Valentine's Day

2023 - 2 - 13

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Image courtesy of "The New York Times"

Did Valentine's Day Start as a Roman Party or to Celebrate an ... (The New York Times)

Regardless of its origin, it's a big deal now. An expert on the evolution of human sexuality says you have to “get out there” to make the holiday work for ...

That reflects a change in the holiday from a celebration of romantic partners to “an everybody-is-included romp” that celebrates different kinds of affection and attachment, Dr. More than half of consumers plan to celebrate and will spend an average of $192.80, the group said. Valentine before Chaucer wrote the poems “Parlement of Foules” and “The Complaint of Mars” in the late 14th century. It’s also a day to spend money. 14, took place at a time when Britons in the 14th century thought spring began, with birds starting to mate and plants beginning to bloom, Mr. He was convinced that Chaucer was the source of our modern ideas about St. Valentine was later beheaded for his religious zeal, a death that Roman men decided to celebrate by pulling the names of eligible young ladies out of an urn. “That didn’t stop it from being a day of fertility and love.” “It was a little more of a drunken revel, but the Christians put clothes back on it,” Mr. Oruch, an English professor at the University of Kansas who died in 2013, studied Valentine’s Day as part of his research into the poet Geoffrey Chaucer. “This custom persisted for many years and eventually found its way into Germany and England,” The Globe reported. There is little reliable information about the life of St.

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Image courtesy of "Duke Today"

Celebrating Work BFFs on This Valentine's Day | Duke Today (Duke Today)

CaptionClockwise from top left, Stefanie Resillez and Amy Lindsay; Anna Howell and Caroline Carson; Mackenzie Ray and Jamario Joyner; Jennifer McIlvaine and Yeu ...

She is one of my favorite parts of going to work, and I feel so lucky to be her work partner.” “I enjoy her company, and we often laugh together,” LoJacono said. “Candace has the best stories and isn't afraid to laugh at her own expense.” She is one of those amazing people who is always thinking about and doing things for others, like writing this story entry,” Danforth said. “That means we encounter the same challenges, so we support each other by listening and sharing ideas,” McIlvaine said. “I appreciate her ability to think and process through situations before making decisions, and how she thinks of multiple perspectives. “We have supported each other through stressful times at work, the loss of parents and some scary medical diagnoses,” Richard said. Burgess was a close confidant to many staff and students in the Nicholas School, where the Forest’s office is located. They can always trust each other and find time to share a laugh. Thursday Tara and Jessica Time is my favorite meeting of the week.” “We love it when we work the same shifts together, and we can wear matching patterned scrub tops,” Carson said. “I am ever so grateful for her, and my life is better because of her friendship.

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Image courtesy of "Forbes"

55 Valentine's Day Gifts For Him That'll Show How Much You Care (Forbes)

We've rounded up the best Valentine's Day gift ideas for every kind of guy, including food and drinks, smart fashion, gadgets and cool tech he might not ...

They say the way to man’s heart is through his stomach, and this gift from Shack Shack might be a direct line. Just attach it to the item in question and it will instantly be on his radar in the Find My app. It may be too chilly outside for a pick-up game with the guys, but that doesn’t mean he can’t practice his jump shot. Whether your guy is into skateboarding, backpacking, snorkeling or skydiving, GoPro is the ideal camera to capture the action. He deserves a snazzy weekender bag that elevates the experience of getting away for a couple of days. For those times when it’s important to tune out the world, a set of headphones with active noise cancellation is critical. There was a time when a guy might roll his eyes at getting a wallet for a gift, but that was in the old days, before the renaissance in wallets. If your guy has exhausted what the History Channel has to offer and spends his time reading books about the Civil War, this might be for him. For $7 dollars more per month, you can opt for the ad-free Hulu and Disney+. And don’t forget the Any guy who loves spending time in the kitchen would be thrilled to get an Always Pan. This sleek two-tone sweatshirt looks cool and can be worn on its own or layered, which makes it a versatile piece for the winter months.

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Image courtesy of "CNN"

Forget Valentine's Day: You've lost that lovin' feeling (CNN)

Embrace your inner Grinch this Valentine's Day and do whatever your grumpy heart desires. Javier Zayas Photography/Moment RF/Getty Images.

It’s a “ [name a cockroach after an ex](https://www.cnn.com/2023/01/29/us/san-antonio-zoo-cockroach-valentines-day-trnd/index.html)” kind of Valentine’s Day. Buy a box of Russell Stover chocolates at the drugstore and eat them all yourself. [left languishing.](https://www.cnn.com/2021/05/19/health/pandemic-purgatory-lockdown-languishing-wellness/index.html) We had one [summer of love,](https://www.cnn.com/2020/07/12/us/love-dating-during-coronavirus-pandemic-wellness/index.html) but the hype outweighed the actual heat. “There’s no right or wrong way to spend Valentine’s Day,” said Dr. Your kid has back-to-back snotty somethings, and you know more than you ever cared to about the distinctions between [RSV](https://www.cnn.com/2022/10/23/health/rsv-symptoms-treatments-wellness/index.html), the flu and Covid-19. “A chronic pandemic, record-breaking cold weather, threats to democracy, regular exposure to violent deaths on the news — all can lend themselves to a sense of restlessness, uncertainty, and grumpiness that romantic warmth and fuzzies cannot alleviate.” “If you need to wallow tonight, it’s all good.” It feels decidedly more like a sit on the couch in one’s underwear and eat Rocky Road out of the pint with a fork kind of Valentine’s Day. Red and pink heart-shaped boxes have been tickling our consumer sensibilities since December 26, yet there is something that feels decidedly dreadful about having to conjure the energy to think creatively about Valentine’s Day presents or plans. [so-called tripledemic](https://www.cnn.com/2022/12/09/health/covid-influenza-rsv-vaccine-pandemic-wellness/index.html) sucked the fun out of so many people’s December holidays. We learned that [China cares about Montana ](https://www.cnn.com/2023/02/07/politics/spy-balloon/index.html)and [Madonna is getting old](https://www.cnn.com/style/article/madonna-grammys-ageist-response/index.html) — which is actually just a reminder that we are all getting old. And no matter how many times we think the ills of the world can be solved, they stubbornly aren’t.

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Image courtesy of "Hyperallergic"

Fighting HIV Stigma With Valentine's Day Cards (Hyperallergic)

Organized by Visual AIDS, “Love Positive Women” is a project that distributes hundreds of hand-crafted Valentine's Day cards to women living with HIV.

[How Anthony Daley Abstracts Rubens](https://hyperallergic.com/799845/how-anthony-daley-abstracts-rubens/) [Shalom and Pass the Joint ](https://hyperallergic.com/799710/shalom-and-pass-the-joint-jewish-heritage-cannabis/) [Basking in Vermeer’s Light at Rijksmuseum](https://hyperallergic.com/800021/basking-in-vermeers-light-at-rijksmuseum/) “Why not do something nice for the women most forgotten about?,” LPW founder Jessica Whitbread asks in a text for the project. LPW acknowledges the challenges of living with HIV as a woman while navigating the healthcare system, interpersonal relationships, and motherhood, and aims to boost awareness around the specificity of these social side effects. [A Dazzling and Troubling Display of Spanish Expansion](https://hyperallergic.com/800245/a-dazzling-and-troubling-display-of-spanish-expansion-hispanic-society-royal-academy/) [Icons of Black American History, Illustrated ](https://hyperallergic.com/795992/icons-of-black-american-history-illustrated-george-mccalman/) From tender words of care and encouragement to carefully arranged accessories such as beads, yarn, lace, and sequins, an overwhelming amount of love pours from each card. From February 2 through February 5, over 500 handmade Valentines were mounted on the walls of one of the museum’s second-floor galleries alongside a video work detailing the history and impact of the initiative. Don’t underestimate the value in something as simple as sending a valentine to a stranger.” With the help of Brooklyn-based paper-making mill Dieu Donné, LPW has invited artists, activists, and community members to design hand-crafted Valentine’s Day cards to distribute internationally to women living with HIV. The cards were sent off quickly in order to reach their destinations by the holiday.

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Image courtesy of "kuna noticias y kuna radio"

Valentine's Day spending projected to increase 8% from last year ... (kuna noticias y kuna radio)

Consumers are expected to spend $25.9 billion on Valentine's Day this year, up from $23.9 billion in 2022 and one of the highest spending years on record, ...

Americans plan to spend more than $5.5 billion on jewelry and nearly $4.4 billion on a special evening out. According to data from a survey released in late January, 52% of consumers plan to celebrate and will spend an average of $192.80. Of the $17 increase in per-person spending, $14 comes from gifts for pets, friends and co-workers, along with classmates or teachers. to 7:00 p.m. The top gifts include candy (57%), greeting cards (40%), flowers (37%), an evening out (32%), jewelry (21%), gift cards (20%) and clothing (19%). Whether your sweetheart prefers flowers, jewelry, or a home-cooked meal, inflation will factor into the cost of just about everything this Valentine's Day.

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Image courtesy of "Fox News"

Who is St. Valentine and how is he related to Valentine's Day? (Fox News)

Origins of St. Valentine remain unclear due to competing legends, but he's still remembered as the patron saint of love. By Cortney Moore | Fox News.

[CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER](https://www.foxnews.com/newsletters?cmpid=fnfirstnl) [(central Italy),](https://www.foxnews.com/category/travel/regions/europe) who performed the same illegal Christian weddings and distributed paper hearts to symbolize their loving vows to God. [religious martyrs](https://www.foxnews.com/category/faith-values/faith) who were put to death by the Roman emperor Claudius II Gothicus around 270 A.D., according to Britannica. The Roman Catholic Church recognizes St. [family members and close friends](https://www.foxnews.com/category/topic/family-and-friends) as a representation of love, according to traditions established in the U.S. Some stories of St. [celebrated around the world](https://www.foxnews.com/category/lifestyle/occasions/celebrations) and is a multibillion-dollar holiday industry, according to the National Retail Federation and various global market research reports. HOW WELL DO YOU KNOW THESE FACTS ABOUT THE ANNUAL DAY OF LOVE?](https://www.foxnews.com/lifestyle/valentines-day-quiz-how-well-know-facts-annual-day-love) This telling of St. [romantic love](https://www.foxnews.com/category/lifestyle/relationships) with Valentine’s Day, according to researchers at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Valentine, among others, Britannica and History.com report. [officiated weddings](https://www.foxnews.com/category/lifestyle/weddings) and were sentenced to death around the same time, both are associated with St.

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Image courtesy of "News-Daily.com"

50 Cricut DIY Valentine's Day Ideas That'll Give Your V-Day a ... (News-Daily.com)

Valentine's Day is all about spreading the love, which is why a homemade Valentine's Day card or DIY V-day gift is an extra special way to show just how much ...

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Image courtesy of "Axios"

Find the perfect perfume for Valentine's Day (Axios)

Zoom in: Utah's dryness tends to weaken scents, and some are naturally longer-lasting than others. Fruity scents and light florals tend to fade fastest, while ...

[Mitsouko](https://www.guerlain.com/us/en-us/p/les-legendaires-mitsouko---eau-de-parfum-P024104.html?gclid=CjwKCAiA0JKfBhBIEiwAPhZXDz3Qy2t8PemZxWj5G9OyRFs1BOnzITJiNq9grSh-lR4D87sTjJAB2hoCeZoQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds)is among the most revered fragrances of all time, woody and powdery with wafts of peach and root beer. The signature scent of both [Charlie Chaplin and Ingrid Bergman](https://scentertainer.net/en/guerlain-mitsouko-eau-de-parfum-review/), it transforms throughout the day. [Boyfriend](https://boyfriendperfume.com/)smells like you picked up your significant other's T-shirt that still contains traces of their cologne. 5](https://www.fragrantica.com/perfume/Chanel/Chanel-No-5-Eau-de-Toilette-10856.html) And we all want to smell yummy. [Fancy](https://www.fragrantica.com/perfume/Jessica-Simpson/Fancy-4094.html). [Casual](https://www.fragrantica.com/perfume/Paul-Sebastian/Casual-5037.html) [Marilyn Monroe](https://stylecaster.com/beauty/marilyn-monroe-chanel-no-5/)herself, it's a classic for a reason. [Versace's Crystal Noir](https://www.fragrantica.com/perfume/Versace/Crystal-Noir-631.html) [Hypnotic Poison](https://www.fragrantica.com/perfume/Dior/Hypnotic-Poison-219.html)for its spicy plum and almond notes. [L'Heure Bleue](https://www.guerlain.com/me/en-me/fragrance/woman/collections/lheure-bleue/) [Narciso Rodriguez For Her](https://www.narcisorodriguez.com/for-her)

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Image courtesy of "Forbes"

55 Sweet Valentine's Day Gifts For Her, From Chic Robes To Luxury ... (Forbes)

55 Sweet Valentine's Day Gifts For Her, From Chic Robes To Luxury Candles · For Anyone With A Sweet Tooth · For A Cozy Couples Night In · For A Touch Of Eco- ...

You can buy a single issue or subscribe for a gift that keeps on giving. This pick won the You can make the gift a subscription to receive boxes every 3, 6 or 12 months. Ergonomically designed to fit in the palm of your hand, it’s easily maneuverable for ultimate pleasure. The Santal 26 scent promises to be subtle yet sultry, with a leathery, smoky fragrance. Stuffed with lavender-infused seeds that activate once heated in the microwave, these slippers feel like a weighted blanket for tired feet, delivering warmth for up to 25 minutes. Packed with ingredients like hydrating hyaluronic acid, nourishing oils, butters and a kick of vitamin C, one dab of Laneige’s intensely hydrating lip mask is like a visit to the spa for your loved one’s pout. Here, 55 of the best Valentine’s Day gift ideas for all of the special women in your life. Slipping your feet into a pair of Warmies slippers can feel like the ultimate treat. When you’re shopping for a Valentine’s Day gift for the women in your life, you have to get in the right mindset: This present isn’t for her birthday, an anniversary or a family holiday. Venus Et Fleur flowers can be pricey, but their signature eternity roses last for up to a year or longer, which is the gift that keeps on giving for anyone who appreciates a beautiful bouquet. After a Netflix and chill marathon, give her the gift of sleeping until noon with this 100% silk heart eye mask by MLE that blocks out any light in the room.

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Image courtesy of "Forbes"

Last-Minute Valentine's Day Gift, Cocktail, And Dinner Date Ideas (Forbes)

More than half of American consumers will in some way celebrate Valentine's Day, according to a National Retail Federation survey.

[Valentine’s Day 2023 Gift Guide: The Best Zero-Proof Wines](https://www.forbes.com/sites/jeanneobriencoffey/2023/02/10/valentines-day-2023-gift-guide-best-zero-proof-wine/?sh=6039415b414a) Here are 12 creative cocktails with a wide array of flavors that will impress your significant other. [Valentine’s Day Gift Guide: Best Fruity Mixers](https://www.forbes.com/sites/jeanettehurt/2023/02/10/valentines-day-gift-guide-best-fruity-mixers/?sh=50948bc81e80) [Valentine’s Day Gift Guide: Delicious Liqueurs](https://www.forbes.com/sites/jeanettehurt/2023/02/09/forbes-valentines-day-gift-guide-liqueurs/) Not sure what wine to select for Valentine’s Day with your loved one? From chardonnays to cabernets, here are twelve wines just right for the occasion. [Make A Valentine's Day Cocktail To Impress Your Loved One](https://www.forbes.com/sites/hudsonlindenberger/2023/02/09/making-a-valentines-day-cocktail-can-impress-your-loved-one/?sh=26fcd7a11615) And they have pro tips for navigating the often complicated financial issues that can weigh on your romantic relationships. [Valentine’s Day Wine Recommendations From An Expert](https://www.forbes.com/sites/hudsonlindenberger/2023/02/10/valentines-day-wine-recommendations-from-an-expert/?sh=1cbe1919743c) [Valentine’s Day Gift Guide: Best Beers That Pair Well With Chocolate](https://www.forbes.com/sites/jeanettehurt/2023/02/09/valentines-day-gift-guide-best-beers-that-pair-well-with-chocolate/?sh=200a77d746c0) [Make Panettone Bread Pudding For Your Valentine](https://www.forbes.com/sites/elizabethkarmel/2023/02/03/make-panettone-bread-pudding-for-your-valentine/?sh=128dfe817e07) [Want Your Valentine's Day To Be Sexy, Try These Foods](https://www.forbes.com/sites/phillempert/2023/02/08/want-your-valentines-day-to-be-sexy-try-these-foods/?sh=4b46b2e04a38)

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Image courtesy of "ConchoValleyHomepage.com"

Valentine's Day: a busy days for florists (ConchoValleyHomepage.com)

“There are so many pretty colored roses out there,” said Karla Stemple, owner of Southwest Florist. “Plants are beautiful, women really love plants.” Historians ...

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Image courtesy of "KWQC-TV6"

Quad City florists working hard to keep up with Valentine's Day ... (KWQC-TV6)

Many floral shops are locally owned and are small operations. But, according to Roger Krueger of the Milan Flower Shop, the team behind the scenes that are ...

“So we will be bombarded with these last minute calls today and tomorrow for flowers, chocolates and gifts.” And our goal is to have all our vehicles loaded and out the door by eight in the morning. So I have probably the best outstanding team there is.” “This is the backbone of the businesses what we have right behind me here,” Krueger said. Many floral shops are locally owned and are small operations. So I say we’ll start with typically six or eight drivers, and we’re loading vehicles by about six in the morning.

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Image courtesy of "KOLO"

Local chocolatier prepares for Valentine's Day (KOLO)

Just for the holiday a balsamic strawberry chocolate is made. “The strawberry balsamic truffle we do just for February,” says Lawson. “It's a great partnership ...

The love of chocolate that is. Strawberry balsamic has this lovely rich flavor and a little tang on the end with that balsamic. Contained in the box chocolate covered cherries, lips, toasty blonde, wild orange, and lemon kraken to name just a few.

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Image courtesy of "nj.com"

Valentine's Day 2023 specials: How to get free food, deals and ... (nj.com)

Valentine's Day 2023 is Monday, Feb. 14, and many food chains and franchises are offering promotions. Here's what you need to know.

[White Castle](https://www.whitecastle.com/): From 4-9 p.m. Tell us at [nj.com/tips](http://nj.com/tips). [Outback Steakhouse](https://locations.outback.com/): There is a Valentine’s Day four-course special starting at $60 a person. [Moe’s Southwest Grill](https://www.moes.com/): Spend $25 or between now and Feb. [Olive Garden](https://go.skimresources.com?id=126006X1587338&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.olivegarden.com%2Forder-online%3Fcmpid%3Dbr%3Aog_ag%3Aie_ch%3Appc_pl%3Aad_ca%3A871204263_adg%3A42791132854_adid%3A%257bcreative%5D_kw%3Aolive%2520garden%26gclid%3DCjwKCAiA3KefBhByEiwAi2LDHE18r94IZq8DEE-_HiW-UuByoEAZ7wYDwJ6DRtqp_zp09LIsamOUvhoCxR0QAvD_BwE%26gclsrc%3Daw.ds): Get $6 take home entrees, lunch portions starting at $8.99 and wine-to-go starting at $18. [Jamba (formerly Jamba Juice)](https://www.jamba.com/): Rewards members get $2 off two smoothies, juices and bowls. [Carrabba’s](https://www.carrabbas.com/): Get a four-course dinner for two with an appetizer, salad or soup, entree and dessert for $65. [Cinnabon](https://www.cinnabon.com/): Get two Classic Rolls and two Cold Brew Coffees starting at $15 through March 1. [report by RetailMeNot.com](https://www.retailmenot.com/blog/valentines-day-restaurant-deals.html). [Auntie Anne’s](https://www.auntieannes.com/): Pretzel Perks loyalty members have a choice of deals. [Burger King](https://www.bk.com/): Royal Perks members can buy one, get one Whopper free on Feb. [Applebee’s](https://www.applebees.com/en): Smoocho Sips cocktails are $6.

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Image courtesy of "Digital Commerce 360"

Valentine's Day product searches on Amazon rise year over year (Digital Commerce 360)

Amazon shoppers looked up "valentines day decor" 2.2 million times in January, up 51% year over year. Key takeaways: A beard oil set was the most popular ...

3 in the [Digital Commerce 360 Online Marketplaces database](https://www.digitalcommerce360.com/product/online-marketplaces-database/), which ranks the 100 largest global marketplaces. [2022 Digital Commerce 360 Top 1000 database](https://www.digitalcommerce360.com/product/top-1000-database/). A beard oil gift set was the most popular “valentines day gifts” product, according to Similarweb. However, not all the most popular Amazon searches were for Valentine’s Day items. Apple Watch and iPhone accessories were also high on the list of searches in January 2023. Searches for “valentines day decor” increased 51% year over year in January 2023.

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Image courtesy of "kuna noticias y kuna radio"

Valentine's Day spending projected to increase 8% from last year as ... (kuna noticias y kuna radio)

The top gifts include candy (57%), greeting cards (40%), flowers (37%), an evening out (32%), jewelry (21%), gift cards (20%) and clothing (19%). Americans plan ...

Americans plan to spend more than $5.5 billion on jewelry and nearly $4.4 billion on a special evening out. According to data from a survey released in late January, 52% of consumers plan to celebrate and will spend an average of $192.80. Of the $17 increase in per-person spending, $14 comes from gifts for pets, friends and co-workers, along with classmates or teachers. to 7:00 p.m. The top gifts include candy (57%), greeting cards (40%), flowers (37%), an evening out (32%), jewelry (21%), gift cards (20%) and clothing (19%). Whether your sweetheart prefers flowers, jewelry, or a home-cooked meal, inflation will factor into the cost of just about everything this Valentine's Day.

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Image courtesy of "CBS19 News"

Inflation affects local businesses for Valentine's Day (CBS19 News)

The cost of romance might be affected by inflation. Local florists and chocolatiers are seeing an increase in prices from wholesalers.

This is not Manhattan, this is Charlottesville,” Gearheart said. However, he says even with inflation, customers won’t see a major change in the prices this Valentine's Day. “If anything, it really gave us this really want to be prepared well ahead of time and that’s really been the key for us.

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Image courtesy of "KHOU.com"

Valentine's Day costs climb this year -- average person spending $192 (KHOU.com)

Consumer price index shows the price of cards, gift wrap, candy, dining out, jewelry and flowers are up this year.

You don't have permission to access "http://www.khou.com/article/life/holidays/2023-valentines-day-spending/285-1e389f9d-390f-4a7c-b4dd-b9b42298f6a5" on this server. Access Denied

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Image courtesy of "The Cut"

Your 2023 Astrological Love Forecast (The Cut)

Your 2023 Astrological Love Forecast · Aries. When it comes to matters of the heart, Aries — the first sign of the zodiac — is direct, straightforward, and …

[Pluto](https://www.thecut.com/2022/12/2023-astrology-horoscopes-retrogrades-new-year.html) (the planet of transformation) is gliding into Aquarius’s domain for the first time since 1777, which is (to say the absolute least) a huge deal! [North and South Nodes](https://www.thecut.com/2022/12/north-node-south-node-astrology-explained.html) moving onto the Aries-Libra axis at the end of April, eclipses are about to get very intriguing. [North and South Nodes](https://www.thecut.com/2022/12/north-node-south-node-astrology-explained.html) have been occupying your zodiac sign, which means your romantic landscape has changed dramatically over the past few years. [Saturn](https://www.thecut.com/article/saturn-return-what-it-is-what-to-expect.html) (the planet of commitment) enters Pisces, another mushy-gushy water sign. On May 16, [Jupiter](https://www.thecut.com/article/jupiter-in-aries-what-you-need-to-know.html) (the planet of abundance) moves into your zodiac sign. [Mars](https://www.thecut.com/2022/10/mars-retrograde-2022-meaning.html) — the planet of action, determination, and libido — has been in your zodiac sign since literally August, you feel like you’re only just getting started! Then, in late 2021, the [North and South Nodes](https://www.thecut.com/2022/12/north-node-south-node-astrology-explained.html) of destiny moved onto the Taurus-Scorpio axis, meaning every lunar and solar [eclipse](https://www.thecut.com/article/guide-to-eclipse-season-what-to-know.html) has been causing upheavals. [Uranus](https://www.thecut.com/2023/01/uranus-zodiac-meaning-astrology.html) — the planet of shock and awe — has been cruising through your zodiac sign, destabilizing virtually every aspect of your life. The fuzzy [hearts](https://www.thecut.com/2022/02/conversation-hearts-are-the-superior-valentines-day-candy.html)? Just enter your date, time, and location of birth into a natal chart calculator (I recommend [TimePassages](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/timepassages/id488946918) and [Astro.com](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/timepassages/id488946918)), and check out our comprehensive [birth chart guide](https://www.thecut.com/article/astrology-birth-chart-meaning-analysis.html) for help interpreting your results. [Valentine’s Day](https://www.thecut.com/2022/02/rihanna-feeding-pigeons-is-the-spirit-of-valentines-day.html) happens during [Aquarius season](https://www.thecut.com/article/what-is-aquarius-season-characteristics-and-dates.html), which is perfect. (I mean, have you seen the Valentine’s Day [aesthetic](https://www.thecut.com/article/flower-bouquet-alternatives.html)?

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Image courtesy of "KSLA"

Valentine's Day sales about the same as last year despite inflation ... (KSLA)

Consumers expected to spend $25.9 billion, up from $23.9 billion.

The only holidays that top Valentine’s Day spending are Christmas and Mother’s Day. (KSLA) — Consumers are expected to spend $25.9 billion this Valentine’s Day, up from $23.9 billion in 2022, according to Consumers expected to spend $25.9 billion, up from $23.9 billion

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Image courtesy of "Big Think"

Happy Valentine's Day — in 10 maps! (Big Think)

Three young Irish women pray to St. Valentine for love. The shrine at Whitefriar Church in Dublin contains relics of the 3rd-century saint. (Credit: Niall ...

We will have a map of the USA and as we get a Valentine, we will place a heart sticker on the state. Valentine in Nebraska is the only city in the U.S. On the maps, however, there are also large zones of unmarried bliss in the southwest and in the northern prairies. On the cartograms, Washington DC stands out as a marriage desert (or, if you will, a singles oasis). On the right is a companion piece, showing “The Fortified Country of a Man’s Heart,” a citadel to be conquered by the poor woman who is also treading through the aforementioned minefield. On the left is a map of the “Open Country of a Woman’s Heart,” published in Connecticut around 1840. We all start out from the Land of Youth (“Land der Jugend,” bottom), with such localities as Charm Castle (“Reizenstein”) and Carefree (“Sorgenlos”). Locals will scoff at the suggestion that the “most loving” cities in the UK, France, and Belgium are Newcastle, Paris, and Antwerp, respectively. We should aim for the Land of Happy Love (“Land der glücklichen Liebe”) — alarmingly, just one among many destinations. But in any of the smaller language families and isolates sprinkled across Europe, the declaration of love sounds a bit weird (to non-native speakers, at least). That’s just one of the many stories and traditions that have attached themselves to the popular patron saint of courtly love (and, incidentally, of beekeepers). An analysis of Google searches per state reveals answers ranging from plain vanilla (flowers in Alaska and Maryland) via uber-romantic (poetry in Alabama and Maine) to kinky and hardcore (sex toys in Wyoming, cheap sex toys in Tennessee).

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Image courtesy of "Spectrum News 1"

Small businesses feeling impacts of inflation ahead of Valentine's Day (Spectrum News 1)

WORCESTER, Mass. - Small businesses around central Massachusetts are getting ready for Valentine's Day, and at many stores, the holiday favorites may cost a ...

Valentine's Day is behind Christmas in terms of sales, but it helps provide his chocolate shop with a mid-winter boost. "Yeah, help is an issue," said Goodhile. Goodhile said if prices remain high, he'll be forced to re-evaluate the cost of his products. "Part of the fun is seeing the expression on someone's face when they're receiving something beautiful." Items like the butter, cream, and of course the chocolate are all more expensive. Chocolate ingredients went up about 33%.

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Image courtesy of "The Daily Advocate"

Happy Valentine's Day - Daily Advocate & Early Bird News (The Daily Advocate)

By Vickie Rhodehamel. Arcanum News. Happy Valentine's Day! The popularity of St. Valentine's Day has grown to mark the day lovers exchange love notes called ...

The Arcanum Alumni Association cordially invites all alumni to the 2023 Arcanum Alumni Banquet to come enjoy a good meal and the fellowship of classmates and friends in a relaxed, casual atmosphere on April 15, no suits, ties or high heels necessary. This exciting day for the county’s top spellers was held at Romer’s Catering in Greenville where 32 students and their parents gathered to share a special lunch before the 2023 Darke County Spelling Bee, hosted by Darke County Educational Service Center (ESC), commenced. Accordingly, Christians fasted from Monday to Saturday (six days) during six weeks and from Wednesday to Saturday (four days) in the preceding week, thus making up the number of 40 days. The Arcanum Alumni asks that you consider sending a donation to the Scholarship Fund to further the education of our current senior class. Every Sunday was seen as a commemoration of the Sunday of Christ’s resurrection and so as a feast day on which fasting was inappropriate. To help with these increasing costs, the directors are asking for people to “Adopt a Character” from their upcoming production of The Wizard Of Oz. The scholarships are funded by local businesses and the alumni base. Ash Wednesday is a day of fasting, the first day of Lent in Western Christianity. By the Middle Ages, Valentine assumed the image of a heroic and romantic figure amongst the masses in England and France. Ash Wednesday derives its name from the practice of blessing ashes made from palm branches blessed on the previous year Palm Sunday, and placing them on the heads of participants to the accompaniment of the words “Repent, and believe in the Gospel” or “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return.” According to the gospels of Matthew, Mark and Luke, Jesus Christ spent 40 days fasting in the desert, where he endured temptation by Satan; Lent originated as a mirroring of this, fasting 40 days as preparation for Easter. It is said that in the Rome of ancient times people observed a holiday on Feb. In the beginning the trend was to send handmade cards but this changed at the beginning of the 19th century when mass-produced greeting cards caught fancy with people.

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Image courtesy of "AS English"

What is Valentine's Day, and why do we celebrate it? The history of ... (AS English)

The day was once conceived as part of Christianity breaking with pagain tradition but is now nearly fully secular.

Over time, Saint Valentine became associated with love and romance, and the holiday evolved into a day to celebrate romantic love. The celebration of Valentine’s Day is believed to date back to ancient Rome, where a festival called Lupercalia was held in mid-February to venerate fertility and the coming of spring. To this end, the Catholic Church declared 14 February as Saint Valentine’s Day, in honor of a Christian martyr named Valentine who was believed to have been executed on that day.

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Image courtesy of "The Post"

Your Valentine's Day horoscope 2023 (The Post)

Valentine's Day is the day to express love and appreciation for not only our romantic partners but our closest friends and family, too.

Mercury is in your sign, and Mars is in your fifth house of romance, so anything is possible. This may inspire you to host a Valentine’s Day activity this year, either with friends or a partner. Capricorn, your Jupiter is in Aries in your fourth house of home. This Valentine’s Day can attest to that, as you would much rather spend meaningful time with your friends or love interest than engage in gift-giving. Venus is in conjunction with Neptune in your relationship sector, drawing you to be more romantic today. Today, you may find yourself daydreaming about your special someone. Geminis are skilled at expressing their feelings more than the other signs, making it important to align your feelings with your actions this Valentine’s Day. With many Virgo’s love language being acts of service, provide your Virgo partner with an act that will make their day. If your partner is a Taurus sun sign, you should expect a well-thought-out Valentine’s Day with no detail missed, as they are great planners. The moon’s ruler, Jupiter, will be in your 12th house, suggesting you may spend your day with a love interest. It is important to honor what you feel, especially on a day like this. Keep reading to find out what the stars have in line for you this holiday.

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Image courtesy of "KCRA Sacramento"

With highest-spending Valentine's Day on record projected, some ... (KCRA Sacramento)

In north Sacramento, David Sorto and his family sell holiday gifts on special occasions like Valentine's and Mother's Day. "She [aunt] prepares the gifts a ...

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Image courtesy of "MARCA.com"

Happy Valentine's Day Quotes: What are the best love quotes? (MARCA.com)

This Tuesday is February 14, which mean's it's Valentine's Day 2023. It's a day for giving gifts and for spreading the love, so many people want to know ...

- "You must have known that I was lonely because you came to my rescue, and I know that this must be heaven. You love them in spite of the fact that they're not." - "You don't love someone because they're perfect. Oh, my love is like the melody, that's sweetly played in tune." - "Oh, my love is like a red, red rose, that's newly sprung in June. - "When we love, we always strive to become better than we are.

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Image courtesy of "CNET"

Valentine's Day: Grab Some of These Restaurant Freebies and ... (CNET)

Celebrate love today with BOGO deals and heart-shaped pizzas.

[TGI Fridays](https://tgifridays.com/). [Ruth's Chris Steak House](https://www.ruthschris.com/) is offering Ruth's Chris's Chateaubriand for two now through Feb. [Potbelly](https://www.potbelly.com/) Perks members can get a free cookie of their choosing on Valentine's Day when they order an entree. [Krispy Kreme](https://www.krispykreme.com/) is pairing up with Hershey's for its love-inspired doughnuts. Get two starters, an entree, personal sides and dessert for $160 ($190 in Hawaii). [Dairy Queen's](https://www.dairyqueen.com/en-us/) new Triple Truffle Blizzard Cupid Cake this holiday. Indulge in a large heart-shaped Round Table Pizza on Valentine's Day -- this applies to both create-your-own and specialty pizzas. And since Valentine's Day is on a Tuesday this year, rewards members can dine in and double their earnings. It has a whole lineup, including red velvet cookies and brookies (brownie cookies), both available as vegan options. [Carvel](https://www.carvel.com/) are pretty in pink and perfect for Valentine's Day. You can also buy a $25 gift card and receive a $5 reward card through Feb. Finish off the meal with a warm chocolate lava cake with berries and cream for $9.50.

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Image courtesy of "Aljazeera.com"

Photos: Valentine's Day celebrations around the world (Aljazeera.com)

The February 14 occasion is marked in many countries but traditions are often very different. Valentines day. A Palestinian man balances a giant teddy as he ...

Promoters quickly got the idea to extend the “tradition” beyond lovers, with schoolchildren often expected to bring a Valentine card for every one of their classmates. He literally lost his head over love – decapitated on the orders of Emperor Claudius II, they say, for secretly performing weddings. In England, the exchange of messages known as “Valentines” on February 14 developed with the rise of the postal service in the 19th century, with the sender often signing off “Your Valentine”.

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Image courtesy of "The Columbus Dispatch"

Some Ohio universities celebrate married alumni couples each ... (The Columbus Dispatch)

Whether you met in college or just attended the same alma mater, some Ohio universities pay special attention to their alumni couples each February.

To be in college and meet the person who you are going to spend the rest of your life with during that time, I think is is pretty special," she said. About 75 couples told their stories, said Molly Ranz-Calhoun, president and CEO of the Ohio State Alumni Association. "I mean the whole story of meeting at whatever your alma mater is and what that grows into ... The tradition of sending valentine cards to Miami Mergers was started in February 1973 by John Dolibois, then vice president for development and alumni affairs, and John Yeck, who ran a direct mail advertising business with his brother. For 50 years, the Miami University Alumni Association has been creating and sending Miami Merger valentine cards to thousands of alumni. (Ranz-Calhoun said the university is always collecting campus love stories, and alumni can share them by calling 614-696-6288.) Very often one of the first things they say is, 'It felt like home.' What better way to celebrate that feeling than celebrating those who found love on this campus," she said. Valentine's Day 2022 was their first to receive a Miami Mergers valentine card in the mail. The cards were strictly a way to celebrate alumni, Tavares said. Rogers (who the university recognizes as an honorary Falcon Flame with his wife Sandra Earle, who works at BGSU as a university advocate) presided over the ceremony. Miami Mergers is the university's designation for married alumni couples. The Thomases met during their early days at Miami when Ciera, a sophomore, and Nick, just beginning his freshman year, hung out and studied at the Center for Student Diversity and Inclusion.

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Image courtesy of "UConn Daily Campus"

Do you need help imagining your dream Valentine's Day? (UConn Daily Campus)

Or maybe use the Eiffel Tower as a backdrop to your corny touristy couple selfie? No, of course not. These are way too basic, too predictable. A dream ...

Imagine the scene of escaping from a volcanic eruption with your partner. Don’t let your thoughts get the best of you. The amusements of your local Chili’s? If the temperature starts increasing, get a light jog going while holding hands to get out of the blast radius. 2022, stay there for a while and get a sense of the place. Would you like to be whisked away to a field of roses?

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Image courtesy of "Reuters"

Valentine's Day frowned upon by many, but not all, in Gaza Strip (Reuters)

Valentine's Day is considered un-Islamic by many of the 2.3 million Palestinians living in the Gaza Strip and business was slower than usual on Tuesday at ...

Citing security concerns about Gaza's ruling Hamas Islamists, Israel and Egypt closely control the enclave's border. Register for free to Reuters and know the full story "I still want to celebrate Valentine's Day, despite the wars we live through and the earthquake," she said.

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Image courtesy of "WCNC.com"

The history of Valentine's Day (WCNC.com)

It's pretty standard to give your sweetheart a card or flowers on Valentine's Day. The tradition isn't new, dating back to Pagan times, ...

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Image courtesy of "Guilty Eats"

What are we giving our sweeties on Valentine's Day? (Guilty Eats)

While some of us like to give flowers and candies, others might want to think outside of the box. Of course, we absolutely love giving chocolates on Valentine's ...

And whether they love chocolate, meats and cheeses, or fruits dipped in chocolate, there are a lot of ways that you can spoil someone this year. We love [Nothing Bundt Cakes](https://guiltyeats.com/2023/02/06/nothing-bundt-cakes-introduces-new-limited-edition-flavor/) and would definitely feel the love if we got these as a gift for Valentine’s Day. And yes, for Valentine’s Day we are definitely turning to them for some amazing foodie gifts. From charcuterie boards to boxes of chocolate, there are any number of ways to give a little magic this Valentine’s Day. They offer a wide range of amazing foodie gifts that are perfect for any occasion. [Valentine’s Day](https://guiltyeats.com/holiday/) has arrived and that means making sure that we do a little something extra for our sweetheart.

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Image courtesy of "KY3"

Springfield Valentine's Day deals you'll love (KY3)

Food: Participating Krispy Kreme locations are offering a limited-edition dozen box with its new heart-shaped doughnuts made with Hershey's chocolate. Local ...

[20-50% off Valentine’s Day gifts](https://go.skimresources.com/?id=126006X1587338&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.macys.com%2Fshop%2Fsale%2FPrice_discount_range%2F20_PERCENT_%2520off%2520%2526%2520more%3Fid%3D3536%26tagid%3D4431769_02_03%26ctype%3DG%26cm_re%3D2023.02.10-_-HOMEPAGE_INCLUDE_1_row_02-_-CATEGORY%2520--%25205125%2520--%2520%3AVday%2520BG%25201%2520DT&xcust=xid:fr1676290714557fhj) during this retailer’s online sale. [buy two jewelry items and get one jewelry item free](https://go.skimresources.com/?id=126006X1587338&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fus.pandora.net%2Fen%2Fjewelry%2F%3FseoPlacementIndex%3D2%26seoModuleIndex%3D2%26moduleContext%3D%257BmoduleType%253Dm63-promotion-module%252C%2520parentItems%253D%255B2179578%255D%252C%2520itemContentType%253Dm63-promotion-module%252C%2520deviceData%253D%255Bdesktop%252C%2520mobile%255D%257D&xcust=xid:fr1676290714556ffg), including Valentine’s Day designs. [50% off dresses, sweaters, boots and more](https://go.skimresources.com/?id=126006X1587338&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nordstrom.com%2Fbrowse%2Fsale%2Fall%3Fbreadcrumb%3DHome%252FSale%252FAll%2520Sale%26origin%3Dtopnav&xcust=xid:fr1676290714557ijf) from this retailer. [markdowns up to 40% off](https://go.skimresources.com/?id=126006X1587338&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.katespade.com%2Fshop%2Fsale%2Fview-all&xcust=xid:fr1676290714556gic), including handbags, shoes and clothes. [deals ](https://www.att.com/gift-ideas/valentines-day/)for the day including $1000 of the iPhone 14. [free Heart Mug Set](https://go.skimresources.com/?id=126006X1587338&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lecreuset.com%2F&xcust=xid:fr1676290714556cef) with a $250 cookware purchase using the promo code LOVE. [30% off Valentine’s Day flowers and gifts](https://go.skimresources.com/?id=126006X1587338&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ftd.com%2Fflowers%2Fdelivery-deals%3Fcid%3Dftdseo%26intcid%3DGlobalBanner_DTSFollowDTS_VdaySale30OFF_Feb7_2023%26prid%3Dftdseo&xcust=xid:fr1676290714556gfh) with the option of same-day delivery from this florist. [Jamba rewards members](https://www.jamba.com/rewards) on Valentine’s Day. [77″ Class S95C OLED 4K Smart TV](https://go.skimresources.com/?id=126006X1587338&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.samsung.com%2Fus%2Ftelevisions-home-theater%2Ftvs%2Foled-tvs%2F77-class-s95c-oled-4k-smart-tv-2023-qn77s95cafxza%2F&xcust=xid:fr1676290714556ffd) online and receive free installation for a limited time. [deals on Alexa-enabled devices](https://www.amazon.com/deals?ots=1&slotNum=2&imprToken=88c3255b-422d-64b4-6a6&deals-widget=%257B%2522version%2522%253A1%252C%2522viewIndex%2522%253A0%252C%2522presetId%2522%253A%252236F04A8A8176C94ED7C22E622CB6B797%2522%252C%2522departments%2522%253A%255B%25222102313011%2522%255D%252C%2522sorting%2522%253A%2522BY_SCORE%2522%257D&linkCode=ll2&tag=advancenjtrxbfcm30-20&linkId=1e814bda4cd70799ecbad06c2814daf7&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl), including Fire TVs, tablets, Echo Dots and Ring doorbell systems. [Schlotzsky’s rewards members](https://www.schlotzskys.com/rewards) buy one, get one free Cinnabon at participating locations. [Krispy Kreme](https://www.krispykreme.com/promos/valentinesday) locations are offering a limited-edition dozen box with its new heart-shaped doughnuts made with Hershey’s chocolate.

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Image courtesy of "WPRI.com"

Inflation impacting consumers, businesses this Valentine's Day (WPRI.com)

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — Valentine's Day is an opportunity to express love to that special person in your life, oftentimes through gifts, but this year ...

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Image courtesy of "Iowa State Daily"

Valentine's Day: A day of love or a nightmare? (Iowa State Daily)

Valentine's Day can be an opportunity to shower loved ones with gifts and affection, but for many students it is an unpopular day of the year. Rachael Kauffman, ...

However, she does not want to hype it up too much and usually hates seeing all of the couples on Valentine’s Day. She compares it to Cinco de Mayo, which she said is an excuse to get drunk and eat tacos. She wants society to normalize buying yourself flowers as a form of self love. Kauffman does not love Valentine’s Day, but she does like when people get together with their friends and have Galentine’s Day. Chelsea Suarez, a sophomore studying psychology, thinks Valentine’s Day is a marketing scheme. “You really hear the people who are like, ‘You know what, get a room.’”

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Image courtesy of "NPR"

20000 roses, inflation and night terrors: the life of a florist on ... (NPR)

It's the biggest day of the year for the $8 billion global flower industry, but it's not all that profitable. Why? Blame the roses.

The traditional Valentine's Day panic purchase. The Valentine's day classic. The global competition for these flowers on this day is fierce and expensive. These are the last minute orders and Chris Palliser says he knows exactly what they are. The default expression of love the world over. "Valentine's Day is the Super Bowl," he says. "Obviously, it's Valentine's Day, you have to offer roses," says Rob Palliser. The rising cost of airfare, fuel and shipping have really pushed prices up. "The three days before Valentine's Day, I'm having... And it is all about the rose. Most of them were grown near the equator. This year, wholesale prices in the US are reportedly between $1 - $3.

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Image courtesy of "Los Angeles Times"

Valentine's Day: Self-care ideas cheaper than therapy (Los Angeles Times)

If you're looking for a Valentine's Day gift for yourself, how about some mental health self-care? Try these free and cheaper alternatives to traditional ...

[7 Cups](https://www.7cups.com/) offers free peer support 24/7 with an option to upgrade to a licensed therapist for $150 a month. [Find more information on mindfulness and meditation activities here](https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2022-09-22/mental-health-resources-to-help-yourself-or-anyone-else-how-to-save-a-life). [National Alliance on Mental Illness](https://www.namiglac.org/) of Greater Los Angeles County and [associated chapters throughout the region](https://www.namiglac.org/chapter-support) (including the San Fernando Valley, Glendale, the San Gabriel Valley, the Pomona Valley, the South Bay) offer free peer support groups over Zoom led by trained facilitators for people living with mental illness or their family members. [iPrevail platform](https://lacounty.iprevail.com/?rsc=lac_ip). Call or text (855) 845-7415 or [click “online chat” on the warmline’s website](https://www.mentalhealthsf.org/peer-run-warmline/). Self-Help and Recovery Exchange](https://shareselfhelp.org/) has a regularly updated calendar of free volunteer-run support groups, including ones that meet on Zoom or in person in Culver City and downtown Los Angeles. [988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline](https://988lifeline.org/) is available by dialing 988. [Therapy](https://www.latimes.com/lifestyle/story/2020-12-23/what-is-therapy-what-happens-what-types-are-there) is great, but it’s usually pricey. [California Peer-Run Warm Line](https://www.mentalhealthsf.org/peer-run-warmline/) is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to California residents. It is available for Spanish speakers at (888) 628-9454 and for [deaf or hard of hearing people online](https://988lifeline.org/help-yourself/for-deaf-hard-of-hearing/) (or via TTY). [your mental health](https://www.latimes.com/topic/mental-health). County residents](https://www.headspace.com/lacounty) (and has 14-day free trials for everyone else).

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Image courtesy of "Space.com"

Watch Venus snuggle up to Neptune for Valentine's Day tonight (Space.com)

The solar system's hottest planet risks the cold shoulder by snuggling up to the ice giant Neptune in the night sky this week.

[best telescopes](https://www.space.com/15693-telescopes-beginners-telescope-reviews-buying-guide.html) and [best binoculars](https://www.space.com/26021-best-binoculars.html) are a great place to start. This doesn't make it the coldest planet in the solar system, however, with its fellow ice giant [Uranus](https://www.space.com/45-uranus-seventh-planet-in-earths-solar-system-was-first-discovered-planet.html) considered colder, even though as the seventh planet from the sun it is about a billion miles close to the sun than Neptune. Venus and Neptune are also wildly different in terms of size. The planets will be close enough in the night sky during the conjunction to be spotted using a telescope and should also be visible using binoculars. This is 30 times the distance between the Earth and the sun and means Neptune takes 165 Earth years to complete an orbit. It varies wildly in its surface temperature of 900 degrees Fahrenheit (475 degrees Celsius), hot enough to melt lead, however. In terms of conjunctions, it would be pretty difficult to find one comprised of two planets more different than Venus and Neptune. 15), the pair will share the same right ascension (the celestial equivalent of longitude) in an arrangement astronomers call a "conjunction." [Venus](https://www.space.com/44-venus-second-planet-from-the-sun-brightest-planet-in-solar-system.html) and [Neptune](https://www.space.com/41-neptune-the-other-blue-planet-in-our-solar-system.html) will join together in the night sky in the early evening. Venus will have a magnitude of -4.0, with the minus prefix indicating a particularly bright celestial object, while Neptune will be quite dim with a magnitude of 8.0. EST (0143 GMT). EST (2242 GMT).

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Image courtesy of "Psychology Today"

Reinventing Valentine's Day for All the Single People (Psychology Today)

If you have nurturing relationships with children, whether they are your offspring, nieces and nephews, neighborhood kids, friends' babies, or your students, ...

Notice that as you brighten the day of others, you brighten your own. Post them where you’ll read them for days to come, and rewire your brain to affirm the true love that you are. [gratitude](https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/gratitude). It’s a day that can trigger you to feel alone and longing for what you don’t have. If you have nurturing relationships with children, whether they are your offspring, nieces and nephews, neighborhood kids, friends’ babies, or your students, remember that children can especially embody love and adoration toward the caring adults in their lives. It’s a day that underscores the fact that you are unattached and perhaps lonesome, without a special someone to call your own.

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Image courtesy of "KOLD"

Do you have a price for love? Experts say this Valentine's Day will ... (KOLD)

According to experts, Americans are expected to spend nearly $26 billion on special gifts for their loved ones. That data shows people will be spending more ...

That has nothing to do with the flower business but produce issues and all sorts of things,” Biggs said. “We tried our best to keep our prices about the same where they were but it has certainly been a challenge,” Biggs said. Biggs said they are doing everything to keep prices down on flowers like roses, tulips, lilies and daisies. “Everything we’ve had to buy has been increased.” Whether you are buying yourself flowers or buying them for a significant other, experts say to expect higher prices across the board. (13 News) - Are you planning on celebrating big on Valentine’s Day?

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Image courtesy of "URI Today"

Valentine's Day and the LGBTQ+ community (URI Today)

KINGSTON, R.I. – FEB. 14, 2023 – When people think of Valentine's Day, they generally think of hearts and flowers and maybe their favorite romantic comedy.

The Gender and Sexuality Center is open to all members of the URI community. Our center is intended to be a safe place for all those who need it and to help connect members of the LGBTQ community to one another and to allies with whom they can seek support. If you aren’t able to make one of the workshops this week, you can register for a future workshop or contact our office to schedule a workshop for your office, department, or group. Typically portrayed in popular culture and the media as celebrating romantic love between a man and a woman, Valentine’s Day can be hard to navigate for members of the queer community making this time of year particularly difficult. URI’s Gender and Sexuality Center offers Safe Zone workshops regularly throughout the year that advance awareness, knowledge, and skills around LGBTQ+ inclusion. Some may enjoy the day and take special care to spend time with and appreciate their significant other.

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Image courtesy of "KOLO"

Academy of Arts, Careers, and Technology Rose Sale for ... (KOLO)

AACT Students in the agriculture class have put together over 100-dozen flower arrangements for Valentine's Day.

Seeing the smiles on people’s faces and just how the flowers make people feel and also trying to keep the floral culture community alive because it is a bit of a dying industry. Their rose sale planning began in August and has been going on for five years. It’s something that allows our community to participate in floral culture. [AACT’s Rose Sale](https://www.instagram.com/aactreno/) just shows the impact programs like this have on students and our community. “It’s amazing to see about 80 kids can turn out about a hundred dozen rose arrangements and processing and just their level of growth to when they started their arrangement as a freshman to where they are as a senior, seeing that and the smiling faces and the kid deliver it to the customer and the learning that goes on that’s what I am in it for.” “This is something we do every year for Valentine’s Day.

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Image courtesy of "1011now"

Lincoln flower shop preps for their Super Bowl: Valentine's Day (1011now)

House of Flowers starts planning for Valentine's Day in June and brings in an extra 15000 stems for the big day.

“But I remember his first date, he was so nervous and we talked about it all the way up to his wedding,” Anderson said. “It’s a team effort.” “It gets really hectic; we limit our website orders,” she said.

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Image courtesy of "USA TODAY"

She's giving Valentine's Day flowers to 800 widows to 'show love to ... (USA TODAY)

Ashley Manning is founder of the Valentine's Day Widow Outreach Project, a program she said she created "to show love to those who are hurting."

"Showing love and compassion to our neighbors can change someone’s life, she continued. I hope this project inspires you to listen to that little voice when it calls." [initial goal was to serve ](https://www.prettythingsbyaemanning.com/projects-2) [175 widows](https://www.prettythingsbyaemanning.com/projects-2), but because she raised more than $22,000 she was able to oversee 300 volunteers deliver arrangements to 400 widows. [Where are Americans tying the knot?](https://www.usatoday.com/story/life/2023/02/14/wedding-planning-marriage-rates-by-state-database/11212435002/) [Don't reserve celebrations of love to just Valentine's Day if you want a healthier heart, expert says](https://www.usatoday.com/story/life/health-wellness/2023/02/14/love-psychological-benefits-heart-health/11249951002/) ](https://www.instagram.com/p/Coh6u2npj6s/)

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Image courtesy of "Psychiatric Times"

Sex, Loneliness, the Super Bowl, and Valentine's Day (Psychiatric Times)

PSYCHIATRIC VIEWS ON THE DAILY NEWS. Some people like the halftime entertainment better than the football game itself. Like the game, as I discussed ...

He serves on the Editorial Board of Psychiatric Times™. Through the influential Freudian theories of his times, psychiatry used to be a profession that focused on sex, including its underlying meanings. A prolific writer and speaker, he received the one-time designation of Hero of Public Psychiatry from the Assembly of the American Psychiatric Association in 2002. Social media is high on the list, despite the paradox of all the “friends” on Facebook profiles. A growing concern about having children is the future of our climate. Rihanna was the star and sang her hits.

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Image courtesy of "Fox Business"

Companies that profit the most from love around Valentine's Day (Fox Business)

1-800-Flowers CEO Chris McCann discusses the big business of Valentine's Day spending. While most Americans will be gazing into their loved one's eyes on ...

The National Retail Federation says 21% of people plan to gift their partner some sort of jewelry for Valentine's Day in 2023. Jewelry companies also profit well during the Valentine’s Day season. [founder and CEO of Farmgirl Flowers,](https://www.foxbusiness.com/small-business/farmgirl-flowers-a-fierce-business-model-for-flowers) a direct-to-consumer e-commerce flower company, learned that although massive marketing campaigns were geared toward men during Valentine’s Day for flowers, it was women who were often the buyers. Morgan Hermand-Waiche, the founder of Adore Me, told FOX Business back in 2017 that sales volume typically picks up three to five times on a daily basis around Valentine’s Day season. [total spending for Valentine’s Day](https://www.foxnews.com/category/lifestyle/occasions/holiday) in 2023 will be $25.9 billion, up from $23.9 billion in 2022. The Valentine's preparations begin before February, he says. In 2012, our revenues were $1.1 million; in 2013, they grew to $5.6 million; by 2014, we were grossing $16 million; and in 2015, we raked in $42.6 million." Flowers are a classic way to show love to a significant other. [companies like Hallmark](https://corporate.hallmark.com/valentinesslideshow/) are expected to profit enormously around Valentine's Day as it's the second-biggest holiday for the company behind Christmas. Throughout the year, Americans purchase flowers for occasions that include Mother's Day, Easter and New Year's Day. "Since its inception, [we] have experienced exponential growth. HOW WELL DO YOU KNOW THESE FACTS ABOUT THE ANNUAL DAY OF LOVE?](https://www.foxnews.com/lifestyle/valentines-day-quiz-how-well-know-facts-annual-day-love)

How chocolate makers inspire devotion from consumers on ... (Food Dive)

Shoppers spent about $4 billion on candies for loved ones in 2022, and spending is projected to increase in 2023. Here's how Godiva and Ferrero work to make ...

Valentine's Day represents about 13% of the company's annual sales. The wonder of Godiva. Some of this is based on the emotions that consumers are hoping to communicate with their Valentine’s Day sweets. Ferrero Rocher’s Valentine’s Day ad campaign tagline is “Celebrate the moment.” Wakefield said Ferrero looks to capitalize on all of the moments that people experience — and can accentuate with chocolate. Another thing Godiva and Ferrero do to inspire brand loyalty is create Valentine’s Day confections for a variety of different relationships. They’re moments between friends, “Galentine’s Day” celebrations between women, and moments spent last weekend while watching the Super Bowl. Wakefield said the company’s premium chocolate brands — Ferrero Rocher and Fannie May — sold $57 million worth of chocolates during Valentine’s Day 2022. Wakefield said Ferrero Rocher has variety boxes, which mix the gold-wrapped hazelnut chocolate balls with almond-forward white creamy Rafaello balls and dark chocolate Rondnoir candies. And several manufacturers, ranging from those that make everyday favorites including Hershey and Mars, to those that make high-end gift boxes of chocolates, cash in on the holiday, In the last year, Afridi said, Godiva increased its points of distribution by 26%. Ferrero has a large portfolio of recognizable brands in the U.S. It’s a holiday that represents about $4 billion in sales, according to IRI statistics cited by the trade group, and the sector is anticipating 5% sales growth this year from 2022.

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Image courtesy of "KPLC"

Valentine's Day keeping florists busy (KPLC)

While chocolates, romantic dinners, and stuffed animals are always popular choices, many prefer the tried and true gift of flowers. From getting a colorful ...

And, if you’re curious, the least popular flower on Valentine’s Day... [USA Today](https://www.usatoday.com/story/graphics/2023/02/11/consumers-plan-to-increase-valentines-day-spending-nearly-26-billion/11227844002/), many people plan to buy something for their significant other for Valentine’s Day. [The Flower Shop](https://www.lakecharlesflowershop.com/) in Lake Charles who says the most popular flower of the day is, of course, roses.

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Image courtesy of "huntingdondailynews.com"

Valentine's Day prices up (huntingdondailynews.com)

Whether buying flowers, dining out or preparing a meal at home, celebrating Valentine's Day in Huntingdon County isn't immune from the impacts of inflation ...

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Image courtesy of "CBS News"

On Your Side: Valentine's Day inflation (CBS News)

A new report shows inflation rose in January more than expected, and up 6.4-percent from a year ago. Inflation has also struck Cupid, and couples will be ...

- Buying a steak and grilling it at home will cost you less as well. A new report shows inflation rose in January more than expected, and up 6.4-percent from a year ago. - And a bottle of perfume is up nearly 9 percent. - A box of chocolates is up nearly 8.5 percent. - A romantic dinner is up more than 16 percent. - The cost of one dozen roses is up nearly 4 percent.

Florists have been gearing up for their Super Bowl: Valentine's Day (WSIU)

The rose business on Valentine's Day is a mad rush of flowers grown and shipped from around the world. An intricate supply chain must come together to cap ...

The price - $185. VANEK SMITH: In just seven minutes of trimming and arranging, the Boho Blush is ready. The rising cost of airfare, fuel, labor and shipping have pushed the price of roses way up. So to try to make the Valentine's math a little rosier this year, Chris and Rob Palliser are offering a bunch of Valentine's bouquets that feature other flowers. MEGAN VEJBY: For tulips, you keep the bottoms clean. Even though this is the busiest day of the year for Scotts Flowers and the whole global flower industry, it is not all that profitable this year. CHRIS PALLISER: Valentine's Day - it's the Super Bowl. Most of them were grown near the equator. The reason - blame the roses. Chris Palliser pulls a stack off the printer. Rose prices have nearly doubled since the start of the pandemic. VANEK SMITH: And there is no room to fumble.

How Companies Can Create Effective Valentine's Day Social Media ... (The National Law Review)

You can create a B2B email marketing, content marketing or social media campaign based on love or appreciation for your clients, employees and the community at ...

Curate your favorite lists – publish lists of your employees’ favorite books, rom-coms, love songs – you get the idea. Celebrate self-love – Valentine’s Day is the perfect day to remind your followers of the importance of taking care of themselves. Share Valentine’s recipes – get your employees involved by asking them to contribute their favorite Valentine’s Day dinner, cocktail and dessert recipes.

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Image courtesy of "UC Berkeley"

It's Valentine's Day: Let's name Annie the falcon's new mate (UC Berkeley)

Annie, an approximately nine-year-old falcon that has lived on campus since late 2016 and last year lost her longtime mate, Grinnell, and likely her next mate, ...

“That particular quirk makes us think that he’s relatively young and still learning the ropes.” But the rest of the time, he should leave the prey outside.” The following day, a list of finalist names selected by Cal Falcons volunteers will be shared with the public, and voting on those will end Wednesday, Feb. “Falcon courtship involves several different behaviors, including head-bow displays in the nest box, prey deliveries and aerial acrobatics, culminating with copulation,” said Sean Peterson, an environmental biologist with Cal Falcons. Annie typically has laid eggs in mid-March (specifically, March 12-24). It’s still a mystery,” said Peterson. In the Bay Area, he explained, the first egg of any nest is laid around March 1. It’s still possible he’ll show up again, but that’s not very likely.” Later that day, the winning name will be revealed. Miller succeeded Joseph Grinnell as director of Berkeley’s Museum of Vertebrate Zoology. Hurry, as the contest will close to suggestions already this Thursday, Feb. And he’s an apparent love match for Annie, UC Berkeley’s longtime peregrine falcon.

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Image courtesy of "Psychology Today"

Reinventing Valentine's Day for All the Single People (Psychology Today)

By recognizing what you have instead of dwelling on what you don't have, you can celebrate all the love you have in your life. Cultivating a loving mindset is ...

Notice that as you brighten the day of others, you brighten your own. Post them where you’ll read them for days to come, and rewire your brain to affirm the true love that you are. [gratitude](https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/basics/gratitude). It’s a day that can trigger you to feel alone and longing for what you don’t have. If you have nurturing relationships with children, whether they are your offspring, nieces and nephews, neighborhood kids, friends’ babies, or your students, remember that children can especially embody love and adoration toward the caring adults in their lives. It’s a day that underscores the fact that you are unattached and perhaps lonesome, without a special someone to call your own.

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Image courtesy of "University of Denver"

Q&A: What Valentine's Day and Commitment Looks Like in Queer ... (University of Denver)

What has your research shown about love-centered holidays like Valentine's Day? · What could a couple looking to deepen their romantic relationship do on ...

In some ways, this buffet of options available for queer people and queer couples makes it a little more complicated to know for yourself what you want. But when it doesn't fit that kind of standard outline, it brings up a lot of questions for oneself, and maybe some doubt, or maybe some shame. It takes a lot of self-awareness to be able to articulate what you want in a relationship, and then to be able to ask someone else what they want. There are some challenges that folks have to navigate, and those are really hard in some ways, but there’s also some beautiful opportunities to be true to yourself. I do think for lots of folks, identity aside, online dating makes things very transactional and really reduces someone’s ability to attend to someone and think about them as an individual. I think first and foremost, in a lot of ways, we’re all the same; we want to love and be loved in very common, universal ways. So family acceptance of a dating partner might be a complicated situation for a queer person or a queer couple. And I do think a little bit about some of those challenges—being things around stigma or homophobia that folks might encounter, or transphobia, or other kinds of discrimination. Those are more varied and diverse and colorful in the queer community. And there isn't a secret magic sauce, I don't think, other than connecting in the way that feels good to you. I think a little bit about what feels right to an individual or a couple, right? We know that date nights are a smaller version of this; it’s really important actually, for maintaining intimacy and connection.

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Image courtesy of "KBTX"

Create a stellar Valentine's Day arrangment (KBTX)

The lead designers of Urban Rubbish Floristry share how to create different styles of arrangements from floral to sweet.

Goodie bags can be a great addition to flowers or something that can stand alone. If you find yourself in a pinch for time Tuesday, Urban Rubbish Floristry has pre-made arrangements that can be picked up. Along with florals, arrangements can include your special someone’s favorite items in a basket, like throw blankets, coffee mugs, face masks and flowers in a bud vase. All it takes is putting the bud vases together off-centered on the table and surrounding them with a few small candles or tealights. Some flowers you can find in stores to use for arrangements include roses, carnations, gunni eucalyptus, wax flowers and mimosa flowers. Although options can be limited, the lead designers of Urban Rubbish Floristry, Meagan Garza and Hannah Moore, have several ways to create standout arrangements.

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Image courtesy of "Fox News"

Valentine's Day flowers discouraged over environment concerns ... (Fox News)

New York Times writer makes the case for environmentalism by encouraging people to gift paper flowers instead in lieu of the real deal from Mother Earth.

"But if you want to give your beloved a botanical gift, why not make it a gift to the planet, too?" "But there’s still a big difference between domestically grown houseplants and imported flowers, and not just in the relative carbon costs of transportation," she added. it’s far from benign."

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Image courtesy of "Montclaire News"

Study: Valentine's Day 2023 is All About Gifts, Less About Love (Montclaire News)

The commercialization of Valentine's Day is more prevalent than ever on social media, which may negatively impact mental health.

“Valentine’s Day has always been heavily commercialized, but ubiquitous social media messages about buying something nice perhaps lead us to a skewed view of the meaning of the holiday and love in general.” This is the sixth study released by the Center for Strategic Communication, located within the School of Communication and Media. “The data on #Valentinesday is heavily cluttered with advertisements rather than messages of love on social media” said Jin-A Choi, assistant professor of Advertising at Montclair. Sautter III Center for Strategic Communication at Montclair State University shows that the commercialization of Valentine’s Day is more prevalent than ever, and a more realistic social media post would be less about romance and more about gifts and shopping. - A word cloud generated to show term use frequency in the studied data set further reveals the extent to which commercial and advertising messages are embedded in social media messaging about Valentine’s Day. Media literacy and the ability to unpack manipulative online content should be a focus for all populations, with a significant emphasis on Gen Z.

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Image courtesy of "CBS News"

Happy Valentine's Day! Charlotte florist gives flowers to 800 widows (CBS News)

Ashley Manning, owner of Pretty Things by A.E. Manning, plans on Tuesday to deliver goodies to roughly 800 local widows or people without partners through the ...

We have flipped the script and turned it into a holiday that is not just for people who are married or have a partner to celebrate with," Manning said. "It's a total surprise, and there is a lot of confusion. "The first year I thought I could, but it was a disaster and will never happen again," she said. "I had a little platform and was able to ask people in my community through Instagram to help with outreach. Manning raised $50,000 and amassed more than 1,000 volunteers to support the effort. "I made an arrangement for my son's preschool teacher and she was taken aback by it.

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Image courtesy of "KBZK Bozeman News"

Bozeman flower shops staying busy on Valentine's Day (KBZK Bozeman News)

Valentine's Day is one of the busiest days of the year for florists, and the Flower Bar in Bozeman is no exception.

A variety of industries have been impacted by not just the pandemic, but high gas prices, shipping delays, a labor shortage, natural disasters, weather, and more. Wood’s original step into the flower world began when she answered an ad to deliver flowers on Valentine’s Day for a local shop in Bozeman. “We’ve been starting Valentine’s Day planning since November, so it’s like a six-month project.”

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Image courtesy of "Hawaii News Now"

Not even Valentine's Day can escape inflation: Expect to pay more ... (Hawaii News Now)

Buying a dozen roses in Hawaii doesn't come cheap — it's actually the most expensive in the nation.

”We are definitely going to have them all the way up until we close at 7:00 tonight. So just walk in before seven and we will take care of you,” said Pereira. The average price for a dozen roses in Hawaii is more than a hundred dollars, at $108.33 — the highest in the country.

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