Good morning, Grand Junction.

A final report found that safety lapses at West Elk Mine led to the death of Leonard Barnes, 62, who fell from a moving belt conveyor on Aug.

11 while shoveling rock. The report said the foreman did not secure the belt or enforce fall protection — the mine is retraining workers and adding new safety equipment.

A single-vehicle crash early Saturday morning downed a utility pole that cut power and closed all lanes near Interstate 70B and 28 Road—Xcel Energy began repairs while the Colorado State Patrol investigated the cause.

Grand Junction Police arrested 37-year-old Cody Neal, 28-year-old Emilio Suazo and 20-year-old Kyce Santiago for DUI and related charges between April 24 at about 11:25 p.m. and April 25 between 3:00 and 4:30 a.m. after a speeding car near N 23rd Street and Elm Avenue, a single-car crash in the 500 block of 28 ½ Road and a hit-and-run on the 2700 block of B1/2 Road.

De Beque is seeking federal spending to drill a well near its water treatment plant — the town relies solely on the Colorado River and risks shutdowns when high turbidity forces a halt to water processing — officials say permitting could delay the project until 2027 or later.

State lawmakers in Colorado are proposing a bill that would let SNAP recipients use their benefits to buy hot, prepared meals—if passed, Colorado will join nine states in the program to help people who are older, disabled, or facing homelessness get ready-to-eat food.

The proposal comes as hunger and inflation pressures continue to affect many families.

USDA froze funding for the AgWell program last week, ending mental health services for Colorado farmers.

The Rocky Mountain Farmers Union (which had annual support of $100,000 to $160,000) said it will look for new funds to keep the program running.

Government offices in Colorado are still on DOGE’s lease termination list & only the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service office in Grand Junction remains listed.

Employees at other sites confirmed their offices will not close while 15 other state offices are also affected.

Palisade offers a range of local foods & drinks for both residents and visitors, with fresh wines, homemade bread, and quaint eateries drawing attention.

The Barrel Into Spring event runs May 9-10 and pairs local wineries & regional bites to boost the town’s vibrant culinary scene.

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.

9th Annual Rods & Hogs Classic Car and Motorcycle Show

10 AM – 5 PM — Teddy Morse's Grand Junction Harley-Davidson, BMW, KTM — $10 per vehicle — Experience the roar of engines and enjoy food, music, and prizes at this community-centric event.