Good morning, Grand Junction.

Dozens of high school seniors from the Western Slope gathered in Fruita Saturday to celebrate their plans to enlist in the military after graduation.

The celebration, hosted by the Western Slope Blue Star Mothers at the Veterans Memorial, recognized recruits from towns (Glenwood Springs, Rifle, Newcastle) and others.

At the Desert Gravel bike race in Fruita last weekend, the Lower Valley Fire District provided care for three injured competitors—one was rescued via an ATV near 6 1/2 Rd and CR 206 while the other two were taken by ambulance and care flight.

Oil and gas companies at the Energy and Environment Symposium in New Castle expressed optimism about resource growth and urged regulators to speed up permitting + bring stability so that long-term investments in local drilling and production can move forward.

Saturday marked 43 years since Officer Larry McMaster was fatally shot while responding to a disturbance call at No Delay Bar (he died two days later); Montrose PD honored his legacy on social media, praising his courage and service.

Local educators explain that outdoor challenges build resilience using the popular Learning Zone model — honed by programs at Colorado Mesa University and local recreation courses — to help both children and adults safely expand their comfort zones.

Grand Junction officials are seeking resident feedback on the future of the Matchett Park Bike Park, which local users have helped build along the park's eastern side.

The city issued a survey (with plans for a public meeting) to decide whether to lease the area to a nonprofit.

BLM officials are boosting local access to community pits offering clay and gravel with a new Materials Access Program + mapping tool that shows pricing and permits for pits on Little Park Road.

Residents can visit the office at 2815 H Road for details.

On Saturday night, the Grand Junction River Hawks beat the Spud Kings 1-0 in a tight game and advanced to the Dineen Cup Final; forward Noah Lasker (jersey No. 27) scored the only goal while goalie Simon Zille stopped 30 shots to preserve the shutout.

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.