Good morning, Grand Junction.

High Lonesome Ranch tested a virtual fence system from Halter that uses collars to guide cattle with sounds and mild shocks across 225,000 acres between Mesa and Garfield counties.

The trial began in February and has cut labor while boosting safety (ranchers report increased efficiency).

Freddie Horn, a Palisade High School graduate, will earn his master’s degree today from UNC.

He helped expand the Bear Pantry — which grew from a small closet into a resource center — where he served free food and essentials to staff and students.

Freddie Horn, a Palisade graduate, earns his master’s in clinical mental health counseling today from UNC while building on three years at Bear Pantry and expanding its space from a small room to a larger facility (improving access to essentials for staff and students).

Water leaders held a panel Wednesday evening at the CMU University Center to discuss Colorado’s ongoing drought and measures to adjust water releases from Glen Canyon Dam.

Panelists noted record-low snowpack levels and encouraged residents to monitor water use (including attending public meetings).

Mesa County Board of Commissioners recognized Correctional Officers Week from May 3-9 during a public hearing on May 5 to honor detention deputies at the county jail (which houses nearly 450 inmates) and remember Sheriff’s Deputy Edward Innes, killed in 1906 during an inmate escape.

The Mesa County Workforce Center now offers free paid training, certifications, career coaching and job placement support for those who qualify at its office (512 29 91/2 Road) with limited spots; interested locals may call 970-248-0878 to enroll.

During Thursday's CPW meeting in Grand Junction, local speakers offered varied views on a potential ban on furbearer fur sales (some stressed it would limit freedoms while others cited animal welfare concerns).

The discussion revealed a community divided over proposed changes.

St. Mary’s Regional Hospital in Grand Junction reported a 15% rise in births, delivering 462 babies so far this year.

Staff say families are moving here for high-quality labor, delivery (and neonatal) care and preparations are underway for a busier summer.

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.

Native Plant Class: Grasses

8 a.m. - 12 p.m. — Lunch Loop Trailhead — Fee may apply — Explore the native and invasive grasses of Western Colorado in this informative field-based class.

2026 State Summer Games Presented by Spectrum

June 5-7 — Colorado Mesa University — Check website for possible entry fees — Celebrate athleticism and community spirit with a weekend of Special Olympics competitions.

Roswell Invaders vs Grand Junction

6:30-10:00 p.m. — Suplizio Field — Ticket prices vary — Catch the Roswell Invaders take on the local team in an exciting minor league baseball match.