MIDDLEBURGH — The search for Middleburgh’s most beloved pair is entering its final stretch. Middleburgh Hardware, serving as an official polling station, is co-hosting the "Pick Best Couple" contest as part of the "Middleburgh is for Sweethearts" initiative.

The top 10 finalists were determined Thursday, Feb. 19. The names will be announced shortly on the Middleburgh NY Facebook group page.

Community members are invited to a reception for the finalists at Middleburgh Town Hall. During the event, the top three couples will be recognized, and a drawing will be held for a consolation prize dinner available to all other contest entries.

Voting for the grand prize winner will continue through Feb. 27, when ballots will be officially tallied.

The winning couple will be honored with a dinner provided by Chris at Hubie's Restaurant & Pizzeria on Main Street. The celebratory dinner is scheduled for Feb. 28 at 6 p.m. James and Linda Schilling will be joined by Middleburgh Mayor Timothy Knight and other invited guests to officially inaugurate the "Middleburgh is for Sweethearts Favorite Couple for 2026."

Members of the public who wish to attend the Feb. 28 dinner at Hubie's are encouraged to call 518-827-5955 to secure a reservation. Special thanks to Jim Schilling and his wife Linda for all of their work in making this successful event happen.