Sunday, February 11th, 2007
Issue: 10   Editor: iAir


L.O.V.E NyxxieV4
With Valentine’s right around the corner, profiles are decorated with hearts of pink, red and white. Everyone seems to be getting in the Valentine’s Day spirit despite the fact that not all of us may have a significant other.

Although Bootleggers’ marriage isn’t as big of a hype as it used to be, in-game marriages still linger throughout Bootleggers and Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to show your respect and love for that special person.

This extraordinary day originated in Ancient Rome. Then, however, the day was only a day to celebrate and honor Juno, Queen of the Roman Gods and Goddesses. As time progressed, the day shifted to what it is now noted as—a “Hallmark Holiday.”

Not everyone celebrates Valentine’s Day the same way or even on the same date. To some countries, Valentine’s Day isn’t even known as Valentine’s Day!

In Korea, there is an additional day on April 14 called “Black Day,” when males who did not receive anything for Valentine's Day gather together to eat Jajangmyun (Chinese-style noodles in black sauce).

In China, their version of Valentine’s Day doesn’t always lie on the same date. Each year, on the seventh day of the seventh month of the lunar calendar, they celebrate a day called “The Night of the Sevens.”

According to Jewish tradition, usually during late August, is the festival of love (hag haahava). Much like the American tradition, the day is filled with giving gifts of flowers or cards.

In Brazil, Dia dos Namorados (Boyfriend's/Girlfriend's Day) is celebrated June 12th, when couples exchange gifts such as chocolates, cards and usually a flower bouquet. This day was strategically placed a day after Saint Anthony’s day who is the marriage saint.

In Finland, Valentine's Day is called Ystävänpäiväwhich translates into "Friend's day". As the name says, this day is more about remembering your friends than your loved ones.

In Denmark, Norway and Sweden, Valentine’s Day is known as Valentinsdag. It is not celebrated to such as an extent as American tradition, but some take this time to be romantic with their partner or send a card to a secret love.

In the Norfolk, UK, a character called “Jack” Valentine knocks on the rear door of houses leaving sweets and presents for children.

So although we may not all celebrate the day together or even the same day, take this time to be grateful of what you have and to enjoy the friends, lovers and family you have around you. On this day, if you feel alone, always remember that there may be a secret admirer out there who hasn’t found the nerve to tell you how they feel… yet.

Happy Valentine’s Day, Bootleggers!