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…

Dear Tweens: Valentine’s Day is coming up. At what age are people too old to celebrate it? What is your favorite thing about Valentine’s Day? Hannah Linquata You are never too old to celebrate Valentine’s Day! Valentine’s Day is fun, so don’t ever let someone tell you you’re too old! My favorite part is all the candy I get! I love to spend my day eating candy and giving candy to others. Matt Dube Well, I think that there is no age when people stop unless you are not living. If you have the spirit, you can still have fun talking to people around you. It doesn’t matter where you are.…

There will be a Penacook Village Association meeting held at the Rolfe House on Penacook Street, Penacook, Feb. 13 at 9 a.m. Topics will include the Route 3 corridor improvements, updates about Penacook speed limits and possible sidewalk-plow storage. Links to the January meeting minutes, the February agenda and more information can be found at penacook.org.

Get ready for a maple syrup induced sugar rush because there are not one but two pancake dinners on Feb. 16 to help you kick off the Lenten season. Grace Episcopal Church, 30 Eastman St., will hold its annual Shrove Tuesday supper from 5 to 6:30 p.m. in the parish hall. Admission to the meal is $5, $2 for children younger than 11. The church is also accepting canned food and toiletry donations. For more information, call 228-0073. At South Congregational Church, 27 Pleasant St., the senior high youth group will host its Shrove Tuesday pancake dinner to raise dough for the group's mission trip…