Good Afternoon Alpine,

Did you ever wonder where our modern Valentine's day began? The ancient Romans may be responsible for the name of our modern-day Valentine’s Day. In the 3rd Century A.D., Emperor Claudius II executed two men on February 14th — both named Valentine — on Feb. 14. Their martyrdom was honored by the Church with the celebration of St. Valentine's Day.

Around the beginning of the 10th century, the Normans celebrated Galatin's Day. Galatin meant "lover of women." That was likely confused with St. Valentine's Day at some point, in part because they sound alike.

As the years went on, the holiday grew sweeter. Chaucer and Shakespeare romanticized it in their work, and it gained popularity throughout Britain and the rest of Europe. Handmade paper cards became the tokens-du-jour in the Middle Ages.

Eventually, the tradition made its way to the New World. The industrial revolution ushered in factory-made cards in the 19th century. In 1913, Hallmark Cards of Kansas City, Mo., began mass producing valentines. February has not been the same since.

Please remember that there are some important links in our Weekly Update. In this week's Update, you can find these new posts:

• Reopening Plan (New)
• JMMS School Counselor Corner (New)
• Important Yearbook Deadlines (New)
• Mark Your Calendars - Make-Up Picture Day - Feb. 24 (New)
• Snap Shots (New)
• COVID Testing (Repeating)
• Action for Happiness (Repeating)

Sincerely,

Casey Currigan