By Carol Thompson

Nothing is lonelier than Valentine’s Day alone. If you’re tired of the single bar scene, online dating fiascos where the photo 20 years ago doesn’t match up with the current-day reality and looking for love or just more life in your … everyday existence, change what you are doing.

Try one of these options for a livelier 2018 and remember this: Real men dance! And for men, dancing makes you a total chick magnet even if you are in your golden years.
The Colorado Springs Senior Center doesn’t do bingo. What it does offer is lots of opportunities for social interaction with members of the opposite sex.

Dances, for instance, beginning with the Valentine’s Dance coming up Feb.9, from 6 to 8 p.m. with the Oasis Band playing the dance tunes. Refreshments, of course. Partners not required.

You will find lots of potential partners at the dance. Attractive single ladies and a few good men (but not enough!) The Senior Center is located on Hancock Road (I-25 to Uintah east exit, then north on Hancock.) Cost is a reasonable $5. Leather-soled shoes help protect the wooden dance floor. Most dance are a mix of ballroom and country songs, so everyone gets a chance to dance their favorite style. There is also a regular Thursday dance with a live band from 1:30 to 3 p.m., same location, suggested donation of $3.

Every Third Sunday Dance has a new location at 1414 Kelly Johnson Blvd. Cost is $8, or bring donation for food bank and receive $2 discount. This is the New Century Big Band’s new location, look for the Springs Rhythm & Dance Studio. This dance was held at the Senior Center, but had to relocate when the YMCA took over the Senior Center. This dance is open to all ages who enjoy ballroom dance.

Pikes Peak USA Dance is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and promoting ballroom dance across the nation. Their Valentine Dance starts Feb. 17, with a 6 to 7 p.m. dance class followed by a 7 to 10 p.m. dance.

The $15 price for non-members covers the lesson taught by a studio professional, a huge buffet (delicious and healthy!) and door prices. It is run by volunteers and a volunteer board, and those wishing to help get in free. Ask at the door how to sign up for this. The recorded music covers waltz, rhumba, fox trot, tango, cha cha, samba and many more. Fun to watch as well as dance!

Visit www.ppusadance.org for details. They meet monthly at the Immanuel Lutheran Church school gymnasium at Institute and Pikes peak. Non-alcohol, non-smoke event. No partner required.

Saturday nights, the International Dance Club at 2422 Busch Ave., off 21st Street south, features a live band and one of the best dance floors around.

When things are really stomping here, you can feel the vibrations in the floor! Snacks and coffee included in the $10 price for non-members, $9 for members. Dancing begins at 7:30 p.m.

Veterans and friends can dance to some of the best dance bands in the city at the VFW on Pikes Peak (off Wasatch) every Friday night from 7 to 11 p.m. There is a singles table started by John Mazzela, who can really shake his leg and kick them too, despite his age of 91! If you are coming solo, ask for John. $10. Couples can make reservations but not required.

So see? There is no reason to be alone this Valentine’s month. Don’t forget the deodorant and mouthwash. Who knows, you might find the love of your life!