Good morning, Grand Junction.

The state launched Certify Colorado to help small business owners cover up to $2,000 in fees for nationally recognized certifications needed for high-value contracts + the program, funded with $250,000, is enrolling businesses on a first-come basis with a required training course.

Colorado Mesa University celebrated 1,410 graduates, including 43% first-generation students, in its spring commencement at Ralph Stocker Stadium Saturday.

The event awarded 1,568 degrees and featured passionate speeches that highlighted community and hard work.

Residents in the Grand Valley are encouraged to treat lawns with GrubEx and water less to reduce Japanese beetle infestations; experts stress that these steps protect local gardens, vineyards, and parks — a community effort that begins today.

Colorado’s paid NICU leave law gives parents up to 12 weeks to care for infants in intensive care.

It began in January, and Illinois will start its unpaid NICU leave next month while advocates push for a federal bill adding NICU leave to the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA).

The Red Cross of Western Colorado will host a blood drive for Grand Junction residents at West Stake Center (2542 G Road) on Thursday, May 21 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Donations will help supply area hospitals and support lifesaving efforts across the country.

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.

Richrath Project REO Celebration

6-9 p.m. — Warehouse25sixty-five Kitchen + Bar — Ticket info unavailable — Celebrate the music of REO Speedwagon in beautiful Grand Junction.

The DIRT: 80's Hair Metal Tribute

8-11 p.m. — Warehouse25sixty-five Kitchen + Bar — Tickets available — Experience the loudest, most over-the-top hair metal tribute band with the biggest party anthems of the 80s.