Valentine’s Day is almost here, which means love is in the air… along with a little pressure to make plans. Whether you’re all-in on a fancy dinner, sticking with takeout and sweatpants, or treating yourself like the main character (as you should), this is your reminder that Feb. 14 doesn’t have to look the same for everyone.
Around here, it’s less about big gestures and more about cozy moments—good food, good company, and maybe not having to scrape ice off your windshield for one night.
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Here’s what’s inside today’s newsletter:
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📰 What we’re reading, news from around the state
💘 Most romantic NH restaurants
📢 Question of the week: Should New Hampshire keep its first-in-the-nation primary status?
💪 Your February guide to taking action in New Hampshire
📅 Top events for your calendar
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👉 Rochester leader proposes closing Maple Street school, 40 job cuts
“Superintendent Jared Fulgoni has proposed closing the Maple Street Magnet School and eliminating 40 positions as part of the $4.5 million in cuts needed to produce a budget that’s compliant with the city’s tax cap.” — USA Today via Reuters Connect
👉 Small inns, hotels bear the burden of slouching Canadian tourism
“Vacation spots that classically draw large numbers of Canadian tourists, like the Seacoast and White Mountains regions, have felt the impact most.” — New Hampshire Bulletin
👉 Madbury, NH to Milan, Grace Henderson’s ‘amazing journey’ to Olympics
“Grace Henderson was a seventh-grade student at Oyster River Middle School when, for a class project, she wrote, ‘I have big dreams for my future life … like going to the Olympics.’” — USA Today via Reuters Connect
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OpenTable just released its list of the 100 most romantic restaurants for 2026, and Ristorante Massimo in Portsmouth came out on top once again. The spot got a nod for its authentic Italian fare and swoon-worthy vibes.
Other romantic restaurants to check out include:
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💘 Copper Door
Salem
A go-to spot when you want something a little fancy without feeling stuffy. Copper Door serves up polished comfort food—think quality steaks, seafood, and seasonal dishes—in a warm, modern space that works just as well for date night as it does for a celebratory dinner.
💘 Trattoria Amalfi
Salem
If you’re craving classic Italian, Amalfi delivers. Expect hearty pastas, pizzas, and familiar favorites in a cozy, no-frills setting. It’s the kind of place you go when you want a solid, satisfying meal and a relaxed night out.
💘 Hanover Street Chophouse
Manchester
One of New Hampshire’s gold-standard steakhouses. Prime cuts, top-tier seafood, an excellent wine list, and old-school service make it a favorite for anniversaries, business dinners, or anytime you’re ready to splurge a little.
💘 Stella Blu
Nashua
Part restaurant, part martini bar. Stella Blu is known for creative small plates, strong cocktails, and a lively atmosphere—often with live music. It’s perfect for sharing dishes, lingering over drinks, and turning dinner into a full night out.
💘 The Library Restaurant
Portsmouth
Dining here feels like an experience. Set inside a historic building, The Library pairs classic steakhouse fare with an elegant, old-world atmosphere. It’s a popular pick for special occasions—and it’s hosted a few presidents along the way.
💘 Covered Bridge Farm Table
Campton
A hidden gem overlooking the Pemigewasset River by the historic Blair Covered Bridge. The menu blends “fresh fusion” with classic comfort—think burgers, seafood, steaks, giant salads, and creative appetizers—with a relaxed, scenic setting.
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New Hampshire has earned its reputation as the first-in-the-nation primary state thanks to a mix of law and tradition. State law requires that its presidential primary be held at least seven days before any other primary or caucus, ensuring candidates face voters here before anywhere else. That early timing gives the state an outsized influence—candidates spend weeks on the ground meeting voters, testing messages, and building momentum.
Political parties generally respect New Hampshire’s early spot, though technically they could penalize the state for jumping ahead. Every election cycle, as other states try to schedule earlier primaries to gain attention, New Hampshire simply moves its date earlier, making sure it stays first.
So this week’s question is…
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Should New Hampshire keep its first-in-the-nation primary status?
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Here’s what you’re saying…
“I don’t think states should have any involvement in primaries; they’re private associations so the state has no interest in how they handle internal affairs. But FITN has such a positive economic impact in NH, it has proven to be a good investment.” — Keenan Pawley
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We the People Wednesday
Wednesdays | 4–6 p.m. | Plymouth
A weekly community gathering focused on civic engagement and democratic values. Come connect, show up, and stay involved alongside others who care about local action and accountability.
Educational Series: Power in Practice
Thursday, Feb. 12 | 6–8 p.m. | Barrington
A hands-on educational session exploring how power actually works and how to use it effectively. Ideal for anyone looking to turn concern into practical action.
Immigrant Solidarity Vigil
Saturday, Feb. 14 | Noon–1 p.m. | Nashua
A peaceful vigil in support of immigrant communities, centered on visibility, solidarity, and shared humanity. Open and welcoming to all.
Not My President’s Day
Sunday, Feb. 15 | 1–3 p.m. | Concord
A Presidents Day counter-event focused on dissent, accountability, and democratic values. Expect signs, chants, and a public show of resistance.
Back Off Our Bodily Autonomy
Thursday, Feb. 19 | 8–10:30 a.m. | Concord
A morning rally advocating for reproductive rights and bodily autonomy, timed to coincide with legislative activity at the State House.
Rapid Response Training
Saturday, Feb. 21 | 2–5 p.m. | Dover
A practical training for responding quickly and safely to unfolding events. Topics often include protest safety, de-escalation, and coordination.
ACLU-NH: Know Your Rights Training
Wednesday, Feb. 25 | 5:30–7:30 p.m. | Holderness
A rights-focused training led by or in partnership with ACLU-NH, covering what you need to know about protests, law enforcement encounters, and civic participation.
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🎭 Newport Winter Carnival
Feb. 11–15
The nation’s oldest continuously running winter carnival returns for its 110th year. Events include a parade, torch lighting, horse-drawn wagon rides, ice sculpting demonstrations, and a winter carnival pageant. The 2026 theme is Red, White, & BRRR.
More info
🐕 World Championship Sled Dog Derby
Laconia, Feb. 13–15
A three-day sled dog racing event drawing professional mushers and teams from across the U.S. and Canada. The event includes meet-and-greet opportunities with mushers and dogs, followed by races along snow-covered trails.
More info
🍷 Winter Wine Festival
New Castle, Jan. 23 to Feb. 15
A monthlong wine festival at Wentworth by the Sea featuring multi-course Grand Vintner’s Dinners, large-scale tastings, flight nights, and a Bubbles & Jazz Brunch, with winery representatives and curated pours from around the world.
More info
❄️ Squam Lakes Winter Fest
Holderness, Saturday, Feb. 14
A free winter festival held along Squam Lake, featuring sledding, ice skating, winter mini golf, fire pits, conservation and environmental demonstrations, and a chili cookoff with local restaurants.
More info
🎉 Alton Bay Winter Carnival
Sunday, Feb. 15
A Lakes Region winter carnival featuring horse-drawn sleigh rides, ice sculpture demonstrations, kids’ activities, food vendors, a chowder tasting, and a bob house decorating contest.
More info
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