By Catyna Henry

V

alentine's Day, the day of love, roses, cards and romance, is around the corner and the Hornets are getting ready for it. But first lets give you a little history lesson.

According to  the website www.AllAboutPopularIssues.org, Valentine’s Day is named after Saint Valentine who was murdered on Feb. 14 in 270 AD for marrying couples during the time the Roman emperor cancelled all marriages and engagements. He was having a hard time getting men to join the military. When Valentine was caught, he refused to renounce his Christian beliefs, and was sentenced to be beat to death with clubs and be decapitated. Before he died, he left notes for the jailer’s daughter saying, “Love from your Valentine,” which was the first Valentine’s card. Valentine's Day was not celebrated until the Middle Ages. Gift-giving and exchanging of hand-made cards became common in England around the 18th century and in the 1840’s in the U.S.

At the Hive, we have young couples, new couples, older couples and singles who celebrate Valentines Day in their own special way. Leiya Factoran and Gabriel Garcia, both juniors who have a strong love for one another, have spent their Valentine's Day (for the past 2 years and 10 months of their relationship) shopping or on movie dates. They both agreed that their shopping date was the best one. “Material things don’t mean everything, ” said Factoran. “But we bought each other sentimental gifts.”

Lincoln High teacher Ms. Ogo and her husband Daniel Ogo have been together for 10 years, but had their first kiss in the eighth grade. They have two sons together and normally celebrate the holiday without spending much money. “What made Daniel special was I couldn’t go a day without being with him,” said Ms. Ogo. “He’s my soul mate and best friend.”

Valentine’s Day isn’t all about being with a boyfriend or husband; it is about being with whom you love. Najuma Wilkinson, a senior, is single and plans to spend time with friends, on a date, or by herself on the Valentine’s Day. The day doesn’t mean anything different to her, she just will not expect gifts even though she will probably receive them. “My family doesn’t do anything special, but my grandmother gets me candy and my mom gives me a stuffed animal,” said Wilkinson.

Factoran and Garcia are not sure what they will do for Valentine’s Day, but are sure they will have tons of fun. On the other hand, Ms. Ogo and her family plan to go sledding in the mountains, and maybe go to Disneyland. Wilkinson plans to either go on a date or buy herself some gifts.

Valentine’s Day is to be loving and caring to the people whom you are happy to have in your life. This special day is meant for affection, so show it. This year we will be having a pep rally on Feb. 14, at lunch in the center quad, if the weather permits. Make sure to come share the love with your fellow classmates.