We are sad to announce that there will be no Valentine’s Dance at the Commons of Hilltop this year. We know our readers look forward to this elegant event, but with the lingering threat of COVID, combined with RSV, the flu and other illnesses going around, our top priority is everyone’s wellness and safety. We hope we can bring it back next year. 

As if this Valentine’s news wasn’t bad enough, I was disappointed to hear about the closing of one of my favorite local restaurants just before Valentine’s Day. I only dined at Il Bistro Italiano a few times a year—sometimes around Valentine’s Day—but it was a treat that never disappointed. Owner Brunella’s authentic Italian cuisine was spectacular and the service was always above par. The worst part was I didn’t even get to say goodbye!

When you’ve been in a relationship with your partner or spouse after so long, neither of you may feel the need to do anything to celebrate Valentine’s Day—and that’s okay. My husband and I use Valentine’s week as an excuse to dine somewhere we haven’t been or splurge on one of our favorite hangouts, but sometimes we just stay home! 

Whatever you do, it’s important that you and your partner are on the same page. If you feel like your relationship is on the fritz, this month’s cover story has advice for arriving at a satisfactory destination to living out your golden years, including some ground rules for staying happy together.

INTRODUCING THE BEACON BEST

I don’t think that Il Bistro has ever won a BEACON Best award, but over the last few months, our readers weighed in on their favorite people, businesses and hot spots in Western Colorado. 

With Valentine’s Day around the corner, our February issue is the perfect place to recognize the love our readers have for the outstanding people and businesses in our community. Now, we’re excited to reveal the BEACON Best—the people, shops and service providers that rise above the rest for local seniors. Thank you to the readers who voted, and to the winners and nominees that go the extra mile for them. See who our readers voted for.

GIVE VOLUNTEERS SOME LOVE

We are currently accepting nominations for outstanding senior volunteers in Mesa County for our 2023 Volunteer of the Year Award. (We’ll be taking nominations for Montrose and Delta volunteers this summer). Each nominated volunteer will be honored at the stage at our BeaconFest Boomer & Senior Fair at Grand Junction Convention Center on Thursday,
April 20. Do you know an outstanding volunteer? For more information on how to nominate them, click here.

Speaking of BeaconFest, we’re gearing up for a great show with exciting entertainment, educational seminars, prize giveaways and more! Learn more about what’s in store at BeaconSeniorNews.com. This show sells out every year, so reserve a booth today by calling 970-243-8829.