Good morning, Grand Junction.

Food Bank of the Rockies reported that filling a semi-truck now costs $1,220—74% higher than previous expenses—as rising fuel, freight, and food costs boost spending ahead of the holiday season.

Director Amber Henning said more families will rely on its networks for support.

The Western Slope Blue Star Mothers (Colorado’s largest chapter) in Grand Junction are pushing for a new state license plate to honor military families and connect local parents who support servicemembers, while continuing to send care packages and welcome returning service members at the airport.

Grand Junction Parks and Recreation will host the fifth annual Water Lights at Night event at the Butterfly Pond at Las Colonias Park from 5 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Oct.

10 (featuring lantern launches, a drone show by Brightflight Drone Shows, and an electronic recycling giveaway).

GMUG National Forests said no burns will take place in Mesa County this year while planned burns in nearby counties continue to reduce wildfire risks.

Dinosaur Journey Museum in Fruita will host an adults-only cocktail fundraiser on Saturday, Nov. 7 (tickets support local museum programs).

Allen Munro was inducted into the Green Industry Hall of Fame on Oct.

3, recognizing his long career that helped Munro Supply evolve into a key irrigation pump maker serving water management needs across the Western Slope.

19-year-old Isabelle Harris and her father visited Washington, D.C. a couple of weeks ago to meet with lawmakers and advocate for disability rights and special education funding.

They shared personal stories — highlighting struggles with local education supports — to urge safeguarding the IDEA program for youth with disabilities.

During National Fire Prevention Week from Oct.

4-10, the Grand Junction Fire Department warns residents to avoid fire risks from lithium-ion batteries in phones and laptops by using proper charging practices + disposing of faulty batteries at designated recycling points.