Good morning, Grand Junction.

Four Mesa County students, including a Grand Junction High School winner, see their artwork featured on official I Voted stickers set to be distributed during the 2026 election season.

They were honored on Jan. 13 at an administrative public hearing - receiving commemorative plaques and gift baskets for their creative civic contributions.

Hilltop Community Resources runs a Drop-In Center at 362 Main Street for unhoused youth aged 13 to 24.

Operating Monday through Friday from noon to 5, the center provides essentials – food, clothing, and help with budgeting and lease skills for lasting stability.

More than 100 hemp farmers & business owners in Washington are urging Congress to change a planned one-year hemp phase-out to a three-year extension.

FM Labs CEO Michael Dee said the delay will give businesses time to plan and help keep consumer access to hemp ingredients before the November ban.

More than 100 hemp farmers and small business owners, including Colorado representatives, are urging Congress in Washington to support legislation delaying the November hemp ban.

They ask for a three-year extension to help workers and prevent closures+ critics warn the move could drive consumers to the black market.

Kustom Build Cars (led by Jack Weaver) is a non-profit program that gives students hands-on automotive restoration experience at Acme Chop Shop in Grand Junction.

Today a 1953 Chevy is heading to Scottsdale for the Barrett-Jackson auction on Saturday, Jan. 24 and auction funds will support next year’s program and scholarships.

Winter in Grand Junction remains among the warmest on record with near 50 degree highs and record setting low temperatures today; forecasts show above normal temperatures (with sparse precipitation expected) through next week.

The AARP Foundation’s free tax preparation program serves community members with simple returns now in Grand Junction, offering appointments scheduled online or by phone + ensuring 97% accuracy.

The Mesa County Public Health Board upheld the permanent closure of El Baron Rojo at 644 North Ave after repeated inspections found unsanitary conditions, cross-contamination, and food mislabeling.

Owner Eduardo Garcia Pulido faces a $1,000 civil fine, leaving local fans without a trusted option for Mexican meats.

New emergency dispatchers at the Grand Junction Regional Communication Center are in their second week of structured training, where they listen to recorded calls and practice scenarios to build skills for handling emergencies.

The year-long program includes classroom work and on-call practice (Mary Guffey explained the step-by-step approach).

Colorado health officials warn that many local homes have elevated radon levels and advise residents to test periodically for safety — free test kits are offered while supplies last, and financial aid is available for qualifying homeowners.

Flu, RSV and COVID-19 hospitalizations have risen in Mesa County to 107, 30 and 7 cases respectively, according to new Mesa County Public Health data.

Officials recommend getting the flu shot—despite the subclade K strain overcoming some vaccine protection—and practicing hygiene measures to help prevent illness.

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.

Valentine's Day Wine & Chocolate Pairing

10 a.m.–5 p.m. — Whitewater Hill Vineyards — $50 per person — Indulge in a delightful combination of fine wines and decadent chocolates for a romantic experience.

Western Regional Basketball Tournament

8:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. — Colorado Mesa University — Free entry — Compete and cheer for athletes in a thrilling day of basketball and health promotion.