By Christopher Samuel (Assistant Editor ‘26)
To fully know Friends’ Central, you have to be there for Valentine’s Day. It’s when three treasured school traditions take place: Candy Grams, Singing Valentines, and the Laurie Fox Bake Sale, customs which put the spirit of FCS on full display.
The purpose of these traditions is just as important as the joy (or, in some cases of Singing Valentines, embarrassment) that they bring. Each year, Service Committee organizes Candy Grams, allowing students to send candy to their friends or romantic interests. In addition, the money gained from sales is put towards the Simon Heart Foundation, which works to prevent cardiac arrests in children. Proceeds from Singing Valentines, brought to us by Vocal Groups, and the Laurie Fox Bake Sale go to the Laurie Fox Scholarship Fund, which helps to cover financial aid for students who would otherwise be unable to attend FCS.
Regrettably, too many teachers were absent on Valentine’s Day to hold the Bake Sale, but it is scheduled for February 29. Though it’s unfortunate the bake sale couldn’t happen, the school definitely enjoyed the Candy Grams and Singing Valentines. Throughout the day, the Acafellas and Singing Lovers visited classrooms, singing harmonious renditions of selected songs and providing an exciting break to the normal school schedule. Additionally, members of Service Committee dropped in to deliver craved candies over the course of Valentine’s Day. All in all, the traditions fostered a pleasant atmosphere that marked the day as one of the most festive in the school year. Indeed, one such unifying school event took place right inside the Main Building: The Singing Valentines performed for Ms. Beth. The joyous renditions of “Treasure” and “I Want You Back” attracted a crowd, and spectators, including Ms. Beth herself, joined in, clapping and singing. As evident all over campus, the Valentine’s Day events are cherished and lively traditions that serve to strengthen friendships, bond classmates, brighten days, and, perhaps, kindle new love.