborhoods to be seen and to interact with all the little ghosts and goblins!  

ELECTION DAY
The General Election will be held on Tuesday, November 8th, at Oyster River High School, 55 Coe Drive, from 7:00am – 7:00pm.  

To view sample Election ballots, click HERE.

UNH students vote for the "Mayor of Durham" at T-Hall.  Courtesy UNH Archives

FOR FOURTY YEARS, THERE WERE "MAYORS" OF DURHAM
There were no other powers, responsibilities or privileges — not even a free parking space! When given the title “Mayor of Durham,” candidates received “all the rights and privileges that go with that title — of which there are none,” The New Hampshire wrote in 1954.  

For many years in UNH history, members of the student body ran for the honorary title, “Mayor of Durham.”  This week, there was a terrific article in UNH Today about this interesting time in Durham/UNH history.  

Of course, Durham does not have a Mayor, rather it has a Council Chairperson (Kitty Marple!), selected by our nine member Town Council. 

What residents also may not know is that while Durham is a town, it is one of only two towns in all of NH that have adopted a Town Charter establishing a Council/Manager form of government in which the Council has both legislative and budgetary authority.  The Town Council then appoints a manager, called the Administrator, who manages the day-to-day affairs of the town under the oversight of the Council.  

So in effect, Durham is a town that has the form of government of a small city.  The other community in NH that shares this unique form of self-government is Derry.

To read this week’s UNH Today article, click HERE.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR ELECTION DAY
We could not run an election without volunteers.  A small army of dedicated volunteers is necessary to run a big election and we need your help.  Volunteers will work 3 – 4 hour shifts and will be trained by our election officials.  If you are interested in volunteering, please contact the Town Clerk’s Office at (603) 868-5577 or e-mail Town Clerk Lorrie Pitt at at lpitt@ci.durham.nh.us.  We will try to contact previous volunteers, but if you don’t hear from us, please let us know you want to help.
 

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR DATA ENTRY OF NEW VOTER REGISTRATIONS ON ELECTION DAY, November 8, 2016. Two hour shifts (or longer if you desire) starting at 9 AM. Late afternoon (4 PM) until the polls close is a priority time. If you are 17 or older, you can volunteer and the town will write you a certificate for community service hours. Contact Carol Glover via email glovers@comcast.net or phone (603) 868-3357.

VOTER REGISTRATION
November 8th is right around the corner!  If you want to vote and have not registered, you are strongly encouraged to register before the election.  Registration lines at the polls will be very long.  You can register to vote at the Town Clerk’s Office, M-F, 8:00am – 5:00pm, until Friday, October 28th and Saturday, October 29th, 10:00am – 12:00pm.  No registrations will be accepted after the 29th until the polls open on Election Day.
 

FROM THE SUPERVISORS OF THE CHECKLIST

The Supervisors of the Checklist strongly urge those that may be new to Durham to register to vote BEFORE the Presidential Election on November 8. 

Although New Hampshire does allow same day registration, the line will be very long that day. Residents may register before then any week day at the Town Clerk's Office located at the Durham Town Hall, 8 Newmarket Road, between 8 AM and 5 PM (except Columbus Day) up through October 28 and then between 10:00 and 12:00 on October 29.

In order to register to vote residents must be 18 years of age by the day of the election, an American citizen, and domiciled in the Town of Durham.  A driver’s license, a passport, a birth certificate, mail, are all useful things to bring as proofs of these requirements. Questions should be directed to the Town Clerk's Office at (603) 868-5578.

ABSENTEE BALLOTS
Ballots must be returned to the Town Clerk’s Office or received in the mail.  PLEASE do not put your ballot in the Town Hall drop box.  Ballots found in the drop box will not be counted. 

ASSESSING UPDATE
Assessor Jim Rice is currently reviewing sales information of properties that sold between October 1, 2015 and September 30, 2016.  The purpose for this review is in preparation for the annual equalization ratio analysis which is set by the NH Department of Revenue Administration.  

This review includes an on-site inspection (no appointments are scheduled), re-measuring the exterior of the building(s), verifying the sale transaction with the property owner, and making sure that the information on the assessment record card is correct.  If there are any discrepancies, the assessment record card and assessed valuation will be updated and reflected on the property owner's tax bill.
 
Please fee free to contact the Assessor’s Office at (603) 868-8064 with any questions.   
 

PROPOSED 2017 OPERATING AND LONG-RANGE CAPITAL BUDGETS TO BE DELIVERED TO COUNCILORS MONDAY, NOVEMBER 7TH
In accordance with the Town Charter, on Monday Councilors will receive the Administrator’s proposed 2017 Budget, which includes the General Fund, Water Fund, Sewer Fund, Library Fund, Parking Fund, Depot Road Lot Fund, Churchill Rink Fund, Stone Quarry TIF Fund, and Downtown TIF Fund budgets, as well as the Administrator’s proposed 2017-2026 Capital Improvement Plan incorporating the FY 2017 Capital Fund budget utilizing a ten-year time horizon.

The proposed budget allocates limited resources and supports funding for targeted initiatives consistent with Town Council goals.  It is intended to be a steady state budget to ensure our operations remain mission ready to accomplish needed tasks as efficiently and effectively as possible for a community of our size and demographics, and taking into consideration the reality that Durham proudly hosts UNH, the State of New Hampshire’s flagship public university.
 
It is in a context of limited resources that the Town of Durham has been engaged in the process of budget development for the 2017 Fiscal Year (January 1st – December 31st).  The Durham Town Council established the following budget goal as part of its annual goal setting process, and this year’s budget proposal is consistent with that goal:  “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.”
 
A primary driver within Durham’s municipal budget is personnel-related costs that accounts for 61.22% of total spending as part of the proposed 2017 budget. In furtherance of the Town’s efforts to mitigate employee benefit costs, this budget proposal envisions increasing the non-union personnel co-pay toward monthly medical insurance premiums from 12.5% to 15% over the next year.  Unionized personnel are in the process of transitioning (or have already transitioned) to a 15% health insurance co-pay or greater.  Our DPMMA middle manager unit, for example, will have moved to a 20% co-pay on insurance by July 1, 2018.
 
 A 2% increase has been budgeted for non-union, non-library personnel in 2017, contingent upon successful performance evaluations. An approximate wage increase of up to approx. 25% has been budgeted for many library personnel in recognition of the fact that they are underpaid relative to comparable positions in other communities.  We have endeavored to make strides in compensating our library employees more competitively over the last two years but 3% annually will simply not allow us to achieve our goal.  A market adjustment is necessary.

During the Great Recession we worked to hold operational expenses flat as a short-term strategy to limit the impact of the U.S. macroeconomic situation on Durham taxpayers.  But this was not in and of itself a sufficiently broad or sustainable approach to address Durham’s long-term needs.  Faced with an escalating full (town, local school, state school, and county) tax rate in recent years, additional strategies were implemented with the goal of creating a more agile municipal entity poised to seize upon business, grant, and regulatory opportunities that are consistent with our community values and Council goals.  Examples of recent initiatives include:
 
Economic development and smart growth activities intended to broaden the tax base to mitigate anticipated future cost increases across the municipal operation in areas that are specifically targeted for development or redevelopment;
 
Making strategic investments to ensure Durham’s long-term sustainability and resiliency such as bringing the Spruce Hole well on line in 2015/16, moving forward with an innovative integrated wastewater/stormwater strategy to address water quality deficiencies within the Great Bay Estuary, moving to renewable energy sources where viable (solar), and improving bicycle and pedestrian safety/connectivity;
 
Rethinking the manner in which services are delivered by departments in an effort to improve efficiencies and mitigate cost centers over the long-term;
 
Working with UNH to find win/win partnership opportunities intended to broaden the tax base, better link the campus to the broader community, make Durham/UNH more desirable for residents/students/faculty-staff/businesses/visitors alike, and ensure fair compensation from UNH for its fiscal impact upon the Town;
 
Controlling escalating health care benefit costs by changing health insurance providers, exploring new health care plan options for the mutual benefit of employees/employer, and discussing additional employee contributions toward health insurance co-pay levels;
 
Coping with increasing utility costs and working creatively to offset them in the future through wholesale power purchase agreements (a 640 kW DC solar array at the Packers Falls Gravel Pit) and investment in green technology;  
 
Maintaining a strong balance sheet and highly competitive AA2 bond rating status by working to stabilize, and in the long-term, increase the unassigned fund balance within the General Fund to between 5 and 8 percent of annual spending as a reserve for emergencies and cash flow management, maintaining a strong Overlay account, realistic revenue/expenditure projections, and maintaining a contingency fund equal to approximately 1% of the total budget to cover unforeseen, unanticipated circumstances.

Fiscal Year 2017 Budgetary Proposal

This year’s budget cycle has resulted in a proposed 2017 General Fund budget totaling $14,458,900 -- a spending increase of $357,433 or 2.53% compared to FY 2016.  Increases due to required wages and benefits as a result of collective bargaining contracts, a 2% COLA for non-union personnel, adequately budgeting overtime for the police department based upon historical actual usage, insurance increases, and NH State Retirement System downshifted costs to the local community total $335,268, plus an additional $48,000 to address lagging wages at the Durham Public Library.  Non-property tax revenues are expected to increase in FY 2017 by $212,947 or 3.64% to $6,064,000.  In total, this year’s budgetary proposal is projected to keep the 2017 local municipal portion of the tax rate unchanged at $8.48 for the third year in a row.  
 
It is of interest to note that of the 238 municipal entities surveyed by the NH Department of Revenue Administration, the 2015 equalized town (excluding county and school) tax rate for Durham is the 187th highest in the state.  (In other words, there are 51 communities with higher town-only rates than Durham.)  Higher rates can be found, for example, in Rochester (#203), Dover (#217), Somersworth (#222), Manchester (#225), Keene (#235), and Berlin (#238).  Plymouth (#182) and Portsmouth (#180) are slightly less expensive than Durham’s town-only rate.
 
Revenue projections do continue to include an annual $253,352.00 payment from UNH to Durham, which began in 2009 to compensate the community for the University’s financial impact upon the Town in areas such as roadways, traffic, and policing services.  At this time, UNH also supports 50% of the Fire Department operational and capital budgets, 2/3 of the cost of joint water and wastewater capital projects, and a pro rata (rolling 36 mo. average) share of the shared water and wastewater operating budgets for Durham and UNH (currently at 59.4% UNH and 41.6% Durham).  Budgetary projections take into account this additional revenue, growth in the tax base as a result of economic development efforts, setting Overlay at $125,000 to address potential abatement requests, no use of fund balance, and recommended expenditures.
 
The proposed Sewer (Wastewater) Fund budget reflects a 2.67% increase in user fees in 2017 (a rate of $7.50 per hundred cubic feet), while the proposed Water Fund budget carries an anticipated 4.8% increase in user fees (a rate of $5.61 per hundred cubic feet) for FY 2017.

The twelve-month September 2015 to September 2016 Consumer Price Index (CPI-U) numbers are:  U.S. City Index – 1.5%, Northeast Urban – 1.3% and Boston-Brocton-Nashua-MA-NH-ME-CT – 2.3%.  

New development in Durham increased the Town’s tax base from $916,456,045 in 2014 to $964,931,959 in 2015, an increase of $48.5 million or 5.2%, and again from $964,931,959 in 2015 to $1,007,876,992 in 2016, an increase of an additional $42,945,033, or 4.5%.  Historically, our tax base has grown by around 1% per year.  We project that the tax base will grow by an additional $11,792,161 in 2017, an increase of 1.17%.  Future economic development projects that may come to fruition over the next two to five years include: Durham Business Park (Phase II), Mill Plaza redevelopment, 66 Main Street, Young Drive redevelopment, Eversource Seacoast Reliability Project.  All told, these future potential projects combined could add anywhere from $60 - $100 million to the local tax base.

The downtown Tax Increment Finance (TIF) district assessment has increased by $50.7 million over the value that existed as of its establishment date on April 1, 2013, for a total valuation of $112.2 million. At present, the district retains 7% (or approximately $106,000) of the tax dollars generated from this $50.7 million of captured tax increment for purposes established by the Council within the downtown TIF, and 93% of captured value is released to the General Fund. 

When the TIF district is eventually retired, all captured value will be released to the General Fund.  The primary purpose for captured downtown TIF monies is to help fund the creation of additional parking to support Durham’s downtown core, the businesses located there, and the ability of full time residents to easily access goods and services in town.
 
Additions to this year’s proposed budget include a $1.96 million bond for an addition and renovations to the Durham Police Department (the Town Council unanimously voted in support of this initiative and moved the proposal forward for referendum on March 14, 2017), $30,000 to support updating the Future Land Use Chapter of the Durham Master Plan, and an additional $25,000 to support expanded parks & recreational programming.  Due to the fact that the concept of creating a new land stewardship position to assist in better managing open space lands is still in its formative stages, funds are not allocated for this purpose at the present time.
 
Once again, the proposed FY 2017 budget is a steady state budget intending to ensure municipal operations remain in conformance with Town Council goals while also meeting the ongoing daily needs of the community.  Details associated with the budget can be found within this FY 2017 budget book, the 2017-2026 Capital Improvement Program document (to be delivered to Councilors Monday and the subsequently posted on the Town’s web site), or within a separate informational booklet being prepared by the Business Office that will offer some high level analysis concerning the proposal per Town Council request.   

Friday night under the lights. Despite poor weather, hundreds of people came out to enjoy two Oyster River High School soccer games last Friday evening at the new athletic field.  Courtesy Mike Hoffman

AN INFORMATIVE LETTER FROM DURHAM RESIDENT/UNH PROFESSOR JOHN CARROLL | “Economic Development and Land Conservation in Durham:  One and the Same”

This week, Durham resident and long-time UNH Professor John Carroll sent Admin. Selig and Dir. of Planning Michael Behrendt a letter concerning his views regarding the topics of economic development and land conservation. Where typically residents write either in favor of economic development OR land conservation, Mr. Selig thought it was worthwhile to share with the community Dr. Carroll’s extremely thoughtful and insightful letter.  

As Durham prepares in 2017 to complete the final chapter in its new Town Master Plan, an important chapter on "Land", it is important to keep in mind that economic development and land conservation go forth together as one and the same, as partners, not as antagonists. Durham has recently and dramatically increased its tax base significantly through downtown development and re-development of housing and commercial business enterprise. This work will continue downtown with the coming development of Mill Plaza and with the likely development of the campus border vicinity of UNH and private and public properties near the former ATO site. The eventual development of a new university theatre/concert hall on UNH land near downtown, a dream of President Huddleston and already in UNH's Campus Master Plan, will round out this economic development agenda and add significantly to the quality of life of Durham's residents,

The success of land conservation and natural area protection, for recreation, for food production and agrarian values, for water supply, for natural habitat protection, for plants, animals and ecosystems, for beauty of our surroundings, and, not the least, for the psychological value of knowing Durham as a beautiful place to live (as well as to visit) is equally a tax base-building economic development value. All of these amenities contribute directly and indirectly to the maintenance of our property values and their re-salability, the quality of our schools, and the richness and satisfaction of daily life in our town. Durham has been and continues to be a very desirable place, a sought-after place, to live and visit in the Seacoast, in New Hampshire, indeed in all of New England. The beauty of the UNH campus has always sold itself to visitors and residents (thanks to the work of the brilliant UNH architect Eric Huddleston and all those at UNH who have protected his architectural and landscape legacy down through the years). The beauty of the town outside the campus has and will continue to sell itself to both the visitor and the resident (not to mention the investor).

This is why the town-wide Land Conservation referendum vote of 2003 to acquire and protect open space in Durham has been so important.

This is why the various Great Bay, Lamprey River and Oyster River initiatives have been so important to Durham's quality of life, protecting a number of important tracts of land.

This is why the interest of the Southeast Land Trust, the Nature Conservancy, the Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests, and similar groups working in Durham, in collaboration with the Town, are so very important in helping us have a better town in which to live and invest.

This is why, in addition to local food security, the work of the Durham Agricultural Commission is also so important in promoting agricultural open space, numerous local gardens, and a local food economy.

This is why the decades-old efforts to protect our gateways from ugly road-based development and protect their rural character has been so important.

This is why a diversified town recreation program, which includes passive recreation of walking, hiking, canoeing and kayaking, and nature study, is so important to assure our lands are used and appreciated for the qualities they offer.

This is why collaboration with UNH and its beautiful campus is so important to assure that we value what UNH and its campus landscape offer to us in Durham more directly than do other New Hampshire residents - even as they are owned by all New Hampshire residents. They are a gift to us in their local value and accessibility.

Land conservation and open space protection truly are economic development, for our ecological and natural aesthetic amenities are priceless to our quality of life, to our psychological and spiritual well-being, to our economic health, to our very presence here in Durham. Let us complete that Land Chapter and that Town Master Plan with the knowledge that we can indeed have it all - but with humbling awareness of the risk that it is within our capability to lose it all as well - if we don't get it right. Balance between economic development and land conservation is not the question. It never is. They are one and the same.

John Carroll

Map of the Eversource SRP from Madbury to Portsmouth, NH.  Courtesy Eversource

EVERSOURCE SEACOAST RELIABILITY PROJECT – Durham/UNH File New Request for Independent Study of Potential Effects to Little Bay

Town officials have raised fresh questions about the proposed Seacoast Reliability Project, an electrical transmission line estimated at $70 million (approx. $35 million in Durham) that would traverse the community along existing Eversource rights of way.  

The attorney representing Durham and the University of New Hampshire last week submitted a filing to the NH Site Evaluation Committee (SEC), the state entity having sole jurisdiction over the application, supporting a request by the NH Department of Justice that Eversource pay for outside independent experts to review aspects of the 13-mile project, which would run from Madbury to Portsmouth.

The experts would be asked to evaluate and discuss the project’s impact on aesthetics and historical and cultural resources along the proposed route.

This week, the attorney representing Durham and UNH will file a supplemental request to the SEC supporting an additional NH Department of Justice Attorney for the Public’s request to retain ESS Group to provide expert analysis and independent opinion concerning the Project’s proposed undersea crossing of Little Bay and the impacts of the crossing to marine resources.  ESS is an independent environmental consulting firm that has extensive experience with the construction and environmental assessment of undersea electrical transmission cables. The total cost of the work is estimated to be $82,000, to be funded by the applicant (Eversource).  

View the detailed article in Foster’s Daily Democrat about efforts Durham and UNH have made HERE.

Learn more about the Eversource Seacoast Reliability Project HERE.
 
Durham and UNH officials have been endeavoring to thoughtfully listen to and document concerns that had been or are now being raised by Durham community members and UNH staff members (who are sometimes one in the same), in regard to the Seacoast Reliability Project.  To that end, we have tried to document concerns aired and transform them into useful questions that we plan to present to Eversource as part of the Site Evaluation Committee process by an established November 16th deadline.   
 
A working draft of questions as of 10/21/16 can be found HERE.  We would appreciate any feedback community members might have, and whether there are additional matters individuals feel should be raised.  If there are, we will consider them.  Please send to tselig@ci.durham.nh.us.    
 
Mr. Selig has also been in communication with the US EPA to determine whether that agency has had an opportunity as yet to evaluate the project as it pertains to the Great Bay Estuary.  

DURHAM, NH RECEIVES TOP SCORE IN NH FOR LGBTQ ISSUES ACCORDING TO HUMAN RIGHTS CAMPAIGN'S MUNICIPAL EQUITY INDEX

Durham, NH has received the top score in NH for having municipal ordinances, policies, and services in place to protect the rights of LGBTQ people who live and work in the community according to the Municipal Equality Index organized by the Human Rights Campaign.  

The Municipal Equality Index (MEI) examines how inclusive municipal laws, policies, and services are of the LGBTQ people who live and work there. Communities are rated based on non-discrimination laws, the municipality as an employer, municipal services, law enforcement, and the municipality's leadership's public position on equality.

NH Scores for 2016 Include:

Concord – 39, Derry – 45, Dover – 49, Durham – 70, Keene – 37, Manchester – 39, Nashua – 27, Plymouth – 33, Portsmouth – 39, Rochester, - 39

Durham’s score is up 2 points from the results of the 2015 survey.

View the Foster's Daily Democrat article on Durham's score HERE.

Most recent rendering of Mill Plaza as of October 13, 2016  Courtesy Planning Office

PROGRESSION OF MILL PLAZA RENDERINGS AVAILABLE ON WEB SITE
As you may know, the Mill Plaza project was discussed by the Planning Board this past Wednesday evening, 10/26/16, reviewing an updated design for site plan and conditional use for the redevelopment of this 10-acre site.  The project involves demolition of the rear commercial building; construction of 2 new mixed-use buildings, 1 with commercial on ground level and 3 floors of residential and 1 with commercial on ground level and 4 floors of residential; construction of 1 retail outbuilding;  370 parking spaces, including 42 garage spaces; a total of 80,000 square feet of commercial;  residential space for 330 occupants; new public spaces; and other site changes. Central Business District.  Map 5, Lot 1-1.

Planner Michael Behrendt has assembled an easy to view grouping of plan iterations for the site that have been discussed over time.  To view them, click HERE.

YOUNG DRIVE REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT PROCEEDING THROUGH PLANNING BOARD PROCESS

The owners of Young Drive will be appearing before the Planning board on November 9th to discuss their redevelopment proposal.  This proposal is to demolish existing buildings on Young Drive and instead locate approximately 160 units of age restricted housing, which would be sold under condominium conditions.

The proposal would give the opportunity for persons to live and enjoy approximately 10 acres of land with a view of Beards Creek. Under the proposal from the applicant, Young Drive would be converted to a private drive, which would lessen the burden on the community regarding road maintenance and future repair and or replacement. The new residents would have access to downtown business and activities on foot and the ability to interact with the neighbors on a positive note. These new residents would be permanent, active members of the Durham community, in age-restricted housing.

The applicant indicates the architecture of the planned development will be in keeping with the neighborhood theme of colonial style buildings. The facility will make use of indoor parking as much as possible and will be fully compliant with building codes to include automatic sprinkler systems, fire alarm systems, and elevators.

This type of development is growing throughout the state and particularly in the Seacoast Region in communities such as Exeter and Hampton Falls to meet the demand of an aging population that wishes to remain in the Granite State.   Nationally, college communities are highly desirable location for retirees.  

View the most recent iteration of colored plans HERE.

Taos Pueblo, New Mexico. Courtesy Michael Behrendt

AMERICAN SOUTHWEST - TRAVEL WITH MICHAEL BEHRENDT

Join Durham Town Planner, Michael Behrendt, on Wednesday, November 2, 2016 from 6:30 - 8:00 PM at the Durham Public Library when he will share pictures & stories from his recent trip to the American Southwest, one of the most beautiful and distinctive regions of the country. Visits to Santa Fe, Taos, Mesa Verde, Monument Valley, the Grand Canyon, and other sites. The talk will include landscape, architecture, arts, Native American culture, colonial history, Route 66 follies, and the vortexes of Sedona. 

Michael has given presentations about Durham’s architecture and travel to Ireland, Belgium and Holland, and South Dakota and Pine Ridge Reservation.  

In contract to Taos Pueblo ... Durham's Church Hill with view of Red Tower (right) and Community Church of Durham in distance.  Courtesy Todd Selig

WINTER PARKING BAN

The Durham Winter Parking ban commences Tuesday November 1st and will be in effect through April 1, 2016.  As many know, parking on Main Street, Jenkins Court and any Town owned parking lot is prohibited between 1:00AM and 6:00AM throughout the year. But the Winter Parking ban prohibits parking ON ANY STREET from November 1st to April 1st between 1:00AM and 6:00AM.  As the ordinance states, “Any vehicle so parked during the prohibited hours and dates shall be subject to being towed away at the owner’s risk. The owner or owners shall be required to pay all towing costs and a fine before the vehicle is released.”  For the first week, the Durham Police will endeavor to issue warnings designed to remind everyone of the Winter ban but were a surprise snowstorm to occur next week, there should be an awareness that vehicles may be towed to allow for Durham Public Works to more effectively plow the streets and roadways of Durham.  

Example of a Durham Water/Sewer Bill.  Courtesy Town Clerk/Tax Collector's Office

WATER/SEWER BILLS

A reminder that water/sewer bills are due November 3rd.  Please see payment options noted below.  

Example of a Durham Tax Bill.  Courtesy Town Clerk/Tax Collector's Office

PROPERTY TAX BILLS
The second half bills for 2016 are in the mail and due December 1st.  Last year, and again this year, we were fortunate to have our tax rate set early by the State of New Hampshire Department of Revenue Administration.  This came as a surprise to some residents last year, so we wanted to bring it to the attention of residents early this year. 

As always, if you are having difficulty paying the entire bill, it is to your advantage to pay as much as you can, as often as you need to, in order to decrease the amount of interest that will accrue.  Advance payments are also an option.  Payments can be made throughout the year in any amount you desire so as to decrease the amount due when the actual bill arrives.  

Feel free to contact the Tax Collector’s Office if you would like more information at (603) 868-5577.

Please see payment options noted below.  

PROPERTY TAX AND UTILITY PAYMENT OPTIONS
Payments may be made in person at the Tax Collector’s Office, online, by mail directly to the Tax Collector’s Office or by mail using the envelope provided with your bill addressed to our lockbox in Manchester.  The Manchester address does cause some confusion.  The lockbox service allows payments to be credited to our bank account faster.  

Bills may be paid with cash, check, credit card, or ACH.  Additional fees apply to credit card ($1.50 service fee + 2.75% of the bill charged by the credit card use fee) and ACH payments ($1.50 service fee). 

You can learn more about these options by visiting the Town website at https://www.ci.durham.nh.us/.  Select “Inside Town Hall”, “Town Clerk Tax Collector”, “Online Property Tax & Utilities”.

USING ELECTRONIC BANKING

Many residents are using electronic banking to pay bills through their checking account.  It is important to remember that some additional information is important to insure proper credit to your account.

Water/Sewer – Enter your account number in the memo or note section.

Property Tax – Enter the bill number, (this number changes on each bill), or the map and lot number, in the memo or note section.

Mill Pond Dam, Durham, NH  Courtesy Todd Selig

NEW HAMPSHIRE'S "HANDS FREE ELECTRONIC DEVICE" LAW

The Hands Free law has been in effect since July!  The law was created for many good reasons since during the past 4 years there have been 116 fatal car crashes in New Hampshire that have been attributed to “distraction”.  Research states that a texting vehicle operator is 23 times more likely to crash.  The law prohibits the use of hand held electronic devices capable of providing voice or data communication while driving or temporarily halted/stopped in traffic for a stop sign, traffic signal or other momentary delays.  An electronic device includes cell phones, GPS, tablets, iPods, iPad or other devices that require data entry.  Of course, any call being made to 911 or other public safety entity will not be a violation.  

It is important to understand that the ban would apply while drivers are stopped temporarily, such as at a red light, but not if they have pulled-over and are stopped off the side of the roadway. Vehicle operators can answer the phone but not holding it to the ear or typing emails or other messages. It also does not allow programming GPS systems unless drivers are pulled off the road.
Drivers can use a variety of ways to comply with the law and still talk on their phones. For example, drivers can attach a Bluetooth device to an older car’s sun visor and sync it to their cellphone.  Many newer cars can also make hands-free calls through Bluetooth integrated into the car’s system.  If anyone is confused or would like to speak with an officer about the law, please call the Durham Police at (603) 868-2324.

DURHAM FIREFIGHTERS KEEP LOCAL CHILDREN WARM THIS WINTER WITH BRAND NEW WINTER COATS
The Durham Firefighters, Local 2253, are gearing up again this year to fundraise for their Firefighters for Operation Warm initiative. Durham Firefighters have joined forces with national non-profit Operation Warm in the program, “Firefighters for Operation Warm,” a movement led by professional firefighters across the U.S. to combat the effects of childhood poverty while saving American jobs.  

In 2015, Local 2253 was able to provide 30 children with brand-new winter coats and this year they hope to double it. They are asking the community to support their efforts through monetary donations. If they reach their goal, firefighters will surprise the students during the winter months with their bright new coats, personally fitting each child, and helping them to write their names in the interior tag that reads, “Made Especially for You.”

A warm coat is an essential item for all children. A brand new winter coat provides more than just warmth. It helps empowers a child to have greater self-confidence, encourages more school attendance in the winter, and contributes to their overall wellness during outdoor play.
 

Farm tractor at Emery Farm, Route 4, Durham. Courtesy Todd Selig

EMERY FARM - Wagon rides and corn maze cancelled Friday, 10/28 | Other Activities Planned for Saturday and Sunday

Emery Farm has asked us to convey that evening wagon rides and flashlight corn maze have been cancelled for this evening Friday, October 28th, due to the weather and muddy conditions. Both of these events will be held tomorrow, Saturday, October 29th.

There will be public wagon rides from noon – 4PM and Halloweekend evening wagon rides and flashlight corn maze from 6-9 PM.  Market & Café open daily from 7AM-7PM

DURHAM BIKE & SPORTS

Durham Bike & Sports is hoping to accommodate kids from the community and UNH students by selling, donating, or loaning used hockey and figure skates.

The community generally seeks used skates for their children or family to use at local rinks or for pond skating. UNH students want to skate during the Whittemore Free Skate. UNH has many students from other parts of the world who have never skated and want to try it! 

If you or your family have skates that are not being used, please consider donating them. If you have skates that are in top condition please consider Durham Bike's consignment program.

CROMMET CREEK BRIDGE PROJECT CONSTRUCTION UPDATE
Crommet Creek/Durham Point Road bridge will be closed Monday morning (October 24th) for approximately 4 weeks so the bridge can be opened for traffic during week of Thanksgiving (week of November 21st). The bridge will then be closed a second time for a window in early December for new timber guardrail installation – information on the specific dates of the second closure will be announced in November.
 

Any questions, please call Town Engineer, April Talon at 603-86-5578 or email atalon@ci.durham.nh.us
 

AMTRAK DOWNEASTER TRACK REPAIRS WILL IMPACT ALL SERVICE AND SCHEDULES FOR TWO WEEKENDS

The Downeaster has some major track work coming up (primarily affecting service north of Portland) that will impact all service and schedules for the period October 11 through November 18, 2016.

During two weekends (10/22-23 and 11/5-6) there will be no train service at all.

More information can be found at the Amtrack Downeaster website HERE.

HUNTING IN DURHAM

Deer hunting season is quickly approaching with muzzle loading season starting October 29th through the 8th and all deer hunting from November 9th through the December 4th.  It is the hunter’s responsibility to check the capability of hunting on all lands. 

There is no hunting allowed on land owned by the Town of Durham with a few exceptions pertaining to lands where LCHIP funds were utilized for acquisition.  State and Federal lands routinely allow hunting and it should be noted that 80% of New Hampshire's forestland is privately owned. Generally speaking, most private lands -- especially larger tracts -- remain open to hunters across New Hampshire, unless otherwise posted against hunting. While the Durham Police and New Hampshire Fish and Game highly recommend that each hunter personally contact landowners whenever possible and seek permission to hunt, this is not always accomplished.  It is noted that even land posted to hunting can be accessed by contacting the owner prior to hunting.  We urge all hunters to please respect all landowners wishing to keep their lands posted.   One category of current use tax reduction requires the landowner to keep their land open to public use, including hunting, in order to get an additional 20% tax reduction. Regardless, the discharge of a firearm within 300 feet of a permanently occupied building owned by another is unlawful.  If residents are concerned about any gunshots, the Durham Police are poised to respond and investigate the situation.

Residents should also be aware that the Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge in Newington holds a special hunt on the first weekend of the regular firearms season. The shotgun-only white-tailed deer hunt serves the dual purposes of supporting the state's effort to control the deer population while providing recreational opportunities on the 1,100-acre refuge.  A total of 40 hunters (20 each day) are selected through a free lottery for one-day hunting permits.

NOVEMBER ZBA MEETING DATE

Due to the General Election on November 8th, the Zoning Board meeting in November will be held on Tuesday, November 15.
 

DPL COMMUNITY FORUM - November 1st, 7PM - Meet the Final Candidate for the DPL Director Position, Rebekka Mateyk

The Durham Public Library Board of Trustees cordially invite you to meet the finalist for the DPL Director position.  

Please join us this Tuesday, November 1st from 7:00pm-8:00pm in the Oyster River Room at the Durham Pubic Library.  Rebekka will discuss about her background and her vision for a 21st century library.  There will be time for the community to ask questions and light refreshments will be served.

Brief career synopsis:
Rebekka earned a B.S. in Industrial Engineering Technology from Binghamton University, a B.S. in Nutrition from Russell Sage College and an M.L.S. in Library and Information Studies from Rutgers.

Most recently, Rebekka served as the Director of the Pease Library in Plymouth and was previously the Director of the Stowe Free Library in Stowe VT.  Rebekka brings extensive skills in grant writing, budgeting and fiscal management, strategic planning and staff management. 

IT’S HALLOWEEN IN DURHAM - Trick or Treating is Sun, October 30

As noted above, the date for trick or treating in Durham is Sunday (October 30th) from 5 - 7:30 PM so the police department will once again have officers on bicycles in residential neighborhoods to be seen and to interact with all the little ghosts and goblins. 

For downtown activity over the weekend the Durham Police will have an expanded compliment of officers on duty to handle the UNH Football game that starts at noon and the historical activity that can be expected in the aftermath.  It is expected to be a very active weekend for the department as they strive to maintain a high visibility of officers to actively monitor gatherings via a proactive strategy that is designed to prevent issues while allowing students to enjoy the various entertainment opportunities both on the UNH campus and throughout the downtown.  

General John Sullivan House and Monument, Route 108/Newmarket Road, Durham. Courtesy Todd Selig

IRS SCAM IN DURHAM
This week Durham Police took several calls from residents stating that they had received a recorded message from a person identifying themselves as from the IRS.  The call indicated that they needed to immediately call a number and address outstanding tax issues.  The recording further stated that if the person being called did not address this issue immediately, that legal action would commence immediately.

The concerned residents called Durham PD and a detective called the number noted by one of the residents.  A male answered as though he was at the United States Internal Revenue Service (IRS) but he feigned a foreign accent that became more pronounced as the call went on.  He identified himself as an IRS agent while the detective pretended to be the recipient of the IRS call.  The detective/employee was instructed to purchase “Green Dot Paks” at Rite Aid and use these in paying the outstanding bill.  The detective asked why Green Dot to pay the IRS and he responded that the billing service that the IRS routinely used was not in operation and this was an alternative that would clear up the bill.  The Durham detective engaged the man for a lengthy period of time until the detective identified himself.  The “IRS” worker immediately hung up! 

Durham residents should be aware that no Federal entity will operate via a telephone call for such serious matters.  Neither banking institution nor credit card company operates in this manner either and no reputable company will use these tactics!  Hang up and notify the Durham Police of the incident as it is a scam!

One common denominator are the “Green Dot Paks” which are technically referred to as Green Dot MoneyPak cards which are reloadable debit cards, available in many businesses that can be used to pay your phone, cable, or credit card bills. They're typically for people who don't have, or want, bank accounts.  The scam works in the following way.  The phone caller demands payment for some seemingly reasonable thing and instructs the person to go to any number of stores, including Rite Aid, to purchase a loaded Green Dot MoneyPak card with an amount of cash.  The person is then given a call-back number, as in the Durham incident, and instructed to scratch off the back of the card where a number is reveled.  Once the call is accomplished and the number revealed to the “debt collector” the number is used over the Internet and all the funds on the card are immediately removed.  Green Dot MoneyPak cards are not linked to bank accounts - the money is on the card. Anyone you share your card number with has instant access to your cash and can siphon the card dry.

While most of these cases are virtually impossible to resolve as they routinely operate from foreign third-world countries, reporting is important as it allows the Durham Police to alert you to ongoing frauds/scams that are being experienced in Durham. 

Dock with waving American flag on paved portion of Cedar Point Road. Courtesy Todd Selig

MEETINGS: SCHEDULE AND VIDEO ON DEMAND
The following public meetings are scheduled for the upcoming 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.

Integrated Waste Management Advisory Committee - Thursday, November 3, 2016 (Durham PD - 7AM)

Historic District/Heritage Commission - Thursday, November 3, 2016

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

DCAT CABLE CHANNEL 22

Durham Police Facility Video. DCAT 22 Studios has created the first video in a series of others which are designed to inform residents of the needs of the police facility. This first 15 minute video focuses upon the three critical and immediate needs that challenge the agency.  While the department will be presenting and hosting opportunities to tour the facility, the series of short videos will offer some exposure to areas at the police department that the public rarely sees. The video airs on DCAT Cable Channel 22:  Monday – Friday at 8:00 PM, Saturday & Sunday @ 7:30 PM.  It’s also available On Demand.

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DCAT 22 Studios was on the road again for our next episode of “In the Biz” Durham Business Spotlight.  Join your host, Economic Development Director, Mary Ellen Humphrey as she chats with the gang from Durham Geeks.  The “Geeks” specialize in repair and restoring mobile devices, they also troubleshoot, repair and load software onto any electronic devices, but please take a few minutes to watch this video short.  In the Biz can be seen on DCAT Cable Channel 22 on Saturday & Sunday @ 12:30 & 6:00 PM. The video is also available for viewing On Demand.

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DCAT 22 now has an aerial drone. The drone craft will be used in many different municipal capacities where an aerial view is necessary. The drone has HD video and HD still shot capability.  Due to the size and weight of the drone, it’s necessary for it to be registered with the FAA, tail numbers: FA3ECN9RR3.  

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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.

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.

Fall Programs and Registration
Please visit us HERE for a full list of fall programs, including detailed information and online registration.

Spooktacular Day
Join us at Jackson’s Landing on Friday, October 28th from 4-6pm for a Spooktacular FUN filled event!  Participants will enjoy pumpkin & cookie decorating, crafts & games, a costume parade, spooktacular snacks, complementary ice skating (during event) at Churchill Rink and much more! 

This is event will take place rain or shine!  If we experience inclement weather, we will move activities to the rink!

Stargazing at the UNH Observatory

Durham Parks & Recreation has teamed up with UNH Astronomer John Gianforte - The SkyGuy, to offer Stargazing opportunities throughout the year at the UNH Observatory & at Wagon Hill Farm. On Saturday, November 12th from 7:00-8:30pm at the UNH Observatory, we will view the moon and the prominent fall constellations that are rich in mythology and contain some amazing deep sky objects. Please let DPR know you’ll be attending by Wednesday, November 9th at recreation@ci.durham.nh.us. This is a community program-all ages are welcome. Suggested donation of $5/pp.

Indoor Rock Climbing at the UNH Artificial Climbing Wall
Durham Parks & Recreation has once again teamed up with UNH Outdoor Education for the After School Rock Climbing Club. Team members will work closely with UNH Outdoor Education students who are also AMGA certified instructors to learn belaying skills, knots, equipment, climbing technique, problem solving skills, and more!  New and experienced climbers welcome. All equipment provided.  Pre-registration required HERE.

• Middle School Climbing Club- Fridays 3:30-5:30pm: November 4th, 11th, December 2nd & 9th. $55/student. Ages 10+.  DPR Staff will walk students from the ORMS to NH Hall. Min of 10, Max of 24.
• Family Climb Nights- Fridays 6:30-8:30pm: November 4th, 18th & December 2nd. $30/2 family members, $50/4 family members.  Add on a family member for $10.  Ages 5+. Min of 10, Max of 24.
• High School Climb Night-Friday, December 9th 6:30-8:30pm. $20/climber. Snacks provided! Ages 14+. Min of 10, Max of 24T

Coyote Club Session 2

Mondays, November 14th- January 9th (7 weeks) 3:30-4:30.  No class 12/26 & 1/2.  Space is limited, please pre-register by November 7th. $85/per person.
Coyote Club introduces children to nature-based studies, native crafts and environmental stewardship.  This program will get kids out of the house and into the woods, connecting them to their environment.

Teeter TOTers Playgroup

Teeter TOTers Playgroup is a partnership program with Oyster River Parents for Preschoolers (ORPP), which allows children and parents the opportunity to gather together for free play, time to socially interact, and the choice to participate in an age appropriate activity.  

The Playgroup meets on Fridays at 10:00am at various locations throughout the year.  Please visit us at: durhamrec.recdesk.com to see where to meet and what we have planned!  Participation is FREE!

Music with Benji
Begins Oct. 5th. Join us on Wednesdays at 9:45am at the Durham Parks & Rec. building for music fun with Benji!  This is a free community program for ages 5 & under.  Adult supervision is required. 

Pick-Up Pickleball  
Join us Tuesday nights from 6-8pm at the Oyster River Middle School- Multi Purpose Room for Pick-Up Pickleball. This is a low-impact doubles racket sport that blends tennis, badminton and ping pong. Pick-up style play for all levels and abilities.  All equipment is provided, participation is FREE.

SAVE THE DATE!

• Feather Fest- Thursday, November 24th at Wagon Hill Farm-10am.
• Tree Lighting Celebration- Saturday, December 3rd
• December Vacation Week Activities-  December 27th 2016-January 2nd 2017.  Something fun planned each day of vacation!!

St.George's Episcopal Church, Main Street, Durham. Courtesy Todd Selig

COMMUNITY PROGRAMS AND EVENTS

Trick or Treating in Durham - Sunday, Oct 30, 2016, 5 - 7:30 PM

Screenagers: Growing up in the Digital Age, Wednesday, Nov 9, 2016, 6:30PM, ORHS auditorium. An independent documentary examining the lives of kids, families, schools, and communities attempting to navigate the complexities of social media, Internet addiction, and digital citizenship. Free to the community. Hosted by Oyster River PTOs.

Active Retirement Association presents Dr. Dean Spiliotes of Southern NH University speaking on "Election - 2016: Where we are Today” - Tuesday, Nov 1, 2016, 1:30 PM, Durham Evangelical Church, 114 Dover Road. Dr. Dean Spiliotes will be speaking about the issues, trends, and prospects of the fast-approaching 2016 Presidential election. Everyone -- Democrat, Republican, Undecided -- is welcome. More information, contact Carol Caldwell, 603-343-1004, info@ara-nh.org, or visit the ARA website.

Fall Shopping Bazaar, Friday, Nov 11, 2016, 10AM - 3PM, ORHS Cafeteria. 20+ vendors with a variety of products! Feel free to bring the family, as there will also be soup and cornbread muffins for sale.

It's Fine to Have no Spine - Saturday, Nov 12, 2016, 11AM - 12 Noon, Newmarket Public Library.  A naturalist from the Lamprey Rivers Advisory Committee will provide a sampling of live and formerly-live invertebrate animals that are found in our rivers and ponds. Free! Copies of the just-published Chick and Dee-Dee's Lamprey River Adventure will be for sale for $10.00.

Active Retirement Association presents Dr. Dante J. Scala of UNH speaking on "Election - 2016: What Just Happened, - Tuesday, Nov 15, 2016, 1:30 PM, Durham Evangelical Church, 114 Dover Road. Dr. Dean Spiliotes will be speaking about the issues, trends, and prospects of the fast-approaching 2016 Presidential election. Everyone -- Democrat, Republican, Undecided -- is welcome. More information, contact Carol Caldwell, 603-343-1004, info@ara-nh.org, or visit the ARA website.

International Food Luncheon hosted by Fairchild Hall, UNH, Friday, Nov 18, 2016, 11AM - 2PM, Huddleston Ballroom. Twenty dishes from around the world cooked for you by Fairchild Hall, UNH's international dorm as part of a 60+ year tradition. From Poland to Chile to the Philippines there will be dishes for all dietary needs and any preferred taste. Buffet served throughout the event and guests are welcome at any time during the event. Admission: $10/per non-student and dessert. $5 togo boxes also available. Buy tickets online HERE.

UNH Museum of Art Upcoming Events. View schedule of events HERE.

OR Girls Middle School Hockey. Open to girls in grades 5-8 in the OR School District. Positions still available for new players. Games are in the Southern Maine Middle School Hockey League and ORMS team will play a 12-14 game schedule beginning in November. More information, contact orms.girls.hockey@gmail.com

DURHAM PUBLIC LIBRARY PROGRAMS AND EVENTS

Children’s and Young Adult Programs:

Star Wars READS Day- Family Program, Sat. Oct. 29, 10:30  am - Celebrate Star Wars Reads Day with our special STEAM Star Wars family program! We will make a flying, paper Millennium Falcon, and we will try to destroy Darth Vader's Death Star by using "The Force". Plus, you can train to be a Jedi Master by completing our Jedi scavenger hunt! We will also have coloring pages, crossword puzzles & more! All are welcome. Costumes are encouraged!
Storytimes Tues. Nov. 1st and Thurs. Nov. 3rd at 10:30 am.  “Alligators!”  
On-going Family Pumpkin Decorating Contest! Still time to bring in a decorated pumpkin!  They will be on display in the library,  Prizes!  No carving.  Come and see the fun entries on display in the Children’s area until Halloween.  
Baby Lap-sit (ages 2 & under with care giver) Weds. Nov. 2nd at 10:30 am
Young Adult Drop-in Monday (ages 10 & up) Monday 2:45-4pm Oct. 31st: -Halloween Photo Booth & Games - Drop by the YA room anytime between 2:45 - 4:00 PM on Monday, October 31st  to take pictures in our Halloween photo booth with your friends and play games like zombie brain toss and spiders in your hair.  This program is designed for young adults ages 10 and up.
Raccoon Readers, 2nd-4th grade book group, Tues. Nov. 1st, 6:00-7:00 pm – Join us for our monthly book group.  This month’s book is “When Life Gives You O.J.” by Erica S. Perl.  We talk about the book, play some games, make a fun craft and enjoy a snack.  Books are available at the Circulation desk.
Knitting Club for 3rd-5th graders Weds. Nov. 2nd 4-5 pm (register at the Children’s desk).
YA Iron Chef (ages 10 & up), Thurs. Nov. 3rd, 6:00-7:30 pm – Join us for this new fun program.  Will you be crowned the next DPL Teen Iron Chef?  This month’s theme:  Thanksgiving Leftovers.  Choose from a selection of ingredients and prepare a prize-winning dish that fits the theme… Just don’t forget the Secret Ingredient.  What is the Secret Ingredient, you ask?  You’ll have to come to find out!  Register in advance at the Children’s desk.
Join us for Lego Club (K-4th grade) on Thurs. Nov. 3rd at 3:30-4:30 pm!  Our weekly challenge will be about patterns.
Home-schooler’s Group Friday, Nov. 4th at 10:30 am.  “Flight!”
Tales for Tails – Read to a therapy dog, Cynder or North!   Ages 1st-4th grade.  Sign-up at the Children’s desk..
YA Monthly TAB (Teen Advisory Board) for ages 10 & up, Group, Mon. Nov. 7th, 6:30-7:30 pm – Join our monthly group where you decide what books and programs the library should have.  This month:  We will make a Thanksgiving inspired craft, and try our hand at baking “mug cakes” in the microwave for dessert!  Registration is required and space is limited.  Pizza is served.
STEAM Family Program Sat. Nov. 5, 10:30 am - Join us for some fun STEAM Sensory Activities!  There will be mystery balloon, sensory bag, heat changing slime, and tracing your name with play dough.  All ages.  Don't miss the fun.
Jack & Annie Book Club (K-2) Tues. Nov. 15th, 4-5 pm Join us for our new monthly book club made just for kids in kindergarten through 2nd grade! Next book is, "Shadow of the Shark" by Mary Pope  Osborne. Books are available at the circulation desk. Registration is required. Please sign-up at the Children's desk!
Patch Program has started.  Come and join and collect your patches!  This program is generously sponsored by the Friends of the Durham Public Library.

Adult  Programs:

NEWS FLASH!  Acoustic Open Mic with Mike Welcome new hootmeister Mike Modern, performing occasionally as "Cowboy Mike", Weds. November 9th from 6:30-7:45 pm - Mike is the founding member of: EBUMA (Enthusiastic But Untalented Musicians Association). He welcomes all types of acoustic (non-amplified) music. First time performers and original music are particularly encouraged. Acoustic Open Mic with Mike is a welcoming supportive intimate gathering.  Light refreshments are provided.
Special Veteran's Day Program, Thurs. Nov. 10, 6:30 pm - Join us for a special Veteran's Day Program Featuring Sam Perley, trumpet player with Patriotic Tunes!  Author Edward "Skip" Biron, book talk titled, Skip's Legacy. Refreshments served. All are welcome and especially Veteran's. Contact Armida Geiger ageiger@ci.durham.nh.us
Oyster River Knitters, Tues. Nov. 1, 7-9 pm - Join in for a couple hours of knitting relaxation and conversation.  This is a great time to pick up that knitting project you’ve wanted to finish. There's no need to pre-register; just show up. New participants of all skill levels are welcome!  
Friends of the Durham Public Library, Wed. Nov. 2, 1:00 social time, 1:30 monthly meeting.  All are welcome to attend.
McGregor Memorial EMS Classes  - First Aid Class -Mon. Nov. 7, 6-8 pm, CPR & AED - Mon. Nov. 14, 6-8 pm Register at www.cprsafe.org
Oyster River ASD Friends, Tues. Nov. 8, 6:30 pm - Monthly meeting for parents connecting and learning to support themselves and their teens/young adults on the Autism Spectrum.   Topic & guest speaker TBA.  Contact Julie jsmithnh@icloud.com
Friends' Book Discussion, Thurs. Nov. 17, 10:30 am - Please join the FRIENDS' BOOK DISCUSSION of the long short story, Boule de Suif by Guy de Maupassant, facilitated by Jennifer Lee.  Nine copies are available at the library desk and there is an online text of it by the same translator (McMaster et al).
2nd Annual Library Snowflake Social, Tuesday, December 6, 2016, 4-6pm - Live Music,  2016 Gingerbread House Unveiling, Origami Star making, Crafts and Tasty Treats. Everyone is invited! Snow date is Wednesday,  December 7, 2016.

Thank you to those who have answered the call to bake cookies.  Hot Tip!  While the oven is on cooking a chicken...add a tray of cookies to bake.  Empty Cookie Basket -n"Cookie Crisis: Urgent Call for bakers. Ask not where are the cookies; ask when your group can bake. Currently there are no November, December or January bakers..."Interested in baking cookies?  Contact Nancy Schieb neschieb@gmail.com  Or when at the library kindly leave your name and phone number with a staff member at the circulation desk or call the library 603-868-6699 and leave your name and number.

The library offers help for people who need assistance using technology: computers, iPads & cell phones, eReaders (Nook, Kindle, etc.) Call to check on availability of the volunteers and set up an appointment. 868-6699 or email  durhampl@gmail.com
 

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.

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