Friday, February 13th, 2026

Good morning! Welcome to The Tradesman, a 5-minute newsletter tailored just for America’s tradesmen—presented by Grab Your Gear.

Today is Friday the 13th, which many think is bad luck. We, however, are more focused on it being National Tortellini Day.

Let’s fight the bad luck with a big bowl of tortellini, courtesy of our surprise giveaway at the bottom of this newsletter!

Valentine’s Day is tomorrow – does she really care? YES SHE DOES!

No matter what you think, you will be judged on what you do - or don’t do. Here’s what not to buy: four roses from Sheetz, a heart-shaped box of Speedway candy, or a teddy bear from the checkout lane at Kroger. Also off the table is a six-pack of Fat Tire.

What you want to focus on is something thoughtful, such as a gesture or experience that she doesn’t expect. Top suggestions: write a love letter or, for 24 straight hours, treat your wife like she’s your girlfriend. For more ideas, go here (hurry).

If Valentine’s Day isn’t for you, then there’s still a lot to celebrate.

February 13 is National Tortellini Day. On this day, we honor that small ring-shaped stuffed pasta most people can’t name. What better way to do so than by making this super-easy recipe for Cheese tortellini in garlic butter sauce?

As a bonus, this dish is sure to impress even the most intimidating of women. After all, anything truly Italian (except maybe Fascism) is romantic.

Miracle on Ice is a must-watch! Really, watch it.

"Miracle: The Boys of '80" is a 2026 Netflix documentary recounting the 1980 US Olympic hockey team's upset of the Soviet Union that occurred 45 years ago today.

For people who work in the trades and construction, you’ll relate to the team's work ethic and determination. Check it out here.

More than 80% of Americans think you should be required to provide proof of citizenship before you are allowed to vote.

There is a bill in Congress called The SAVE Act. The law would require every American to provide documentary proof of citizenship when registering to vote. That would mean providing identification such as your driver’s license, passport, or birth certificate. Read more on the bill here.

Do you think this is a good idea?

Are Tesla Trucks Ugly?

In honor of National Tortellini Day, we are giving away a $50 digital gift card to Olive Garden! The winner will be announced on Monday, so make sure to sign up!