Note
height 高さ、高度;
declared a state of emergency 緊急事態を宣言する

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The coronavirus came to Japan in January 2020. By April, there were more than 500 cases a day. The numbers went down to about 30 cases, but they went up to 1,700 cases a day at the height of the second wave. Then the numbers went down to about 500 cases a day. During the third wave, the numbers went up to 7,000 cases a day in January, and the government declared a state of emergency in more than 10 prefectures. The state of emergency is ending today in six prefectures. Are things really better? I think so, but we still need to be very careful not to get the virus. (by Prof. Douglas Jarrell)
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Valentine’s Day was four days ago. If you live in Japan, you probably got or gave someone chocolate. In the West, men and women often send valentines to each other. So, what is a valentine? It is a card that tells the other person how much you love him or her. Here are some typical messages: “I love you more than chocolate!” “I want you to be mine!” “Sending you hugs and kisses!” Don’t forget that you don’t have to sign your name. If you are shy, don’t tell that person who sent the valentine. He or she will just have to guess who it is from. (by Prof. Douglas Jarrell)
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