Trying to come up with a topic for a Valentine’s Day column is never easy, especially when I have a hard enough time remembering what day it is, let alone whether it’s an important holiday. So when I tried to think of a Valentine’s Day topic, all I could think about was that I hadn’t even begun to think about a gift for my husband. And I can’t help hoping that I’m not the only one who leaves my gift-buying to the last-minute.

But never fear; Downtown Suffolk is here. As part of the successful Love Local, Buy Local campaign launched last year, Downtown Suffolk’s shops, restaurants, galleries, museums and venues have once again banded together to promote what they have to offer. The “Love Local in February” campaign provides a chance for area residents to take advantage of specials, discounts, workshops and more from participating businesses during the month of February. So if you still haven’t found the perfect Valentine’s Day gift, a trip to Downtown Suffolk might solve all your problems. Whether it be a specially made card, a mouthwatering dinner for two or a trip through a museum, Downtown Suffolk offers so many things to love.

Speaking of the love, it can be easy to take for granted all the truly amazing things Suffolk has to offer the community. We can think of many reasons to love Suffolk, and those reasons are what bring people and businesses to the city, which in turn only creates more to love. That’s why we at the Suffolk News-Herald decided to devote our annual Strides publication to the 25 reasons we — and you — love Suffolk. From country living to the Dismal Swamp, from Suffolk’s public and private schools to its vibrant arts community, there are many reasons to celebrate the city. Find out what made the top 25 list in Strides, available in the Sunday, Feb. 24, edition of the Suffolk News-Herald.

For more information on the “Love Local in February” campaign, visit www.Suffolk-Fun.com.