not a hallmark moment

Leave it to Hallmark to turn martyrdom into a holiday about cards and chocolate...

San Valentino (Saint Valentine's Day).
The most popular legend depicting the origin of Valentine's day tells us that some 1700 years ago the Roman Emperor Claudius II outlawed marriage claiming that it decreased his male soldiers' zest for battle. Despite the Emperor's decree, a priest by the name of Valentine is said to have continued to perform marriage ceremonies for those who requested it. On February 14, 269 AD, Valentine was beheaded for his commitment to young love. According to lore, lovers in Italy and around the world have been celebrating the memory of Valentine ever since. Italian storefronts and street vendors are flush with fresh flowers and candies. All commerce remains normal with state and federal offices functioning as they always do...