Good morning, Grand Junction.

The Lighthouse Program gives at-risk youth and their families education, support, and services to avoid mandatory court and welfare involvement—referrals come from Mesa County schools, law enforcement, community partners, or the families themselves, and cases end successfully if program terms are met.

A plea hearing is set for May 5 for former postal worker Vicki Lyn Stuart, who is accused of stealing and forging ballots during November’s general election—she and her friend Sally Jane Maxedon are charged with identity theft, forgery, and attempting to influence a public servant.

John Taylor, indicted in November on two counts of second-degree murder for the May 15 North Ave. shooting that killed Robert McCall and David Doolin, is scheduled for a plea hearing on May 17 — District Attorney Dan Rubinstein said Taylor was cooperative and acted in self-defense while the victims’ families say the system has been too lenient.

A prescribed burn on approximately 500 to 1,000 acres in Mesa County 20 miles east of Grand Junction produced smoke on Wednesday and will continue for several days—aiming to reduce wildfire risk and protect the city water supply while improving wildlife habitat.

The largest recycling center on the Western Slope—operated by Waste Management Colorado—processes recyclables from Grand Junction, Fruita, Palisade, the Roaring Fork Valley, Crested Butte, Montrose and Telluride, having recycled over 12,000 tons last year.

The facility will see an increase in aluminum cans this summer, and the metal will be ready for resale within 60 days after processing.

Waste Management of Colorado operates the largest recycling center on the Western Slope, recycling over 12,000 tons of household materials from Grand Junction, Frutia, Palisade and other nearby communities last year.

The center processes items such as cardboard, paper, aluminum and bottles — and this summer it expects a boost in aluminum cans that can be back on shelves within 60 days — helping extend the life of these resources.

The Mesa County Regional Transportation Planning Office released its 2024 Annual Report, which details its 2024 transportation achievements, leadership, and a visual timeline of major projects scheduled for later in 2025 and early in 2026—providing member governments and the public a clear overview of regional developments.

Girls on the Run Western Colorado will hold a 5K run at Shelledy Elementary School in Fruita at 9 a.m. on May 3—participants will receive medals and GOTR merchandise as they celebrate the season's end.

Girls on the Run Western Colorado is celebrating the season with a 5K scheduled for May 3 at 9 a.m. at Shelledy Elementary School in Fruita—participants will earn a medal and GOTR merchandise while director Marlena Diedrich shares details on the program’s physical and emotional benefits on Midday.

Damage Inc. Tribute to Metallica

8-11 p.m. — Warehouse25sixty-five Kitchen + Bar — Tickets & tables available — Experience the electrifying performance of Southern California's premier Metallica tribute band.

Do The '80s Pub Crawl

4:30-9 p.m. — The Feisty Pint — 25% OFF with code RAD25 — Get ready for a totally tubular night of '80s nostalgia with contests and prizes at this vibrant pub crawl.

Spirit Mother Concert

7-10 p.m. — Copeka Coffee — Entry fee not specified — Experience the heavy rock sound of Spirit Mother infused with folk and classical influences.

Cinco De Mayo Street Dance

6-10 p.m. — Downtown Grand Junction — Free entry — Dance the night away with Candace Vargas and NortherN 505 at this lively celebration.

Dwight Yoakam in Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — Amphitheater at Las Colonias Park — $85.00 - $175.00 + fees — Experience live music from a legendary country artist with multiple Grammy awards and a rich album history.

Grand Junction Rides & Vibes

3:00 PM – 10:30 PM — Downtown Grand Junction — Donations encouraged — Enjoy a blend of mountain biking and music while supporting local youth initiatives.

Kite Day 2025

10 AM – 3 PM — Sherwood Park Playground — Free for the whole family — Experience the joy of kiting with activities and goodie bags for kids.

The Garcia Project Concert

8-9:30 p.m. — Mesa Theater — Tickets required — Experience a faithful tribute to classic Jerry Garcia Band performances from 1976-1995.

Gang of Four Farewell Tour

7-8:30 p.m. — Mesa Theater — Tickets available — Experience the iconic debut album 'Entertainment!' live as Gang of Four bids farewell on their last North American tour.

Wild Horse Gravel Cycling Event

8:00 a.m. — The High Lonesome Ranch — Registration fee applies — Experience a unique blend of competitive cycling and rustic relaxation in the high desert.