Preparing for Cupid

St. Valentine’s Day is almost here, which means Cupid is sharpening his golden arrows and getting ready to prick someone with feelings of affection. Sure, it’s cheesy, overpriced and probably heart-shaped, but we all enjoy indulging in the delight of love every February 14th. This year, the holiday falls on a Saturday and Nassau County will not fail to offer fun for both couples and families as Cupid’s big day approaches.  

In the week leading up to Valentine’s Day, children can attend events at the Franklin Square and Elmont Public Libraries. Jewelry designing, candy bar making, and cake decorating are just a few activities the libraries offer to children and their families. They all require pre-registration, so make sure you sign up soon.

As for Valentine’s Day itself, try something a little different than the traditional dinner and a movie by utilizing the new Twin Rinks Ice Center at Eisenhower Park. The park is hosting a $20 special for couples, which includes skate rentals. There are five public skate sessions for the day from morning to the late evening, the perfect way to either spend a date with your special someone or just a few good friends.

Of course, local businesses in the area are getting into the spirit of the season. John Randazzo, co-owner Sandy’s Party Supply Store, says his business offers special balloon arrangements delivered with a stuffed animal and candy. “At one time I used to dress up as cupid with my bow and arrow and I used to deliver balloongrams. I may do that again this year. It depends if I get back into shape again,” said Randazzo. He says he was always met with laughter, but they would frown if he was going to sing, “which got me a little perturbed. I’m tone deaf so I really can’t sing,” he said.

Naturally, what Valentine’s day celebration would be complete without heart-shaped ravioli? Ronnie Digangi, owner of Calogero’s, says his restaurant will feature that delectable dinner, along with other romantic specials for couples that choose to dine with them.

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And what would St. Valentine’s Day be without a few famous quotes about love. From Blaise Pascal: “The heart has its reasons of which reason knows nothing.” From Thomas Merton: Love is our true destiny. We do not find the meaning of life by ourselves alone — we find it with another.” From Charles M. Schulz: “All you need is love. But a little chocolate now and then doesn’t hurt.”