Good morning, Grand Junction.

Better Days Colorado hosted a free pumpkin carving night at the Center for Independence in Grand Junction on October 17 to offer locals a sober, fun event, and a community member donated 40 pumpkins to support the effort.

The nonprofit, known for its Friday Functions, will continue to host clean activities when funding permits + aiming to provide ongoing sober options.

Habitat for Humanity of Mesa County held its Third Annual Hope Through Homes on October 17 — a neighborhood block party with live music, food trucks, and a silent auction featuring two purebred German Shepherd puppies to raise funds for building more homes.

About 100 people attended the event and supported homeownership in the community.

K9 Roam, stabbed on Wednesday while responding to a barricaded suspect with Colorado Springs Police, underwent surgery and lost a leg and is set for release today—he is beginning to sit up and take steps as community members line Fountain Boulevard from Academy Park Loop to Powers Boulevard starting at 11 a.m.

K9 Roam was stabbed while responding to a barricaded suspect and underwent surgery with a leg amputation; he will be released today (at 11 a.m.) and officers have arranged for community members to line the route (from Academy Park Loop to Powers Boulevard) to support his recovery.

Next month, Mesa County will not issue SNAP benefits because the federal shutdown has halted funding for the program, affecting over 11,000 local families who rely on grocery support.

The county will process applications but will direct residents to food banks and its call center for help.

Mesa County Child Support Services at the Mesa County Workforce Center helps parents set up, change or enforce child support orders so children can receive the support they need — the office also connects families with genetic testing, job training and community programs.

Montrose County introduced an ordinance on October 15 that bans non-native animal species—like gray wolves—from entering non-incorporated areas to protect property, farms, public safety, and local wildlife management.

State health officials are now testing wastewater for signs of measles after Mesa County’s pilot alerted them days before the first clinical case.

The new system will allow local leaders to launch faster case investigations and notify health care providers—providing early warnings to help slow the spread.

Memorial services for Patti Arnold, the longtime sports writer at The Sentinel, are to be announced after her recent death at home in Grand Junction at 67.

Her 37-year career brought local high school, college and pro teams into focus — she told clear, honest stories that connected our community through sports.

Hunter Simmons of Grand Junction High School struggled with his game until coach Tom LeFebre held a heart-to-heart that helped him rediscover his love for golf.

He worked hard through the season and won the state title with a key 25‐foot birdie putt in the final round—marking the school’s third championship win.

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.