Hampstead Town Newsletter - 6/23/2022

Town of Hampstead
Annual Fourth of July celebration
The Annual Fourth of July celebration will be held on Saturday, June 25th at Meetinghouse park, located behind the town hall (11 Main St., Hampstead). This is the 75th anniversary of the Civic Club and there will be various events held for all ages:

10am-2pm - Motorcycle Show and Kids Wheels Event
10am-4pm - Craft Fair
3pm - Frog jumping (free for kids, bring your own frog)
4pm - Children's Games (free for kids)
5pm - Amateur BBQ Competition judging
5pm - Midway games open
5pm - Hampstead's Got Musical Talent
7pm - HCC Scholarship Awards
9:30pm - Fireworks

More information about the events can be found at https://hampsteadcivicclub.org/independence-day-festival

New Online Services Available
You can now purchase Beach stickers, Transfer Station stickers, and more online. Visit https://pay.eb2gov.com/?ID=242&campaignID=11 to view the various services that are offered.

Property Tax Relief
There is a program that helps low to moderate income homeowners for property tax relief which runs May 1st to June 30th. The form is called the DP-8 and is run through the State of NH.  In order to apply, please visit https://www.hampsteadnh.us/assessing and click the “Low and Moderate Income Homeowners Property Tax Relief” link in the blue navigation menu on the page.

Hampstead Historic / Heritage Commission
Annual Bell Ringing
The Historical Society will again be at the Meeting House at midnight on July 4th for the annual bell ringing.  People attending will be allowed to pull on the rope and ring the Paul Revere Jr. Bell.



Hampstead Cable Committee
2022 Concert Schedule
Free to the community- this fun annual summer series continues. The Cable Committee has set the 2022 concert schedule which you can view at https://www.hampsteadconcerts.com/concert-series

Hampstead Water Resources Committee
Abnormally Dry Spring in Hampstead
As summer approaches, we should be mindful that the spring of 2022 has been abnormally dry in Rockingham Country. We can hope that rainfall returns to normal levels for the summer months, but we should instill good habits to avoid wasting our precious water resources. The NH Drought Monitor map is posted every Thursday and may be viewed at
https://droughtmonitor.unl.edu/CurrentMap/StateDroughtMonitor.aspx?NH

The Sunset Lake Campground provides an easy way to track local rainfall at
https://www.wunderground.com/dashboard/pws/KNHHAMPS18/graph/2022-06-1/20...

New Hampshire receives an average of 3.75 inches of rain per month. Your lawn and landscape need no more than 1 inch of rain per week, so there will be periods when your lawn requires no watering. When supplemental watering is necessary, watering just enough as too much water can lead to fungal diseases and wash away important nutrients. To avoid evaporation, water between 9pm and 9am. Raise your mower blade to 3 inches so the grass will shade the soil.

Use the Step Test
If the grass springs back after being stepped on, it doesn’t need water!
For more tips on reducing outdoor water use, visit www.epa.gov/watersense/outdoor

Attention Irrigation System Owners
Adjustments to your irrigation system can reduce water waste. Many homeowners use 30-60% of their water outdoors. Often up to 50% of that water is wasted. 

Here are some tips for reducing water waste:

• Timing – Plan to water in the early morning or late evening to beat daytime evaporation.
• Tune Up Your System – Inspect irrigation systems and fix leaks and broken or clogged sprinkler heads.
• Make sure the water lands on the lawn and not the sidewalk or driveway!
• Go With a Pro – Contractors certified through a WaterSense labeled program can audit, install or maintain home irrigation systems to reduce water waste.
• Use a Weather Smart Timer – If your system uses a clock timer, consider upgrading to a WaterSense labeled controller that acts like a thermostat for your lawn, using local weather data to determine when and how much to water. Put an end to watering when rainfall is sufficient! This saves water and money!

Attention Well Owners
The HWRC webpage contains a link to a Well Water Guide prepared by the HWRC. It contains
information about how a typical well pump system works in addition to troubleshooting information. Check out this valuable resource on the HWRC webpage by clicking on the “Well Water Guide” link of the left side of the page: https://www.hampsteadnh.us/water-resource-committee

Hampstead School District
NH STEM Teacher of the Year
Last month, Sarah Wisecarver was recognized as the NH STEM Teacher of the Year. Three awards are given by the New Hampshire Society of Professional Engineers (NHSPE) each year and Sarah has received the Elementary (grades 1-5) award for 2022. NHSPE recognizes excellence in the teaching of S.T.E.M in New Hampshire schools as evidenced by creativity, innovation, integration of programs, and learning effectiveness. Mrs. Wisecarver has brought so many projects and hands-on learning opportunities to Hampstead students over the years, we are thrilled to see her being recognized and celebrated by colleagues and professional organizations. 

Bus Cameras
Hampstead School District buses were recently equipped with exterior cameras, which will aid law enforcement in their investigation of motorists who fail to yield. The school is grateful for the partnership with First Student Transportation and the Hampstead Police Department to make this happen for the safety of all students.

 
Strategic Planning
The Hampstead School District is pleased to present the 2022-2025 Strategic Plan, which is visible at https://strategicplan.hampsteadschools.net. The development of the Strategic Plan was a year-long process involving key stakeholders from a variety of constituent groups and represents a roadmap for the future of the Hampstead School District. Thank you to the various community members who helped provide input into this process.
 
 
Reminder: All school board meetings will be livestreamed on the HSD channel on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtrHv9UP1RTjFc_6CORYKmQ 

Hampstead Library
Children’s Area Renovation
The newly refurbished Children’s Area at the Hampstead Public Library is open to the public and ready for families to come play, and check out books, DVDs, and new electronic learning toys. Come have a look and enjoy the space. Many summer events will take place in the Children’s Program Room.

Summer Reading Program
All ages are invited to register for the 2022 Summer Reading Program starting Thursday, June 23. Adults can register in person at the Hampstead Public Library or online. Children and teens can sign-up online. Registration is open for the duration of this six-week program, and details can be found on the Library’s website. There are no reading requirements. It’s a great opportunity to find new books and authors to love, and librarians are always happy to help you find your next great read. As always, the more you read, the more raffle tickets you earn and the more chances you have to win great prizes. Adult prizes include gift cards for Jamison’s, Bleu
Tangerine, and Honey Dew Donuts. Children’s prizes include coupons to attractions such as Canobie Lake Park, Chucksters, Mel’s Funway Park and more! A complete list can be found on HampsteadLibrary.org. There are also over 40 summer events including the return of Storytime and Mother Goose on the Loose. Plus, visits from a Seacoast Science Naturalist, Wildlife Encounters, and UNH Marine docents talking about whales and seals. A complete list of all events can be found on the Events Calendar on the Library’s website.

Seacoast Science Event
The first big family event of the summer at the Hampstead Public Library is on Monday, June 27 at 10am. A Seacoast Science Center naturalist brings unique ocean-themed hands-on activity stations including a Live Animal Touch Bin (with lobster, sea stars, crabs, and more), a Seaweed Sensory Bin, a Marine Mammal Rescue Save-a-Seal Activity, and a Craft/Activity Table.

Splash Balloon Show
Jungle Jim’s Splash into Reading Balloon Show is on Thursday, June 30 at 10am. This event takes place at the Hampstead Central School and is presented by the Hampstead Public Library in cooperation with the Hampstead Recreation Department. Jungle Jim of Boston has a high-energy show featuring giant ocean creature creation, all-ages humor, interactive engagement, and a giant 6-foot balloon.

Guided Trail Walk
On Tuesday, June 28 at 2pm, all ages are welcome to meet for a Guided Walk of the West Road Conservation Area. David Treat, of the Hampstead Conservation Commission, leads us as we explore the trails. Meet us in the West Road parking lot. We’ll walk for approximately one hour. Wear comfy clothes and walking shoes. You may consider applying bug spray.

Pizza and Pages for Teens
Students in grades 5 and up are invited to kick off the summer with Pizza and Pages at the Hampstead Public Library on Wednesday, June 29 from 4pm to 6pm. Enjoy delicious pizza and a discussion about books with HMS Library Media Specialist Mrs. Connors and Youth Services Librarian Jenn. Please register in advance via the events calendar on HampsteadLibrary.org, so we can be sure to have enough pizza for everyone.

Teen Comics Workshop
Teens in grades 5 and up can experience a fun creative venture in Marek Bennet’s Comics Workshop at the Hampstead Public Library on Wednesday, July 6 at 4pm. Participants explore comics topics and techniques, and create original artwork. Bennet is a cartoonist, musician, teacher, and author. Food will be served. Please register in advance via the Events Calendar on HampsteadLibrary.org.

Movie Matinee
All are welcome to the movie showing of the 1984 classic Splash at the Hampstead Public Library on Friday, July 8 at 2:30pm. This romantic comedy stars Tom Hanks and Daryl Hannah. It’s a story about a man who falls in love with a mysterious woman who is secretly a mermaid. No registration necessary. Light snacks are provided. This event is free and open to the public. Call 603-329-6411 for more information.

Virtual Visit with Mary Pope Osborne
If you are a fan of the Magic Tree House children’s book series, you won’t want to miss this virtual visit with author Mary Pope Osborne. Gather in the Hampstead Public Library’s large meeting room on Thursday, July 14 at 4pm to view this moderated conversation. The author will also give a special reading, and will answer audience questions. This event is free and open to the public. Children of all ages are welcome.

Author Discusses Water Crises
Award-winning science writer, Nancy Castaldo, visits the Hampstead Public Library on Saturday, July 16 at 12pm to discuss her new book When the World Runs Dry: Earth’s Water in Crisis. What do you do if you turn on the faucet one day and nothing happens? What if you learn the water in your home is harmful to drink? Not every community has the safe, clean water it needs. Castaldo’s book takes readers from Michigan to New Jersey, Iran to South Africa, and even to Hampstead, NH to explore the various ways in which water around the world is in danger, why we must act now, and why you’re never too young to make a difference. Two Hampstead residents will also discuss their role related to the book. This event is hosted by the Hampstead NH Water Resources Committee. It is free and open to the public. Contact: HampsteadLibrary.org, circulation@hampsteadlibrary.org , or call 603-329-6411.

Women’s Circle
There is a Women’s Circle scheduled at the Hampstead Public Library on Monday, July 18 at 6:30 pm. A women’s circle is a welcoming, safe, and supportive space for women to come together. Library Associate Sue facilitates the circle as women have discussions, share thoughts, and do brief activities. Circles are held once a month on Monday evenings. Please register in advance via the Events Calendar on HampsteadLibrary.org or call 603-329-6411.

Chat with Nautilus Crew Members
Come to the Hampstead Public Library on Tuesday, July 19 at 4pm for a rare opportunity to video chat with crew members aboard the EV Nautilus! EV Nautilus is a 223 ft. research vessel owned by the Ocean Exploration Trust under the direction of Robert Ballard, the researcher known for finding the wreck of the Titanic and the German battleship Bismarck. This is a live ship-to-shore video meeting at which the audience will see the crew on the Library’s big screen and be able to interact. If you cannot come to the Library but would still like to participate, register via the Events Calendar on www.HampsteadLibrary.org to receive the Zoom link. This event is free and open to the public. Ocean Exploration Trust (OET) and the Nautilus
Exploration Program explore the ocean, seeking out new discoveries in the fields of geology, biology, maritime history, archaeology, and chemistry while pushing the boundaries of education, outreach, and technological innovation.

Bioluminescence Presentation
A University of New Hampshire SeaSpeak Marine Docent presents cool information about Bioluminescence, the incredible light emitted by deep-sea fish and other marine organisms, at the Hampstead Public Library on Monday, July 25 at 7pm. Did you know that in the depths of the ocean where sunlight doesn't penetrate, most organisms produce their own light to communicate? Bacteria, whales, and all in between utilize bioluminescence for offense, defense, and mating purposes. Come learn all about this incredible natural phenomenon. This event is free and open to the public. All ages are welcome.

Stay in touch with the Hampstead Public Library and be notified of upcoming events! 
Click here to sign up for the Library newsletter.

Hampstead Trash & Recycling
Extra Trash Bag Program
The Recycling and Waste Committee, with approval from the Board of Selectmen, have started an extra trash bag program. This is a 6-month trial program and is available now. Residents will be allowed to put one trash bag a week on top of their trash (gray) cart. To view the program details, please visit https://www.hampsteadnh.us/home/news/extra-trash-bag-program

Derry Transfer Station Changes
The Derry Transfer Station has announced that they are no longer able to accept mattresses, box springs or stuffed chairs or couches over 6 feet.  

Those items can still be brought to the Kent Farm Transfer Station with a valid permit. The cost for the mattress or a box spring is $40.00. There is no additional cost for a sofa. You can also have it picked up curbside (subject to change) on the third Saturday of the month at a cost of $26.00 per item, payable in advance through the Town Clerk's office.

Swap Shop
The town Swap Shop (located at the Hampstead Transfer Station on Kent Farm Rd) will be open on the 2nd Saturday of each month from 8am-4pm for ITEM DROP OFF only - transfer station stickers are required.

The Swap Shop will be open on the 3rd Saturday of each monday from 10am-12pm for BROWSE & TAKE HOME only - transfer station stickers are NOT required.

More information, including details about what is accepted for drop off, can be found at https://www.hampsteadnh.us/sites/g/files/vyhlif661/f/uploads/swap_shop_f...

Household Hazardous Waste
Waste Oil, car batteries and thermostats are collected at the Hampstead Town Garage on the first and third Saturdays of the month from 8am-1pm.

Hampstead Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW)
If you have served on foreign soil, you may be eligible to join the Hampstead VFW Post.  If you are interested, contact the Post Commander Howie Steadman at 603-329-4288.

Minutes from Recent Town Meetings
Board of Selectmen: https://www.hampsteadnh.us/node/22/minutes/2022
Conservation Committee: https://www.hampsteadnh.us/node/26/minutes/2022
Planning Board: https://www.hampsteadnh.us/node/30/minutes/2022
Recycling and Waste Disposal: https://www.hampsteadnh.us/node/32/minutes/2022
Zoning Board of Adjustment: https://www.hampsteadnh.us/node/35/minutes/2022

Upcoming Meetings and Events
You can see any upcoming committee meetings and events on the town calendar at https://www.hampsteadnh.us/calendar
 

Share your News!
Want to contribute your town committee or department information for publication in the next newsletter? Contact the Communication Committee by visiting: https://www.hampsteadnh.us/communication-committee

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