Good morning, Grand Junction.

Van Gogh, a 10-year-old orange cat with a snaggle tooth, recovered from dental surgery at Grand Rivers Humane Society (GRHS) and is now adoptable; the agency said he may bond with another pet, and an adoption event will be held on Jan.

10 at Chow Down in the Redlands.

Elevate Jiu Jitsu Academy opened on Nov.

15 at 1027 S. Seventh St. to offer a clean, modern space with amenities including a sauna & retail area. Plans for a Phase 2 expansion will add recovery services and extra mat space as community interest grows.

After 41 years in insurance, Randy Pifer retired from Active Insurance Solutions at 940 Colorado Ave, with CJ Rhyne taking over on Jan.

1; Pifer said he will volunteer, travel and try pickleball while spending more time at his cabin near Montrose (a local favorite).

Local realtor Tyler Harris said affordability in the Western Slope is expected to improve as interest rates may drop later this year, easing the competitive seller's market from the COVID boom.

Analysts predict 3-6% growth and 10-15% more homes sold as conditions become favorable for buyers.

The Mesa County Workforce Center is hosting three free workshops in January for job seekers in Grand Junction: job search on Jan.

16, resume writing on Jan. 21, and interview skills on Jan. 29. Residents can sign up online to pursue their New Year’s resolutions.

The Mesa County Workforce Center will host three free workshops for job seekers (job search on Jan.

16, resume writing on Jan. 21 and interview skills on Jan. 29) in Grand Junction.

Mesa County Valley School District 51 invites parents and community members to review new Social Emotional Learning resources for elementary and secondary students.

Public sessions are scheduled for Jan. 7 and Jan. 8 from 5 to 7:30 p.m. at R-5 High School (Harry Butler Board Room).

Colorado Parks and Wildlife will host a sportsperson meeting on Jan.

8 from 6 to 8 p.m. at 711 Independent Ave. in the CPW Northwest Region Office, allowing hunters, anglers, and outdoor enthusiasts to discuss wildlife, hunting and fishing issues while also joining virtually if they register ahead of time.

Community Hospital delivered its first newborn of 2026 when baby Elijah was born on Saturday, Jan.

3 at 2:26 a.m. at The Birth Place; the 7-pound, 1.9-oz boy and his mother are recovering well and received a gift basket from the hospital foundation.

Van Gogh, a 10-year-old orange cat (noted for a snaggle tooth) from Grand Rivers Humane Society is adoptable after receiving dental and ear treatment, and he is featured ahead of the Jan.

10 adoption event at Chow Down in the Redlands (cats available noon to 2:30 p.m.).

Realtor Tyler Harris of Realty ONE Group Western Slope said the housing market may ease in 2026 as interest rates drop and affordability grows — experts expect a 10-15% increase in home sales and 3-6% market growth amid softer negotiations.

The She Gees Tribute Concert

7-10 p.m. — The Avalon Theatre — Ticket prices will be available soon — Dance and sing along to the electrifying female-led tribute to the Bee Gees' greatest hits.