The month of February kicked off with a vibrant message of love from Puerto Rican artist Bad Bunny, showcased during his appearances at the Grammy Awards on February 1 and the Super Bowl the following Sunday. His performances resonated with many, instilling pride among the approximately 1.3 million Puerto Ricans residing in Florida, the largest concentration in the United States.
As Valentine’s Day approaches on February 14, South Florida gears up for various celebrations. Many of these events are free, encouraging widespread participation. The region offers a plethora of options for gift-giving, including goodie bags, chocolates, and flowers, enhancing the festive atmosphere of the month.
Flower Imports Surge Ahead of Valentine’s Day
In anticipation of Valentine’s Day, U.S. Customs and Border Protection reports that agricultural specialists at Miami International Airport will manage the processing of approximately 990 million cut flower stems in the weeks leading up to the holiday. Remarkably, around 90% of fresh cut flowers sold in the United States during this season transit through Miami. The majority of these flowers arrive from Colombia and Ecuador before reaching florists and supermarkets across the United States and Canada.
Red roses dominate the market, making up between 50% to 60% of the total flower imports. As demand increases, consumers may notice a rise in prices. To mitigate costs and reduce their carbon footprint, purchasing locally grown flowers is often recommended.
According to Ralph Cutié, director of Miami International Airport, the facility has already received 400,000 tons of flowers in 2026, with over a quarter delivered before Valentine’s Day, marking a 6% increase compared to the previous year. Despite the price hikes, flowers remain one of the top imports at the airport, highlighting their significance during this romantic season.
Emphasizing the Essence of Love
As the saying goes, “Love is priceless.” This week serves as a reminder to cherish those we love in our unique ways. Writer Antoine de Saint-Exupéry eloquently expressed that “It is only with the heart that one can see rightly.” This sentiment captures the essence of love and the emotional connections we foster, emphasizing that the true value of a rose lies not in its price but in the relationships we cultivate.
As Valentine’s Day draws near, individuals are encouraged to reflect on the significance of love and the bonds they share, making this time of year a beautiful opportunity to celebrate affection and appreciation.
The article “EDITORIAL – FEB 10TH: AH, LOVE…” first appeared in Le Soleil de la Floride.
