Did you know that just about every time I mention a longer story about our pets, I get pictures of yours? That’s right! I love it when Dogwood readers email me at amie@couriernewsroom.com with photos of their four-legged (or no-legged if it’s a snake or fish or something) friends. 

We have a true pet house over here. Dogs, cats, and… rodents? Yes, on purpose. I love all little critters, with clear exceptions for ticks and mosquitos. Last week, we added a new member to our furmily—and if the subject line of today’s newsletter gave you a good reason to click it open, you won’t be disappointed. Scroll down to see a picture of our new friend,  and help us name him while you’re at it. I’m so glad you’re here. 

By COURIER Newsroom

It’s a big win for those opposed to data center expansion.

After three years of local opposition, Blackstone’s QTS has dropped its Virginia Supreme Court appeal to build the world’s largest data center.

By Amie Knowles

My husband has officially banned me from going into PetSmart. Not because of anything the store did—but because for the second time now, I’ve gone in for supplies and come out with rodents. 

But it’s not my fault. Not really. See, it’s been nearly 8 months since our dear rat, Master Splinter, passed. His beloved brother, Lafayette, crossed the Rainbow Bridge in early June. Life without rodents is sad, so when a little mouse looked up at my kid with his beady little eyes and squeaked a translation of “Please take me home with you,” what could we say? My husband was quite surprised when he got in the car for a weekend beach trip to learn that a mouse named Rattata was joining us. 

Then last week, something very similar happened to me. I walked into PetSmart to buy Rattata’s favorite food—and as I went by the furry critters, a tan and white hamster stuck his little paw up against the glass. It was like one of those slow-motion Hollywood moments where our eyes connected and fireworks went off. I snapped the picture above, walked out to the car with the mouse food, and looked at my husband with the most pitiful little eyes I could muster. We were back inside within minutes, bringing our new friend home. 

We’re officially full-up on rodents now, but we’re left with a dilemma. We need a good name for our new hamster—and that’s where you come in! I’m including a few favorites below, but I’d love you hear your creative suggestions, too. I’ll announce the winning name next Friday, July 17.

By Aila Boyd

Situated in a renovated Texaco gas station, one favorite along Virginia’s Oyster Trail is Casa Pearl marries oysters and tacos in what its team describes as a fun and lively atmosphere. The concept stems from Executive Chef Mikey Maksimowicz, a Northern Neck native trained at the French Culinary Institute. 

Before returning to his roots, Maksimowicz worked in premier East Coast restaurants, including Michelle Bernstein’s Omphoy in Palm Beach, Florida, and Vidalia, Rogue 24, Blue Duck Tavern, Fiola Mare, and Fiola in Washington, DC. He further honed his oyster knowledge at Charleston, South Carolina, establishments like The Ordinary and Rappahannock Oyster Bar.

Casa Pearl focuses on quality, locally sourced ingredients for its raw bar, featuring Chesapeake Bay fish and shellfish, and Latin-inspired tacos with a Southern twist. The menu consists of smaller plates intended for sharing. The space features roll-up garage doors and a patio for open-air dining in nice weather. 

Thanks for reading. This newsletter was written by Amie Knowles. Amie is a lifelong Virginia resident and mom to a fantastic 8-year-old who loves Pokémon. This edition includes stories from Stacy Rounds, COURIER Newsroom, and Aila Boyd. It was edited by Kimberly Lawson.

Dogwood is free for everyone. Your support makes our work possible.