Good morning, Grand Junction.

Colorado author Shelley Read spent 13 years writing her debut novel 'Go as a River' while teaching at Western Colorado University and raising a family (she calls Colorado home).

The Western Slope-set story has captured readers worldwide, and a film adaptation is in progress.

Families are urged to apply for the free universal preschool program by Feb.

2 to secure first choice options. The Colorado Department of Early Childhood said early applications help maximize school choice for the upcoming program year.

Mesa County Workforce Center offers free GED classes with flexible online and hybrid learning for adults who did not complete high school.

The program runs (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.) and is on track to graduate a similar number of students as last year.

Mesa County Commissioners are watching Colorado’s state energy plans as utilities must cut natural gas emissions 41% by 2035 — a shift that could affect local bills, jobs, and infrastructure.

They will monitor rising legislation and work with state leaders to keep the transition affordable and reliable for families.

City leaders met with local business owners and community members on Thursday for the second downtown business parking meeting to gather feedback on changes, including two-hour parking spaces, dual license plates, and updated kiosks — officials said they will use the input to guide future adjustments downtown.

City officials held a downtown business parking meeting yesterday with business owners to get feedback on changes that converted four-hour spaces to two-hour spaces and allowed permits to show two license plates + improved kiosks.

They will review the input to refine downtown parking arrangements.

Navitas Organics has recalled its Organic Chia Seeds due to possible Salmonella contamination, and residents are advised to check their pantries and discard affected products or request replacements.

Mesa County Public Health is sharing the alert to help prevent illness that may cause fever, diarrhea, and nausea.

Mental health professionals in Delta County will launch the Healing Our Community podcast on Feb.

4 to break mental health stigma and connect residents with local resources — the weekly show will air on Wednesdays at 12:15 p.m. on Facebook and YouTube.

Mesa County Public Health reported that 178 residents are hospitalized with respiratory illnesses (129 with the flu, 40 with COVID-19, nine with RSV) and urged residents to stay current on vaccinations and practice proper hygiene.

CU Anschutz School of Medicine is seeking insight from teens aged 13 to 19 in rural and western Colorado to develop a tool that helps emergency providers address youth suicide — participants will receive a $40 gift card for their input.

Interested teens and caregivers are encouraged to register for upcoming interviews.

Purgatory Resort provided safety guidance for skiing and snowboarding today, urging riders to match terrain and speed with their ability in high alpine conditions — advice aimed at reducing collision risks.

Officials recommend calling mountain patrol if assistance is needed.

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.

Western Slope Hospice & Palliative Care Conference

8 AM – 12:30 PM — Community Hospital — Free entry — Attend a conference focused on hospice and palliative care in western Colorado.

Princess Festival

10 AM – 12 PM — DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Grand Junction — Entry fee may apply — Dive into a fairytale adventure with princesses, makeovers, and magical experiences.

Pop Evil Live Concert

8-11 p.m. — Mesa Theater — Tickets available — Experience the electrifying sounds of Pop Evil in an intimate setting.

The Hip Snacks Live

8-10 p.m. — Mesa Theater — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an evening of engaging music with The Hip Snacks and MoonBeem.

Led Zepagain Tribute Concert

8-10 p.m. — Mesa Theater — Tickets required — Celebrate over 36 years of tribute to the iconic rock band Led Zeppelin with Led Zepagain.