Valentine's Day can be a tough holiday. Some think it's totally commercial and don't want to buy into the hype. Others appreciate the concept, but not the diet-thwarting chocolate component. We support a middle-of-the-road approach and suggest buying a little something for your sweetie that shows your appreciation for him or her. If he or she likes roses and sugary goodies, you have…

For more information about the Concord Public Library, visit concordpubliclibrary.net. A Place of Execution Val McDermid 1999, 404 pages Setting: Derbyshire, England, 1963-64 and 1998 Having watched the latter part of the PBS Masterpiece Contemporary production of “A Place of Execution” on television this fall, I decided to read the book and get the full story. What a well-written psychological suspense story.…

We get story ideas in all kinds of ways - by phone, e-mail, snail mail and personal visits. But an anonymous message with a password? That's new. The call came in a few weeks ago. Mr. Anonymous said he heard from reliable sources that the building at the corner of Pleasant and Main, which currently houses Pitchfork Records, among other things, was originally built for the Chicago World's…

Why is the turkey, a bird native to America, named after another country? Also, what is the current status of wild turkeys in New Hampshire? How the turkey got its name is shrouded in mystery, but the most probable scenario is an intriguing story. When Spaniards came to the New World, they discovered the turkey in Mexico and took several back to Europe. The country of Turkey was a central trading route and when…

With Valentine’s Day approaching, we’re sure your mind has continually wandered to . . . undergarments. No need to be embarrassed – you’re not alone. The Concord Community Players have been thinking about skivvies too, thanks to the upcoming production “The Underpants.” The players will reveal this comedy at the Concord City Auditorium, 2 Prince St., Feb. 12 and 13 at 8 p.m.…

So, you’ve been dreaming of serenading your dearest since the day you met, but the only acceptable singing venue for a voice like yours is in the privacy of your car with your windows up. Sigh . . . what’s the non-melodious to do? The Concord Chorale is offering singing valentines Feb. 12 through Feb. 14. This is the chorale’s second annual singing valentines effort. All you have to do is pick up the phone…