Colorado River Water Cuts: Federal officials finalized 2027–2028 operating guidelines, setting Lower Basin reductions of 1.25 million acre-feet per year for the next two years—Arizona’s cut rises to 760,000 acre-feet (up 48%), with California down 440,000 and Nevada down 50,000—while states also face voluntary conservation and storage targets to protect Lake Powell and Glen Canyon Dam. Energy & Consumer Impact: A Colorado woman says Xcel’s Saver’s Switch program locked her thermostat during 100-degree heat, sparking backlash over how grid-savings programs can limit customer control. Local Construction Jobs: Colorado added 5,600 construction jobs over the year (up 3%) to 189,500, according to federal data analyzed by the Associated General Contractors of America. Food & Community: In Salida, Red Light Rations is bringing affordable hot dogs and other meals to Tres Litros, tying its name to local history and “beer rations” for workers. Retail & EV Charging: Walmart opened its 100th company-owned fast-charging site, including a new location in Monument, expanding EV charging across 20 states. Agriculture & Water Planning: The Upper Arkansas Watershed Partnership is hosting open houses in Salida and Buena Vista to discuss restoration and water-quality projects in the Upper Arkansas River watershed. Legal/Immigration Detention: A Colorado federal judge temporarily blocked part of a new state law adding inspections and penalties tied to GEO Group’s Aurora immigration detention facility, saying the provisions likely unlawfully discriminate against the contractor.