At this year’s Grand Junction BeaconFest, more than 2,400 people walked through the doors of Grand Junction Convention Center, eager to dive into a day packed with entertainment, resources and giveaways at Colorado’s largest and funnest celebration of age! 

The main stage entertainment kicked off with a live performance by Jimmy LIVE, followed by the soothing Latin guitar melodies of Javier de los Santos, the swinging hits of King ’n Trio and the soulful vocals of Donny Morales.

Local experts shared valuable advice on topics like Medicare, charitable giving, medical breakthroughs, estate planning and more to curious seniors at our free seminars. 

BEACON readers selected Bill Prescott and his certified therapy dog, Avery, a standout volunteer team bringing joy to patients and staff at Family Health West, as this year’s Volunteer of the Year. Alongside them, 13 other exceptional volunteers were recognized on stage for their selfless contributions to local nonprofits.

As if the seminars, live entertainment and vendor booths weren’t enticing enough, attendees were thrilled by the opportunity to win door prizes every 30 minutes. We gave away a variety of prizes, including gift baskets, restaurant gift cards, rounds of golf, oil changes, bowling and movie passes and more! Thank you to all the businesses that donated these wonderful gifts, making the drawings a thrilling highlight of the event!

BeaconFest wouldn’t have been the same without the enthusiastic support of more than 100 vendors who set up booths, as well as our show sponsors: Family Health West; Intermountain Health - St. Mary’s Hospital; The Glass Guru, Hilltop Senior Services; Valley View Heart & Vascular Center; Colorado Advanced Orthopedics, Sports Medicine and Spine; All Variety Windows & Doors; Select Health and KREX News Channel 5. 

To our volunteers, entertainers and most importantly, to you, our guests, thank you for joining us at BeaconFest and for reading the BEACON Senior News! 

About Our 2024 Volunteer of the Year

Bill Prescott & Avery

Bill Prescott and therapy dog Avery are a much-loved volunteer duo at Family Health West. They pop in every other week and on holidays to brighten the days of staff and patients alike. If someone needs an extra dose of puppy love, Bill brings Avery around for some friendly petting sessions, and Avery’s sweet demeanor never fails to put a smile on everyone’s face.

Thank you to all the readers who voted!

2024 Senior's Choice Awards Winners

BeaconFest-goers voted on their favorite booths in three categories:

Best Overall Booth: Mesa County RSVP/SHIP

 

Booth with the Friendliest People: 970 Medicare

 

Booth with the Best Free Stuff: Olive Garden