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  October Library News

Be Smart. Get a Library Card.

Chances are you already know that a library card is the smartest card in your wallet, offering access to a wealth of information and resources. But what about your friends and family? Do they? Share the wealth. From books to movies, music to online DIY resources, culture passes to programs, the library has something for everyone. Help your friends sign up today at jeffcolibrary.org/getacard!

Fall Whale of Used Book Sale Oct. 26-28

Autumn has returned with a big splash as the library gets ready for the annual Fall Whale of a Used Book Sale. It will be held from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday, Oct. 26 and Saturday, Oct. 27, and 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 28 at the Jefferson County Fairgrounds.

There will be more than 100,000 items for sale from 50 cents to $2.50 and admission is free. Oct. 25 is Preview Night for Friends of JCPL members from 6-8:30 p.m. Saturday is Family Day with free face painting and a craft activity, plus the chance to see a West Metro fire truck up close from 1-2 p.m. Sunday is Bag Day.

DOGTOBER FEST!

The 2013 Proposed Budget was presented to the Board of County Commissioners (BCC) at a staff briefing session on Tuesday, Oct. 9 and again at the Oct. 16 public hearing. 

The proposed budget, compiled by the County Administrator and Budget staff, must be presented to the commissioners by Oct. 15 each year by statute. 

This is just one step in the annual budget development process. There already have been several working sessions with the commissioners to get the preliminary direction from them to start the budget process. Those were held beginning in May. 

The BCC will have many budget meetings, including one with each county elected official and department, in the coming weeks to discuss the departmental budgets before the budget is finalized in December.  Last year the BCC had a total of 34 public meetings before the budget was adopted.

To view the proposed budget, visit www.jeffco.us/budget. The final budget will not be adopted until December.

Kate Newman has been named Jefferson County Deputy County Administrator.  She was promoted to the position by County Administrator Ralph Schell. Newman has been the Assistant County Administrator for the past two years.

Schell made the announcement on October 2, after making changes to the executive management team in the wake of the departure of Todd Leopold, director of Administrative Services, who left the county to accept a job with Adams County.

"The Administrative Services vacancy forced me to take a good hard look at the organizational structure of the county departments under the Board of County Commissioners," Schell said. "I felt we could operate more effectively by separating out a couple of the divisions under Administrative Services that didn't have a financial or IT relationship."

"Previously Administrative Services consisted of the Accounting, Budget, Fleet, Facilities & Construction Management, Information Technology (IT) and Risk Management Divisions," Schell said. "Both the Fleet and the Facilities & Construction Management divisions will now report directly to Newman, with Accounting, Budget, Risk Management and IT in a new Department of Finance and Information Technology." Recruitment for a director of the new department will begin immediately.

"Kate Newman is 'the go to' person in the county," Schell said. "She is especially valuable in intergovernmental issues, coordinating efforts of the county with municipalities, the school district, other counties, and state and federal agencies, always making sure the county's interests are heard. For the last several years she has headed the county's lobbying and legislative efforts and is very effective." 

Prior to becoming assistant county administrator, Newman was the special projects coordinator in the Administrator's Office. She coordinated legislation, rewrote and updated all of the county's policies and procedures, was involved in the Jefferson Parkway Public Highway Authority from its beginning and worked out many of the details with RTD on construction of the light rail station."

She started at Jeffco in 2001 as a long range planner in the Planning & Zoning Division. She has a master's degree in urban and regional planning from the University of Colorado at Denver and a bachelor's degree in planning, public policy and management from the University of Oregon.

Prior to joining the county staff she worked in disaster assistance for the Federal Emergency Management Agency in Washington, D.C.; was a planner for the cities of Lakewood and Englewood, and served as a Peace Corps volunteer in Cape Verde, Africa. 

October Proclaimed Wildfire Awareness Month

The Board of County Commissioners have proclaimed October 2012 as Wildfire Awareness Month.
 
More than 70 percent of Jefferson County is above 6,400 foot elevation, heavily forested and at high risk for wildfires. The forests are home to our watersheds, water infrastructure, valuable natural resources, wildlife, historical and cultural resources, and recreational opportunities. 
  
Past wildfires have had a dramatic effect on Jefferson County, including the 1996 Buffalo Creek Fire that burned 10,000 acres and destroyed 18 homes; the 2002 Hayman Fire that burned 42,000 acres in Jefferson County; the 2011 Indian Gulch fire that burned 1,500 acres; and the Lower North Fork Fire that killed three people and destroyed 23 homes and 2,000 acres of private property last March.
 
The purpose of Wildfire Awareness Month is to educate the public and promote action to reduce the frequency and severity of future wildfires in Jefferson County.
 
All residents are encouraged to understand their role in preventing and preparing for future wildfires. Specifically, residents who live in the wildland urban interface should take the following measures to help protect their homes and communities:

• Create and maintain a defensible space around their home and outbuildings.
• Use ignition-resistant building materials.
• Have an evacuation plan coordinated with family and neighbors.
• Review insurance policies to make sure homes are fully insured.
• Support the creation of community fuelbreaks and forest restoration.
• Become aware of the role healthy forests play in reducing the negative impact of wildfire.
• Protect water resources, recreation opportunities and air quality.  

Wildfire Awareness Month this October is not only being recognized in Jefferson County. Boulder, Clear Creek, Douglas, El Paso and Larimer, counties have joined Jeffco to promote wildfire awareness.

Open House Oct. 24 on West Chatfield Avenue Improvements

Community Development Division Seeking Applications

by Emily Sander, Jeffco Human Services

The Jefferson County Community Development Division is accepting applications for the Community Services Advisory Board and the Community Development Advisory Board.

Community Services Advisory Board

The Jefferson County Community Services Advisory Board makes grant funding recommendations regarding the Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) to the Board of County Commissioners (BCC) and serves as liaison for the BCC to Jeffco residents. The CSBG is awarded annually through the Federal Department of Health and Human Services and passed through the state of Colorado. All funds must serve residents earning no more than 125 percent of poverty level and must support self-sufficiency efforts within the local communities of Jefferson County.

Each member of the Community Services Advisory Board is expected to: 

• Attend monthly meetings, currently held on the 2nd Tuesday of the month from 3 - 4:30 p.m.
• Attend additional meetings as needed during grant selection process
• Communicate with Community Development staff regarding schedules, conflicts, and attendance availability
• Review applications for federal funds and make recommendations to the BCC

Community Development Advisory Board

The Jefferson County Community Development Advisory Board makes grant funding recommendations regarding the CDBG and the HOME Investments Partnership Program to the BCC and also serves as liaison to Jeffco residents. CDBG and HOME funds are allocated annually through the Federal Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). All funds must serve low to moderate income residents residing in the urban county.

Each member of the Community Development Advisory Board is expected to: 

• Attend monthly meetings, currently held on the 2nd Thursday of the month from 3 - 4:30 p.m.
• Attend additional meetings as needed during grant selection process
• Communicate with Community Development staff regarding schedules, conflicts, and attendance availability
• Review applications for federal funds and make recommendations to the BCC

If you are interested in applying, downloand an application for the Community Services Advisory Board or the Community Development Advisory Board. Instructions for submitting the forms are included in the applications.

For additional information, contact Emily Sander at 303-271-8371 or Kristin Hyser at 303-271-8373. 

Give Your Input on Housing and Community Development

Jefferson County, along with the cities of Lakewood and Arvada are looking for your input about housing and community development needs.

The organizations are conducting a study to identify barriers to housing choice. These can include denial of housing because of children, refusal to make an accommodation for persons with disabilities or charging people different amounts for housing because of their race or ethnicity.

There will be three community meetings that the public is encouraged to attend.

To discuss housing and community development needs in Lakewood:

Tuesday, Oct. 16, 6 - 7:30 p.m.

40 West Square

1560 Teller Street

Lakewood, Colorado 80214

Thursday, Oct. 18, 6 - 7:30 p.m.

Lakewood Cultural Center (Community Room)

470 S. Allison Parkway

Lakewood, Colorado 80226

To discuss housing barriers in Jeffco, Lakewood and Arvada:

Tuesday, Oct. 30, 6 - 7:30 p.m.

40 West Square

1560 Teller Street

Lakewood, Colorado 80214

For more information on the meetings or to take a survey, please read the meeting flyer or contact Emily Sander at 303-271-8371.

October Health News

by Nancy Braden, Jeffco Public Health 

Protect against Pertussis, DtaP Vaccination Clinics offered at No Cost for Kindergarteners and Preschoolers

In response to rising rates of pertussis disease in Jefferson County and throughout the state of Colorado, Jefferson County Public Health (JCPH) will hold a pertussis (DtaP) vaccination clinic at no cost for kids on Wednesday, Oct. 24 and Wednesday, Nov. 14, from 2 p.m. - 4:45 p.m. at the Lakewood office, 260 South Kipling Street. The target population for these clinics is preschoolers and kindergartners, however JCPH urges everyone to check with their health care providers and be sure they are up-to-date on pertussis vaccinations. Please call 303-232-6301 to register for the clinics.

Stop the Flu!
Now is the time to start paying close attention to protecting yourself and your loved ones from the flu. While it is impossible to say just how bad the season will be, public health officials expect the flu to be circulating and urge everyone to do their part in preventing its spread. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in the United States, on average five to 20 percent of the population gets the flu and more than 200,000 people are hospitalized from seasonal flu-related complications. Everyone has a role in preventing the spread and severity of this year's flu season. Finde more details at www.jeffco.us/health or call 303-275-7555.

Teen Trend of Smoking Hookah Tobacco is Unhealthy

Hookah smoking lounges are opening in some Jefferson County communities that have not yet strengthened their smoke free laws. Although state law prohibits the use of any form of tobacco, including hookah tobacco, for anyone under the age of 18, kids as young as 16-years old are encouraged to come in to some of these establishments, and are often enticed by the candy or fruit flavored tobacco and club-like atmosphere of these smoking lounges.

So, what exactly is "hookah"? A hookah is a water pipe used to smoke flavored tobacco. Many think that "smoking hookah" has no negative health effects. The truth might surprise some, especially parents who have allowed their children to participate in this new trend.

If you are looking for ways to help your teen make informed decisions, contact JCPH.

Health & Family Planning Services

Did you know that Jefferson County Public Health (JCPH) offers confidential family planning and reproductive health services with little wait time at two convenient locations?

Lakewood Clinic, 260 South Kipling Street - 303-239-7078

Arvada Clinic, 6303 Wadsworth Bypass - 303-275-7500

Injury Prevention . . . Across the Lifespan

Injuries affect everyone, regardless of age, race, economic status or geographic location. In fact, injuries are the number-one killer for Americans, Coloradoans and those living in Jefferson County between the ages of 1-44.

JCPH is partnering with hospitals, childcare providers, high schools and senior groups to increase awareness and education and ultimately decrease injuries among infants, teenagers and older adults in the County.

Safe Sleep for Baby:

Parents, grandparents, childcare providers and others who may be responsible for putting an infant down to rest or sleep are reminded of the importance of providing a safe sleep environment. Studies show that infants who are placed on their backs when going to sleep or napping have a 50 percent reduced risk for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. It is also important to be aware of a baby's sleep area, clothing and location of sleep.

Safe Driving for Adolescents:

Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for U.S. teens, accounting for more than one in three deaths in this age group. In Jefferson County alone, there were 123 teen injury cases involving motor vehicles last year. Following the Colorado Graduated Driver Licensing-laws can help teens prevent motor vehicle crashes. Since these laws have been established in 1999, the number of teens killed in motor vehicle crashes in the state of Colorado has decreased more than 50 percent.

Fall Prevention for Older Adults:

Every year In Colorado, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment reports, an average of 400 Coloradans ages 65 and older die from a fall-related injury and more than 10,000 are hospitalized for nonfatal injuries. Improving balance, evaluating medications that may cause dizziness and getting a yearly eye exam are ways to help prevent injuries from falls. Eliminating hazards at home that may cause falls, such as throw rugs or extension cords are other ways to stay safe.

The JCPH Injury Prevention Program encourages everyone to learn more about preventing injuries across the lifespan. For more information about preventing injuries, please visit the JCPH Injury Prevention web page or contact Susan Moyer at 303-239-7045.

Food Day is Oct. 24

Food Day is a nationwide celebration and a movement toward more healthy, affordable, and sustainable food. Residents throughout Jefferson County are reminded that the food we eat should boost our health and enhance our communities.

Food Day was created to:

For more information or to get involved, please visit the Food Day website.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

National Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a collaboration of national public service organizations, professional medical associations, and government agencies working together to promote breast cancer awareness and provide greater access to services.

Jefferson County Public Health offers breast and cervical cancer screenings for women who qualify. Call 303-239-7078 or visit the JCPH cancer screening web page.

Empowering Pregnant Women to have a Healthy Pregnancy and a Healthy Baby...Prenatal Plus and Nurse Family Partnership

Prenatul Plus is for Medicaid eligible women, whether it's their first or fifth child. A public health nurse, dietitian and/or mental health specialist will meet with mother during home or office visits throughout the pregnancy and up to two months after the baby is born. The team supports expecting moms in setting goals to positively impact the health of their baby and their family.

JCPH Nurse Family Partnership is for women having their first baby. A public health nurse will visit mother in her home during pregnancy and until baby is two years old. The nurse will help mother learn about pregnancy and parenting while helping mother set and achieve goals.

Please call 303-232-6301 to talk with a nurse about either of these programs. 

Human Services October Awareness

by Mallory Hyatt

Conflict Resolution Month

October is Conflict Resolution Month, a time to spread the word about solving problems effectively and nonviolently. Jefferson County Mediation Services provides conflict resolution services to assist county agencies and residents to resolve disputes. The range in types of cases include neighborhood disputes, child support and custody sharing, small claims, restraining orders, animal control, land use disputes, parent-teacher-student conflicts, county workplace disputes and many more.

Jefferson County Mediation Services continues to grow, handling 1,740 cases in 2011. This is an increase of more than 10 percent from 2010. As of the end of September, it has received nearly 1,500 cases in 2012 (on a pace to go over 2,000 cases for this year).

Everyone can learn more about productive problem solving through education about conflict resolution skills and resources. To learn more contact [email protected] or call 303-271-5060.

Head Start Awareness

October is Head Start  Awareness Month, a time to highlight the great services Head Start provides to children and families. Jefferson County Head Start is a child-focused and family-centered preschool program, which provides a range of individualized, wrap-around services in areas of education, early childhood development, medical, dental, mental health, nutrition, family support and parent involvement.  

With educational programming available for children ages three to five, this no-cost program is available to families who are at 100 percent of poverty level; however, other families may qualify.

To learn more, watch the Head Start video or contact Michelle Kalkwarf at 720-497-7908.

October is National Diversity Awareness Month

This month, Jefferson County Department of Human Services is celebrating Diversity Awareness Month and encouraging businesses, communities and individuals to celebrate diversity. Jeffco Human Services not only celebrates diversity, but is an all-around inclusive organization.

Inclusivity is based upon a foundation of increasing awareness around and confronting issues of racism, sexism, classism, ageism, homophobia and all forms of oppression. Fostering an inclusive environment is important for both staff and customers in order to increase opportunities for equal outcomes for all. The ultimate goal is to eliminate misunderstandings or stereotypes of different cultures.

Jeffco Human Services has been able to create an inclusive environment through Cultural Navigators. Cultural Navigators is a group of volunteer employees who are knowledgeable about a specific culture, are willing to share information to assist in meeting the needs of clients as well as co-workers, and can use resources and agencies to assist clients. Cultural Navigators covers a wide range of topics including Mental Health Services, Disabilities, GLBTQ Youth, Child Support, Incarcerated Families, etc.

Human Services staff recently attended Inclusion and Diversity Training, which aimed to build upon existing foundation and enhance understandings of human differences. Staff is able to perform more effectively in a culturally diverse environment, and is also engaging in various cultural awareness activities throughout the month.

In celebrating Diversity Awareness Month, it is important to ask yourself, "Do I value others and treat them with dignity and respect despite their differences?" Challenge yourself and others to put differences aside and lift others up. Diversity should be a strength that unites, not a weakness that divides.

Jeffco Resident Falls Victim to Craigslist Theft

By Sheriff Ted Mink

The seller thought he found a solid buyer for his Lexus on Craigslist...