Saint Valentine is a widely recognized third century Roman saint commemorated on February 14 and associated since the High Middle Ages with a tradition of courtly love. Nothing is reliably known of St. Valentine except his name and the fact that he died on February 14 on Via Flaminia in the north of Rome.

My Fathers middle name is Valentino and he always displayed charisma, charm and affection. My Father was always more of a lover, than a fighter, except on the job site. Only my brother from a different Mother, Victor, can attest to the dual personality trait Don Guiseppe displays.  Papa Joe can only reminisce about his youth. Having been through some recent major surgeries, they have taken a toll on his body and persona.

His home is still the center of the Universe to all, including his friends who congregate every Friday night to play their traditional card games. When I was a kid I use to watch those smoke cartons and drink cases of beer. Saturday mornings my first priority was to head to our unfinished basement, cut through the haze of thick smoke while on my belly, pretending I was a Vietnam vet, looking for loose change. A nickel could score a chocolate bar almost as big as me.

Today no one smokes and a beer is shared amongst them. Therefore as a tribute to my Dad may everyone shower each other with love and affection for the sake of his name day? Avoid the violence and blatant disregard of human life as the gangsters of 1929 displayed via The St. Valentines Massacre. Pray for Americans to see the light about gun control. This explosive issue, ‘the right to bear arms’ could be the catalyst of change and a New World Order. Be thankful that we are Canadian and we don’t have to worry about a psycho neighbour possessing an automatic weapon with multiple rounds of ammunition for the excuse of safety.

Instead buy a clever or an ice-pick and choose your battles. Make love not war.

 

Sincerely-Philip Magnoli, my friends call me Don Filippo-The FX Specialist- www.donfilippo.ca

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