Depending on who you ask, you’ll get several historical references about Valentine’s Day, from the third-century emperor Claudius II, said to have executed two men named Valentine on February 14 on different occasions, to the Catholic Saint Valentine, and everything in between.

The Coal Creek Canyon Improvement Association (CCCIA) celebrated love in many forms on Saturday, February 10, 2024. From 7 to 11 a.m., residents enjoyed a delicious pancake breakfast with sausages, eggs, juice, and coffee.

Members of the CCCIA donated $8 and nonmembers donated $10. With 71 guests attending the fundraiser and netting $453.73, the CCCIA places all donations in the local scholarship fund.

Chair massages courtesy of Hands, Hoofs & Paws also raised some of the total funds. The CCCIA hosts several events throughout the year, including four pancake breakfasts, which are held in February, May, July, and September.

The association’s scholarship program goes to local youth who best exemplify the ideals and principles of society. Scholarships aim to help students achieve their goals. Financial need is not the primary consideration for these awards, and specific criteria must be met.

CCCIA board member and event chair for the pancake breakfasts, Bruce Goodwin, shares, “Despite the weather it was a good turnout and an opportunity for people to visit with friends and neighbors.”

Though its history is shrouded in mystery, there’s no denying that since its inception, Valentine’s Day has inspired care and love in all of us and the CCCIA is no exception.

The CCCIA is located at 31528 Highway 72. You can find them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/CoalCreekCanyonImprovement Association or you can give them a call at 303-642-1540.