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 NEWS AND HAPPENINGS ...
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Early this week, the topographic planning map located in the lobby of the current Town Office was moved to its new home across the street at the new Town Hall building. The three-dimensional map of Durham was created by local artist and UNH professor John Woodsum Hatch (1919-1998) and donated by him to the Town of Durham in 1965 as a planning aid. It has provided a focal point for visitors to the Town offices ever since. Courtesy Karen Edwards
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A reminder that there will be a very interesting program at the Smith Chapel this Sunday, October 5th, including a reenactment of a 19th century church service led by resident Michael Bradley. For more information see below.
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PRELIMINARY DESIGN REVIEW FOR PARTIAL REDEVELOPMENT OF MILL PLAZA TO BE PRESENTED AT DURHAM PLANNING BOARD - OCTOBER 8, 2014
The Town received an application for a preliminary design review for the partial redevelopment of Mill Plaza. This will be presented to the Planning Board on October 8 with the public hearing on October 22. The proposal is for 44,110 square feet of new commercial space and 120 residential apartments on the upper floors of some of the new buildings. The users of the proposed apartments are unspecified in the application but staff believe at this point in time that this will represent approximately 300-500 additional beds of student housing. To view the application, click HERE.
A Mill Plaza Study Committee, convened by the Town and chaired by Dave Howland, prepared a plan in 2008 for the prospective redevelopment of the site. To view the 2008 plan, click HERE.
This is a significant development proposal so residents and businesses that utilize, live near, or are located in/near the Mill Plaza will want to take note. A number of business owners located in the Mill Plaza as tenants of the commercial space there have indicated that they did not know of the proposal until they heard of it from the Town.
On October 8th, the Planning Board will receive information about the project and likely will hold some preliminary discussions with the developer and amongst members of the board. On October 22nd, people with an interest in the redevelopment will be able to express their thoughts about the proposal for the consideration of the board and the applicant alike.
Residents and businesses that have an interest in this matter would be advised to tune into both meetings.
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UNH has closed on the former ATO house located at 66 Main Street - Note the red fire extinguisher atop one of the rails over the deck (center of photo) and the black handles of a lawn mower atop the far right top section of roof. The extinguisher and mower have been mysteriously moving around the building despite its being boarded up for months. Durham police and fire report numerous break ins. Initials of young people are written in the dust on couches, desks, etc. illustrating ongoing activity within the building. Interior repairs have not been made following a building fire several years ago. Courtesy Todd Selig
UNIVERSITY OF NEW HAMPSHIRE PURCHASES FORMER ATO PROPERTY AT 66 MAIN STREET
The University of New Hampshire closed this past week on its purchase of the former ATO property at 66 Main Street as the first step toward a cooperative development with the Town of Durham intended to enhance the downtown. This purchase ensures the property will contribute to positive economic development, and the University and Town will soon begin work to identify a developer to partner with on the redevelopment. Neither Durham nor UNH are desirous of additional student housing in this location.
Because the building will remain empty and reuse in future development of the site is impractical, Durham’s Police, Fire, and Code Enforcement departments, as well as university officials, agree that it needs to be demolished as soon as possible for health and safety reasons. At present, the structure is viewed by our first responders as an attractive nuisance. Work will begin in the near future to abate the property (remove asbestos, lead paint, etc.) under the direction of a professional industrial hygienist before demolition begins.
The University is overseeing the documentation of the building’s history for the permanent record. Work on the site is expected to begin in the next few weeks.
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Smith Chapel, located on Mill Pond Road. Courtesy Andrea Bodo
SMITH CHAPEL OPEN HOUSE - SUNDAY OCTOBER 5TH, 12:00 - 2:00 PM
The public is invited to an Open House on Sunday, October 5, 2014 from 12:00 - 2:00 PM, at the Smith Chapel. The Open House is sponsored by the Durham Historic District/Heritage Commission, Durham Parks & Recreation, Durham Historical Association, and Three Chimney's Inn.
Smith Chapel is located at 45 Mill Pond Rd, parking along Mill Pond Road.
12noon – Rev Michael Bradley, St. George’s Episcopal Church will be conducting an 1892 PRAYER SERVICE inside the Chapel. This would have been the service Hamilton Smith would have been familiar with. Since there is very limited seating inside the Chapel, the doors will be open and the service will be amplified outdoors.
The service will run about 30-40” so please bring a lawn chair if you would be more comfortable than standing.
Refreshments will be served outside the Chapel by Three Chimneys Inn, funded by the HDC.
The DURHAM HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION will have a table with information about the Smith Chapel.
The Chapel is overseen by the Trustees of the Trust Fund. The latest restoration of the Chapel (which is owned by the Town) was made possible by funding from the Town Council for the magnificent slate roof (done by American Steeple, who also did the Market Square steeple in Portsmouth). The interior restorations in part were made possible with grants acquired by the Historic District Commission. Master craftsmen were hired and overseen by Mike Lynch, Director of Public Works and the late Curly Frick.
SMITH CHAPEL was listed on the National Register in 2013 and is a town treasure. Many people have never seen the interior so please come out and join us for a lovely event. The Chapel is available for weddings and other events.
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DURHAM HISTORIC ASSOCIATION FALL PROGRAM
The Durham Historic Association Fall program is a Tour of the Meader-Emerson Farm on Sunday, October 19th from 2-4 PM. The farm is located at 184 Piscataqua Road. Join Diane Newick and Janet Mackie to learn the history of one of Durham’s oldest farms. The Sunday afternoon schedule allows visitors to see the house, barn, fields and graveyard all overlooking Little Bay. Directions:Take Piscataqua Road (Route 4) heading east toward Portsmouth, then TURN RIGHT at the second dirt driveway after Wagon Hill Farm.
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NHDOT PAVING ON ROUTE 108 FROM MILL POND ROAD TO DURHAM POINT ROAD IN DURHAM
NHDOT will be paving Rte 108 from Mill Pond Rd. to Durham Point Rd. in Durham from October 7th – October 10th. The daytime work hours are from 6AM to 7PM.
This is a shim course of pavement in preparation for winter conditions. Please allow yourself time for additional delays; alternating one-way traffic will be maintained with traffic control. The main portion of the project including utility pole relocations, shoulder widening and newroadway pavement will take place in the coming months through next year.
Please contact the NHDOT District Office at 603-868-1133 with any questions.
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UNH Pool Plan as of September 10, 2014
UNH OUTDOOR POOL UPDATE
Since the public forum on July 1st, the Outdoor Pool Design Committee has met three times. Two of the meetings focused on reviewing the comments shared during the public forum, along with comments received from those who were unable to participate in the public forum. UNH has provided an update on its website which can be viewed HERE.
In terms of a start date for the first phase of the project, the compaction of the site, it is expected this will occur either prior to the end of this October or in early Spring 2015.
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MEETING LOCATIONS IN OCTOBER
Because of the migration over to the new Town Hall building, the following meetings in October will be held at the Durham Public Library. Unfortunately, it may take several days until we are able to broadcast live via DCAT during the move to the new facility as the cable connection must be reestablished as a result of the move. In addition, this week a new live cable feed was installed along the telephone poles between the new Town Hall and the new Durham Public Library to allow for future live broadcasting on DCAT from the library.
Planning Board -Wednesday, October 8 and October 22, 2014
Zoning Board of Adjustment - Tuesday, October 14, 2014
Economic Development Committee - Tuesday, October 21, 2014
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Technology Room at new Town Hall building (before) - Durham's IT Manager, Luke Vincent, has been busy ensuring the server room in the new Town Hall is organized in advance of the big move. To view an "after" photo, scroll below. Courtesy Todd Selig
NEW TOWN HALL PROJECT – Steady Progress Being Made - Move Date Expected to Take Place 10/17/14 – 10/23/14
Progress is coming along well at the new Town Hall project. This week the John Hatch map was carefully relocated from the old Town Office to the entry foyer of the new Town Hall. It can now be seen illuminated through the large arched entry window per design.
Final coats of paint are being applied this week and next (the style and colors are very colonial/traditional with yellows and beige/brown tones). Tile flooring in the basement is installed and waxed. Carpet is in place in all of the offices, the two public conference rooms, and the Town Council chambers. Tile is installed in hallways and common area within the rest of the building as well but not yet waxed. Finishings and cabinetry are being constructed/installed. Alarm panels are being installed/tested this week and next. Curbing, brick walkways, the final layer of asphalt, and exterior plantings will be taking shape over the next two weeks.
Luke Vincent, Durham’s IT Manager, has been painstakingly working with Fairpoint to install phone service to the facility for alarm lines, the elevator, etc.
This weekend Durham’s computer servers will be relocated from the old Town Office to the new Town Hall facility. The signal will then be beamed back across Newmarket Road to the old Town Office facility so the various municipal functions can continue to operate while wiring is completed at the new facility. This is a complicated feat utilizing microwave dishes on each side of Newmarket Road.
The official move date is fairly well set at this time, although with any such project there is the need to be flexible as conditions warrant. At this juncture, the Town Offices are scheduled to be closed on Friday, 10/17/14, so that staff can complete the packing needed to move across the street. Movers will relocate furniture, boxes, files, and materials over the weekend of 10/18/14. Municipal offices will remain closed through Thursday, 10/23/14. This will allow time for staff to unpack, set up offices, connect computers, test equipment, reconnect copiers (which must be moved by the lease company), etc. Computer testing must be accomplished not only internally, but with the State of New Hampshire for many of the Town Clerk functions, as well as with a number of our software providers. Telephones must also be relocated and installed at the new facility. If the new Town Hall facility is able to become operational sooner than Thursday, 10/23/14, we will open the doors to residents at that time. But for now, we are sharing the best information to date.
Almost all of the furniture that is presently used at the old Town Office facility will be reused at the new facility so while residents can expect to see a modern facility at 8 Newmarket Road, we are recycling perfectly good, yet well-worn office furniture, for continued municipal use.
Numerous requests have been made over the last two months for additions/changes to the building design and DPW Director Mike Lynch and Administrator Selig have had to be very firm in saying “no” unless there is a bona fide need for the change order due to code compliance, addressing unanticipated site deficiencies, etc.
Between the Town Hall project and the budget development process, things are very hectic right now at the Town Offices.
Technology Room at new Town Hall (after) - Courtesy Todd Selig
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One of two wireless bridges that are being used to transition servers/workstations for the upcoming move to the new Town Hall. Courtesy Todd Selig
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BUDGET DEVELOPMENT PROCESS UNDER WAY FOR FY 2015
Over the last four weeks, Business Manager Gail Jablonski has organized budget meetings with each of the Town’s department heads to enable herself and Administrator Selig to meet with departments and better understand their budget requests, as well as their Capital Improvement Program requests. Members of the Town Council have been notified of each of these meetings and have been invited to attend if they have an interest in doing so. Typically one to four members of the Council have been able to attend each such budget meeting.
One of the Town’s Council’s approved goals for FY 2014-2015 states: “Develop operating budgets that limit growth in the Town's portion of property taxes by the rate of inflation plus new additions to the Town's taxable base. This goal is for both the near and longer term.”
Mr. Selig is endeavoring to accomplish this goal. It will mean that not all departments, boards, committees, and commissions will receive everything that has been requested.
At this time, the requests received stand at an increase of $1,263,874 or 9.61% over FY 2014. The approved FY 2014 Operational Budget was $13,155,029.
Per Town Charter, the Administrator is charged with the development of the annual budget and CIP program. The proposed annual budget must be submitted to the Town Council by the last business day in October. The Town Council by Charter then has until the last business day in December to adopt a budget or the Administrator’s budget becomes the budget of the Town by default.
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SPENDING FREEZE IMPLEMENTED
Effective immediately, Administrator Selig and Business Manager Gail Jablonski have placed a freeze on all non-essential budget purchases. This is being done in anticipation of cost overages at the new Town Hall project, the majority of which have been reported previously. This freeze may be lifted before the end of the year once we have a complete accounting of the project cost.
To view a listing of Town Hall project expenditures from mid-September, click HERE.
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A new mural has been painted in the alleyway off Main Street leading to the Main Street Makery Courtesy Todd Selig
MAIN STREET MAKERY/THE CANDY BAR's ALLEYFEST A GREAT SUCCESS
Last Saturday, 9/27/14, the Main Street Makery and The Candy Bar hosted the first ever “Alleyfest” in the little alleyway between The Candy Bar and Durham House of Pizza (DHOP). The event was well attended with both residents and hundreds of visitors to the community who were planning to attend the first UNH evening football game later that day mulling around downtown Durham. In short, downtown was hopping!
One of the activities included painting a mural (pictured above) to help beautify the downtown.
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PEDESTRIAN/BICYCLE SAFETY AROUND THE MIDDLE SCHOOL
With so much construction taking place in and around routes to the Oyster River Middle School, residents are asked to ensure they take extra care when walking, biking, or driving to the school in the morning or in the afternoon.
Be sure to travel slowly, take in your surroundings, and be aware of children in the area.
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SOLAR POWER FOR MUNICIPAL FACILITIES
Since late 2014, part of the Town's energy has been generated locally—as in, right here in Durham. Solar panels installed on the public library, the Churchill Rink, and the police station are up and running.
To see how the solar arrays have been performing at the library and at Churchill Rink during 2014, visit the web page Solar Power in Durham and download the graphs.
Want real-time data? Want to know what it means in terms of environmental impact? Then go to this Solectria website. To see an overview for each facility's energy production, type in one of the following site names:
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Durham Public Library
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Durham Churchill Ice Rink
Choose the Site Analytics tab to gain access to all historic generation data from all three projects. These reports can be easily downloaded. (Note: The police station data is not available; those arrays were installed, and continue to operate, at no cost to the Town.)
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Many members of the community attended this week's dedication of the new Moharimet Elementary School Cafeteria Gymnasium that was named in honor of longtime principal Dennis Harrington. Courtesy Todd Selig
DEDICATION OF NEW CAFETERIA GYMNASIUM AT MOHARIMET SCHOOL TO LONGTIME PRINICIPAL DENNIS HARRINGTON
At this Wednesday’s School Board meeting, 10/1/14, the new Cafeteria Gymnasium at the Moharimet Elementary School was officially named in honor of longtime principal Dennis Harrington. It was a nice occasion with speeches and comments given by school administrators, teachers, board members, parents, and students alike. Mr. Harrington was entirely caught off guard and thoroughly surprised.
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There were over 600 participants that attended this year's Durham Day at WHF. Courtesy Todd Selig
DURHAM DAY A SUCCESS
This year’s Durham Day held last Saturday, 9/27/14, went very smoothly with over 600 participants in attendance over the course of the day. Activities included a free BBQ lunch, kayak and boat tours of the Great Bay, live music, oyster shucking demonstrations, nature walk, community garden tour, local historical artifacts on display, smoothie bar, poetry readings, CPR station, financial fitness exhibit, information on upcoming nature-based volunteer opportunities, a boat building program by the UNH Docents, kids activities, and more. The brothers of the Kappa Sigma fraternity were also extremely helpful in parking cars, and staffing the grills.
To see an article on the day in this week’s TNH, click HERE.
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YOUNG’S RESTAURANT – GREAT FOOD, LOCAL, AND SUSTAINABLE
The staff at Young’s restaurant is committed to great food, great service, and a welcoming and friendly atmosphere. In addition, they are committed to sustainability, recognizing that everyone can play a part in preserving natural resources, the environment, and in supporting the local economy and community.
From sourcing locally grown products, to implementing sustainability practices in every area of their business, to supporting local community groups, Young’s has worked to bring all these efforts together to provide the Durham community a high quality dining experience.
If you’ve eaten at Young’s this summer, you’ve likely eaten produce directly from Ken and Cathy Young’s own garden.
To learn more about Young’s, click HERE.
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TRANSPORTATION SURVEY: DEC PRESENTATION TO COUNCIL ON OCTOBER 6
On Monday, October 6, 2014, the Energy Committee will give a presentation on the Transportation Survey it conducted this year between May 1 and June 9, prior to the implementation of the pilot traffic reconfiguration for Main Street. The presentation will be followed by a Q&A/discussion period.
Results of this first survey will serve as a baseline. Members of the Committee believe that the survey will serve to provide valuable information to the community as it is repeated over time.
The raw data for all responses, including comments, is available from a web page dedicated to the survey. After Monday’s meeting, the presentation slides will also be posted to the web page.
As noted at an earlier Council meeting, some of the survey questions are designed to ascertain whether the results reasonably reflect the community’s demographics. Others establish general attitudes and awareness about energy-related issues.
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ALCOHOL COMPLIANCE CHECKS
The Durham Police routinely conduct “compliance checks” of vendors who are licensed to sell alcoholic beverages in Durham. The department’s goal remains constant in the area of alcohol sales as Chief Kurz wants to assure the community that businesses are properly confirming the age and identity of those persons attempting to purchase alcohol.
Each alcohol vendor in Durham is aware of the problem illegal alcohol possession, consumption and intoxication poses to the Durham community and it is our goal to confront this concern on multiple levels.
Last week during the evening, an underage student, working in conjuncture with the Durham Police attempted to purchase alcohol at every location where alcohol is served including Bella’s, Libby’s Bar and Grill as well as convenience stores such as Irving’s, Store 24 and Rite Aid. We specifically seek to confirm that the business is properly requesting the young person’s identification and when provided, ensuring that the identification verifies they are of the legal age of 21.
Durham’s underage volunteer is trained and certified by the New Hampshire Liquor Commission to perform these compliance checks. The volunteer provides their personal New Hampshire license indicating they are in fact under the age of 21, which should result in an immediate refusal. The volunteer never deceives and answers all questions posed by the store truthfully. Chief Kurz was pleased to report that all fourteen locations in Durham performed as they should and refused the requested sale.
To highlight the positive, the Chief sends each conveyor of alcohol who appropriately refused the sale of alcohol, a letter designed to reinforce their success and remind them to remain vigilant.
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NEW HAMPSHIRE'S "HANDS FREE ELECTRONIC DEVICE" LAW
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.
These are some the realities that have led to the new law that on July 1, 2015, will be the enactment date in NH that will prohibit 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.
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SWEET TRAIL VOLUNTEER WORKDAY - SATURDAY, OCTOBER 4TH
Conservation partners, including the Town of Durham Parks & Recreation Dept., Conservation Commission, and Land Stewardship Committee, are co-sponsoring a Volunteer Workday and Trails Training at the Sweet Trail in Durham, NH on Saturday, October 4, 2014. Volunteers are need to help maintain this well-loved community trail that crosses lands owned by many partners including the The Nature Conservancy, Town of Durham, The Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests, NH Fish & Game, and private lands. View Flyer HERE. Volunteers can help cut brush, carry and replace supplies such as signs and bridge boards, and more. A training session on Basic Trail Maintenance will take place from 9-10 a.m., followed by a workday from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Both sessions are open to all, and groups are welcome. Bring work gloves, water bottle, and wear long pants and sleeves. Pre-registration is requested: Sign up HERE!
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OYSTER RIVER FOREST HABITAT RESTORATION WORKDAY - TUESDAY, OCTOBER 21ST
Join the Durham Conservation Commission and wildlife consultant Ellen Snyder on Tuesday, October 21st from 2-5 pm to enjoy one of Durham’s newest conservation areas—the 170-acre Oyster River Forest—while helping to restore habitat for bees, bugs, butterflies, and bunnies and enhance the site for existing and future walking trails for people. We will hand pull invasive glossy buckthorn seedlings and flag areas of native plants. Learn about restoration of the fields and habitat for New England cottontails. Click HERE to sign-up to volunteer. Questions about the event? Contact Ellen Snyder at ellensnyder1@gmail.com.
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“DRUG TAKE BACK’ PROGRAM AT THE DURHAM POLICE DEPARTMENT
The initiative of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has been a national success where the previous events occurring in New Hampshire have taken in an astounding 276 tons of unwanted or expired medications in years past. So resounding was the success to fill this void that last year Chief Kurz decided to provide the program on a continuous basis to the residents of Durham. Numerous residents participated by dropping off a significant amount of unwanted or expired prescriptions at the police facility. Monday through Friday from 8AM to 5PM, residents can drop off their unused, unwanted, or expired medications at the Durham Police facility on Dover Road for no cost and it’s all anonymous!
Doing so prevents prescription drug abuse as six out of ten teenagers who have taken prescription narcotics state that they get them from their parents or relative’s medicine cabinets. Additionally, using this service keeps trace drugs out of our lakes, streams and estuaries as wastewater treatment plants cannot remove many of the compounds found in medications; so when flushed or put in a landfill, drugs are discharged into our surface and ground water and consumed by fish and wildlife. If anyone has any questions about this service, please call the Durham Police during business hours Monday through Friday.
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The two interpretative panels installed at the Wiswall recreation area, along with the new sign naming the park after the late John Woodsum Hatch. Courtesy Richard H. Lord
NEW SIGN AND PANEL INSTALLED AT THE WISWALL RECREATION AREA IN HONOR OF THE LATE JOHN WOODSUM HATCH
In September 2009, the Wiswall Historic Interpretation Committee (WHIC) was formed by the Town of Durham to fulfill the requirements of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the Town, the Federal Emergency Management Administration, the New Hampshire Division of Historic Resources, and other parties for historic mitigation for the removal of the former stone bridge abutments during the reconstruction of the Wiswall bridge.
The primary task of the committee (co-chaired by Richard H. Lord & Howard Burrows), as defined in the MOA, was to work with a graphic arts firm to develop an informational display to be located at John Hatch/Wiswall Park that would tell the story of the historic mills on the site and its relationship to the neighborhood and the Town. A graphic arts firm was selected and subsequently in the fall of 2010, the interpretative panels were installed. A new panel has been installed dedicating the park to John Hatch. A new sign "John Hatch Park" has also been added. A small dedication ceremony at the park will be held at a future date.
Richard H. "Dick" Lord, stands next to the newly installed panel at the Wiswall recreation area dedicating the park to the late John Woodsum Hatch. Courtesy Richard H. Lord
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BICYCLE ROAD RACES IN DURHAM
Durham is a community that encourages bicycling along its entire roadway system especially many of our rural more scenic areas. Wherever there is a designed/sanctioned road race, the organization must complete a Special Events form which is then reviewed and signed by each applicable Department Head such as police, the fire department, or public works, etc. Each department reviews the event from their perspective gleaning issues that must be addressed by the applicant prior to permission being granted. On several occasions there have been concerns expressed about large amounts of bicyclists traversing along various roadways in Durham. While the police are aware that there are no special event permits, it appears that various bicycle clubs meet in Durham for breakfast and then head out for a ride through the area. This activity does not require a permit and is perfectly legal as long as the bicyclist obeys the rules of the roadway. Of course, vehicle operators have laws that they must adhere to also. If there is an issue that concerns you, please contact Chief Kurz via dkurz@ci.durham.nh.us or 868-2324.
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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. Click on the meetings listed below to view agendas and other information.
Town Council - Monday, October 6, 2014
Durham Energy Committee - Tuesday, October 7, 2014 (Town Library Community Room-upstairs; 7PM)
Planning Board - Wednesday, October 8, 2014 (Town Library Community Room-upstairs)
Conservation Commission - Thursday, October 9, 2014
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://www.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.
Members of Kappa Sigma working hard on the grill to keep up with the long lines at Durham Day this past weekend. Courtesy Stefanie Frazee
Durham Day 2014 - We would like to take an opportunity to thank the community for their participation in Durham Day 2014. Whether you participated or just came out to enjoy the afternoon, your help made this one of the most successful events to date. We were able to offer a free BBQ, kayak and boat tours of Great Bay, live music from The Jeanie Daniels Band, oyster shucking demonstrations, smoothing bar, poetry readings, nature walks, community garden tours, CPR station, financial fitness, local historical artifacts, kids’ activities, and much more! Photos from Durham Day 2014 can be found HERE.
Churchill Rink – A Message From The Management Team
Firland Management is a Lewiston, Maine based ice rink management company with rinks in the midwest and northeast. We are excited to add the Churchill Rink to our portfolio. We would like to thank the Town of Durham Recreation Department for their commitment to making the Churchill rink a unique destination for hockey and skating enthusiasts. For more information on our company, please visit: http://www.icerinks.com/
Tentative Opening Day: October 16th
New Website: https://www.ci.durham.nh.us/churchillrink (coming soon)
Hours: Monday- Friday 9am-10:30pm, Saturday & Sunday 8am-10:00p
Advertise with us! Dasherboard advertising available for the 2014-2015 season. Please contact us for further pricing and information. Call us at 603-868-3907 or info@icerinks.com.
Schedule:
Public Skating:
Monday , Wednesday, Friday- 2:00-3:20pm
Tuesdays: 12:00-4:20pm
Thursdays: 12:00-1:50pm
Saturday: 2:00-3:45pm
Sundays 12:00-1:45pm
Open Hockey:
Open Stick & Puck- Sunday –Friday 11:00-11:50am
Adult Pick Up Hockey:
Monday & Wednesday: 12:00-1:20pm
Fridays: 12:00-1:20pm and 8:00-9:20pm
Sundays: 9:30-10:50am
Family Pond Hockey: Saturday 7:00-8:30pm
Birthday party packages:
Public session- Just $10 per person, includes, public skate admission, 2 pizzas and soda for your party. Bring your own cake and decoration a locker room for your party. Minimum of 10 participants.
Private ice parties also available - please contact us 603-868-3907 or info@icerinks.com.
Advertise with us! Dasherboard advertising available for the 2014-2015 season. Please contact us for further pricing and information. Call us at 603-868-3907 or info@icerinks.com.
Learn to Skate-
Sat Oct 25-Sat Dec 13
Registration on https://www.ci.durham.nh.us/churchillrink starting Oct 15.
Lessons offered in partnership with the ORYA.
More information on special events coming soon!
Fall Hours: Please note that some class times and locations have changed for the fall. View our weekly calendar and class descriptions HERE!
Drop in to most of our fitness classes for only $10!
Courtesy Angie Hammond
Milkweed Plant Seed Collection at Wagon Hill Farm: A message from Angie Hammond
We are concerned about the population decline of Monarch butterflies and native pollinators and we began to consider ways that we could mitigate these losses. Fortunately it is possible, and relatively easy to help declining populations by planting pesticide free habitats of milkweed and nectar plants. We planted three gardens at the USDA Forest Service Durham Field Office with a variety of native flowering plants to create a Monarch Waystation and pollinator habitat on our property. We were able to provide habitat for all life stages of Monarch butterflies and for a wide variety of pollinators, including other butterflies, bees, wasps, and beetles.
In an effort to provide additional habitat for Monarchs and pollinators, we would like to expand our habitat creation and restoration efforts. When we started our gardens, we had difficulty finding native plant seeds that came from local sources and we had difficulty finding pesticide free native plants. We are currently collecting seeds from milkweed plants and from native nectar plants. When we collect, we harvest 10% or less of the total available seed source from local, healthy populations. This means that 90% of the seeds remain to sustain the local population. We would also like to collect seed from several different sites so that we have a genetically diverse group of milkweed plants.
Angie Hammond is a Forest Health Technician with the USDA Forest Service in Durham and she is currently collecting milkweed seeds to use for Monarch and pollinator habitat creation and restoration. Each milkweed pod is inspected several times a week and the pods are only picked when the seed inside them is ripe. There is a very short window of time between the seed not being ripe and the pod popping open and the wind carrying away all of the seed. We anticipate collecting seed through the month of October.
If you have questions about this project, please contact Angie Hammond by email amhammond@fs.fed.us or by phone 868-7701.
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Save the Date
Spooktacular Day in Durham- October 24, 2014 (3-5 pm) at Jackson’s Landing Playground. A FREE event, featuring treats, activities, crafts, and more Halloween Fun!
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Painting by Karl Zembrusky. One of many paintings that will be on display during the ARA's Art Expo on October 14th. See below for more information.
COMMUNITY PROGRAMS AND EVENTS
UNH PLAN Presents Dr. Paul Connett, Author of "The Zero Waste Solution", Friday, Oct 3, 2014, 6:30 PM, Granite State Room, UNH MUB. Dr. Connett's book outlines a plan for untrashing the planet, one community at a time. Free to the public.
UNH Ocean Discovery Day, Saturday, Oct 4, 10AM - 3PM at the Chase Ocean Engineering Laboratory on UNH Campus and the Judd Gregg Marine Research Complex, New Castle. Free event open to the public. Day full of hands-on activities and learning opportunities related to marine science and ocean engineering. For more information, click HERE.
Oyster River Folk presents Mark Vandeville and Raianne Richards, Saturday, Oct 4, 2014, 7PM, Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 20 Madbury Road. Tickets available at the door. Kids are free. More information HERE.
Mass in Blue by Will Todd, English composer and jazz pianist, Saturday, Oct 4, 2014, 7:00 PM, The Portsmouth Music Hall. Produced by The Community Church of Durham, United Church of Christ. Choral direction by David Ervin, band direction by Marc LaForce. Tickets: $15, can be purchased HERE.
Mindfulness Parenting, Sunday, Oct 5, 2014, 11:15 AM, Community Church of Durham, UCC. Interested in gathering with other parents to discuss how to be mindful, peace-filled and faith-centered as we raise children in these times? Register in advance and let us know if you will need childcare. All are welcome! More information, contact Paula Norbert, 603-868-1230, or cedirector@ccdurham.org.
Self Defense Classes at Wildcat Fitness, Mill Road shopping plaza, Monday & Wednesdays, Oct 6-Nov 19, 2014 (14 classes), 7PM. Cost: $129 ($149 non-members). Open to the public. Don't be a victim, learn life skills from skilled instructors. More information, call 603-397-3200 or visit website HERE.
Active Retirement Association Art Expo, Tuesday, Oct 14, 2014, 1:30-3:30 PM, Durham Evangelical Church. Enjoy a broad range of art and craft work. Click HERE for more information.
A Father’s Journey, A Personal View From Sandy Hook, Connecticut w/David Cole Wheeler, Wednesday Oct 15, 2014, 7PM, Granite State Room, UNH MUB. Mr. Wheeler is a graduate of the Oyster River School system. Come hear David’s passage through grief and his effort to make sense of what seems senseless. David’s son, Benjamin Andrew Wheeler, was one of twenty first-graders murdered on December 14, 2012 at Sandy Hook Elementary School.
HAIL ALL YE VIKINGS! And Vikings at heart, Annual Leif Ericson Day Parade, Sunday, Oct. 12, 2014, 6:00 AM. Please come to the world’s shortest parade in Durham, NH. We will gather at the Launder Center on Main Street in Durham at 6:00 AM and thence parade 25’ to Young’s Restaurant for festivities. Wear your best Scandinavian sweater or costume and join us to celebrate this early explorer to these shores. Call 603-817-9549 with questions. Check out the parade's Facebook account.
UNH Celebrity Series Presents Gallery Voices, Sunday, Oct 19, 2014, 7PM, Paul Creative Arts Center’s Johnson Theatre. Prices: $30 General,, $10 UNH Student with ID and Youth under 18. Purchase tickets on line or by calling 603-862-7222(PCAC). Hours are Mon-Fri, 10AM-5PM, as well as one hour before each event.
Family Fall Fun Day at Coppal House Farm Corn Maze, Sunday, Oct. 26, 3-5PM. Durham residents are invited to spend a beautiful afternoon at The Coppal House Farm in Lee making their way through the tandem corn maze, enjoying children’s activities, sipping warm cider, and saying hello to all of the farm animals! More information or to purchase tickets, click HERE.
Halloween Event, hosted by Harmony Homes,Thursday Oct 30, 2014, Trick-or-Treating from 5-7PM. Featuring a haunted barn from 6-9PM.All welcome to join. Free admission. If you would like volunteer contact 603-292-6087, harmonyhomesnh@hotmail.com.
Scott Noyes training for parents and educators on "Understanding the Words we Use with Children" Tuesday, Nov 4, 2014, 6:15-8:15 PM, Moharimet Elementary School. This workshop looks at ten common expressions adults use with kids. Discovering language flaws, and finding ways to better express ourselves supports healthy relationships with children. Cost: $10/person. Call Wendy at 603.868.1335 to register. Limited Space Available.
Amanda Ripley, Time Magazine Journalist and Author of "The Smartest Kids in the World", Thursday, Nov 6, 2014, 6:30-8:30 PM, ORHS Auditorium. Contact More information, contact Carolyn Eastman, 603-868-5100 x 2007, ceastman@orcsd.org.
Club UNH, physical activity/recreational program offered through UNH Department of Kinesiology for 3rd & 4th grade students. Click HERE for more information or contact Michelle Grenier, 603-862-1835, michelle.grenier@unh.edu.
Echo Thrift Shop will be featuring "Stuff a Bag for $5.00" the last Friday of the fall and winter months. Stuff a grocery sized bag with clothes and shoes for $5.00. Also, in the month of October, all black and orange item are 50% off!
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DURHAM PUBLIC LIBRARY PROGRAMS AND EVENTS
Let’s Go to the Circus! Family Storytime, Sat., Oct. 4th at 10:30 a.m. – Come to the “big top” in the storytime room for stories, movement, and a craft. Next Week: Sat. Oct. 11th: “Pete The Cat!”
Crafternoons, Sat., Oct. 4th 1:00-4:00 p.m. – Join us in the storytime room for a fun craft.
IN THE GALLERY... Art exhibit inspired by the poetry of Robert Frost - View over 20 paintings in the lobby display case and the upstairs gallery. Artists are Ingeborg V. Seaboyer, Judy Krassowski and Corinne Dodge. Images in pen and ink, watercolor, acrylics and oils are accompanied by a selected verse that inspired each individual work.
Artists Presentation, Mon. Oct. 6th 7:00-8:00 p.m. - Art exhibit inspired by the poetry of Robert Frost. Listen to the artists speak about their works that are on display in the gallery. DPL is the 25th library to hold the exhibit and the 1st to host a presentation by the artists!
Young Adult Writing Group: ages 10 & up starts Mon., Oct. 6th at 6:30 p.m. Like to write? Join us for some fun writing exercises and add to our library blog “Write Away”. All are welcome.
Game Afternoon: ages 10 & up, Mon., Oct. 6th at 2:45 p.m. - This week’s game is: "Castle Panic".
Storytimes: Tues. Oct. 7th at 10:30 a.m. This week: Alligators! Join us for stories, fingerplays, feltboard and a craft. All are welcome. NO STORYTIME THURS. OCT. 9TH! See you next week for Tues. Oct. 14th and Thurs. Oct. 16th storytimes at 10:30 a.m.
Legal Seminar, Tues. Oct. 7th 1:00-3:00 p.m. - Attorney Beasley and his colleague, Financial Planner Gregory Gagne will offer top financial planning tips. You've worked hard to build for your future. Trust this information will protect it. Registration by contacting Karen Lovett 603-225-5010 karen@beasleyferber.com. http://www.beasleyferber.com/seminars.html
AUTHOR TOBY BALL: Tues. Oct. 7th @ 6:30 p.m. Local Author Talk- Toby Ball will be speaking about his latest thriller! Invisible Streets. "A brilliantly imagined thriller, Invisible Streets is a sprawling, noirish epic of crime and corruption by an author who has been compared to Caleb Carr, James Ellroy, and Jonathan Lethem.
Raccoon Readers: 2nd-4th grade, monthly book group starts Tues., Oct. 7th at 6:00 p.m. This month’s book is “We the Children” (Keepers of the School Series) by Andrew Clements.
Oyster River Knitters, Tues. Oct. 7th 7:00-9:00 p.m. - All levels of knitters and crocheters are welcome for a couple of hours of knitting and chatting! Contact Heather Anderson (hca@iconklin.com) with any questions.
Acoustic Open Mic Night, Weds. Oct. 8th 6:30-8:00 p.m. – Can you sing? Play an instrument? Need an outlet for your talent? Then bring your instrument, whatever it may be and join in the fun at this monthly event hosted by Peg Chaffee and Cheryl Sager. Open Mic Night is held in the cafe. Refreshments will be served.
NO LEGO CLUB THIS THURS. OCT 9TH. We’ll meet again on Thurs. Oct. 16th at 3:45 p.m. and we’ll be building catapults. For k-4th graders.
Movie: Goldfinger 007, PAGE TO SCREEN - MOVIES BASED ON BOOKS: Thurs. Oct. 9th at 6:00 p.m.: Running time 1 Hr. 50 Mins. http://www.007.com Book: “Carte Blanche 007” by Jeffery Deaver. Movie shown in the Oyster River Room, refreshments served. Part of the Adult Program Series Audience: Adults. Contact: Armida Geiger 603-868-6699 ageiger@ci.durham.nh.us
Homeschoolers Activity Hour, Fri., Oct. 10th at 10:30 a.m. This week: Explorers!
Food Event Series, Weds. Oct. 15th, 6:15-8:00 p.m. - Green Smoothies! Tasting & Recipes. You will learn about the incredible health benefits of RAW FOOD GREEN SMOOTHIES.http://www.happyveghead.com/ Audience : Adults. This presentation is free and open to the public. Registration is suggested due to space limitations. You can register for this program by calling 603-868-6699 or email ageiger@ci.durham.nh.us with your name and phone number. Part of the Adult Program FOOD EVENT SERIES each month starting in October running through January 2015.
Lindsay and Her Puppet Pals, Sat. Oct. 18th at 10:30 a.m. - Join us for a fun interactive puppet show with Lindsay and Her Puppet Pals. Lindsay is a very talented puppeteer. All are welcome.
Family Movie, “Casper”, Sat. Oct. 18th at 2:00 p.m. – Join us for this month’s movie “Casper”. Popcorn is served and all are welcome!
Book Groups – Pick up your books at the library
Bookeaters: monthly Middle School book group starts Weds., Oct. 15th at 2:45 p.m. This month’s book is “Gregor the Overlander” by Suzanne Collins.
Libros Lovers: monthly High School book group starts Weds,. Oct. 22nd at 2:45 p.m. This month’s book is “If I Stay” by Gayle Forman.
Sign-ups have started!
Patch Club: reading incentive program for ages 2-12 years. Sign-up at the Children’s Desk!
Tales for Tails: Read to a trained therapy dog K-4th grade - sign-ups have begun.
Join the Durham Public Library Birthday Book Club. Celebrate a child’s birthday in a unique way with a gift of a book to the library. Talk to the Children’s Librarian at the children’s desk for more details.
Visit the DPL website www.durhampubliclibrary.org for more information.
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WEEKLY ARREST REPORT
*Academic year commences the third week of August through graduation at UNH in May.
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FROM "HISTORY IN AN OYSTERSHELL - A BRIEF HISTORY OF DURHAM, NH, 1600 - 1976 written by Philip A. Wilcox and members of the Durham Historic Association
1896 - John Sullivan was honored by the erection of a monument in Durham and an obelisk in Elmira, N.Y. Bearing his name are also a town and a county in N.H. counties in Pennsylvania and New York, a bridge across the Piscataqua, a fort in Eastport, Maine and a 1929 two cent stamp.
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