Good morning, Grand Junction.

The new Grand Junction Recreation Center received a $1 million donation from a local resident (Donna Patterson) that led the City Council to approve expanded outdoor facilities for the project.

The facility, which already plans for five pools, a climbing wall, a fitness center and a track, will complete building in late 2026 while tours resume next summer.

A new report from Colorado Public Interest Research Group showed that Colorado residents received over 290 million scam calls from January to September, reaching a six-year high.

Executive director Danny Katz said the calls were disruptive and could quickly become dangerous — many phone companies had not fully installed the anti-scam software while AI made it easier for scammers to send high volumes of calls.

The sculpture Zafira—by artist Pavia Justinian—has been moved to Copper Club Brewing Company in Fruita after public debate over its portrayal of female genitalia, following its display at Mulberry Plaza.

The artwork will be re-unveiled Saturday from 4 to 7 p.m. with an artist talk at 5:30 p.m.

Fruita Monument High School graduate Reina Roberts will receive the American FFA Degree on November 1 at the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis, making her the second in her family to earn the rare honor after her brother Ryer received it last year.

She plans to pursue agricultural business in college (class of 2024) while her brother seeks a national officer role (representing Colorado) in the FFA.

Frost can harm plants, so using a cover or blanket helps keep them safe—Thomas Smalley of Meadowlark Garden Center advises using breathable coverings, mulch, or a bit of water before a frost and moving firm covers when the sun comes out to prevent damage.

On Wednesday, the Mesa County Federal Mineral Lease District awarded five grants totaling $348,781—funding projects like engineering at De Beque River Park, a Motorola replacement for a fire protection district, a K9 public safety program for Palisade, and security upgrades at Caprock Academy and Chipeta Elementary.

A local non-profit, the Montrose Bully Breed Club, has launched a license plate campaign to support pitbull rescues by collecting 3,000 signatures on their Change.org petition before sending the design to Governor Polis for approval (the funds from plate sales will support pitbull rescues and education programs).

Due to the federal shutdown, the Food and Nutrition department instructed states to stop issuing SNAP benefits in November so that people who applied from October 16 to October 31 receive benefits only for their eligible days in October.

Mesa County Human Services advised residents to check for updates via text, email, or mail—officials have not yet decided if benefits will be retroactive when the shutdown ends.

Mesa County Public Health said that the upcoming 2025-2026 flu season is expected to be moderate as lower vaccination rates may affect its spread.

Officials advise residents to stay current on vaccines, wash hands frequently, and remain home when sick (precautions to slow illness are recommended).

On October 16, Mesa County Public Health celebrated nearly 60 families in the Nurse-Family Partnership program that supports first-time moms from pregnancy until their child turns two.

The event featured resource booths, activities for kids, food, and a clothing swap — offering families a chance to gain essential support.

The Mesa County Public Health Department inspected restaurants from Mack to De Beque and reported multiple food safety violations—ranging from inadequate sanitation to improper food storage—at several sites including Baron Rojo and La Pasadita.

Inspectors passed some sites while scheduling follow-up checks for others to ensure corrections are made.

The Golden Girls - The Laughs Continue

7-8:30 p.m. — The Avalon Theatre — Tickets vary — Enjoy an uproarious new comedy featuring the beloved Golden Girls in outrageous new escapades.

Discovery Auto Group Pet Fair

10 AM – 2 PM — Discovery Auto Group — Free entry — Find your new furry friend at Roice-Hurst Humane Society's adoption booth during this community pet fair.

Howl-o-ween 5K & 1-Mile Fun Run & Dog Walk

1-4 p.m. — Amphitheater at Las Colonias Park — $40 — Dress up with your pet for a festive run and enjoy an after-party with awards and live music.

RECA Resource Fair

11 AM – 1 PM — Grand Junction Convention Center — Free entry — Explore valuable healthcare benefits for former uranium workers while enjoying a complimentary lunch.

Western Slope Cowboy Gathering

Two days of fun — Grand Valley Event Center — Ticket prices vary — Celebrate with top Cowboy Poets and Western Singers in a family-friendly atmosphere.

Confluence Center Grand Opening

11 a.m. – 1 p.m. — Confluence Center of Colorado — Free entry — Celebrate the opening of a new community hub dedicated to collaboration and conservation.

Schaffer Brothers Band Live Performance

9 PM - 1 AM — Cruisers Bar — Entry fee varies — Experience a night of raw blues and groove with the Schaffer Brothers Band.

November Meeting of the Art Quilt Association

10 AM – 12 PM — The Art Center — Free entry — Engage with fellow quilt enthusiasts at the monthly Art Quilt Association meeting.

Izzy Burns Live

8-11 p.m. — Mesa Theater — Check venue for ticket prices — Enjoy a heartfelt folk-pop performance by rising star Izzy Burns.