BOSTON – Today at the State House, Governor Charlie Baker announced that due to the unprecedented snowfall and historic winter conditions impacting the Commonwealth’s economy, next week shall be declared “Valentine’s Week” to boost business for local retailers, restaurants and small businesses. Joined by Housing and Economic Development Secretary Jay Ash and local business owners, the Governor signed an official proclamation declaring “Valentine’s Week” will be recognized statewide from February 14th-February 21st to promote patronage to stimulate the economy despite the difficult winter weather that has reduced traveling and restricted business.

“I am pleased to declare ‘Valentine’s Week’ for the Commonwealth to sweeten up the local economy and encourage more business at our local shops in the spirit of this holiday,” said Governor Baker. “The unprecedented snowfall impacting the Commonwealth has taken a toll on everyone, especially the retailers, restaurants, and small businesses that depend on an uptick in reservations and activity around Valentine’s Day. Next week, we urge everyone to do their part to shop locally and make up for the past few weeks of limited travel and business as a result of all the recent snow.”

“Valentine’s Day is not only a day to show our appreciation for others, but it also an important holiday for many businesses that rely on deliveries, purchases and reservations to keep their doors open and make payroll,” said Lt. Governor Polito. “Next week, we urge people across the Commonwealth to visit their downtowns and local retailers to pick out flowers, candy or something special for your valentine.”

Governor Baker, Lt. Governor Polito and Secretary Ash declared that February 14th through February 21st will be recognized as “Valentine’s Week” throughout the state at a press conference with Jon Hurst, President of Retailers Association of Massachusetts, Bob Lutz, President of the Mass Restaurant Association, and Dave Andelman, President of the Mass Restaurant and Business Association.

Text of Proclamation:

Whereas the recent, unprecedented snow fall has taken a tremendous toll on the retailers and restaurants in local cities and towns across the Commonwealth; and

Whereas access and travel to businesses has been difficult for both patrons and workers; and

Whereas Saturday, February 14 is officially Valentine’s day, a day when many purchases and reservations are traditionally made; and

Whereas the people of the Commonwealth are generous and caring; and

Whereas the spirit of Valentine’s Day is the expression of kindness, friendship and support and need not be limited to just one day

Now, Therefore, I, Charles D. Baker, Governor of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, do hereby proclaim the week of February 14 to February 21 to be

VALENTINE’S WEEK

And urge all the citizens of the Commonwealth to participate fittingly in its existence by extending the spirit of Valentine’s Day through the entire week by visiting and supporting local retailers, restaurants, and small and family businesses.

Given at the Executive Chamber in Boston, this thirteenth day of February, in the year two thousand and fifteen, and of the Independence of the United States of America, the two hundred and thirty-ninth.

V-Day Week Poster.PDF