“Passing a budget is one of our most basic and most important jobs, and when we fail to do that, we need to have consequences.” — Rep. Julie Fedorchak, on a bill that would prohibit lawmakers from receiving payments during government shutdowns, via New Hampshire Bulletin.

Here are some things to know this morning:

Here’s what’s inside today’s newsletter:

📸 Check out this edition’s featured photo

📰 What we’re reading, news from around the state

☀️ 15 NH festivals for your summer calendar

📢 Question of the week: How are you coping with soaring fuel costs?

☀️ Top events for your calendar

Months after leaked Signal messages revealed New Hampshire Republican education leaders discussing school segregation, two major setbacks hit the GOP’s education agenda: a signature open-enrollment bill led by House Education chair Kristin Noble failed on the House floor after 21 Republicans broke ranks, and Rep. Katy Peternel—who reacted to the leaked messages with a laughing emoji—announced she would not seek re-election.

The controversy, first reported by Granite Post, raised ongoing questions about the lawmakers’ leadership and political standing within the party.

Colin Booth has the full story.

(Courtesy of Bruce Denis)

Shoutout to Bruce Denis, who shared this photo of “Pan and His Flute” by Augustus Saint-Gaudens at Saint-Gaudens National Historical Park in Cornish.

It’s such a fun place to visit if you haven’t been—highly recommend. 

By the way, I’m looking for more pictures to feature in this newsletter. From wildlife, pets, scenery, and more—I want to see New Hampshire through your eyes. And yes, you can send in more than one! 

🧠 Gov. Kelly Ayotte is escalating pressure over children’s mental health coverage …

Ayotte criticized lawmakers and insurance companies after a House committee recommended delaying a bill that would require insurers to cover wraparound mental health services for children. New Hampshire Bulletin

🥩 Elsewhere, lawmakers approved a controversial bill changing meat processing rules for local farms …

A bill headed to Ayotte’s desk would allow some New Hampshire farmers to process meat outside USDA-approved facilities, despite concerns from state officials that the proposal conflicts with federal law. New Hampshire Bulletin

🚗 And New Hampshire’s vehicle inspection fight may be heading back to court …

Gordon-Darby, the company that previously ran the state’s emissions testing program, says it plans to file a new lawsuit challenging New Hampshire’s decision to suspend vehicle inspections earlier this year. WMUR

An aerial view of the tents and crowd at New England Hot Sauce Fest. (New England Hot Sauce Fest)

By Britteny Dee

Fuel prices are climbing with no relief in sight. As of Monday, the national average reached $4.50 per gallon, while drivers in New Hampshire were paying a few cents less at $4.45 a gallon, according to AAA.

The rising costs are affecting everything from farming and travel to home heating.

So this week’s question is:

How are you coping with soaring fuel costs?

Here’s what you’re saying…

“Gas was $4.54 in Gilford on Friday when I filled up, but of course it dropped to $4.42 yesterday. I try to limit my driving to what’s necessary, but I still need to go places for groceries, pharmacy trips, doctor’s appointments, etc. I can’t even drive around to relax and enjoy the scenery like I used to earlier this year. So, thanks to the current administration for starting an illegal, unreasonable war they can’t even explain.” — David Masters 

(Google My Maps)

🗺 NEW: Click the map for all your event locations! Do you like this new feature? Hit reply and let me know!

🎣 Reel Outdoors Series: International Fly Fishing Film Festival
Bethlehem, May 14 
A showcase of world-class fly-fishing films and outdoor storytelling from filmmakers around the globe.
More info

🌿 Bedrock Gardens Opening Week
Lee, May 12 
Opening week features garden tours, workshops, family activities, honey tastings, art exhibits, and forest bathing experiences.
More info

🚗 15th Annual Bow Rotary Car Show
Bow, May 16 
Classic cars, raffles, live music, food vendors, and awards, including Best in Show and People’s Choice.
More info

🌱 Annual Plant Sale
Auburn, May 16 
Shop vegetables, heirloom starts, annuals, perennials, and garden-themed items for the spring planting season.
More info

🌸 Annual Heirloom Plant Sale
Portsmouth, May 16 
Browse historic heirloom plants and garden varieties grown at the museum.
More info

🧁 Petals & Pastries
Laconia, May 16 
Harvest edible flowers and decorate cupcakes and cookies in this hands-on baking workshop.
More info

 🌲 Woody Plant ID Walk: Early Successional Species
Laconia, May 16, 1-3 p.m.
Learn to identify New Hampshire’s woody plants and explore local ecosystems on a guided walk.
More info

 🏰 New Hampshire Renaissance Faire
Fremont, May 16-17
A fantasy-inspired weekend filled with medieval performances, costumes, demonstrations, and family-friendly entertainment.
More info

🛍️ Northfield Spring Craft Show
Northfield, May 16
Browse handmade crafts, home decor, gifts, and artisan goods from local vendors.
More info

🥕 Canaan Spring Farmers and Artisans Market
Canaan, May 17
Fresh produce, baked goods, artisan crafts, and local farm products in a community market setting.
More info

🎶 Upper Valley Community Band Spring Concert
Canaan, May 17
A lively spring concert featuring concert band classics, film music, and contemporary pieces.
More info

🎨 North Conway Memorial Day Weekend Craft Fair
North Conway, May 23-24
A holiday weekend fair featuring handmade crafts, artisan vendors, food, and family-friendly shopping.
More info

🖌️ Meredith Memorial Day Weekend Craft Festival
Meredith, May 23-25
More than 70 juried artisans showcase handmade goods, art, jewelry, and specialty products.
More info

🍺 Hampton Food Truck and Craft Beer Festival
Hampton, May 30
Food trucks, local craft beer, live entertainment, and outdoor festival vibes to kick off summer.
More info

Thanks for reading. This newsletter was written by Katy Savage with stories from Britteny Dee and Colin Booth. It was edited by Paula Solis.

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