Did you know that red is the first color human babies can see? Or that wearing red actually increases your heart rate? Scientists have discovered that this vibrant hue has an almost magical effect on us—it makes us feel more energetic, boosts confidence, and even helps athletes perform better. In China, red symbolizes luck and prosperity. In Western cultures, it represents love and passion. But here's what's most fascinating: red is the universal color of connection.

This February, let's prove it.

We're launching the Great Regatta Bay Red Challenge, and we want YOU to be part of something special. Here's how it works: throughout February, wear something red and share appreciation with the people who make our community extraordinary. Not romantic valentines—gratitude valentines.

Think about it. Who brightens your day? The gate guard who always remembers your name? The neighbor who walks your dog when you're under the weather? The friend who makes you laugh at book club or bible study? The lawn care guy who fixed your sprinkler in record time? The mail carrier who carefully places packages by your door? The bartender who fixed you the perfect cocktail? The starter at the course who greets you with a special smile?

Create or buy simple valentine cards and hand them out with genuine thanks and "I appreciate you"! Snap a photo of the moment—their smile, their surprise, the joy of unexpected appreciation. Wear red while you do it, and watch what happens. Red has this wonderful way of making moments feel more vibrant, more alive, more memorable.

Here's your mission: 

Between now and February 20th, give at least three gratitude valentines to people in our Regatta Bay community. Photograph these moments of connection and email them to us at corey.flynn@n2co.com or scan the code below. Include a brief caption: who they are and why you're grateful. We'll feature the best photos in our April edition, creating a colorful tribute to the heart of our neighborhood—its people.

Bonus challenge: On Valentine's Day itself, wear as much red as you dare. Red shirt, red hat, red shoes—go wild! If you see someone else dressed in red, snap a photo together. Let's paint Regatta Bay red and prove that the most powerful kind of love isn't just romantic—it's the everyday appreciation we show each other.

Scientists say red increases our heart rate. Let's find out if it also increases our community's heart rate—one thank-you, one smile, one photograph at a time.

Ready, set, RED!