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Free Downloadable Books and More from Your Library

Did you finally get that eReader you've been dying for? Need to download free eBooks? Check out Jefferson County Public Library's Download Center.

Not quite sure how to use it? Jefferson County Public Library will be offering more than a dozen classes in January that can help you out! 

Looking for Tax Forms?

Due to reduced space and staffing, JCPL will carry fewer tax forms this year. After 2013, the libraries will no longer offer paper forms. However, you can download, print and request tax forms here:

• Federal Forms
• State Forms

Heroes Behind the Badge is a film that recounts the harrowing stories of law enforcement officers who were caught in the line of fire and survived, and those that made the ultimate sacrifice.

A screening of this film will be on Jan. 23 at 6:10 p.m. at the American Mountaineering Museum, 710 10th Street in Golden. Tickets are $15 online and $20 at the door.

Native Plant Master Program Announces 2013 Classes

An easy entry into the program is one of our NPM special classes where you can brush up on basic botany, be guided on a botanical exploration of a unique environment, learn more about specialized plants such as orchids or grasses or delve into topic areas like sustainable landscaping, invasive weeds or poisonous plants.

For those wanting to deepen their knowledge, take a NPM course to learn fascinating facts about Colorado plants during three sessions along the trails of a Jeffco Opens Space park. Learn more about how to use natives in your garden and protect against invasive alien weeds. Sharpen your plant identification skills using a botanical key and become comfortable with plant families and scientific names.

Many of these popular classes have waiting lists, so register early at npm.eventbrite.com.

Learn more at www.conativeplantmaster.org and http://coloradoplants.jeffco.us.  

Contact us directly at npmassistant@jeffco.us or 303-271-6620.

Elected Officials Take Office

Jefferson County, Chickens and
Your Backyard

by John Wolforth, Planning and Zoning Director 

Jefferson County is about to embark on drafting regulations to allow chickens in residential zone districts. As we move through the regulation review process and public hearings, here are some things to think about.

Most citizens have become painfully aware of our nation's economic crisis. Experts warn that the crisis will likely get worse before it gets better. While gas prices have gone up and down, the cost of food, utilities, property taxes, and other services continue to rise. Many local citizens are having a difficult time making ends meet.

A readily available source of eggs saves money, gas and time. A chicken coop takes less space than a garden tool shed and hens cost very little to feed. In addition, fuel costs and emissions from transporting eggs to the store by semi-trucks and from the store by cars are reduced.

Chickens in Backyard Coops Are Attractive and Clean
Unlike commercial poultry operations or rural farms, people in the city who keep chickens as pets tend to keep them in very attractive enclosures. They take great pride in their pets and backyard coops that they often hold annual tours to show them off. In cities like Denver, Portland, Seattle and Madison, chicken enthusiasts participate in tours, classes, and clubs, adding fabric and educational opportunities to their communities.

Chickens Play an Important Role in Sustainable Living
More and more people are interested in living a sustainable life style. Government, utilities and non-governmental organizations are encouraging citizens to reduce their consumption of resources. A small number of backyard chickens allow us the opportunity to reduce our carbon footprint and support the local food movement.

People who have backyard hens are less likely to use harmful chemicals and pesticides in their gardens. Instead, they desire their yard to be healthy and environmentally-friendly. They consider chickens a natural extension of their garden because they eat weeds and bugs and provide fertilizer.

The Urban Chicken Movement
According to the Worldwatch Institute, "... an Urban Chicken Movement has swept across the United States in recent years." Some people want organic eggs and garden compost, others are concerned about food security, others want to "eat local" to save resources, and others wish to enjoy the entertaining, fun pets hens can be. There have been lots of news articles written about this growing trend, which is increasing primarily in upscale neighborhoods.

To read the entire article, check out Conversations with Jeffco. 

Get Your Heart Into It

JCPH is organizing a photo opportunity at the Jefferson County Courts and Administration Building, 100 Jefferson County Parkway in Golden on Friday, Feb.1 at noon. Please join JCPH wear your favorite red.

Cardiovascular disease (heart disease & stroke) is the leading cause of death in Jefferson County and the nation. The good news is heart disease can often be prevented. Tackling known risk factors such as tobacco use, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity and inactive lifestyle can greatly reduce risks for illness and death from heart disease.

It's important that individuals talk to a medical provider about risk factors, screening tests, lifestyle changes, and treatment services to prevent heart disease.

Visit the American Heart Association's webpage to learn more about heart disease and prevention.

Strengthening the Jefferson County Community through Partnership

by Mallory Hyatt, Jeffco Human Services 

January Public Health Updates