Good morning, Grand Junction.

CASA of Mesa County celebrated its new, larger Grand Junction office on Wednesday with an open house to support 70 volunteer advocates and children in foster care.

It will host a volunteer information session on Nov. 10 at 12:15 p.m. at 1048 Independent Avenue.

Mesa County Animal Services is seeking foster volunteers because current families cannot care for all the bottle-fed kittens.

The shelter provides training, supplies and veterinary care – interested residents must pass inspections and meet pet requirements.

Today, Mesa County Animal Services seeks volunteers to foster kittens amid a shortage of community fosters — CMU hosts its annual Artober Fest at Delta Field with chalk contests and live demos.

A community mural paint day is planned at 7th Street Community Cafe on Oct. 17.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife is trapping overpopulated beavers at Connected Lakes State Park this week to prevent damage to cottonwood trees and water flow.

Visitors are urged not to tamper with traps, as interference is unlawful.

Mesa County Public Health inspected local restaurants this week and reported that Carnicería Sonoyta reopened after addressing nine food safety issues + several eateries still await follow-up inspections to meet required standards.

Local experts warn that Halloween decorations can pose safety risks if outdoor lights, inflatables, and cords are not properly set up.

They advise using outdoor-rated lights and hanging displays above six feet — measures that help prevent fires, injuries, and wildlife encounters.

Montrose Regional Health cut 77 staff positions (including 34 laid off Monday) due to $25 million in unpaid insurance claims.

The hospital is tightening expenses and planning a partnership with Community Hospital in Grand Junction to improve insurance collections.

Mesa County Public Health now offers updates on COVID-19, flu and RSV hospitalizations until March, including outbreak data from schools and care facilities.

Residents are advised to follow good hygiene and get vaccinated; a flu vaccine clinic will be held Saturday, Oct. 17 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Experts warn that Halloween displays may pose fire and wildlife hazards, advising homeowners to use outdoor-rated lights, securely fastened decorations, and keep cords clear of walkways.

They note that pumpkins left outdoors can attract bears and recommend verifying equipment instructions (such as keeping decorations above six feet) to ensure safety.