Good morning, Grand Junction.

Grand Valley Power has signed an agreement to buy 1.4 megawatts of hydropower from Redlands Water and Power Company to supply enough electricity to power 420 homes over the next three years.

The hydropower will come from a plant on Power Rd that channels water from canals fed by the Gunnison at Redlands Dam—providing cleaner, renewable energy.

The Grand Junction Police Department warned that carfentanil—a synthetic opioid 100 times stronger than fentanyl—is linked to four deaths in March and poses a risk to first responders when tiny amounts are inhaled.

Grand Junction police responded around 10:30 a.m. on Thursday when Kevin Anderson fled on foot and barricaded himself in a home on Reed Mesa Drive after an attempted traffic stop, arresting him and Gabriel Martinez on outstanding warrants after learning Anderson may be armed, and they issued a shelter-in-place notice to nearby residents while confirming there is no ongoing public threat.

The Grand Junction Police Department warns that carfentanil—an extremely strong synthetic opioid mixed into powders, patches, and pills—has been linked to four deaths in March and puts first responders at risk as they handle suspected drugs with extreme care.

The Mesa County Workforce Center and Colorado Mesa University (Career Services) hosted the Grand Valley Job Fair today at Lincoln Park.

Over 80 local employers attended to meet job seekers and create new employment opportunities.

Yesterday, the Grand Junction Economic Partnership hosted its Western Colorado Economic Summit where community members, business leaders, and elected officials discussed Mesa County’s economy, focusing on affordable housing and education.

Panelists detailed down payment programs, new duplex and condominium projects, and workforce training to keep first-time home buyers and young professionals in the area — plans aimed at strengthening the community.

District 51 held its Superintendent’s Scholars Award Day at the convention center and honored 188 seniors who kept a 4.0 GPA during high school.

Dr. Brian Hill said the event celebrated the district’s highest graduation rate and that efforts will be made to recognize even more students next year.

A former math professor, Ana Berrizbeitia, filed an 18-page federal suit on April 15 against Colorado Mesa University, claiming she was fired in August as retaliation for trying to stop workplace discrimination and being held to harsher standards than her white colleagues while the university has not commented. The suit seeks unspecified monetary damages for backpay, benefits, and other losses.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife opened its Outdoor Equity Grant Program applications on April 18; projects may receive up to ($100,000) from Colorado Lottery proceeds.

The program aims to boost outdoor access for underserved youth and local groups (applications close June 2 with funds disbursed in early 2026).

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.

A Taste of Ireland

7:30-10 p.m. — The Avalon Theatre — Not specified — Experience electrifying Irish music and dance starring world champions in a captivating celebration of Celtic culture.