Spring 2010

NORTH HAMPTON
Community Newsletter
SPONSORED BY: Friends of the Library, North Hampton Public Library, North Hampton School Board and the Town of North Hampton

In This Issue
Service Learning at N. Hampton School - Pease Greeters . . . . . . . . .1 Spring Events in Health and Healing at the United Church of Christ in N. Hampton . . . . . . .2 Agricultural Commission News . . .3 North Hampton Energy Committee News . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 Planning Board Annual Report 2009 . . . . . . . . . . .4 Conservation Commission Update . . . . . . . . . . .5 Save Water with a Rain Barrel . . . .7 2010 Dog Tags are Here . . . . . . . .7 Boy Scout Troop 162 News . . . . . .8 Cub Scout Pack 162 News . . . . . .8 N. Hampton Girl Scouts . . . . . . . .9 N. Hampton School News . . . . . . .9 N. Hampton Womans Club . . . .10 Irish Night at UCC Church of North Hampton . . . . . . . . . . .10 North Hampton Youth Association Happenings . . . . . . . .10 A Very Special Opportunity from the Friends of Centennial Hall . .11 N. Hampton Recreation News . .11 N. Hampton School Board . . . . .12 Recycling Center Information . . .12 North Hampton Historical Society News . . . . . . . .13 Select Board News . . . . . . . . . . . .13 North Hampton Public Library News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Why a Library Building Capital Reserve Fund? . . . . . . . . .15 Technology & the Library . . . . . .16 Youth Department News from N. Hampton Public Library . . . .17 From the Office of the Town Clerk . . . . . . . . . . . .17

Service Learning at North Hampton School - Pease Greeters

Each year students at North Hampton School in grades six through eight participate in service learning projects. These efforts help students see how they can make a difference in their classrooms, school, town, state, country and world while also getting the chance to apply and further the skills and knowledge they gain at school within a real world context. In seventh and eighth grade, students design their own projects surrounding areas of need theyve observed and their own interests as individuals. One such case this year in seventh grade revolved around two students who got involved with the Pease Greeters. The Pease Greeters are an organization of veterans and volunteers who give their time and energy to welcome flights of troops who are coming from and heading to Afghanistan and Iraq. Pease Tradeport is often the first stop on American soil for these men and women and the Pease Greeters make it their duty to welcome them home or give them a proper send-off. The Pease Greeters provide the chance to use cell phones to call home, refreshments and a warm welcome to all the troops who come through their doors. North Hampton School seventh graders Alex Bettcher and Dillon Plouffe decided to organize a field trip for their seventh grade class to go and greet a flight returning from overseas. I thought it would be a one time thing. That we would just go once and move on to the next project, Alex Bettcher said, But after seeing the soldiers faces, talking to them, and seeing them smile it turned out to be much more than that. Bettcher and Plouffe expanded their efforts, including organizing a other field trip to greet a flight with the North Hampton School fourth grade students. Its not just helping one organization. Its helping hundreds of men and women, Bettcher explained. The first time you go you could greet a flight with 200 people, then the next time could be 300. Plouffe added, We realized that the Pease Greeters do a lot more than just greet the troops, they also raise money to send care packages to the troops, too. ...continued on page 2
NORTH HAMPTON COMMUNITY NEWSLETTER PAGE 1

Next Deadline
WEDNESDAY, MAY 19, 2010

Newsletter Contacts
SCHOOL: Jan Scipione, 964-5501 TOWN: Lorreen Keating, 964-6326

SPRING 2010

Service Learning at North Hampton School - Pease Greeters

continued from page 1
What started as a one time thing has grown into much more for both of these two young men. It has helped them connect with real world events and even to find connections to the past. Its a great opportunity to say thanks to a soldier, Bettcher said, You could see a soldier in a store and say thank you, but this is a way to say thank you to a bunch of them and the soldiers think its great to see younger kids there. Plouffe found a much more personal connection, It makes me think of my grandfather. I never met him but my grandmother told me about what it was like to go and meet him when he came home from World War II so going to greet the troops helps me feel connected to him.

North Hampton School students greet arriving troops at the Pease base

Spring Events in Health and Healing at the United Church of Christ in North Hampton
The biannual Red Cross Community Blood Donor Drive was held Friday, February 5, 2010 from 2-7pm. 22 pints of blood were obtained-enough to save 66 lives. Many thanks to all who braved a cold evening for this worthwhile community event. Hot chicken and pea soups were available to all the donors and warmly served by Caesar Romano and Ruth Donais. Members and leaders from Troop 162 assisted in the break down of the event. Much effort was made to streamline the process for participants this year which resulted in a very high satisfaction rate on evaluation. Red Cross officials stated they would be offering in April 2010 an opportunity to call and make an appointment in advance of the Blood Drive date in order to further expedite the process and decrease wait time. Walk-ins will still be able to donate as well, though those with appointments will be taken first. The Healing Circle continues on the third Wednesday of each month from 7-8:30PM in the vestry of the United Church of Christ in North Hampton on March 17, April 21 and May 19, 2010. Areas in the vestry will be available for contemplation, walking a labyrinth, creative expression, individual prayer requests, and/or receiving the gift of healing touch-also known as chair reiki. The evening will begin and end with a gathering circle. The seacoast community is warmly welcomed. The Fitness Group continues through Spring on Thursday mornings from 9-10AM in the vestry of the Church with Marcia Forrest PT. Call Marcia to register at (964-6005) There is no charge though donations for the Health and Healing Ministry are accepted. This is a great opportunity to work on your strength, balance and flexibility and have fun at the same time! The Foot Clinic continues the second Thursday of the month from 11:00-3:30pm. This service is offered by the Seacoast Visiting Nurses in North Hampton which has merged with Home Health VNA in Lawrence, Massachusetts. Donations are appreciated- $20.00 the first visit and $15.00 for subsequent visits. You may schedule an appointment by calling the Seacoast VNA @ 926-2066. Pathways Gentle and Wellness Yoga continues through June 24th on Thursdays from 5:30-6:30PM. Kathy Ullrich Certified Yoga Instructor will lead the sessions. Cost is 40.00 for 5 weeks, $48.00 for six weeks paid in advance or $12.00 per week. The class is for beginners as well as students who wish to practice a thoughtful, gentle style yoga. This class teaches body awareness that incorporates movement, breathing and relaxation in each class. Learning to move and do yoga postures will help to strengthen core muscles, balance and align the body while facilitating relaxation and stress reduction. Call Kathy for more information and to register at 817-8341 or email kullrich2@comcast.net Please call the Church Office or Janet Sanborn Faith Community Nurse for any questions or information about these events at 964-8687 from 8:30-12:30 PM.
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SPRING 2010

Agricultural Commission News

The Agricultural Commission sponsored a locavore dinner in January to emphasize the opportunities available to buy local foods, even in the winter. A big hit was the bread made from wheat grown in North Hampton by Moor Farm on Walnut Ave. It really is possible to eat well locally throughout the winter, especially with the Winter Farmers Markets every Saturday. Plan to attend one just for the fun of it. Check out the North Hampton town website www.northhampton-nh.gov and click on the link for Agricultural Commission News. You will find a flyer with all the details. Please hold the date of April 24. As part of Earth Day celebrations, we will combine efforts with the Library and Energy Committee for a Breakfast/Speaker event. More details from the Energy Committee news in this newsletter. A Basics of Organic Gardening discussion/seminar was held on Sat Feb. 13 at the Library. We would be happy to host more of these, if there is enough interest. Again, please contact any of the commission members (available through the town website), if you are interested. The topic that is drawing increased attention currently is the GMO controversy. (Genetically Modified Organisms in our foods and seeds and their consequences). There are two Bills currently being considered at the state level, HB 1172: www.gencourt.state.nh.us/legislation/2010/HB1172.html and HB1388: www.gencourt.state.nh.us/legislation/2010/HB1388.html The US Department of Agriculture Deputy Secretary, Kathleen Merrigan, is speaking at Universities across the country encouraging a campaign to Know Your Farmer, Know Your Food. We all need to become more aware of our food sources. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tms8ye8mw_k HELP...we are looking for a suitable location for a Community Garden in North Hampton. The site would need land for the gardens, water, and appropriate parking. Any suggestions? FOOD, INC is now available and may be borrowed from our North Hampton Public Library. The dvd FRESH is also available to borrow from the Ag. Commission. They will both capture your attention and be well worth watching. We would love to hear from you with ideas and suggestions. ~ submitted by: Cynthia Jenkins cynjenks@comcast.net Our Members: Bob Copp, Dieter Ebert, Walt Nordstrom, Dick Wollmar

North Hampton Energy Committee News

On this snowy day its nice to share our plans for Spring. The 40th Anniversary of Earth Day falls on April 22nd. The Energy Committee, Library and Agricultural Commission are planning a Breakfast/Speaker Event on Sat. 22nd at the Library. Earth and Energy will be explored by David Borden, State Representative from New Castle and on the board of the newly formed State Energy Committee since 2009. He will share his work with sustainable energy from years ago, and more recent work where he lives and on the state level. David is passionate about his subject, and tells me I know so much about energy, youll have to tell me what you want. Hes really a very humble guy, and we should learn a lot, and come away feeling more empowered to do what we can for the planet. Peter Philbrook will be setting up a display for ways residents may check their own energy usage: helpful books, brochures, kilowatt meters (to check how much an appliance uses) and possibly more meters for checking leaks. Your children will become energy detectives along with parents who check them out from the library. Look for the Save Energy table at the library. Peter Philbrook, Bob Copp and Dietrich Ebert completed an energy audit for the municipal buildings, fire, the old town hall, town offices, police and town offices building. Anyone can read the completed work with a final page of suggested remedies on the Town website. If you would like to help and learn more about, attend a meeting. We have recently changed our meeting to Friday morning at 9:00am in the Craig Room of the North Hampton public library. ~Respectfully submitted, Mary Lou Wollmar, Chairman, North Hampton Energy Committee

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SPRING 2010

Planning Board Annual Report 2009

During calendar year 2009 the Planning Board reviewed 18 new applications and completed reviewing one application carried over from the prior year. The Board also worked on several proposals for amending the Zoning Ordinance, as well as one proposal to transfer responsibility for the Towns Capital Improvements Plan to a new committee that will function independently of the Planning Board.

Application Reviews
During 2009 the Board completed reviewing all 18 newly opened cases and the one case carried over from 2008. The following table summarizes these cases and actions taken on them.

Case Type
Subdivision Site Plan Review Conditional Use Permit: Sign Permit Conditional Use Permit: Wetlands Crossing Conditional Use Permit: Other Change of Use

Number
4 3 6 1 2 3

Number Approved
3 2 4 0 2 3 14

Number Denied
1 0 2 0 0 0 3

Withdrawn
0 1 0 1 0 0 2

Pending
0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Total

19

The number of cases increased by three from 16 in 2008.

Zoning Ordinance Amendments

The Planning Board worked on three proposals to amend the Zoning Ordinance. Those that pass through the required public hearings will appear on the Warrant at Town Meeting in May 2010. The proposal to amend Sections 406.2.2 improves an amendment to this section that was adopted in 2009. Section 406.2.2 establishes conditions under which non-conforming lots that pre-existed the adoption of the Zoning Ordinance may be used for structures. One proposed change is simply to correct an error: In last years amendment the word structures was inadvertently used where the word lots was intended. The second proposed change establishes a table of frontage requirements for lots that fall under this Section. The table increases the frontage requirement as lot size decreases in order to preserve reasonable separation of structures. A lot owner who was affected by this section brought to the Boards attention that a one-size-fits-all requirement of 100 feet of frontage was less equitable than the Board intended, and the proposed amendment is intended to remedy this. The Small Wind Energy Systems Ordinance proposes restrictions on construction of these systems. The proposed restrictions comply with requirements of New Hampshire statutes, provide for their reasonable use in Town, and protect the aesthetics of the Town and the safety of residents. The proposal, with some modifications suggested by the Board, is based on a model ordinance prepared by the Rockingham Planning Commission. An application for a variance heard by the Zoning Board of Adjustment raised questions about whether churches should be a permitted use in the Industrial/Business-Residential (I/B-R) District and, for planning and zoning purposes, about the definition of church. The Board proposes amending ...continued on page 5
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SPRING 2010

Planning Board Annual Report 2009 continued from page 4

the Zoning Ordinance in appropriate sections to add a definition of place of worship, to use this phrase in place of church throughout the Ordinance, and to make place of worship a permitted use in all zoning districts. Currently, church is a permitted use in the two residential districts, but not in the I/B-R District. The proposed definition of place of worship is based on criteria the United States Internal Revenue Service uses to determine whether a religious organization qualifies for tax-exempt status.

Change in Responsibility for the Capital Improvements Plan

The Planning Board has for many years been responsible for preparing a Capital Improvements Plan (CIP) for the Town. Although the Board has diligently tried to produce a reasonable and effective plan that could be used as a guide for making investments in plant and equipment, the CIPS produced by the Planning Board have typically been put on a shelf and forgotten as soon as they were completed. Town Administrator Steve Fournier recommended that the Board explore options to change and improve the CIP process. State statutes provide alternative processes for use in developing CIPs. The alternative the Planning Board proposes is an independent CIP Committee consisting of one representative each from the Select Board, Planning Board, Budget Committee, and School Board. In addition, the CIP Committee would include three members of the public who are not affiliated with any of the constituent boards or committees. To fill out the Committee, the Planning Board, Budget Committee and School Board would each nominate one member of the public, drawn from a pool developed by advertising the positions, and the Select Board would appoint the nominees. After staggering terms of the initial appointees, members of the public would each serve three-years terms. The goal for this proposed process for developing the CIP is to broaden ownership of capital planning by giving key areas of Town governance a vested interest in the CIP, thus making the CIP both useful and effective as an integral part of the management process of the Town

Membership
At Town Meeting in 2009 Dr. Joseph Arena, Jr. and Shep Kroner were re-elected to three-years terms on the Board. At the conclusion of 2009, membership on the Board, was as follows: Dr. Joseph Arena, Jr.; Mike Coutu, Select Board Representative; Barbara Kohl, Shep Kroner, Vice Chair; Tom McManus, Laurel Pohl, and Phil Wilson, Chair. David McGilvary and Vince Vettraino serve as an alternate members. In conclusion, I would like to thank all members of the Board, Mr. Brian Groth (Circuit Rider from the Rockingham Planning Commission), Richard Mabey (Building Inspector/Code Enforcement Officer), and Wendy Chase (Planning and Zoning Administrator) for their dedication and hard work. ~ Respectfully submitted, Phil Wilson, Chair

Conservation Commission Update

Little River Salt Marsh Restoration Project Phase II
On September 12, 2009, a wetlands permit was granted by the NH DES for the continued restoration of the Little River Salt Marsh, on marsh land owned by Philip and Lisa Wilson and Andrew and Karen Goldstein, of Runnymede Drive. The purpose of the project was to dredge portions of the creeks in the marsh and to excavate four interconnected channels to promote natural tidal flow into the northwest portion of the salt marsh. An area of nearly 4,000 square feet of tidal wetlands was impacted and about 1,125 linear feet of channels were excavated or dredged. The goal was to restore the natural tidal flow in the area, to enhance the growth of natural salt marsh plant species and to control the spread of invasive plants on the marsh. Additional benefits will include the introduction of fish into this part of the marsh to feed on mosquito larvae to reduce the mosquito growth and also to stimulate the natural plant and animal wildlife in the marsh. ...continued on page 6
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SPRING 2010

Conservation Commission Update continued from page 5

Working with the Town of North Hampton, the Rockingham County Conservation District directed the project, and was provided oversight by the NH DES Wetlands Bureau and the Coastal Program. Funding was provided through a grant from the DES. Construction was performed by New England Wetlands, Inc. It was initiated in November, 2009 and was completed by year-end. Since the end of construction, the newly restored area of the marsh is already showing signs of becoming a healthy wildlife habitat. The Conservation Commission would like to acknowledge and thank the Wilson and Goldstein families for allowing this project to be completed on their properties.

North Hamptons Underground Reservoirs and Streams

Many of us are very familiar with the major ponds and streams in North Hampton. Among these are the Little River, the Winnicut River, Mill Pond, and numerous brooks. These are easy to find and are landmarks within the Town. North Hampton is environmentally sensitive, since about one-third of its land area is wetlands and we depend entirely on groundwater to meet our drinking water needs. We also have large expanses of wetlands surrounding the Winnicut and Little Rivers, commonly called watersheds. These watersheds serve a valuable function by filtering surface water before it enters the rivers using unique plants and soils to impede the flow of contaminants in a process called attenuation. In addition, the watersheds recharge groundwater which goes back into the underground streams and pools. What many of us dont know is that beneath North Hamptons wetlands and other land surfaces lies a vast system of underground streams and pools of water called aquifers where water is stored underground by nature and pumped to the surface by humans for drinking water. In North Hampton, there are three of these major underground pools of stored drinking water, interconnected by underground streams or surface wetlands. The major aquifer generally follows an area between Post Road and Lafayette Rd. and winds its way to a second aquifer along Winnicut Road. The third aquifer is located north of Town along Lafayette Road to the Rye border in the Little River watershed. These aquifers are substantial, since they lie beneath about 29% of the Towns land surface. The aquifers are also significant since about 1,400 North Hampton customers receive their water from Aquarions North Hampton wells which pump and distribute drinking water. These residents have some assurances of clean drinking water from Aquarion wells because the land surface above the aquifers is isolated from potential contamination by state-imposed Drinking Water Protection Areas surrounding the wells. No construction or land development is permitted in these water protection areas. Individual well owners are not as fortunate. About 500 private residential wells in North Hampton draw water from the underground pools, but there is less protection from surface water offered to their wells. Residents with private wells rely solely on natures filtration system to ensure that surface water entering the groundwater system is clean enough to drink. North Hampton has tried to provide continuing protection to private wells by passing ordinances with wetland buffer areas to allow for the natural filtration to take place near wetlands areas, which are typically recharge locations for drinking water. Currently, the wetlands setback ordinance is 100 feet. However, with the reduced amount of upland on which to build, developers are increasingly applying for wetlands setback variances. While in some cases, a minor encroachment into the setbacks on a single case may not be materially significant, the cumulative effect of encroachments into setbacks can have a significant impact by reducing the land surface area needed to adequately filter increased runoff water before entering the groundwater. The net effect is that homeowners in areas where encroachment of setbacks has been concentrated may be increasingly in jeopardy of well water contamination. Fortunately, other than the underground contamination from the Coakley Landfill over 20 years ago, no known incidents of private well water contamination has been recorded since in North Hampton. However, areas that are particularly sensitive to the depletion of buffers are near both the Winnicut and Little Rivers, since these rivers are both classified as impaired waterways by the DES, after water sample tests indicated increased presence of e-coli bacteria levels, typically resulting from septic system failures. It is in the context of this discussion and concern that our Conservation Commission has continued to recommend against development in the wetlands setbacks near these watersheds, particularly when structures, impermeable surfaces or septic systems are less than 50 feet from a major wetland, since any additional surface water runoff contamination or septic system failure can only exacerbate an already impaired ecosystem. ~ Chris Ganotis, Conservation Commission
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SPRING 2010

Save Water with a Rain Barrel!

The North Hampton Water Commission and Aquarion Water Company of NH are offering SkyJuice rainbarrels at the discounted price of $75 (regularly $150). Rain barrel features: 55 gallon recycled food-grade barrels. Fully-screened intake port to keep mosquitoes, insects and debris out. An easily-removable lid for cleaning and for storing hoses in the rain barrel in th winter. A brass spigot that connects to a regular hose or a drip irrigation system. An over-flow tube that can direct water away from the foundation, back into a normal drain, or be used to link multiple rain barrels for additional capacity. USING RAIN BARRELS IS GOOD FOR YOU, AND GOOD FOR THE ENVIRONMENT! Using rain barrels to collect roof runoff helps reduce flooding on your street, in your yard, and in your basement. Rain barrels release the water slowly into your gardens, allowing plants time to absorb and be nourished by it. Using rain barrels helps prevent roof runoff from flowing into environmentally-sensitive streams and ponds. Instead, the water will soak into the ground where it will be naturally-filtered, and will help recharge the groundwater system. Using rain barrels to collect water for your plants and lawn means using less tap water for watering. Collect rainwater from your roof: 1/4 of rain on a 1,000 sq. ft. roof will fill 2 rain barrels! Use the collected rainwater on your garden and house plants. Your plants will benefit from this naturallysoft, unfiltered water. Orders & payment must be received by April 30, 2010. Rain barrel pick-up date: Saturday, May 8, 2010, 10am to 2pm Pick-up location: Aquarion Water Company Open House, 7 Mill Road, North Hampton.
2010 RAIN BARREL ORDER FORM: Complete the order form below. Include your check or money order, payable to SkyJuice N.E., for the total amount. Mail or deliver to: North Hampton Water Commission, Hampton Town Hall, 235 Atlantic Ave, North Hampton, NH 03862 OR Aquarion Water Company, 1 Merrill Industrial Drive, Hampton, NH 03842 Questions? Contact Carl McMorran, Aquarion Water Company at 926-3319 ext 116 or at cmcmorran@ aquarionwater.com. Quantity:____________x $75each=____________ Total Make checks payable to: SKYJUICE N.E. Name:_________________________________________________ Address:________________________________________________ Town:__________________________________ Zip:____________ Phone:(___)___________Email:_____________________________

2010 Dog Tags are Here

ALL DOGS, 4 MONTHS OLD OR OVER, LIVING IN THE STATE OF NH MUST BE LICENSED BY THEIR OWNERS IN THE TOWN OR CITY OF RESIDENCE.
WHEN DO I LICENSE MY DOG? License a new adult dog immediately. License a puppy as soon as it is four months old. The license period runs May 1st through April 30th of each year. License renewals are generally accepted after March first of each year. WHAT DO I NEED TO LICENSE MY DOG? State law requires that before a license is issued, the owner or keeper of a dog must furnish proof to the Clerk that the dog has been vaccinated against rabies. In addition, the annual license fee is less for a dog that has been spayed or neutered. Evidence of the procedure needs to be supplied to the Clerk. Feel free to contact your local City or Town Clerk if you wish to determine whether or not this information is already on file for your pet. WHAT HAPPENS IF I DONT LICENSE MY DOG? Failure to license a dog is a violation of state law and city/town ordinances. In addition to the annual license fee you will be charged a late fee of $1.00 per month for each month (or part of a month) after June 1. In addition, you are subject to a civil forfeiture fee of $25.00 due within 15 days after receiving notice of forfeiture. If the forfeiture is not paid, the case will be disposed of in District Court. Additional penalties may apply under local ordinances.
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NORTH HAMPTON COMMUNITY NEWSLETTER

SPRING 2010

Boy Scout Troop 162 News

2010 is an extra exciting year to be involved in Boy Scouts because it is the 100th anniversary of scouting in America. Celebrations include 100 Years of Scouting activities, as well as special awards and merit badges that can be earned by current and former scouts during 2010. North Hampton Troop 162 recently recognized the rank advancements of several scouts at the Winter Court of Honor. Eagle Scout Nathan Vincent was also recognized at his Eagle Court of Honor ceremony and reception. Scouts will also be participating in the Merit Badge University, to be held on two Saturdays at Harvard University, where boys have an opportunity to work on three merit badges with experts in the chosen area, as well as with scouts from around New England. Troop 162 members, along with several adults, enjoyed indoor rock climbing on three occasions over the last few months. Several of the Scouts assisted at the pancake breakfast at Winterfest. Members of the troop also participated in a Winter Shakedown, a day of hiking, outdoor cooking, learning scout skills and completing rank advancements. One highlight of this winter was participation in the Historic District Klondike Derby, an event where troops test their leadership, teamwork and skills with the scouts pulling their gear from station to station on a homemade sled. Troop 162 participants earned a 2nd place finish in the Emergency Shelter Building competition and 3rd place in the Lunch (cooking, cleanup and sanitation) competition. The boys worked for several months designing and building Troop 162 Boy Scouts pictured with their homemade sled the sled, completing some Woodwork Merit Badge participate in the Historic district Klondike Derby requirements along the way. The Troop thanks Mr. Richard Croston for his donation of time, materials and woodworking expertise in guiding the boys through the building of the sled. Many others also contributed time and materials, without which the sled would not have become a reality. Upcoming events include a weekend of camping in Maine and participation in service projects and a spring yard sale fundraiser. The troop meets weekly to plan their events and outings, and to work on skills, requirements and rank advancements, all while having fun! Boy ages 11-18 who might be interested are encouraged to contact Scoutmaster Dick Tharp at 964-8194.

Cub Scouts Pack 162 News

The Cub Scouts of Pack 162 have been busy! The boys have been working hard on their achievements and badges. Our pack keeps growing and we love welcoming new scouts and their families! We had our annual Space Derby in January and the scouts designed some fabulous (and fast) rockets! This month, Boy Scouts of America celebrated 100 years of scouting and our pack held a birthday party to celebrate! Participants enjoyed a movie about the history of scouting, a spaghetti dinner, a hysterically funny show from I am Not a Clown balloon Cub Scouts and friends enjoy the man and of course, birthday cake! entertainment at the 100th birthday We are looking forward to our upcoming pinewood derby, of boy scouting birthday celebration. where boys will build their own derby cars to race! And were starting to think about warmer weather activities like hiking and summer camp! Were always welcoming new scouts so if your family is interested, please contact our Cub Master, Peter Philbrook at pepnvak@comcast.net.
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SPRING 2010

North Hampton Girl Scouts

The North Hampton Girl Scouts are enjoying a wonderful year of fun and activities! On February 6th, the Girl Scouts sponsored their annual Father Daughter Dance at North Hampton School. The dance is open to any North Hampton girl aged kindergarten through 8th grade and her special dad, grandfather, uncle or other beloved adult. This year saw a record number of participants with close to 150 girls and their special someone. The Father Daughter Dance represents the one fundraising event the North Hampton Girl Scouts hold each year. The funds raised are used to underwrite the annual Mother Daughter Camping Trip, Girl Scout scholarships and community service projects. Speaking of community service projects, on April 17th the North Hampton Girl Scouts will be hosting a town-wide community service project titled North Hampton Girl Scouts Support Our Troops! Scheduled An enchanted evening at the to take place at Centennial Hall from 9:00AM to 12:00PM, the purpose of this event is to collect supplies to support our troops serving overseas. father daughter dance Still in the planning phases, please look for further details to be posted on Channel 22, in the Hampton Union (we hope!) and on soon to be placed posters and flyers throughout North Hampton businesses. For questions or more information please call Amanda Peterson at 603-964-5821. Lastly, Girl Scout cookies are in! You may see some local troops selling cookies at Shaws and other area businesses. Please remember, every cookie has a mission: to help girls do great things! Please support your area Girl Scouts by picking up a box or two of cookies! Thank You ~ Amanda Peterson

North Hampton School News

So long Officer Mike Ill miss everything about Officer Mike. I think he made a lot of people more confident and independent which will/would help us later in life. Thanks for everything you did for us! I will remember Officer Mike and his kindness and him having lunch with us. I learned from him to be myself and respect who I am as a person and keep my head high. These are just a few of the words students at North Hampton School wrote about the impact Officer Mike has had on their lives. During a majority of his nine years on the North Hampton Police Department, Mike has served as our School Resource and Dare Officer. Our school is a safer and more caring place because of Officer Mike. He cares for our students and it always showed in his daily activities. Students see a support person in Mike, not an intimidating law officer. He taught our D.A.R.E. program and he was also a regular in other classes when a topic was discussed that Mike could lend his expertise. He always made himself available during lunch or other times for individual students and staff. Every school needs a Mike Oliveira! Students gathered to say farewell to Officer Mike. Mr. Sweet announced that each year an eighth-grade student would receive the Officer Mike Award. This student will be recognized for his/her commitment and service to our community. As the North Hampton and Winnacunnet Jazz Bands played Crazy Train, Officer Mike walked into a wall of students anxious to get their chance to say good-bye. Students stood in line to give him a farewell hug. The students said it best by losing him were losing a part of ourselves. He is a major part of our community. Officer Mike will be in our hearts forever. Best of luck. You will be missed! Congratulations Officer Mike Oliveira for your outstanding service to the children of North Hampton, dedication, commitment and professionalism. We truly hope you return to North Hampton Police Department in the not too distant future.
NORTH HAMPTON COMMUNITY NEWSLETTER PAGE 9

SPRING 2010

North Hampton Womans Club

The North Hampton Womans Club will meet on April 7th at 1:00 pm at the United Church of Christ. The program following a business meeting will feature guest speaker Sue Engle who will discuss Living Longer with Good Nutrition. The program will start at 2:00 On May 5th the club will hold a luncheon at which time the installation of officers will take place. There will not be another meeting until meetings resume in October. For more information please contact Jean Pepple at 964-1179.

Irish Night at UCC Church of North Hampton

The United Church of Christ in North Hampton will host its annual Irish Night, and evening of good food, Irish music, and celebration of friendship on Saturday, March 20th at 5:30pm. North Hampton community members would be most welcome! A contribution of $10 (not more than $30 for a family) will help to bring members from a sister church in Nuevo Laredo, Mexico to visit North Hampton.

North Hampton Youth Association Happenings

COMMISSIONERS Do you like to organize activities? Ensure fun for our local youngsters? Be called Commish?!?! Well, have we got the job for you... NHYA is looking for a few good men and women to join its ranks. We are looking for commissioners for our K-2 Soccer program, our Travel Soccer program and our K-2 Basketball program. Anyone with interest in learning more about the open positions on the NHYA Board of Directors, or anyone who has even a couple of hours a week to help out in some capacity, is encouraged to contact Lisa Martin at lisa.martin@libertyiu.com. Basketball HOOP IT UP While the Celtics have been mired in a mid-season slump, North Hamptons young hoopsters are replicating the success of Winnacunnets girls and boys basketball teams. As a finale to the 2009-2010 basketball season, NHYA is sponsoring a Basketball tournament at the North Hampton School from March 5-21. Two girls teams will represent North Hampton in the tournament. The schedule is available at www.nhyaonline.com come out and cheer on our future stars! NORTH HAMPTON BASEBALL SWINGS INTO ACTION With pitchers and catchers reporting to Spring Training, its time to focus our attention on North Hamptons own farm team the North Hampton Youth Associations T-Ball and Coach-Pitch leagues. Starting on May 1st, more than 100 North Hampton children ages 4 to 8 will spend Saturday mornings at Dearborn Park learning the fundamentals of baseball, working on skills development, and most importantly, having fun!!! Sporting American League jerseys and hats, the T-Ball League is for children ages 4 (as of May 1, 2010) through Kindergarten. The T-Ball program is a great way to introduce youngsters to the basics of baseball. Active parental involvement is encouraged and welcomed. Practice and games will be held every Saturday in May and June at Dearborn Park from 9:00 - 10:00am. Our Coach-Pitch league, NHYAs senior circuit with National League teams, is for children ages 6 (as of 12/31/2009) through 2nd grade. Practice and games are held on Friday evenings and Saturday mornings starting at 10:15am. We purposely have small teams to ensure plenty of at-bats, and stints at popular positions such as shortstop and first base. Registration for NHYAs Baseball League is available on-line at www.nhyaonline.com. Registrations are due by Friday, March 26th. We strongly encourage parental participation and welcome volunteers to serve as coaches. Please email Ross Peterson at ross.peterson55@yahoo.com if you are interested in helping out. We encourage North Hampton youth to join us at Dearborn this Spring. Who knows, one day Minnesota Twins General Manager Billy Smith (North Hampton native) or the Red Sox Theo Epstein will drive past Dearborn on a scouting mission to discover their future stars playing on the North Hampton ball fields! NHYA The North Hampton Youth Association is a nonprofit group organizing and overseeing all of the towns youth sports leagues and any related business matters and administrative work. It is run completely by volunteers from the community and the focus is on programs designed for pre-K (age 4) through sixth-grade students. ~ Ross Peterson, Baseball Commissioner and Lisa Martin, President NHYA
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A Very Special Opportunity from the Friends of Centennial Hall

The Friends of Centennial Hall and our residents share in the vision that the Hall is an important historical landmark and the perfect host for community arts education and entertainment. One time each year we reach out to our community for financial assistance, to help us continue to maintain and renovate the Hall, in order to provide you many exceptional programs. This year award winning, nationally exhibited resident artist, Robert Steedman, has agreed to offer a limited edition 9 x 12 personally signed archival quality giclee print for your donation over $100.00 to the Friends of Centennial Hall. This collaboration presents you with a wonderful opportunity to own a highly collectible giclee print of one of Mr. Steedmans original watercolors, Lands End. Currently teaching one of the many popular new art programs at Centennial Hall, Mr. Steedman Lands End has not previously distributed or sold prints so this is indeed a unique offer that will support the important restoration efforts currently underway. Please consider making your tax-deductible donation to the all-volunteer effort of the non-profit Friends of Centennial Hall (Post Office Box 200, North Hampton, NH 03862) soon so that we may continue to improve the Hall and enrich our community. Thank you for your support. ~ The Friends of Centennial Hall, www.centennialhall.org

North Hampton Recreation News

They say that the third time is a charm. WinterFest 2010 couldnt have gone off any smoother and continues to exceed my expectations of what I envision it to be. Words cannot replace what it feels like to watch people gather, mingle, smile, eat, enjoy art the childrens art There were several events throughout the day that I can remember vividly and hopefully have created wonderful memories for the people who attended this year. First up on the list was the scrumptious pancake breakfast, cooked by IHOPs owner Billy & his childhood friend. The remainder of breakfast; the hash browns and sausages were cooked by Boys Scout leaders The Booths and it was all served by the Recreation Commission members, Sarah Maloney, Christine Fredericks, Heidi Nigro, & Danielle Strater, Mike Sully Sullivan, Sandy Dewing & Kim Place. The Town Hall was bursting with conversation from all four sides, which quickly filled up with full & satisfied customers. There is something to be said of a few children at the Magic show who were just a little more excited that we expected at the delivery of free popcorn, which often found its way onto the floor at the Magicians feet rather in their mouth. Always behave as though someone you love and respect is watching. Having said that, next year, popcorn will not be offered. Back on track of the days fantastic events: The Curious Creatures show was a big hit as was the face painter who painted well over 100 faces in the short span of three hours! The Cookie bakeoff winner was Kennedy McCarthy, followed by Ben Merrill with Jake Klidaras coming in third. And the Clydesdaleswell, theyre just gorgeous creatures which in my opinion is the icing on the cake. The Wintervals art show was just phenomenal. I am always amazed at the talent that is right here in town. Congrats to all who placed and a special thanks to everyone who donned their art work for all to enjoy. Thank you NHS Art teachers, Marcia Zavez and Susan Haight for orchestrating, framing and hanging the pieces. The Chili Bowl Cook-off contestants provided such a wonderful array of great tastin chili! The Peoples Choice Award went to Abercrombie & Finch, second place to Joes Meat Shoppe and third place to the defending champion from 2009, Bella Rose. Thanks to TNT Subs (which served Bruces Famous Chili), Galley Hatch Catering, Copper Lantern, and Chez Boucher French Cooking School for your participation. The residents loved it! An extra special thank you to our Event Sponsors. Without their support we could not have provided the ...continued on page 12
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North Hampton Recreation News continued from page 11

abundance and variety of events to the residents. Thank yous go out to the following organizations and businesses, listed in order of donation level: Flurry Level ($500+ ): Hampton Area Chamber of Commerce; Icicle Level ($250 +): North Hampton PAL, Ocean Properties LLC, The Fuller Foundation, Aquarion Water, Sagamore-Hampton Golf Club, Powell Builders, IHOP, Interstate Moving & Storage, Timberline Signs; Snowflake Level ($100+): Friends of the North Hampton Bandstand Committee, North Hampton Professional Firefighters Local 3211, North Hampton Public Library, The Lamprey Brothers, North Hampton Highway Department, D.B. Warlick & Co., Seacoast Coca-Cola; In-kind donations: Shaws, Dunkin Donuts, and the Seacoast Academy of Music. A VERY special thanks to Mr. and Mrs. Mulcahey for allowing us to use the field behind Dearborn to shoot the fireworks off from! Thanks to RS Fireworks for providing North Hampton (and some of Hampton, Greenland and Rye) with such a breathtaking view and display. On behalf of the Recreation Department and the Recreation Commission, we look forward to planning next years Winterfest. ~ Yours in recreation~ Diane Wheeler

North Hampton School Board

As the Chairman of the North Hampton School Board, I would like to take this opportunity to express the sincere gratitude and appreciation to Board Members Stacy Whittier and Janet Gorman, who are both concluding their terms of service to the School Board this month. With Stacy having served for 3 years, and Janet for 6 years, their dedication to the North Hampton School is commendable. Their countless hours of service to the North Hampton School community have been evident in the many areas they have impacted over the years. In addition to their role as School Board members, both Janet and Stacy have served on numerous committees within our district, as well as at the SAU 21 Joint Board level, impacting the vision and direction the school has taken, and the successes that have been accomplished. Stacy contributed in a multitude of areas, including her participation on the school council, contract negotiations committees, and most recently, the survey committee. Janet served as board chair for both the North Hampton and SAU Joint Boards, initiated on the farm to school program, negotiated numerous contracts and was instrumental in bringing Spanish as a second language to our school, just to name a few of her accomplishments. The School Board is extremely proud of our school, and appreciates dedication that both Janet and Stacy have displayed during their years of service in contributing to these achievements. On behalf of the administration, teachers, parents and particularly the students, we would all like to say Thank You to both Janet and Stacy, and know that their ongoing support for our school will continue for many years to come. ~ David Sarazen, Board Chair
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Recycling Center Information

Did you know that you can reduce the amount of unwanted direct (junk) mail you receiver? You can do this by: Writing or calling the company directly (especially if you made a purchase from them). Writing to Mail Preference Service, Direct Marketing Association, PO Box 9008, Farmingdale, NY 11735-9008. If you write to Mail Preference Service, be sure to state in your letter that you do not want your name to be sold or given to any advertisers. Direct Marketing Association needs to have your signature on file to remove your name from the advertising mailing list. There should not be a charge for removing your name from the organizations mailing list. These suggestions should reduce the amount of junk mail you receive for five (5) years. Upcoming Recycling Activities April 3rd - Weather permitting, the Brush and Compost opens for the season. Early May - Household Hazardous Waste Collection in Hampton. Mid-May - Bulky Item Collection at the Recycling Center. For additional information, call the Recycling Center (964-9825) or DPW (964-6442). - HOURS OPEN The Recycling Center is open Wednesdays and Saturdays from 8:00am to 5:00pm. The Brush and Compost hours are Saturdays (only) 8:00am to 12:00, 12:30 to 4:30pm.

SPRING 2010

North Hampton Historical Society News

The North Hampton Historical Society will begin the 2010 season on March 15, 2010 at 7 pm at the United Church of Christ. J. Dennis Robinson, sponsored by the New Hampshire Humanities Council, will present a program titled Collecting John Paul Jones Americas First Action Hero. Jones spent more than a year in New Hampshire during the American Revolution. Mr. Robinson is from Portsmouth, N.H. Wendy Bergeron will be presenting our April 19th program titled American Independence Museum in Exeter. The May 19th program will be presented by Jenny Landman and Penny Holbert and titled Highlights of North Hampton Time-Line. They will share documented facts of when nationally renown personalities, such as George Washington and Lafayette visited North Hampton. Theyll tell of some locally-significant documented stories that are still of great interest to us generations later, including facts important to the development of the social network of North Hampton. Some stories shed light on the superstitions of ages past; some stories are humorous secrets now exposed and some will make you proud that you walk the same grounds our fore-fathers did. If you havent yet seen the wonderful collection of old Valentines on display in our museum cases in the Heritage Room hope youll check it out real soon. Our thanks go to Ruth Griffin, a long time member of the Historical Society, for kindly lending us her collection so that we may display it for your viewing. Some of the unique Valentines date back to the 1800s. We certainly appreciate Ruths kindness. January 2010, the Historical Society lost a long time dedicated member, Janet Taylor. Janet gave many years to the Society and served diligently as our president for 8 years, her presence is missed. All of our programs are free and begin at 7pm at the United Church of Christ. The public is welcome, refreshments are served following the programs. We look forward to seeing you on March 15th. ~ Beverley J. Frenette, Vice President, North Hampton Historical Society

Select Board News

With the arrival of spring, peoples interests turn to warm weather activities. This year Town Meeting will become a new rite of spring. Last year, the voters approved moving the date of Town Meeting from March to May. This also means that the deliberative session will be moved from early February to early April. We hope that this change and the more pleasant weather will encourage more people to attend deliberative session and voting day. Deliberative Session will be held on Saturday April 10 at 8:30AM and voting day will be on May 11 from 8AM to 7PM at the North Hampton School. One of the biggest issues at Town Meeting will be the proposed operating budget. The Town Administrator and the Department Heads have submitted their budget requests. The Select Board reviewed them and made changes to propose a budget to the Municipal Budget Committee. Everyone in Town government understands the economic challenges that the taxpayers are facing. The Town is not immune from the economic downturn either. We feel that we have submitted to the Municipal Budget Committee a responsible and lean operating budget. We had a number of contractual obligations that we had to meet. In order to have a budget with no increase, we would have to propose significant reductions in the services that the residents have come to expect. The Operating budget that we proposed is $5,554,301 or $222,736 over the previous year. This is a 4.2% increase. Major reasons for this increase include a substantial increase in the cost of health care to the Town, and the impact of the collective bargaining agreement with the Police and Public Works employees that was approved by the voters at the previous Town meeting. Last years operating budget was a zero percent increase year over year and this years modest increase reflects the impact of that decision. We have begun to address the health care increases by changing the current benefits offered to employees. However, a majority of our employees are covered by a collective bargaining agreement and we need to address these issues in the negotiation process. With this in mind, we reduced the fiscal impact of proposed warrant articles that if passed would have had an impact of the tax rate by 15.43%. Overall, if the budget and all of the warrant articles were to pass, we would see an increase in expenditures of 3.5% over the previous year. The Municipal Budget Committee is in the ...continued on page 14
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Select Board News continued from page 13

process of reviewing the budget and will undoubtedly make some changes. We hope that they balance the consequences of any cuts that they may make against the impact it may have on the services and safety that residents have come to expect. This winter the Select Board solicited proposals to hire a firm to assist the Town in beginning to plan a new Town Campus. The Town facilities are beginning to become inadequate to deliver the services to the residents in an efficient and effective manner. We hope to have a firm on board soon to begin help us assess the best uses for our current buildings are. We have been working with all of the departments and the Board of Library Trustees to make sure that we do this as a team and that input from all interested parties is taken into consideration. We know that only by doing this will we be able to make a thoughtful and constructive proposal for consideration by the voters. The Select Board is pleased to announce the appointment of Acting Chief Dennis Cote as the new Fire Chief and Emergency Management Director for North Hampton. Effective immediately, Chief Cote will oversee the day-to-day operations of the department and provide counsel to the Select Board and Town Administrator in matters of public safety and the maintenance of the Town fire protection and ambulance services. Chief Cote has 20 years experience in the fulltime fire service. He started his career with the Pease Air National Guard Base Fire Department. Chief Cote then went on to the Newington Fire Department where he served eleven years, rising to the rank of Assistant Fire Chief. In 2007, he joined the North Hampton Fire and Rescue as the Deputy Fire Chief. He has served the past six months as Acting Fire Chief of the North Hampton Fire Department following the retirement of former Fire Chief Thomas Lambert. Chief Cote resides in Greenland with his wife and two children. We hope to see you all on April 10 for Deliberative Session and May 11 for Town Election Day. ~ Craig Solomon, Chair, Michael Coutu, Jon Rineman

North Hampton Public Library News

The Library has purchased books and DVDs in memory of Robert Maxwell OKane with donations made in his memory to the Library. Mr. OKane was an avid library user and a member of Veterans for Peace. The Library has acquired several videos on peace and the book Peace is Possible, the life and message of Prem Rawat. The library has discount or free passes to the following: Peabody Essex Museum, Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, Boston Museum of Science, Currier Art Museum, Seacoast Science Center, Strawbery Banke, Childrens Museum of New Hampshire, Childrens Museum of Boston (Tues. Thurs. and Saturday only). You must call the library to reserve the passes and must have a library card. North Hampton residents or tax payers are entitled to a free library card, as well as those who work in North Hampton. The Museum of Fine Arts in Boston does not require advance reservations and can be picked up anytime. Check the various institutional web sites for information regarding hours and costs for special exhibits. The library has access to several databases. For genealogists we have ancestrylibrary.com, and NEHGS which searches hundreds of databases for your ancestors. If you are watching the TV series Who do you think you are, you might be interested in researching your family tree. You can only access these two databases in the library, and we will be glad to help you get started. Learn-a-test from Learning Express is a web site with access to practice tests for college preparation, job search and workplace skills, firefighter exams, nursing exams, GED, GRE, Teacher certification and many more. You register using your library card number at http://www.learnatest.com/LEL/index.cfm/. The New Hampshire State Library also provides all library users with access to newspaper databases such as the Union Leader and New Hampshire Sunday News and the Concord Monitor through NewsBank Info Web. You will need the user name and password to log in. We also have access to World Book Encyclopedia online to help with homework and research. The library has two book groups for those who enjoy literary discussion. The 2nd Thursday at 2:00pm and the Sunset Book Group that meets once a month at 7 p.m. dates to be announced. Both groups welcome new members ages 16 and up. Watch the web site for the upcoming Scrabble Tournament. Details to follow. ...continued on page 15
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North Hampton Public Library News continued from page 14

The North Hampton Womans Club donated the book Heart of a Military Woman, by Sheryl Roush and Eldonna Fernandez, and the DVD The Way We Get By in memory of Nancy Coes who passed away in November. Nancy was a U.S. Navy Wave and a Pease Greeter. The film The Way We Get By is an award-winning film about a group of senior citizens who gather daily at a small airport to thank American soldiers departing and returning from Iraq. The Library appreciates donations towards the building fund and for library materials and operations. In the past, generous North Hampton residents have made bequests that have greatly benefited the Library. When contemplating estate planning, the Library is always honored to be the recipient of donations, whether in the form of a one-time donation, or a foundation set up to benefit the library on an on-going basis. Upcoming March 31st at 7 p.m. Jeff Bolster, of the UNH Speakers Bureau will present the program Fish, Trees, Sheep and Factories: Environmental Change in NH. Bolster is an associate professor of history at the University of New Hampshire. His research interests include maritime history, African-American history, environmental history, and Atlantic history. He enjoys exploring historical problems regarding peoples interaction with the sea. As a social historian he is especially interested in Jean Robinson and May Stoney from the North the relationship of experience and meaning. As an environmental Hampton Womans Club present a book and historian he is intrigued with anthropogenic changes to the sea DVD to Susan Grant of the N. Hampton and the ways those changes have influenced human society and Public Library in memory of Nancy Coes. culture. He has written on African American seamen in the age of sail; the social and environmental history of the Piscataqua estuary that separates Maine and New Hampshire; shipping in the making of America; and most recently, the marine environmental history of the northwest Atlantic. ~ Susan Grant, Library Director

Why a Library Building Capital Reserve Fund?

The Library Trustees have proposed a warrant article this year for adding funds to the existing Library Capital Reserve Fund. In March 2005 voters approved a petitioned warrant article that created the Fund with an initial amount of $50,000, matched by $50,000 from the Librarys invested funds. In March 2006 and again in March 2007 the Select Board agreed to put forward articles that added $50,000 respectively in the fund. The Trustees of the Library matched the dollar amount each year. This fund was established to set aside money for the planning and construction of a library addition or new building. As some of you may recall, architect Denis Mires prepared a study of the municipal complex in 2001. Several of his recommendations were completed, including the purchase of land at the corner of Alden and Atlantic and the moving of the Highway Garage. The next stage was to be the building of a new Library, about double the size of the existing one, with the current Library then becoming Town Offices. This plan was shelved and, despite the efforts of the Planning Board and Municipal Facilities Advisory Committee in 2004 -2005, no decision about the next step has occurred. The Library Trustees thought it prudent to begin to save for our communitys quality of life needs while ensuring that those needs did not compete with Public Safety. As you may know, Public Libraries operate somewhat differently from Town departments. They have an elected Board of Trustees, and can and do receive donations, not only of books but also sometimes of significant bequests and foundation grants. Establishing and now adding to this fund helps demonstrate Town support for the Library, and we hope assist in attracting additional private funding when an actual design for the new addition or building occurs. ...continued on page 16
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Why a Library Building Capital Reserve Fund? continued from page 15

Economic considerations dissuaded the Trustees from asking voters for funding in March 2008 and 2009. It was also during these two years that the Trustees requested that the Select Board meet with the Library Trustees and heads of the Public Service departments to sit at the same table to agree on and prioritize building needs. This meeting never took place. Rather, the Select Board decided to seek proposals for another Town Campus study and to create a committee to review proposals and make recommendations to them. The Trustees have a representative serving on this committee. In light of this history, and the thoughts of again competing with the public safety departments, the Trustees have decided that it would be in the best interest of the Town and its Library to continue to fund the Librarys Capital Reserve Fund. We want to assure the voters that the money in this fund can only be used to decrease the costs of either expanding of the existing Library or the construction of a new Library. We ask for your continued support to prudently save for the future. Our Library is a cornerstone of our community. It represents our values and our commitment to knowledge acquisition and our commitment to an educated citizenry. Since 1892 the North Hampton Library has provided free access to books and information. It is one of a few institutions left in our country and community that ensures unfettered access to information while protecting ones right to privacy. We appreciate and thank you for your continued commitment and support of the Librarys mission. ~ Library Trustees; Emily Creighton, Chair; Alison Robie, Treasurer; Peter Parker, Secretary

Technology and the Library

Some believe that the world is going digital and question whether there is a need for physical books and whether libraries need to reduce their physical space. Nationally and locally, library usage is up. Whether resident or visitor, the library is being used to acquire information, receive training, check ones emails, attend meetings and cultural events, and just relax - read a magazine or newspaper in a comfortable chair. This is what some of the experts say about libraries, books and the digital age: ...But if we care about the depth of our intellectual and cultural lives, well see that emptying our libraries of books is not an example of progress. Its an example of regress. The pages of a book shield us from the distractions that bombard us during most of our waking hours. As an informational medium, the book focuses our attention, encouraging the kind of immersion in a story or an argument that promotes deep comprehension and deep learning. When we read from the screen of a multifunctional computing device, whether its a PC, a Smartphone, a Kindle, or an iPad, we sacrifice that single-mindedness. Our attention is scattered by all the distractions and interruptions that pour through our computers and digital networks. The result, a raft of psychological and neurological studies show, is cursory reading, weak comprehension and shallow learning. We may not want to admit it, but the medium matters. When we tell ourselves that reading is the same whether done from a screen or a book, were kidding ourselves and cheating our kids. Nicholas Carr, author of the Big Switch: Rewiring the World, from Edison to Google A screen is less conducive to deep concentration than the stillness of the page Books and libraries are working (or living) models of knowledge formation. We need them for the same reason we need models of atoms and airplanes. They are hands-on. They are immersive. Holding a book in our hands, we orient ourselves within a larger system. Walking the stacks, following a footnote or checking out whats on the shelf above P96.T42K567 2007 is a bit like getting a glimpse at the ducts and plumbing behind the drywall or the Web sites source code. Books, precisely because of their (literally) bounded limitations, teach us to ask questions that are no less essential for the databases and deep archives of the online world: Who wrote that? Where are the competing voices? How is it organized? By what (and whose) terms is it indexed? Does it have pictures? Can I write in it myself? ...continued on page 18
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Youth Department News from North Hampton Public Library

Did you know about our discovery kits? The library has 10 discovery kits on topics such as dinosaurs, Thomas the Tank Engine, and reading readiness. We also have take home Story Time kits. The Story Time kits contain, books, games, and other activities. These kits were created for the library a few years ago by Stephanie Roch as part of her Girl Scout Gold award project. LIBRARY PROGRAMS FOR YOUTH Twos Time meets on Tuesdays at 10:00. For ages 18-36 months. Join Ms. Stacy for an enjoyable time of stories and activities. Pre School Story Time for ages 3-6 meets Wednesdays at 10:15am. Stories and more with Ms. Lorreen. New children and caregivers are always welcome to attend our Story Times but please call or email the library to register at 964-6326 or youthlib@nhplib.org. Pajama Story Time: Put on your PJs and join us at the library for Story Time fun. Monday, April 5 at 6:30pm and Monday, May 3 at 6:30pm. Crafty Kids crafts in the library. For grades kindergarten and up. Sign up required. Wednesday, March 24 from 4:00-4:45 and Wednesday, April 21 from 4:00-4:45. Pizza and Pages: A book discussion group for grades 5-8 read and discuss popular fiction. Group members vote for the books read. Monday, April 12 from 7:00 -7:45 book: Smiles to go by Jerry Spinelli and Monday, May 17 from 7:00 -7:45 book: (chosen at March meeting) EARTH DAY POSTER CONTEST! Create your poster to celebrate our earth and 40 years of Earth Day! Free poster board is available at the library for grades K-12. Drop your posters off at the library by Saturday, April 17. Posters will be on display at the library. NORTH HAMPTON PUBLIC LIBRARY EDIBLE BOOK FESTIVAL Start cooking up your idea (suitable for family viewing) and sign up for the North Hampton Library Edible Book Festival on Saturday, April 10th from 10:00 to 12:00pm. Adults and children five years old and older are invited to participate and prize ribbons will be awarded. What is an Edible Book Festival? It is a contest for people to enter book-themed art that is also edible. Edible Book Festivals are held throughout the world, uniting book lovers, book artists, and food lovers. The entries can promote anything related to books: a scene or character from a book, play, short story, comics, or poem or a book cover. All the ingredients must be entirely edible because at the end of the contest everyone gets to eat the creations! Entry forms will be available at the library. SUMMER READING 2010! Plans are underway for an exciting summer reading program for kids of all ages. This year s theme is Make a Splash: READ. As in past years, we will award a prize to kids who complete the program. Donations to our prize box are always welcome. Happy Spring and Happy Reading Everyone! ~ Lorreen M. Keating, Youth Services Librarian & Assistant Library Director

From the Office of the Town Clerk

IMPORTANT DATES FOR 2010
3/9/10: School Election 3/24-4/2/10: @5PM Filing periods, Town positions 4/10/10: Town Deliberative Session 5/11/10: Town Election 6/2-11/10,@5PM: Filing period, State Offices 9/14/10: State Primary 11/2/10: General Election

FILINGS FOR NORTH HAMPTON 2010

One Select Board Member, 3 year term One Town Clerk/Tax Collector, 3 year term One Moderator, 2 Year term One Town Treasurer, 1 year term One Trustee of the Cemeteries, 3 year term One Water Commissioner, 4 year term One Supervisor of the Checklist, 6 year term One Trustee of the Library, 3 year term One Trustee of the Trust Funds, 3 year term Two Planning Board Members, 3 year terms Two Municipal Budget Committee Members, 3 year terms ~ Susan Buchanan, Town Clerk/Tax Collector
NORTH HAMPTON COMMUNITY NEWSLETTER PAGE 17

Remember the Town and School Elections are on separate dates this year.

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Technology and the Library continued from page 16

Even the grossest physical failings of books and libraries, the maddening frustration of the book that is lost or checked out just when you need it most can instill an important lesson: knowledge is proximate. In the digital world, that proximity is less about geographical locale than about licensing, digital rights management, and affordability; but all the more reason for students (and teachers) to know that not everything is always within reach of a mouse. Matthew G. Kirschenbaum, Professor of English and Associate Director, of the Maryland Institute for Technology in the Humanities at the University of Maryland. My other responsibility as a school librarian is to encourage reading, which all the research shows is crucial to student success. Focused, engaged reading occurs with printed books, and far less with online material. Unlike a Kindle or a laptop, which may provide access to many books but is limited to a single user, a printed book is a relatively inexpensive information delivery system that is not dependent on equipment, power or bandwidth for its use. Research also shows that the brain functions differently when reading online or reading a book. The digital natives in our schools need to have the experience of getting lost in a physical book, not only for the pure pleasure but also as a way to develop their attention spans, ability to concentrate, and the skill of engaging with a complex issue or idea for an uninterrupted period of time. Finally, we have many different kinds of learners in our schools, and we should be using many different kinds of tools. The two Kindles that I purchased for my library are popular, but they have not taken the place of books, just as audio books are not everyones cup of tea. Thats one of the beauties of libraries we keep up with new technologies but we also hold on to the things that work well. Cushing Academys decision to dispose of most of its library books unnecessarily deprives that community of an irreplaceable resource. We dont have to choose between technology and printed books, and we shouldnt. Liz Gray former English Teacher is library Director at Dana Hall School, Wellesley, MA ~Emily Creighton, Chair, North Hampton Public Library Trustees
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03/09/10 North Hampton Library SPRING 2010 Newsletter