FEATURE

The history of Valentine’s Day

Love is in the air at our fine institution. Not only because February’s most prolific holiday is upon us quite shortly, but also because I see relatively tame public displays of affection regularly. Quick pecks on the lips, handholding, and even something as simple as two intimate people transfixed by the conversation, smiling at one another—seeing all of these things, and experiencing them myself, just puts a big smile on my face.

LETTITOR

I love bad bitches

I had some trouble coming up with what to write about for this Lettitor, to be honest. I briefly considered writing about da bae, but I empathize with those who would find a 600-word piece on my happiness sickeningly saccharine. Let’s be honest, Valentine’s Day is among the most overwhelmingly caloric of all the sweet holidays, and I think I would blush with embarrassment if I spent editorial space on giving people cavities.

OPINIONS

A league of your own

Few things can strengthen your relationship like athletic activities. It doesn’t matter if you are in shape or not; getting out in the open, breathing in the fresh air, kicking a ball around, or going for a hike does wonders for your psyche, and builds bonds with your partner.

OPINIONS

Commercial and exploitive for singles and couples alike

Every year, chocolates, flowers, and heart-shaped everything come out at the earliest opportunity. The restaurants have their specials, the radio stations play even more love songs, and there’s a general feeling of love in the air. It’s Valentine’s season, a time to really make your romantic partner feel special. Singles every year lament its existence by drinking wine and complaining on Facebook (don’t be that guy).

LIFE & STYLE

Stop HIV & hep C now

Everyone deserves love, and if you’re HIV-positive, you might just need to be extra confident in yourself and your health in order to meet the right person. If you’re an online dater, there’s an abundant selection of websites to choose from (PlentyOfFish, Match, eHarmony, ChristianMingle, etc.), and you have the option of dipping your toes into a different pool by wading through dating sites specifically for people with HIV and/or other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The Positive Connection and HIV Singles are two of many.

LIFE & STYLE

Beauty Tutorial: 24-hour red lips

Who doesn’t love a daring red lip for Valentine’s Day? But if you’ve ever worn one you know that vibrant colour you so love can be a real pain to keep bright. As someone who’s used to making my makeup last for 13 to 20-plus hours on a convention floor, I’ve decided to share a couple tips on how you can make sure your red is kissable all day.