Hey, y’all. It’s Amie.

By this time next week, I’ll be knee-deep in Black Friday shopping with my Mom. I’m really not sure when the tradition started for us, but I know it was back when the vast majority of stores opened in the predawn hours. Besides, we had to be some of the first folks to enter JCPenney, or else we wouldn’t get the precious free collectible snow globe. Remember those?

Over the years, it’s become one of the “shopping” days I look forward to most. Well, that and antiquing at the Hillsville Flea Market and Liberty Antiques Festival. You know what’s funny, though? The day used to be about hunting for deals and finding great bargains—and while I’m definitely still one to seek out a sale, Black Friday has morphed much more into just spending time and having fun with my Mama. Truly striving to appreciate the little things—and moments—this year is something I’m ultra thankful for.

Can I get sappy here? I’m also really, genuinely thankful for y’all. Seriously. Our group is a little bigger now than we were when I first started writing our newsletter two years ago. And when I say “a little,” I mean, we’ve got a lot more friends now; there are 28,000+ of you, compared to the 2,000 who first took me in. Sally, your words of encouragement always come at just the right time. Susan, I’m not much of a cook, but I can’t wait to attempt to make your cranberry salsa recipe for my family next week. Frankie, I’m so glad you shared your perspective with me—honest communication is so important to humanity. Y’all, I may not be able to respond every time (though I sure do try), but I want you to know that I feel so incredibly blessed to have each of you in my life, and I do read every word you send.

If you’re traveling to visit family and friends next week, or if you’re having a meal a little closer to home, I hope this Thanksgiving brings you joy, peace, and a sense of belonging. And hey, if you haven’t found quite where you “fit in” yet, I’ve got some really great news for you: You’re the perfect fit in this little newsletter’s corner of the world, and I’m so glad you’re here.

Amie Knowles

Community Editor, Dogwood

Farm-to-table holidays: Where to buy from local VA growers

Here’s what you need to know: The holiday season is upon us. If you’re looking to have a truly special Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner with your loved ones this year, consider incorporating locally grown ingredients into your meal prep. Check out these Virginia-based producers for fresh-from-the-farm meats, fruits, and vegetables.

Our top picks:

Kite’s Country Hams—The family-run company has been producing hams for over 65 years, and cures around 18,000 hams annually.
Dublin Farms—A Thanksgiving or Christmas meal wouldn’t be complete without a side of mashed potatoes. Consider using Virginia-grown potatoes from this 1876 farm for your upcoming holiday meal.
Chateau Morrisette—What’s a holiday meal without a little Virginia vino? This mountain winery has two festive offerings: Christmas White and Christmas Red. The white pairs well with turkey, ham, and seafood. The red is a dry blend.

Locally sourcing for more? Click below to access our full list of Virginia homegrown goods.

Read this article

Next week, we at the Dogwood team are planning to share on Facebook and Instagram what we’re most thankful for this year. For me, it’s new friendships that’ve formed! How about you? Reply to this email or drop me a line at amie@couriernewsroom.com to let me know.

Wednesday marked the second anniversary of the signing of President Joe Biden’s infrastructure law, a key piece of the president’s economic agenda and the most significant investment in America’s infrastructure in generations.

The infrastructure law includes significant gains for Virginia, with hundreds of projects planned.

Read this article

~ ICYMI ~

Hint: This article will get a bigger spot in our extra special Thanksgiving edition next Wednesday, but I’m so excited about sharing it… I can’t wait that long! Without further ado, here’s our 2023 reader recommended recipe guide, complete with everything from southern style macaroni and cheese to turkey empanadas (READ MORE HERE).
Did you know? Many of the swing House and Senate districts that determined which party would have majority control of the legislature were in or near Henrico County and Hampton Roads—two areas that are no stranger to issues concerning housing affordability, access to the workforce, union membership, meaningful tax reform, and more (READ MORE HERE).
Check out the first episode of a new Dogwood series called “Things I Wish I Knew in My 20s.” It stars content creator Carly Maher (@diningincarswithcheese), and in this episode, she tells us what she wishes she’d known about voting when she was younger (WATCH HERE).

Your Commonwealth Connection

Our weekly #ThisIsVirginia highlights the stories of the people, places, *pets,* and things that make us a commonwealth.

Raise your paw if you’re an animal lover! The Norfolk SPCA needs help during construction. While they’re doing some exciting improvements to their facility, they could use some happy homes for the animals during renovations. If there’s a little extra room your heart and home this holiday season, we’ve found the purr-fect volunteer opportunity for you.

Construction began on the SPCA’s kennel renovations on Monday, and it’ll continue for about four weeks. If you don’t have quite that amount of time to foster a furry friend, the shelter is ultra flexible. One week, a weekend, a day, or even a walk are options! Whatever way you can help, the folks at the SPCA will appreciate it.

Another way to help is by donating fun toys and tasty treats for the animals who will remain at the SPCA during the renovations. Some suggested items include:

🐾 Lick mats with suction cups
🐾 Feeding balls
🐾 Kong wobblers
🐾 Puzzle feeders
🐾 Horse activity balls
🐾 Calming music (and music players)
🐾 Chicken and beef broth
🐾 Frozen veggies and fruits

For more information about fostering a pet over the next few weeks, please contact the Norfolk SPCA. Who knows… you might just help a four-legged friend find his or her home for the howl-idays.

📸: Norfolk SPCA, featuring “Lovie”

This email is written by Amie Knowles, community editor at Dogwood, lifelong Virginia resident, and mom to a fantastic five-year-old who loves monster trucks.
Have a question or comment? Reply back to this email!