Good morning, Grand Junction.

Residents gathered at Lincoln Park today for the Southwest Arbor Fest, where free seedlings, live demonstrations and hands-on planting activities promoted Grand Junction’s tree canopy and sustainable planting in a dry climate.

City manager (Mike Bennett) said the event highlighted community support for green infrastructure.

El Pomar Foundation approved $62,500 in grants to five organizations and agencies in the Northwest region.

The funds support projects like adaptive recreation, a new roof, and firefighting equipment—with Colorado Discover Ability (Grand Junction) receiving $7,500 and Steamboat Springs Youth Soccer awarded $20,000.

A panel of manufacturing and tech experts gathered at the Grand Junction Economic Partnership’s annual summit Thursday to discuss artificial intelligence and automation in aerospace and manufacturing.

Panelists urged industry workers to update their skills as new technology altered job roles on the Western Slope.

Chaffee County Sheriff’s Office confirmed Saturday that missing hunter Kaden Sites was found dead by search volunteers near Tabaguache Creek (about 1.5 miles from where his truck was left), and foul play is not suspected.

Western Colorado University announced that it completed its repatriation process for indigenous remains and artifacts after a Federal Register notice on April 2, paving the way for fall reinterment by several tribes on public land; Professor David Hyde said the remains likely came from the four corners area.

Palisade peach growers fought a hard freeze last Friday by running wind machines, fires and sprays to protect crops that could bring in up to $50 million in sales.

The growers will watch the fruit and thin damaged trees to help healthy fruit grow.

Tri-State Generation and Transmission ran Craig Unit 1 to balance the grid after a power pool advisory was issued on April 7 due to low wind output and potential outages.

The coal unit—set to retire at the end of 2025—continued operating for grid buyers through Friday.

The District 51 Foundation announced that it awarded over $10,500 in wellness grants to 13 staff members to support initiatives like regulation stations at Chatfield Elementary and a new garden project at Orchard Avenue Elementary.

The funds, raised by local events, will help create calm and innovative learning spaces.

District 51 athletes shone at the Liberty Bell Invitational in Littleton this weekend as Grand Junction High junior Isaac Baca reached a national top-five discus mark at 184-3 ft, senior Hadyn Bunnell out-threw her rival, and sophomore Jaidden Gibbs won the 400-meter dash in 48.37 seconds.

The LOST JUNCTION BAND with Izzy Burns

7-11:30 p.m. — Warehouse25sixty-five Kitchen + Bar — Ticketed event — Enjoy an evening of live country music with The LOST JUNCTION BAND and special guest Izzy Burns.

Grand Junction Rides & Vibes Festival 2026

5:00 PM – 1:30 AM — Grand Junction Convention Center — Visit the Rides & Vibes website for more details — Celebrate mountain biking with rides, music, and community vibes.

Cryptic Writings Tribute Concert

8-11 p.m. — Mesa Theater — Ticket prices vary — Rock out to the thrilling hits of Megadeth performed live by a talented tribute band from Colorado.

Turnpike Troubadours Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — Amphitheater at Las Colonias Park — $45.50 - $145.50 + fees — Experience a vibrant evening with the acclaimed country-rock band delivering their latest music.

Coloradoscape with Natives Conference

8 AM – 5 PM — University Center, Grand Junction, CO — $65-$100 — Explore native plant horticulture and conservation with expert speakers and optional plant walks.