Friday Updates - October 7, 2016

Friday, October 7, 2016

St. George's Episcopal Church on Church Hill (Main St.), Durham. Courtesy Todd Selig

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The fall foliage looks as though it might peak over the Columbus Day weekend. 

Aside from the natural beauty of fall colors, community members might also enjoy a short video my 4th grade daughter was shown in music class at Moharimet Elementary School in Madbury last week illustrating how we as individuals, working together, can make the most beautiful music out of unexpected things. View Beethoven’s 5 Secrets by The Piano Guys HERE.

DID YOU KNOW?  (Just how big is Durham?)

Durham contains 22.4 square miles of land and 2.4 square miles of inland water area.  UNH occupies about 1,928 acres or only about 12% of the total area in Durham.

TOWN OFFICES CLOSED FOR COLUMBUS DAY - OCTOBER 10

A final reminder that all Town offices will be closed on Monday, October 10th, for the Columbus Day holiday.  
 
Although the offices will be closed on Columbus Day, there will be NO CHANGES TO THE REFUSE AND RECYCLING COLLECTION SCHEDULE.  PLEASE HAVE ALL ITEMS OUT BY 7AM AS ALWAYS.  View the Holiday pick-up schedule HERE.

DOE FARM CLOSED TO PUBLIC FOR TREATMENT TO REMOVE INVASIVE SPECIES
The Trustees of the Trust Funds, in coordination with DPW, will close Doe Farm to public use from Friday, October 7 through Friday, October 14, 2016 in order for the Town's contractor to begin herbicide treatment to to kill invasive plants that have been identified at the farm.
 
The Trustees are not closing Doe Farm because they expect the spraying operation to endanger anyone, but to prevent unwanted, unprotected public contact with herbicides and interference with the workers. 

(As residents may recall, someone (or ones) removed all of the flagging delineating the invasive plant infestation areas earlier this year causing frustrating delays and additional expense for the project.)

In furtherance of our sustainability and Kaizen efforts, the community has been working to become more efficient/green wherever it proves financially feasible to do so.  To this end, the Public Works Department and the Business Office have been evaluating the merits of including a capital item as part of the proposed 2017 budget to replace all of our cobra head street lights atop telephone poles (as opposed to the ornamental sidewalks lighting which has already been transitioned to LED lighting in Durham) with more efficient LED technology to both reduce our recurring costs and to eliminate unnecessary carbon demand.  Several of these new LED lights have been undergoing pilot testing in Durham by DPW over the last 18 months and the results have been quite positive.  In addition, for the last several years Durham (along with Manchester and a handful of other communities) has been a leader in lobbying Eversource and the NH Public Utilities Commission to at long last assign a rate to LED street lighting.  The charge for street lighting is not based on actual kW use but rather # of fixtures.  

Durham has approximately 334 old style high pressure sodium street light fixtures illuminating roadways and sidewalks around town.  

The cost per fixture for replacement LED is $300 with a $50 per fixture installation charge.  The total cost of the program including a 10% contingency and interest on bonds at 3% would be $143,000.  With projected recurring annual savings of approximately $25,195 per year (a 43.63% annual savings) utilizing LED fixtures, the payback for this investment in a worst case scenario would be 5.68 years.  

The news gets better, though.  Eversource offers a program to rebate communities for such upgrades on a funding available basis of $100 per fixture (a value of $34,300 for this project).  With the Eversource rebate and its corresponding reduction in both contingency and bonding costs, the payback period would be 4.06 years.

 
Given this analysis, Administrator Selig plans to recommend the expenditure as part of the proposed FY 2017 budget for Council consideration this November.  
 

DURHAM ACHIEVES TARGETED UNASSIGNED FUND BALANCE ON BALANCE SHEET
A number of years ago the Town Council established a policy targeting unassigned fund balance reserves for Durham.  The Policy reads “The Town shall work toward maintaining an unassigned fund balance of at least 5% to 8% of the general fund’s annual budget, including Town, School and County appropriations.”

2015 total appropriations were $28,741,250.
    2014 Unassigned Fund Balance - $830,304   
    2015 Unassigned Fund Balance - $1,881,066

5% to 8% would be $1,437,062.50 to $2,299,300.  Our current balance of $1,881,066 is 6.5%.  For the first time in 16 years, Durham has met its targeted reserve level!  

Unassigned fund balance is used for many purposes to include reducing or in some cases eliminating the need to borrow funds (and pay interest) between tax billings, paying for significant emergency or unanticipated expenditures (i.e., catastrophic failure of a fire engine, building, etc.), temporary inter-fund loans between municipal accounts to reduce borrowing demands (and costs), a reserve in case payments lag during a recessionary period, and generally it represents a sign of fiscal stability which directly impacts the municipality’s bond rating.  

Durham was assigned an Aa2 Moody’s bond rating in both 2013 and 2015, however, Moody’s cautioned in both cycles that the community needed to improve its fiscal position relative to unassigned fund balance.
 

NHDOT COMMISSIONER RESPONSE TO REQUEST FROM DURHAM RELATIVE TO THE INSTALLATION OF GUARDRAILS ALONG MULTI-USE CORRIDOR ON THE DURHAM-NEWMARKET ROUTE 108 PROJECT

At the August 15, 2016 Town Council meeting, Councilor Burton introduced Resolution #2016-11 for Council's approval requesting that the New Hampshire Department of Transportation demonstrate why the installation of guardrails on its Project Durham-Newmarket 13080 are necessary and, if needed, why they do not meet the AASHTO (American Association of State Highway Transportation Officials) guideline of a 5-foot minimum distance between edge of travel lane and face of guardrail to create a safe bicycle facility to meet the stated project purpose and that NHDOT recommend one or more solution(s) to attain said 5-foot minimum.

Earlier this week the Town received a response from NHDOT Commissioner Victoria L. Sheehan relative to the Town's request.

The letter and Resolution #2016-11 can be viewed HERE.

The Durham/UNH Train Depot.  Due to rail repairs, there will be disruption to Amtrak Downeaster Scheduling in the coming days.

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.

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.

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.   
 

Mark Duggan, Special Olympics New Hampshire, presents Deputy Chief Rene Kelley and the Durham Police Department with a Special Olympics gold medal won by Special Olympics athlete Grace Zarka.  Grace wanted to give to the men and women of the department her medal in appreciation of the Durham Police Department's unwavering support of the Special Olympics.  Grace is a member of the Bedford Bobcats team and participates in bowling, basketball and track and field. Courtesy Durham PD
 

FIRE AND POLICE BUSY DURING UNH HOMECOMING WEEKEND
The Durham Fire, Durham Police, and UNH Police Departments were busy during the UNH Homecoming Weekend last week.  The activity, however, was not out of the ordinary for the departments during this timeframe when compared to past years.  
 

UNH ATTRACTS IMPRESSIVE ATTENDANCE AT HOMECOMING FOOTBALL GAME IN NEW STADIUM | A Viable New Audience for Downtown Durham Merchants to Target for Enhanced Sales
There were around 21,000 or so people in attendance last weekend at the UNH football game. 

These thousands of attendees represent a significant new potential audience for downtown Durham merchants who will want to begin to strategize on how to attract returning Wildcat fans and their friends into the downtown area to eat, shop, and support our local businesses either before or after game time.  
 

EXCERPT FROM "THE SMART GROWTH MANUAL"

The following passage is an excerpt from “The Smart Growth Manual,” which has been added to the Planning Department's library of planning books in Town Hall.  
 
“Celebrating Nature.  The most valued and valuable communities do more than simply preserve their natural features;  they celebrate them.  Waterfronts, mountain views, forests, parks, and even golf courses are not to be hidden behind private property, but should be at least partially fronted by public spaces, thoroughfares, and walkways.  It may be acceptable to sell off part of a natural vista, but never so much that it becomes invisible or inaccessible from the [community]… Especially important are features located at the ends of straight thoroughfares, a view shared by all of the buildings lining the street.  Indeed, great plans aim roadways directly at prominent amenities such as mountain peaks or bodies of water.  When a site is developed, it is tempting to privatize and sell the best views to a front row of lots for a quick windfall.  Developers who resist this impulse will benefit ultimately from the increased value of all properties throughout the depth of the community.”
 

PART-TIME TRANSFER STATION ATTENDANT
The Town of Durham is seeking a Transfer Station Attendant. The position is part-time, non-benefits.  Applicants must be comfortable dealing with the public and have a Solid Waste Operators License, level 1 minimum or the ability to obtain a license within one (1) year of hire. 

Duties include: checking in residents, ensuring materials are disposed of in proper locations, ability to operate a loader and skid steer, and maintenance and cleaning of facility.  Pay is $11-$15/Hr based on experience.  Hours will be Saturday & Tuesday from 7AM - 3:30 PM with the potential for more hours.  Valid driver’s license required and a background check will be performed. 

Applications accepted until the position is filled.      

Applications are available at the Public Works Office. Contact: Doug Bullen
Assistant Director for Operations, 100 Stone Quarry Drive, Durham, NH  03824, (603) 868-5578.
 

On Thursday this week, Jennifer Crompton from WMUR interviewd Administrator Todd Selig regarding the proposed Powder Major conservation project along the Oyster River. View the sgement about the Powder Major project HERE.  Individuals interested in donating to the project encompasing 195 acres within the towns of Durham, Lee, and Madbury can do so via the Society for Protection of NH Forests web site.  Durham, Lee, and Madbury are all making financial contributions toward the project.  Courtesy DCAT Studios

AMC BACK AT OYSTER RIVER FOREST UNDERTAKING TRAIL WORK
The Town contracted with the Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) to create a gravel trail system within the Oyster River Forest from its parking area access point along Packers Falls Road very close to its intersection with Mill Road into the property.  Work was undertaken by the AMC this summer, however, AMC crews have returned with the assistance of our amazing Oyster River Forest volunteers and DPW in finishing up the work at this time.  
 

THOMPSON LANE/MAGRATH ROAD DRAINAGE PROJECT

The Department of Public Works has advertised the Thompson/ Magrath Drainage Project for construction. Bids are due on October 5th. The project involves constructing drainage lines along the shoulder of Magrath Road to Thompson Lane and reconstructing existing drainage lines down Thompson Lane to the intersection of Valentine Hill Road. This project will be completed this year.

Questions can be directed to Town Engineer, April Talon, P.E. at atalon@ci.durham.nh.us or by calling 603-868-5578.

PLANNING BOARD HAS SWITCHED ITS MEETINGS FOR OCTOBER AS A RESULT OF YOM KIPPUR

The Planning Board will now hold its general planning workshop (without reviewing any development applications) on October 12 and its regular meeting on October 26. (October 12 had been the regular meeting and October 26 the workshop.) 

The Planning Board will now review revised plans for the Mill Plaza project at the October 26 meeting instead of the meeting on October 12 (assuming revised plans are submitted as planned). Yom Kippur, the most important day on the Jewish calendar, ends at sunset on October 12.  While the meeting that evening will begin shortly after the conclusion of Yom Kippur, the Planning Board thought it best to change the date of this regular meeting since a number of residents interested in hearing the Mill Plaza project would likely find the timing challenging.

PLANNING BOART MEETING TOPICS FOR WED, 10/12/16
The Planning Board will be discussing the following topics at its work session scheduled for this coming week on Wednesday evening:

Economic Development Department Presentation.  Presentation by Mary Ellen Humphrey, Durham Economic Development Director, on Economic Development and the Operation of the department.  This is the fourth in a series of seven presentations to be given by Town staff members.

Land Use Chapter of the Master Plan.  Discussion about process for developing the Land Use Chapter of the Master Plan (dependent upon funding being allocated in the budget for calendar year 2017).

Discussion about Smart Growth.  Review of the Colorado Smart Growth Scorecard, a detailed plan to promote smart growth in that state, and discussion about possible applications for Durham.

Zoning Ordinance Amendments.  Numerous miscellaneous amendments are being proposed to the Zoning Ordinance based upon earlier discussions by the Planning Board, issues that have been raised in recent years, and a review of the ordinance by the Town Planner.  Recommended action:  Discussion and continuation to June 22 meeting.
 

CROMMET CREEK/DURHAM POINT ROAD BRIDGE PROJECT
The Crommet Creek/Durham Point Road bridge rehabilitation project is scheduled to begin this fall 2016. The construction contract was awarded to Michael Hansen Construction, Ltd. on August 1, 2016. The Town has received approval of environmental permits and is awaiting the contractors' schedule.

The bridge will be shut down for a period of 3-4 weeks during which time the contractor will make bridge and roadway repairs. The bridge will then be reopened to traffic. The bridge will be shut down a second time for approximately 2 weeks for installation of new timber guardrail. Town representatives will be working closely with the contractor to minimize the closure time of the bridge.

Construction announcements and updates will be provided via the Town’s "Friday Updates", the Town website, and in the local newspaper. Construction signage and message boards will be posted on Durham Point Road and Bay Road. Police and Fire services have been coordinated with the Town of Newmarket to ensure proper coverage and response times are met.
 

Questions can be directed to Town Engineer, April Talon, P.E. at atalon@ci.durham.nh.us or by calling 603-868-5578.

Firefighters will be wearing pink shirts to show support for breast cancer awareness during the month of October. Courtesy Durham FD
 

UPDATE ON FIRE PROTECTION ORDINANCE REDRAFT EFFORT
The Fire Department Inspection Division staff is currently reviewing the finishing touches that Town Councilor Jim Lawson assisted with/drafted to align the ordinance with the formatting of the rest of the Town Code. The proposed changes include: 

1. Reformatting of the fire prevention code section so each section mirrors the same layout and so the entire chapter matches the formatting of the rest of the Town Code,
2. Adding language to support fee schedule items already in place and being exercised,
3. Adjusting the zoning references to the designations being used today without expanding the areas that they encompassed under historical zoning references,
4. Added an exemption for businesses under 5,000 sq ft that otherwise would need to be protected with a sprinkler system.

The department is hoping to have this final review completed by the end of next week with the goal of being on a near-future Town Council agenda.

2016 TAX RATE SETTING
While we hope to bring to the Town Council a tax warrant for approval for the second half tax billing at the upcoming October 17th meeting, we are currently waiting for the NH Department of Revenue Administration to schedule a date to set the rate.  For the time being we are on hold.  
 

CODE OFFICE HAPPENINGS – Durham Business Park
CEO Audrey Cline reports that residents driving along Route 4 by the Durham Business Park will begin to see the walls being installed at the Harmony Homes project currently under active construction there.  The walls are actually built off site.
 

TOWN COUNCIL MEETING IN OCTOBER
Due to the Rosh Hashanah and Columbus Day holidays the beginning of October, only one Town Council meeting will be held in October on Monday, October 17th.

OCTOBER ZBA MEETING DATE CHANGE

Due to the Yom Kippur holiday, the Zoning Board meeting for October has been changed from October 11 to October 18.

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.
 

VACANCIES ON TOWN BOARDS, COMMISSIONS, AND COMMITTEES
There are currently a number of vacancies on various Town boards, commissions, and commissions. The Durham Town Council is seeking interested residents of the Town of Durham who have the ability, desire, and time needed to fill these vacancies.

Citizens interested in board appointments may stop in or contact the Town Administrator’s office at 868-5571 and ask for a board application form. Applications are also available on the home page of the Town’s web site: http://www.ci.durham.nh.us in the green area located at the right. Click on “Forms”, then “Application for Appointment”.

Completed applications may be mailed to the Administrator’s office, or submitted via email to jberry@ci.durham.nh.us.

Conservation Commission:  1 alternate vacancy
Historic District /Heritage Commission:  1 regular vacancy

Integrated Waste Management Advisory Committee:  3 regular vacancies; 1 alternate vacancy
Planning Board: 1 alternate vacancy

Zoning Board of Adjustment:  2 alternate vacancies

Lamprey River Advisory Committee:  2 vacancies

Oyster River Local Advisory Committee:  2 vacancies

Strafford Regional Planning Commission MPO Policy Committee: 1 vacancy
 

BACKYARD COMPOSTING
Have an abundance of leaf and yard waste this season? Consider setting up a backyard composting pile! Composted organic material can be used to improve lawn soil and gardens, which reduces the need for chemical fertilizers. Leaves, grass clippings as well as coffee grounds and vegetable and fruit kitchen scraps are great materials for composting. This is a great opportunity to involve children in the family by having them help carry food scraps out to the compost pile.

There are different ways to compost, including a bin, tumbler, and even composting with worms. Composting can be done during the winter months when you provide some insulation such as carpet remnants and a tarp to keep the snow out. There are many resources available to learn more about composting. View the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services handout regarding Backyard Composting HERE.
 

TRICK OR TREAT NIGHT!

Trick or Treating in the Town of Durham will be held on Sunday, October 30, 2016 from 5 - 7:30 PM.

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Here are a few safety tips for trick or treaters and their families published by Reader's Digest:

1. Plan a Route in Advance. Trick-or-treating could take you several streets away from your house, which can cause sore legs and a bit of frustration. Avoid long paths by mapping out a route before leaving the house. Stick to paths that you and your child are familiar with to avoid getting lost.
2. Wear Comfy Shoes. Make sure you and your children are in comfortable, well-fitting shoes. Girls in dresses should avoid heels, and all shoelaces should be double-tied to avoid tripping in the dark.
3. Stay Well-lit.  Apply reflective tape to your child’s costume to ensure they are seen by drivers on the road. Also, carry a flashlight with you to keep your child’s path lit at all times.
4. Make Sure all Costumes are Short. Long costumes that drag on the ground can be dangerous, especially at night. After purchasing your child’s costume, make sure it’s an appropriate length, and hem anything that’s too long to avoid tripping.
5. Avoid Masks. Masks can make it difficult for your child to see or breathe. If possible, skip the mask altogether and use non-toxic make-up to complete the costume instead.
6. Use Flexible Props. Try to avoid costumes that have weapons as accessories. But if your child’s costume won’t be complete without a weapon, make sure it is rubber or plastic. Choose a prop that won’t cause injury to your child or their friends.
7. Check Your Child's Candy. When sorting through candy at the end of the night, be sure to throw away any candy that is not in its original wrapper, or looks as though it has been opened.

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.

Planning Board Workshop - Wednesday, October 12, 2016

Conservation Commission - Thursday, October 13, 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

DCAT 22 & EDC Director, Mary Ellen Humphrey made a short hop downtown to shoot the latest episode of, In the Biz: Durham Business Spotlight. This month we were lucky enough to speak with Kenny Young of Young’s Restaurant in downtown Durham. Young’s is celebrating their 100th year in business and to their credit use as many local veggies and ingredients as they can get their hands on. Did you know that their menu includes fresh catch salmon that they smoke themselves? Stay tuned for this latest episode that’s currently in production.

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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.

Our After School Paddle & Pedal participants enjoyed four weeks of kayaking on the Oyster River and mountain biking throughout Kingman Farm. Courtesy Peter Sawtell & Owen Seltz from Seven Rivers Paddling

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!

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

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, October 22nd 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, October 19th: recreation@ci.durham.nh.us. This is a community program-all ages are welcome. Suggested donation of $5/pp.  Inclement weather date is Saturday, November 12th.
 

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 at Jackson’s Landing/Churchill Rink
Join us Tuesday nights from 6-8pm at Churchill Rink at Jackson’s Landing 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.

FREE Yoga at Wagon Hill Farm
Thursdays from 5-6pm. Bring a mat or a blanket and meet at the wagon.  Participation is FREE.  Class is canceled in the case of inclement weather.

Adult Fitness Classes
Durham Parks & Recreation offers a variety of weekly Adult Fitness Classes that are welcoming, affordable and fun!  Our current class schedule includes, Bootcamp, Pilates, Strength & Stretch, Zumba, Traditional Tai Chi & Tai Chi Balance and Qigong, Yoga classes and Restorative Yoga Workshops.  For details on class times and schedules, please visit us HERE.

SAVE THE DATE!

• Coyote Club Session 2- Mondays at 3:30pm beginning Nov. 14th
• Feather Fest- Thursday, November 24th at Wagon Hill Farm-10am.
• Tree Lighting Celebration- Saturday, December 3rd

COMMUNITY PROGRAMS AND EVENTS

ORHS Late Start Forum - Thursday, Oct 13, 2016, 6 - 8PM, ORHS Auditorium

Senior classes offered at Wildcat Fitness, Tuesday & Thursday, 10:30AM is Senior strength with Nicole, and Friday at 1PM is Senior Yoga with Anna. Classes are FREE for anyone to try until Friday Oct 14, 2016. View a complete list of classes HERE.

Explore Powder Major Farm and Forest Day, Saturday, Oct 15, 2016, 9AM - 3PM, Tibbets Field in Madbury. Events throughout the day, including geocaching, orienteering, building fairy houses, lessons on sustainability, and demonstrations. The Forest Society will have Docents on hand to give tours and answer questions at the historical spots on the trails! Activities for the children, music, and a "Pie's for Powder Major" sales tent with all funds going directly to the project. More information about the project HERE.

Growing Places Family Fun Day at Coppal House Farm, Sunday, Oct 16, 2016, 3-5PM. More information HERE.

Active Retirement Association General Meeting, Monday, Oct 17, 2016, 1:30 PM, Durham Evangelical Church (lower level), 114 Dover Road (Route 108), Durham, NH. Program will feature Dr. Cory Smith discussing “Human Trafficking and the Child Migrant Crisis in the Americas.” More information, visit ARA website or contact Carol Caldwell, (603) 343-1004 or info@ara-nh.org.

Newcomers Unlimited Meeting, Friday, Oct 21, 2016, 9 - 11:30AM, Community Church of Durham. Peyton Place:  A Consideration of Its Role in Film and Television History. Jeff Klenotic, PhD, Associate Professor at UNH will look at what Peyton Place and Hollywood in the late 1950s have in common.  New members welcome; dues are $20 for the year. NU meets the 3rd Friday of the month.

Trail Maintenance for Volunteers Workshop, Saturday, Oct 22, 2016, 9:30 AM - 4PM, College Woods, 18 Waterworks Road, Cost: $25 (includes bag lunch). Will provide hands-on training, practice, and tools for maintaining trails. Those desiring to volunteer to maintain trails in Durham should use the coupon code "durham" to receive $15 discount (subsidy provided by the Town of Durham). Space limited to 20 participants. Register and learn more HERE.

Lamprey River Advisory Committee 2016 fall newsletter is available for viewing HERE.

Growing Places Fall school age programming information

Growing Places seeking corporate sponsor partnership. Call 603-868-1335, or email Wendy at wendyrousseau@growingplacesnh.org

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

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

DURHAM PUBLIC LIBRARY PROGRAMS AND EVENTS

The doors of the Durham Public Library will be closed on Monday October 10th for Columbus Day, but you can always access the electronic services 24/7. Download an ebook or audiobook, use EBSCO to find an article, or do that genealogy research you’ve been putting off. We’re always available at durhampubliclibrary.org.

Children’s and Young Adult Programs:

Storytimes Tues. Oct. 11th and Thurs. Oct. 13th at 10:30 am.  “Hats!”
Saturday Family Movie! Sat. Oct. 8th 10:30 am “Hotel Transylvania!”
Baby Lap-sit (ages 2 & under with care giver) Weds. Oct. 12th at 10:30 am
Young Adult Drop-in Monday (ages 10 & up) Monday 2:45-4pm Oct. 17th:  Fur slap bracelets and more!!
Knitting Club is back for 3rd-5th graders Weds. Oct. 12th 4-5 pm (register at the Children’s desk).
Lego Club (K-4th grade) Thurs. Oct. 13th at 3:30-4:30 pm! This week:  Build within the Rectangle!
Home-schooler’s Group Friday, Oct. 14th at 10:30 am.  “Mail & Calligraphy!”
Bookeaters, a middle school book group Weds. Oct. 26th 2:45-4:00 pm – Join us for our monthly book group.  This month’s book is “The Assault” by Brian Falkner.  This group is led by Ruth Wharton-McDonald, UNH Professor of Education.  Come discuss the book which is available at the library.  Pizza is served and all are welcome.  This group meets in the Young Adult Room.
Tales for Tails – Read to a therapy dog, Cynder, North or Tango!  Ages 1st-4th grade.  Sign-up at the Children’s desk..
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.
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.
Mariposa Museum visits the Library with World Games for Families! Saturday, October 22nd at 10:30 am - Join us for this special family program.  Come and learn some world games with Educational Outreach Coordinators from the Mariposa Museum!  We will learn Nim, a game from China, Mancala from Africa, Wari from Egypt, Achi another game from Egypt, Tangram for younger children which is a puzzle game and many more games such as Driedel from an Irish or English top and Solitaire from France.  There will be games for every age!  This program is generously sponsored by The Friends of the Durham Public Library.  All are welcome!
YA Iron Chef Paranormal Pizza Party! (ages 10 & up) Tuesday, October 25th at 6:00 pm - Come and have fun before the next YA Iron Chef competition.  Come and sample a selection of pizza from local parlors while watching a vintage Halloween flick.  Cast your vote at the Children's desk for which old-school spooky movie you'd like us to screen!  Addams Family Values (1993), Beetlejuice (1988), The Monster Squad (1987), Ghostbusters (1984) or another one!  You judge the pizzas this time, best crust? sauce? cheese? toppings?  Register in advance 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.
New Jack & Annie Book Club (K-2) Tues. Oct 18, 4-5 pm Join us for our new monthly book club made just for kids in kindergarten through 2nd grade! Next book is, "The Knight at Dawn" by Mary Pope  Osborne. Books are available at the circulation desk. Registration is required. Please sign-up at the Children's desk!
PJ Storytime, Thurs. Oct. 27th, 6:30-7:30 pm – Join ORPP and the library for our monthly PJ storytime.  This month:  Halloween!  Come wearing your costumes.  We’ll read stories, do fingerplays, feltboard, sing songs and make a fun Halloween craft.  We’ll also trick-or-treat at the library.  Snack provided by ORPP (Oyster River Parents and Pre-schoolers).  All are welcome.
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:

MindsEye Designs -  All invited to the Artists Reception Weds.10/12 at 5:30 - 5:30-6:30 Original works of paintings, jewelry and textile art by MindsEye Designs Artists- A group exhibit. MindsEye Designs is a vocational program in the creative arts for adults with developmental disabilities. Refreshments provided. Contact Armida Geiger ageiger@ci.durham.nh.us  
Meche Romoser, Durham author All are invited Thurs. Oct. 20, 6:30pm - Meche will share about her book, My Father's Warm Hands.  Books will be available for purchase and signing. Refreshments provided. Margo LaPerle, DPL staff member is quoted, "I have been so touched by the many insights this book has awakened in me.  At first glance I might have said that it was a childhood reminiscence of wartime people and events.  But, no, not at all, it is more. It is a doorway into a young person's perception of the crush of Russian invasion that transformed or ended the lives of German families.  In their impoverished refugee trek away from their invaders into unknown places, their persistence and caring for each other brings them through difficult situations to places of promise."
Oyster River ASD Friends monthly meeting Tues. Oct. 11, 6:30-8:30 - For parents of teens and young adults on the autism spectrum.  Guest speaker and topic to be announced.
Acoustic Open Mic - Wed. Oct. 12 at 6:30 in the Cafe at DPL!  
CPR & AED Class Mon. Oct. 17, 6-8 - McGregor Memorial EMS will offer a class in CPR & AED.  Register http://cprsafe.org
Friends' Book Discussion Thurs. Oct. 20, 10:30 - The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie by Muriel Spark.  Facilitated by Jennifer Lee.  Books are in and all are welcome.
Durham Garden Club - Tues., Oct. 25, 6:30
Friends 2017 Membership Campaign -  WE ARE TWENTY: The Friends of the Library are celebrating their twentieth year of library service as set out in the Friends' retrospective and timeline in the library lobby.  Join or re-up for 2017 and you will receive a paper anniversary cake to enter in the membership raffle for a chance to win your choice of two seven hundred plus piece wooden Liberty jigsaw puzzles.  Have your cake and enter it too! 2017 Membership beginning September 15th.  Winner to be drawn October 15th.

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 commenced August 26th and will be measured through graduation at UNH in May.

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