Valentine’s Day is an important holiday for most; over $21 million is spent by Americans, according to the National Retail Federation. It is also famous for its many different traditions, such as couples attaching padlocks together to symbolize their love on bridges or in other places. Birds are also shown as a symbol of love; known as lovebirds, these species hold a strong bond and are close to each other face to face. In a random survey of 50 Morton East students, 19% responded yes to planning to buy anything from the Valentine-themed fundraisers, while 46% said no, and 36% reported maybe.

How our school celebrates Valentine’s Day is through fundraisers. Many sell a variety of choices, commonly during lunch hours.

“The current fundraisers for Morton East include Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), Morton East Gay and Straight Alliance (MEGASA), and NEIU (an unofficial club presented by Northeastern Illinois University). FBLA’s fundraiser focuses on selling Valentine’s Day Candy Grams. These candy grams include chocolates and candies. MEGASA sells roses and Rice Krispies. NEIU will be selling ‘Aguas Frescas’ and handmade crafts,” Assistant Principal Ms. Arianna Gonzalez said.

Some of these fundraisers raise money for various reasons such as field trips, school events, etc.

“The people who benefit from each fundraiser vary. FBLA and MEGASA students benefit from these fundraisers (students who are active participants in each of these clubs). NEIU is fundraising to raise money for a student scholarship.

Aside from the fundraisers, some students at East have positive opinions about the holiday and its items that fit the theme.

“I enjoy the holiday mainly because of the stuffed animals that come from the shops,” Senior Zaria Jinadu Markin said.

Others think about how they are going to give their significant other a gift, maybe store-bought, homemade, or more.

“I would get them probably homemade cookies to save money, and I think it would be meaningful to them,” Senior Monserrat Servin said.