Hands off our pickles.
DATE: Friday, September 5, 2025
AUTHOR: Hon. Eric Brakey - Executive Director, Free State Project
In the Free State, we do not abide even the small tyrannies.
In case you missed it, the City of Manchester is contesting your right to pickle.
While New Hampshire has strong homesteading laws, some cities override those protections with local ordinances.
Last week, a local man learned this firsthand when he received a "cease and desist" order from the city health department, demanding he stop giving away his homemade pickles to family, friends, and neighbors.
Did they believe the people of the "Live Free or Die" state would have nothing to say about this?
Local officials have certainly learned otherwise.
Before I get to all that, however, I want to invite you to join us in two weeks for the first annual Granite Freedom Trek.
On Sunday, September 21st, 2025, lace up your boots.
Join fellow liberty lovers for a scenic hike of Mt. Cardigan (3,155 ft) and Mt. Firescrew (3,040 ft) in a moderate 5-mile loop offering breathtaking 360-degree views of New Hampshire’s rolling hills — led by expert hiker Derek Proulx.
For active Free Staters and liberty-loving visitors who enjoy the outdoors, join us as we traverse New Hampshire trails in good company during one of the most beautiful times of year.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a curious newcomer, you are invited to join us for this one-day (rain or shine) medium difficulty hiking adventure. (Click here to see the trail map.)
We have only a limited number of hiking slots available, so act fast. Grab your ticket now!
Live Free or Brine
What a pickle for the city of Manchester.
The story begins with a local resident, Daniel Mowery, and his pickles.
Photo originally published by Manchester Ink Link.
The Manchester City Health Department sent a cease and desist letter to a man who gives away homemade canned food, like pickles, for free, threatening consequences if he doesn't comply.
Daniel Mowery says he's canned pickles, jams, tomatoes, and more for decades. He first started the hobby when he was 20 years old, learning the recipes from his grandmother in Pennsylvania. He hasn't stopped since.
"We were brought up poor, so our family always canned everything that came out of the garden," he said.
Every year, Mowery says he creates about 70 jars' worth of food, preparing it all from scratch. He gets requests from friends, family, and those who hear recommendations, and sends it to them for free. All of the supplies, he says, he pays for out of pocket.
He also shows off what he's making on social media, with pictures of the latest jars packed with his creations. Recently, someone offered to pay him cash for one of his items, which he accepted. Then, he says, the problems started.
The Manchester Health Department sent Mowery a cease and desist letter last week, saying he needs a permit to keep canning due to his distribution. The letter also says his kitchen needs a commercial license.
If he doesn't stop what he's doing, the letter says, he could face fines and a court summons.
Mr. Mowery is not the only resident to experience the heavy boot of the Manchester Health Department.
Kamryn Downs (who lives only a few doors down from Mr. Mowery) began operating "Granite Crust Cottage Bakery" out of her home in September of last year. For six months, promoting her baked goods on Facebook, her small business grew in popularity – until she received a "cease and desist" in March.
According to NHPR, Downs closed her home business, adopting a "rules are rules" attitude and complying with the order from the city. She says:
"Our kitchens are probably cleaner than a lot of commercial kitchens... If they wanted to inspect my kitchen, that would be fine with me.”
One of the great tragedies nanny staters bring upon a people is a stifling of entrepreneurial spirit.
Their policies raise barriers to entry and create effective prohibitions on home-based businesses — limiting the privilege of business-ownership to only those with pre-existing access to capital.
In the case of Mr. Mowery, however, he was not even operating a business. He was giving away his pickles to those who wanted them — and in one case, someone threw him a few bucks to say thank you.
Whether or not he considers himself a Free Stater, Mr. Mowery has a "Live Free or Die" spirit worth learning from.
Not only is he a good neighbor, he is willing to fight the nanny state for his right to do neighborly things — like sharing extra food he grew and pickled from his garden.
Further, in his decision to fight back, he understands the greater principle at stake.
In comments to WMUR, he asked what exactly distinguishes the sharing of homemade pickles from other community-oriented activities we take for granted:
"How about the church social service, having a bake sale, or anything like that? How about the schools, when they have bake sales for the soccer team?"
Where does it end?
If a nanny state bureaucracy can threaten you for sharing homemade pickles with friends and neighbors, then what limiting principle prevents it from targeting and threatening other community activities?
Will they come next for the bake sales? The lemonade stands? The potluck dinners?
How long until the communists come for our monthly Manchester potluck dinners? (In fact, that potluck is tonight and you are invited.)
TONIGHT (Friday, 9/5, 7 PM), join us at the Quill for our monthly Manchester "New Mover" Potluck.
This month's theme is... communism. (Be prepared for bread lines.)
Bring a dish to share or make a donation at the door.
For new movers, this is a great event to meet and introduce yourself to many in the Free State community.
Join us there!
In the weeks since, there has been a general uproar across New Hampshire about the city's crackdown on unlicensed pickling.
At Tuesday's Manchester Alderman Meeting, dozens protested outside (including many Free Staters): advocating for the city to align with the state’s homestead food law.
While doing so, many sold homemade pickles and other items in civil disobedience of the policy.
Inside, the city's aldermen took public comment.
Manchester resident, Jeremy Kauffman, asked the aldermen if they had ever purchased cookies or pickles from farm stands outside Manchester city limits.
He noted that the actions prohibited by the city policy are legal in almost every other municipality in New Hampshire. He proposed a change to the city code: home-based businesses should no longer be considered food service establishments.
He further suggested that if they were not willing to change the policy at this meeting, city police should arrest him for participating in the sale of homemade pickles during the protest preceding the meeting.
Following public comment, the aldermen concluded the issue for the day by kicking it to the city's Committee on Public Safety, Health and Traffic for review in early October.
While the outcome remains uncertain, no tyranny goes unchallenged in the Free State.
Porcupine Patron Update
If you believe in our mission for a libertarian homeland in New Hampshire, I'd like to ask you to become a Porcupine Patron for the Free State Project.
For just $10/month, you can support our year-round efforts to build "Liberty in Our Lifetime" — outreaching and inviting new movers to join us in the Free State.
Additionally, you will receive exclusive patron benefits, including our quarterly print newsletter, access to our private Signal group, and perks at all FSP events.
Last month, I set a goal for 200 patrons.
Thank you to all who have joined our growing patron community. With your support, we surpassed our goal.
We currently have 205 active patrons and we want to reach 225 by the end of September.
Porcupine Patron Pin. In addition to other fantastic benefits, every Porcupine Patron of the Free State Project receives this "Porcupine Patron Pin." These pins are not just for show! Patron pins grant access to exclusive perks at all FSP events, including VIP rooms, patron-only events, and courtesy drink tickets.
Click here to become a Porcupine Patron for the Free State Project.
It is my honor to serve as Executive Director of the FSP.
Please read on for more of our weekly newsletter from the Free State, prepared with assistance from our Communications Director, Mahgdalen Rose.
For Liberty!
Hon. Eric Brakey
Executive Director
Free State Project
MARK YOUR CALENDAR!
FREE STATE FALL FEST:
For the entire three-day "Columbus Day" weekend (October 11-13), our friends at Independence Realty are organizing several family-friendly events across the state.
Activities will include apple picking, corn mazes, axe throwing, a family hike, and even an arcade day at Fun Spot (the largest arcade in the world).
CLICK HERE for more information and to RSVP for currently announced Fall Fest events.
FREE STATE BITCOIN DIGITAL ASSET CONFERENCE:
On Sunday, October 12, the FSBDAC returns with discussions on cutting-edge issues and opportunities in the emerging realm of cryptocurrencies.
This event will be held at Wentworth by the Sea in beautiful New Castle, NH. Included with your ticket will be a light breakfast, coffee, refreshments, and lunch.
CLICK HERE to Secure Your Ticket to the Free State Bitcoin Digital Asset Conference.
This November 9th, several friends with the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire are running in the Manchester City Marathon.
Under the team name, "LPNH for Defend The Guard," they are seeking to raise support and awareness for legislative efforts to bring our state National Guard troops home from foreign wars not declared by Congress.
If you would like to run with the team, email Rachel Goldsmith (or send her a text message) for details: goldsmithrd@gmail.com.
Recurring Free State Events
New Mover Potluck Parties!
Manchester - First Friday
Upper Valley - First Saturday
Seacoast - Third Sunday
North Country - Third Saturday
Local Meetups!
Manchester - weekly, Tuesdays
Plymouth - semi-monthly, second and fourth Wednesdays
Seacoast - weekly, Thursdays (changes town)
Upper Valley - monthly, fourth Tuesday
Nashua - weekly, Sundays
Gilford - monthly, third Saturday
Lancaster - monthly, third Saturday
Ossipee - semi-monthly, second Sunday and third Tuesday
Madison - monthly, second Saturday
Grafton - monthly, second Saturday
Keene - weekly, Sundays
Lower Valley - monthly, third Friday
This is only a small sample of what's going on in the Free State! Recurring topical events include agorism, family play time, range shooting, and crypto.
Find upcoming events across the state on our NH Liberty Calendar.
NH Liberty Calendar
Free State Voices
Porcupine Report #79: “Restoring Families” with Spike Cohen
In this episode of The Porcupine Report, Eric welcomes Spike Cohen, founder of You Are The Power, to discuss his organization’s fight against government overreach. Cohen highlights the heartbreaking case of the Hernandez family, who lost their children after doctors misdiagnosed a medical condition as abuse. By mobilizing viral campaigns and public pressure, You Are The Power not only reunited families but also helped pass Georgia’s Ridges Law, reforming CPS practices—and so far, they’ve maintained a 100% success rate. Cohen invites viewers to join the movement at YouAreThePower.net to push back against government abuse across the nation.
Manch Talk: "Bitcoin and Real Estate in New Hampshire" with Carla Gericke.
Matt Ping, the visionary behind Ledgeview Commercial teams up with Carla Gericke to dive deep into the sizzling intersection of Bitcoin and real estate! Discover how New Hampshire is blazing a trail as a crypto pioneer with its groundbreaking legislation, unlocking new frontiers for decentralized finance. They’ll unpack the revolutionary rise of Decentralized Autonomous Organizations (DAOs), explore cutting-edge developments shaking up the industry, and reveal why the Free State is the ultimate launchpad for the future of property and blockchain. Don’t miss this discussion packed with insights that’ll redefine how you see your future!
Responding to Janet Mills. Director Brakey responds to the Governor of Maine who claimed that Maine people don't like New Hampshire. The comments on social media from Maine people suggest they actually love New Hampshire. It is the influence of progressive Massachusetts they are worried about and Janet Mills they can't stand!
Click here to watch the video!
News from the Free State
NHPR: In Manchester, homemade pickles stir up political and public health debates
WMUR: Manchester Health Department sends cease and desist letter to man over pickles
Union Leader: Rep. Steve Smith: It is just about pickles and it's no big dill
Manchester Ink Link: Homemade food ordinance getting second look following pickle controversy
In Depth NH: Op-Ed: Claremont Is Judicial Usurpation, Not Constitutional Duty
Seacoast Online: What's the best place to work in New Hampshire? Forbes names top 15 employers
NHPR: Fireflies made a resurgence across New England this year. Here’s how you can help them.
NY Times: John E. Sununu Is Exploring a Senate Run in New Hampshire
Seacoast Online: Is it legal to drive barefoot in New Hampshire? What to know before getting behind the wheel
WCVB: 3 people, including Rudy Giuliani, injured in NH crash, state police say
World Atlas: 8 Of The Most Adorable Small Towns In New Hampshire
Seacoast Online: New Hampshire is in the top 20 for difficult state names to pronounce, says study
On The Water: What’s Biting in September in Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont?
PorcFest XXII
We have been publishing content from this year's Porcupine Freedom Festival.
Just as we did earlier this year with the NH Liberty Forum, we will be publishing PorcFest content on a rolling basis, several times a week, across multiple social media platforms. Please find below all content published since our last newsletter!
You can find all video content from FSP events on YouTube and all audio-only content on our Spotify podcast channel: "FSP Talks."
"How Ron Paul Changed the Republican Party Forever" with Jack Hunter
Jack Hunter takes the audience on a journey through Ron Paul’s legacy, from his fiery 2008 debate clash with Rudy Giuliani to the movement that continues to inspire liberty-minded activists today. He recalls how Paul’s unapologetic stands on blowback, ending the Fed, and challenging drug laws sparked a generation of young libertarians. Hunter emphasizes how ideas once considered radical—like abolishing the Department of Education or phasing out the IRS—are now part of mainstream conversations. He also highlights the ongoing influence of liberty voices like Rand Paul, Thomas Massie, Tucker Carlson, and even cultural figures such as Joe Rogan. The talk shows how Ron Paul’s movement didn’t just fade away—it planted seeds that continue to grow through organizations, activism, and a shifting political climate. Viewers are left with both a recognition of past victories and a call to keep advancing the cause of liberty.
"How Ron Paul Changed the Republican Party Forever" with Jack Hunter
Hannah Cox delivers a powerful critique of American politics, exposing how both parties enable endless wars, reckless spending, and shrinking personal freedom. She emphasizes that corruption is bipartisan, with Washington’s elite manipulating voters through fear while enriching themselves at the public’s expense. Cox also addresses the growing cultural backlash against women’s rights, feminism, and unmarried women without children, showing how political and social forces often intertwine to erode liberty. She challenges the audience to see beyond the false left-right divide and recognize the broader systems of control at work. The talk ultimately calls for rejecting both partisan illusions and cultural scapegoating in favor of a renewed commitment to individual freedom.
"Fiat’s Failure: How Sound Money Will Save the World" with JP Cortez
JP Cortez delivers a powerful talk on the failures of fiat currency and why sound money, rooted in gold and silver, is essential to restoring economic freedom. He explains how fiat systems enable reckless government spending, endless wars, and the erosion of savings through inflation. Drawing on examples from history—like the Weimar Republic, Venezuela, and America’s own post-1971 experiment—he shows how fiat collapse always brings social devastation. Cortez highlights the growing grassroots movement at the state level, where dozens of legislatures are advancing bills to remove taxes and barriers on gold and silver. He makes the case that sound money isn’t just about economics—it’s about individual liberty, accountability, and protecting future generations. This is a wake-up call for anyone concerned about the dollar’s decline and the need for real monetary reform.
Watch his full remarks from PorcFest XXII.
As Seen In the Free State
The final days of summer! We are seeing fewer and fewer campfires as autumn has arrived, but it was wonderful while the summer lasted.
Let's Ruck. A community that rucks together builds a Free State together. The Garnet School Ruck Club gathers every Sunday in Candia.
Sail Away. But don't sail away too far, or you might end up in Massachusetts!
Not A Welfare State. NH has one of the lowest rates for households enrolled in welfare programs, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. We'd rather help our own neighbors than entrust that responsibility to the government.
Some Upcoming Events:
Friday, September 5th
Manchester, 7pm-10 - New Mover Potluck - All liberty lovers are invited to join us in welcoming the newest movers of the great liberty migration! Even if you have been here for a while and this is your first opportunity to join the community, come on down! We want to welcome you home as a new mover. New movers eat free! Hosted by Patrick Binder. (the Quill, 131 Amory St, Manchester)
Saturday, September 6th
Lancaster, 9am-1pm - the ‘Pine Market Day - Bring a table and sell your wares the First Saturday each month! During the summer, this is the same time as the Lancaster Farmer's Market, so may attract some local foot traffic. Table space is free for the 'Pine members; $10 for non-members. Hosted by Amy Norris. (the 'Pine Clubhouse - 70 Main St, 2nd floor, Lancaster)
Manchester, 11:30am-1pm - Merrimack Valley Porcupines - Every first Saturday folks who are passionate about liberty gather for MVP, the Merrimack Valley. Hosted by Jeremy Olson. (the Quill, 131 Amory St, Manchester)
Concord, 12pm-10 - The Agora - Tinkerers Gathering - "The Agora" is a private event where folks are free to voluntarily trade and barter, host workshops, presentations, listen to music, play games, or just socialize with their community. It’s September and we are starting a new yearly tradition of gathering all Tinkerers, Creators, Artists, Tradesman, etc. to host skill sharing workshops, especially ones that help our community be more self-sufficient. Hosted by Dylan. (the Prickle, 74 Curtisville Rd, Concord)
Croydon, 5pm-9 - Bardo Potluck & Upper Valley New Mover Party - Join the Bardo crew, friends and neighbors for an evening of socializing and good food. Potluck dinner is at 5pm, please bring a dish to share. Hosted by Emily Smith. (Bardo Farm, 92 Forehand Rd, Croydon)
Sunday, September 7th
Lancaster, 10am-11 - North Country Sunday Yoga/Pilates - Join for a casual yoga and Pilates session. Open to all levels. Free for The 'Pine members ($5 donation for non-members). Hosted by Amy Norris. (the 'Pine Clubhouse - 70 Main St, 2nd floor, Lancaster)
Candia, 1:15pm-3:15 - Garnet School Ruck/Shoot - Bring a backpack full of hiking supplies, water bottle, etc. I’ll be wearing a plate carrier and plenty of magazines and a rifle. This month, we’ll do a pretty easy 2-mile hike around the Conspiracy Campground. Optional hike a second time to around 4 miles. This is a moderate hike. This is a free-of-charge, open-carry event. This will be held rain or shine. Optional shooting after. Range donations accepted. If you want to bring after-hike protein, we’ll have the grill fired up. Hosted by Baxter Tidwell. (Garnet School, 456 Critchett Rd, Candia)
Manchester, 5pm-7:30 - Manchester Crypto Meetup - We’re not trying to shill any coin, token, or project. We are a group of individuals and businesses in support of cryptocurrency and its everyday uses. Hosted by Matt Ping. (Strange Brew Tavern, 88 Market St, Manchester)
Keene, 5pm-6 - Social Sunday - Enjoy the company of other liberty-loving people at NH's longest-running activist social! Hosted by Chris Wade. (Local Burger, 82 Main St, Keene)
Nashua, 6pm-8 - Nashua Liberty Social - Weekly Nashua Meet-Up - Location varies each week. This calendar event is typically updated by 2PM on Sunday. Meet-ups are generally within about a 10 minute drive of the downtown area. Hosted by Jeff Creem.
Remember that this is only a partial list.
For all FSP events and more details on those highlighted here, be sure to check out the NH Liberty Calendar.