RISKY REGENCIES - Diane Gaston of Risky Regencies chronicles the history of Valentine’s Day. While midwinter was a traditional time for ancient fertility rites, it wasn’t until the Middle Ages, and the misinterpretation of a poem by Geoffrey Chaucer, that this minor religious holiday acquired romantic associations. After discussing the first valentine and mentioning various historical and cultural references to Valentine’s Day, Gaston finally explains how Esther Howland, the enterprising daughter of a 19th century American stationer, helped turn February 14th into the holiday we observe today.... 
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QUIRKYALONE - Sasha Cagen’s manifesto – which led to a book, a dating site, and the alternative celebration of International Quirkyalone Day on February 14 -- celebrates herself and other “quirkyalones.” “Deeply single,” highly individual, and not ready to sacrifice their independence or principles for a relationship, quirkyalones value solitude, are open to possibility, and on the lookout for mates who share their sensibilities. Cagen encourages other quirkyalones to embrace their uniqueness, and to band together to form a support network....
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13 MARTYRS - Rob Wagner discusses the Saudi religious police’s annual attempt to ban Valentine’s day by prohibiting the sale of red roses and other romantic merchandise. In spite of, or perhaps because of, this crackdown, many Saudis observe the holiday surreptitiously. Merchants get around the ban by putting up festive decorations weeks in advance, and couples exchange gifts under restaurant tables. While the government is ostensibly opposed to Valentine’s Day because of its Christian origins, they are also afraid of mingling between the sexes, which is already restricted by the state....
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