BEACON - Romantic Restaurants & Retreats (February 2012)

Romantic Restaurants and R etreats

Finding love later page 2

The best restaurant you’ve never heard of page 4

Produced by the Beacon’s Advertising Team

Your Gui d e to Ro manc e

Now on the Web at www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

2 Romantic Restaurants & Retreats

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

February 2012

Finding love…later

Singing Valentine Tuesday, February 14th

agent friend, but learned all upcoming day trips for seniors were s it possible fully booked. that love, Then, out of like fine wine, the blue, the improves as we travel agent age? To find called Annelise out, I published to say she had a notices in some cancellation for a 200 newspapers country fair outworldwide, inviting the following female reading day. ers from every Annelise continent to share didn’t hesitate. their romantic The adventales with me. ture, however, The responses didn’t start (faxed, emailed out so rosy. “I and mailed) foknew absolutely cused on love, love nobody on the bus and more love. Here are some and, as it turned out, everybody sat highlights from around the globe: in little groups,” she said. Once at the Judy in South Africa is “extremely fair, she slowly met some of the other happy and grateful to have remarried participants, joining several women after being a widow for three years.” at a cafe. Soon several men from She added there are few suitable and their bus joined the table. After what available men over 50. When a wellshe describes as a “cozy afternoon,” meaning friend offered to introduce the group wandered back to the her to Edmund, she waited a full year carnival to challenge the rides. That’s before finally agreeing to a summer how Annelise happened to find dinner. Things clicked. By November herself seated next to Heinz in a bumper Frances Drake car. After “I cook dinner and do some housethat, she and decade-older work. Valentine’s Day is more fun for Heinz talked kids. My husband Jack and I have and laughed been together for 64 years.” all the way home, only to discover they were practically neighbors. they were husband and wife.

The next day she phoned him to How can 50-something women thank him for the pleasant day. Not hope to meet decent men? According many hours later, a huge bouquet to Judy, “One needs good friends.” of flowers arrived at her door from Then there is Annelise in Germany. Heinz.

Just home from a cancer rehabilitaNow Annelise and Heinz go danction clinic, Annelise wished everying weekly, occasionally with friends thing in her life would be different. they met on that day trip. At oppoRemember that tongue-in-cheek site ends of their 70s, the couple has warning about being careful what recently discovered a new passion— you wish for, because you just might exotic travel. Their latest trips have get it? She checked with a travel been to Australia, Thailand

By Roberta Beach Jacobson

$45.00 includes 2 songs, a flower and candy

I

For your reservation please call Colette at

970 261-0304 Or e-mail us at: coverchargequartet@gmail.com to arrange for your Singing Valentine on Tuesday, February 14, 2012

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entines day? l a V or do f

February 2012

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and Alaska.

American MiMiki Twiet chelle noticed “My husband Dan usually makes a “handsome dinner at home and brings me flowers. man in his 50s” watching her He got me a Harley last Valentine’s from across the Day. I’m not sure if he’ll be able to room. Already top that this year.” she assumed they had something in common, because she was at an Alcoholthe kilt.” ics Anonymous meeting.

So now you know.

After a subsequent AA meeting, the Divorced for 20 years, Adrienne two went out for coffee, but ended had raised two children and enjoyed up sharing a leisurely dinner and a successful computer industry swapping stories about how alcohol career in her Australian homeland, had almost wrecked their lives. but decided it was time for a major Michelle explained, “From that mo- lifestyle change. She explained, “I ment on, we’ve been inseparable and quit my job, sold or gave away all my have been together 11 years. Out of a possessions, rented out my house and bad situation came something magiset off with a backpack for Europe cal—eternal love and sobriety. It can’t via Japan and Siberia.” get any better.”

In England, Adrienne bought a When she first saw her Mr. Right, mountain bike and after a year of American Bonnie admitted, “He was pedaling around Europe, sought out wearing a skirt.” Bonnie, a 50-somea travel partner for the Mediterrathing widow, never expected to find nean countries, because “solo bicycle romance again. In an effort to meet touring can be rather stressful for a new people, she joined a Scottish woman.”

Country Dance club, where, to her With the intent to place an ad, she delight, the dance instructor turned bought a British cycling magazine. out to be a mature bachelor with a She spotted an ad from an “adventurgraying beard “and not bad legs.” ous, well-traveled man” who was in Instructor Bob approached her search of a female travel partner. during a break, but only to offer to She responded, ending up with fix her up with an old Marine buddy more than just a biking partner. of his. The date was a success, but “We are constantly thankful that it was Bob and Bonnie who ended two people born on opposite sides up a couple. Following a romantic of the world, both happy and indevacation exploring the mysteries pendent, should find our perfect of Scotland’s castles and glens, Bob partners through a classified ad in a proposed. Just 18 days later, the two magazine,” she said. They continue were married “in a full Scottish certo be on the move, “having no permaemony—kilts, bagpipes and tartan.” nent home, no car, no careers.”

Just in case you’ve ever wondered, So what do they have? “Just our Bonnie added, “It’s true. Scotsmen sense of adventure and each other,” really don’t wear anything under Adrienne answered. Anyone who believes romance is only Millie Phillips for the young better “I send cards to my grandchildren with had reconsider a little money in it. My husband and I and be on the have celebrated Valentine’s every day lookout for Cupid’s flying for 62 years.” arrows. ♥

Romantic Restaurants & Retreats 3

4 Food & Dining

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February 2012

The best restaurant you’ve never heard of: Chez Lena cooking techniques. Enrollment in the program has doubled over the greed. This is indeed an odd last several years, so in addition to choice for this month’s restauAngie Arreola, Chez Lena has added rant review. After all, February is the Shannon Pilcher to help instruct and month that Cupid claims as his own supervise the wait staff. with his celebratory Valentine’s Day On the occasions that I have dined and all of its surrounding romance. there, I’ve been bemused to Though this month’s restauwatch students servrant may not be decid- Chicken and Udon Noodles ing customers. edly romantic, as it Some have the has all the charm panache of of a corporate someone who cafeteria is currently replete with employed fluorescent as a waiter/ lighting, but waitress and it is likely the others look like best restaurant deer caught in in town that you headlights. So bring have never heard a bit of patience, a dash of. Located near Mesa of compassion and your sense Mall on the campus of Western Coloof humor, as it can be fun to watch. rado Community College, located Particularly interesting is the cookat 2508 Blichmann Ave., Building B, ing demonstration that the students Chez Lena has been serving gourmet seem to do at every lunch service. lunches since 1998.

Most recently, a young lady demonChez Lena is where students strated molecular gastronomy called (mostly younger), come to learn at spherification, which is the term the college’s culinary arts program. given to the process of turning liquid The college provides participants juice into juice-filled pearls similar with a hands-on education to earn a to caviar, except that you can make one or two-year degree. Under the init any flavor you’d like. In this case, struction of certified executive chef, a sweet, decorative garnish for our Jon St. Peter, students learn how to dessert. It may sound odd, but the cook a complete gourmet meal from results were delicious. scratch. They even bake their own So why eat at Chez Lena? Yes, bread and pastries. you’ll be helping the students. (They In the front of the house, the need someone to cook for.) Yes, you students also get to try their hand may be educated while being enterat waiting tables and demonstrating tained. The reason to dine at Chez Lena is that the food is to die for.

“Oh my gosh!” I recently had the Shrimp and Grits.

This is the kind of entree you’d see Emeril Lagasse prepare on the Food Network.

Served in a tower, sautéed shrimp dusted with Cajun spices in between layers of Anson mills Cake and Ice Cream cheddar and green on-

By Kevin VanGundy

A

Crepes

Parfait

Beef Bourginon

Salad

February 2012

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Food & dining 5

One would think that mixing alcohol, fire and students would be a recipe for disaster. Au contraire, the results were delectable.

ion grits and southern style Palisade rainbow chard, this is one of the best dishes that I have eaten in recent memory. Amazing!

One of my tablemates feasted on the Crispy Chicken Roulade. Here, the student chefs prepared a Red Bird Farms natural chicken breast rolled with spinach, tree oyster and shiitake mushrooms, sour cream, a dash of saffron, herb whipped potatoes, and “bricked” winter veggies. (Bricking is a grilling technique that goes back to Tuscany, but has been recently popularized by celebrity chefs like Bobby Flay.) In between deliriously flavorful bites of my Shrimp and Grits, I’d steal tastes of her Crispy Chicken Roulade.

So far, all I have focused on are the entrees. Chez Lena has equally wonderful appetizers and sinfully decadent desserts, which are made fresh daily. It’s also worth noting that, when possible, the students try to incorporate locally grown produce and sustainable organic foods in their dishes. In the off chance that you get a dish that was improperly prepared, or that you don’t like, you can always swap it out for something different.

After all, the students are learning to handle complaints as well.

While I ought not have to mention this, Chez Lena does not serve alcohol. It is also suggested that you make reservations by calling 255-2641. The restaurant is open from 11:30 a.m.– 1 p.m. Tuesday through Friday.

As if the food alone was not reason

enough to visit Chez Lena, the low price is also compelling. Entrees run about $10 to $12 and dessert is just a few dollars more.

Dan Kirby, who oversees the Culinary Arts Program, recently told me, “Chez Lena is a critical piece of our program. It’s not possible for them to learn without customers to serve.

We really depend on and appreciate community support.” ■

Although supervised by an executive chef, all meals are prepared daily, from scratch, by students. You’re going to love the dishes they cook, like their delicious carrot cake (left).

For

two

opening at noon on Valentine’s day- dine early to avoid the rush!

, lossom ckles, B y b a B ried pi to F r o , s e Fri imp Cheese of ribs or Shr omk fr Sidekic d two maden a , share -sides. scratch

Call aHead SeatiNg

Happy Hour 4-6 7 days a Week

$1.50 domestic drafts, $2.50 premium drafts

970-243-5700 2870 North ave.

6 Travel & Recreation

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Easy Excursions Compiled by Cloie Sandlin

Ice Castles at Silverthorne Open to the public until they melt Town Pavilion 400 Blue River Drive Silverthorne, Colorado 970-389-4272 www.icecastles.com

ice with no supporting substructure.

The life of the ice castles depend on the weather, so make sure to see them before they melt! An adult day pass is only $10, so you can see the majestic castles during the day and at night. They are typically open 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Monday–Thursday, 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m.–10 p.m. Saturday and closed Sunday. Hours are subject to change, so check the website before you go.

Gold Rush Weekend February 3-5 Frisco, Colorado 970-668-2558 This may be your only opportunity to see the Ice Castles at Silverthorne. www.townof frisco.com Frisco’s 42nd Gold Rush Nearly 360,000 lumens of light Weekend connects the mining frozen inside over 15,000 tons history of the past with the Nordic of ice make up the ice castles at traditions of the present. Frisco Silverthorne. Experience the deep, was once the center of Colorado’s glacial aquamarine blues and whites of the castles during the daytime and mining-boom and the convergence of two major railroads and stagecoach the illuminated ethereal greens and routes. At more than 9,000 feet, blues of the evening. Patrons will Frisco still values its rich mining be invited through the walkways, history while being surrounded by illuminated ice formations, tunnels and arches, which are all made out of some of the best ski resorts Colorado

February 2012

has to offer. Frisco will celebrate Gold Rush weekend with events for the entire family, including historic lectures, museum movie night, a 5K moonlight snowshoe race, a bonfire, fireworks and Nordic races.

Some events are free. Others have a minimal charge. Call or visit the website for details.

Denver Golf Expo February 10-12 Denver Merchandise Mart 451 E. 58th Ave. Denver, Colorado 303-771-2000 www.denvergolfexpo.com Golfers, mark your calendars! The Denver Golf Expo extends a unique opportunity during the chill of winter to feed the golfer’s thirst at the Rocky Mountain region’s hottest event for the golf community. The Denver Golf Expo offers everything golf from pro seminars, equipment and special deals to golf getaways and giveaways. Golf companies, courses, retailers, resorts and hotels will all join together to answer questions and let you in on what’s new in the golf community—all under one roof! Ticket prices are $10 for seniors and $12 for adults. The show will be from 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Sunday.

Romance on the Rails February 11 Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

479 Main Ave. Durango, Colorado 970-247-2733 www.durangotrain.com Celebrate Valentine’s Day as you experience turn-of-the-century ambiance with your loved one onboard a Premium or DeluxeClass car as it travels along the Animas River. Passengers can enjoy a beautiful day riding the vintage train through the pristine wilderness to Cascade Canyon. Tim Guidotti, will be strolling through the cars playing guitar and singing songs. All passengers who book this package will receive a hot brunch buffet featuring fresh fruit, assorted pastries, smoked salmon, scrambled eggs, O’Brien Potatoes, bacon, sausage links and assorted desserts. Guests also receive a locallymade chocolate treat from Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory and a complimentary glass of wine or sparkling cider. Premium class rates are $149 per person. Deluxe-Class rates are $99 per person. Standard class rates are still available at $59 per person. Call or visit the website for package details, times and other information.

Colorado Garden & Home Show February 11–19 Colorado Convention Center 700 14th St. Denver, Colorado 303-932-8100

2012 EXCITING ESCORTED TOURS!

AMERICA’S MUSIC CITIES

March – Smoky Mountain Springtime Nashville & Dollywood

Featuring: New Orleans –the “Jazz Capitol of the World” Memphis –birthplace of “Blues, Rock ‘n’ Roll & Soul” Nashville –”Music Capitol of the World”

May – GO ROCKIES – Coors Field party suite Plus... Wicked & Oklahoma!

July – Theatre in the Rockies September – Mackinac Island & more!

November – Steamboatin' Holiday on the Mississippi The Legendary American Queen returns!

March 18 - 25, 2012

$2,834 ppdo

DUTCH & BELGIUM DELIGHTS April 13 - 23, 2012

Featuring: Floriade 2012, Highlights – Ghent • Bruges • Brussels • Waterloo • Moselle River Cruise • Luxembourg • Antwerp • Floriade • Amsterdam • Keukenhof and More!!

$4,539 ppdo

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607 28 1/4 Road • Grand Junction, CO 81506 • 434-6494

October 22 - November 3, 2012 Featuring a Seven Night Cruise: Athens, Istanbul, Mykonos, Rhodes, Crete & Santorini BOOK BY APRIL 23, 2012 AND SAVE $100 Per Person

RUSSIAN RIVER CRUISE July 7, 2012 Call For Details

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Phone (970) 240-3020 Email: mkrabbe@montrose.net

February 2012 www.gardeningcolorado.com More than 70,000 green thumbs and home improvement enthusiasts are expected to celebrate the arrival of spring and attend the 53rd annual Colorado Garden & Home Show. Are you one of them? This 9-day event showcases more than an acre of professionally landscaped gardens, where you can find inspiration from the latest ideas and trends in landscaping, gardening and home improvement. Experts from over 600 companies from all over North America will be ready to assist and advise with innovative gardening and home improvement tips, products and services. If this information isn’t enough, visit any of the 50 free educational seminars and demonstrations for cutting edge gardening and home improvement ideas. General admission tickets are $10 for seniors at the door. Call or visit the website for show hours.

Tango meets Jazz February 11 Macky Auditorium University of Colorado Boulder

Travel & Recreation 7

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com 1505 University Ave. Boulder, Colorado 303-492-8008 www.cupresents.org What’s Valentine’s Day without music? Spend a night with your valentine sharing dinner in beautiful Boulder, Colorado and afterwards, head over to The University of Colorado and see how Latin Grammywinning pianist Pablo Ziegler artfully blends classic tango rhythms with jazz improvisations, adding a romantic new voice to the tango lexicon. Ziegler was Astor Piazzolla’s pianist in the New Tango Quintet.

“Tango Meets Jazz” features Ziegler with his quartet and three-time Grammy nominee Stefon Harris on vibraphone. Show starts at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets range from $7 to $52. To purchase tickets, call or visit their website.

If you are in the mood for something elegant and looking for a romantic way to celebrate Valentine’s Day, then don’t miss the Salt Lake Symphony’s annual Vienna Ball from 8 p.m. to midnight. This fundraising event will have food, dancing, a silent auction and live music provided by the Salt Lake Symphony. Enjoy the ambiance of ballroom as the symphony fills the halls with some of the world’s greatest melodies as you enjoy savory Viennese-style dining in a traditional setting. The evening will include performances by Steve Williams, the BYU Ballroom Dance team and contemporary standards by the Mark Chaney Jazz Trio. Are your dance skills a little rusty? Come polish them up before the show at 6:30 p.m.

General admission tickets are $60 per person. Purchase your tickets by calling 1-800-838-3006.

Vienna Ball by Salt Lake Symphony

Randy Travis tours Colorado

February 12 University of Utah Union Ballroom Salt Lake City, Utah 877-425-1537 www.saltlakesymphony.org

February 16-19 Various locations Denver, Colorado Springs, Greeley and Beaver Creek www.randytravis.com

This Valentine’s Day, surprise your sweetie with tickets to see country superstar Randy Travis in concert. Travis is celebrating the 25th anniversary of his career with a stellar cast of collaborators on his new CD. You have several chances to see him, as he is not only coming to one town, but four towns in Colorado, so you can choose which time and location is best for you. On Thursday, February 16, he will be performing at Grizzly Rose, 5450 N. Valley Hwy in Denver. Showtime at 8:30 p.m. Tickets are $35. On Friday, February 17, he will be performing at Pikes Peak Center, 190 S. Cascade Ave. in Colorado Springs. Showtime at 7:30 p.m. Ticket prices range from $32.50 to $62.50. On Saturday, February 18, he will perform at Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave. in Greeley. Showtime at 7:30 p.m. Tickets range from $39 to $44.

On Sunday, February 20, he will perform at Vilar Center for the Arts, 68 Avondale Lane in Beaver Creek.

Showtime at 8 p.m. Tickets range from $98 to $152. ■

Virgin River Hotel & Casino

Mesquite, NV – 3 Days/2 Nights: Tuesday, April 10th- Thursday, April 12th $199 per person single occupancy

$169 per person double occupancy

Payment must be received by April 1, 2012

Trip includes: Lodging, Round Trip Transportation, 2 Breakfast, 2 Dinner Vouchers!

Pick up times for April 10th : 7:00 am Montrose Public Parking Lot (N. 2nd & Cascade) 7:30 am Delta Public Parking Lot (4th & Grand Ave) 8:15 am Grand Junction Safeway (on Horizon Drive) Leave Virgin River Wednesday, April 12th at 10:00am For more information: Call 9 7 0 - 2 4 0 - 0 8 1 3 or Email: amy@gowildwesttours.com

Future Trips Include: Sky Ute Casino – May Black Hawk – June Cripple Creek – July

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