Every newsroom deserves a mascot, and ours started with a real pup named Marshmallow. A fluffy maltipoo who accompanied former editor Robin Earl everywhere, Marsh quickly became a beloved presence at the Fauquier Times office. Inspired by his newsroom cameos, I created an illustration in Adobe Illustrator that turned Marsh into our official News Hound, complete with a reporter’s hat and a rolled-up newspaper in his mouth.

When Robin left the paper, the torch was passed to my maltipoo, Maggy, who looks just like Marsh and now proudly represents the spirit of the newsroom.

Over the years, the News Hound has shown up in all seasons, from Valentine’s Day to the Fourth of July,  dressed in festive hats, holding roses, or waving mini flags. He’s been featured in social media ads, reader contests, print promotions, and was even spotted in the Warbler.

While our 2024 brand redesign moved in a more minimal direction, the News Hound remains a cherished part of our visual history, a reminder of our community roots and the newsroom joy that little dogs with a big personality can bring.