Good morning, Grand Junction.

On Thursday, Feb. 19, the United Way board in Mesa County named Cassidy Lujan as its new executive director.

Lujan (formerly a Donor and Grants Manager) brings over three years’ experience and will focus on growing community investment and building partnerships across the county.

Mesa County leaders are examining a new report that shows speeding and impairment factors contributed to the county's fourth highest traffic fatality rate in Colorado and are planning safety measures including a Cycle Safety Fest on April 18 at the county fairgrounds plus a car show to promote safe driving.

Three Sisters Theatre Company brings The Vagina Monologues back to town after more than a decade at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of the Grand Valley.

The play will run 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday, offering humor and heart while addressing pressing women's issues.

District 51 school officials said Tuesday that a mistake in the state school finance bill that would have cut $600,000 from the 2025–2026 budget has been corrected (by working with state lawmakers and the Colorado Department of Education), though further cuts remain likely amid an $850 million shortfall.

Mesa County D51 Board of Education updated the community on a new location for the OWL program during a Tuesday evening meeting.

Board President Jose Luis Chavez praised the site near Colorado National Monument which will let the outdoor science program relaunch in the fall after last fall's suspension.

Grand Junction will drain Juniata Reservoir later this year for repairs after a crack in the dam's outlet pipe led to work starting in 2027 and refilling once complete.

Colorado Parks & Wildlife will begin a public fish salvage on Monday with new fishing rules.

Adult Protection Services in Mesa County helps vulnerable adults by investigating signs of abuse, neglect, or exploitation and connecting them with legal and supportive services; residents are urged to call 9702482888 (or 911 in emergencies) if they suspect a problem.

Peter Skeris was sworn in Thursday as fire chief after a year-long search among over 60 candidates; he brings nearly 30 years of experience and a Medal of Valor and said he will ensure staff have the tools they need plus foster partnerships with emergency services.

On Feb. 17, the Mesa County Board of County Commissioners reappointed Anthony (Tony) Lee as Veterans Service Officer for a two-year term from March 5 to March 5, 2028; he will continue helping veterans and families access benefits and support services at the Workforce Center.

The FDA expanded a national recall of raw oysters from Stellar Bay Shellfish (harvested Dec.

22 to Feb. 6) due to norovirus concerns, and Mesa County Public Health urges local restaurants and retailers to discard these items immediately.

The Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment reported that RSV hospitalizations fell slightly from 261 to 239 last week, though they remain higher than combined COVID-19 and influenza cases.

Officials warn that late-season fluctuations are possible.

According to Bray Real Estate's January report, Mesa County saw an 8% increase in active homes to 593, yet the market remained seller-friendly with homes selling in three months and North Grand Junction leading sales; buyers are expected to boost activity in the spring (median price: $392,500).

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.

2026 Home Improvement and Remodeling Expo

10 a.m. – 2 p.m. — Grand Junction Convention Center — Admission details not specified — Explore the latest trends and tips for transforming your home.

Crêpe Girl Concert

7-11 p.m. — Mesa Theater — Ticket prices vary — Experience the indie pop sounds of crêpe girl with hits like 'RACING 2 U'.

Almost St. Patrick's Day Pub Crawl

4:30-9 p.m. — The Feisty Pint — 25% off early bird tickets — Celebrate St. Patrick's Day a bit early with games, prizes, and festive fun in Downtown Grand Junction.

The Princess Bride Screening

3–5 p.m. — The Avalon Theatre — Check event page for ticket info — Experience the beloved fantasy-adventure film The Princess Bride with themed cocktails and memorable quote cards.