Meet Chara: From Sunny LA to Snowy Utah

Earlier this year, we assisted Los Angeles shelters in opening additional kennels to help families displaced by emergencies stay united with their pets. 

One of those special dogs is Chara, who was awaiting adoption in LA when space became limited.

Now, Chara is experiencing her first Utah winter and relishing every moment in the snow!

Chara is an eager learner and a social butterfly, making her an easygoing and loving companion. She enjoys making new dog friends, hiking in the mountains, and car rides.

After a day of adventure, Chara loves to cuddle up for a nap.

Visit us today to meet Chara and explore all our available pets online.

Chara's journey from sunny LA to snowy Utah is a heartwarming reminder of the unexpected adventures our pets embark upon.

Just as Chara found a new beginning, ensure your furry friend is protected for whatever comes their way.

Compare pet insurance options today to keep their tails wagging through all of life's seasons. 

Aggies Turn Up the Heat – San Jose State
Never Stood a Chance!

Alright, sports fans, let's talk about a beatdown for the ages.

Utah State just slapped San Jose State so hard, the Spartans might need a safe space. We're talking a 48-point victory, a new program record.

Yeah, you heard that right. 48. Points.

So, Utah State hosted San Jose State, and it wasn't just a game; it was a statement.

From the tip-off, the Aggies were on fire, racing to a double-digit lead in the blink of an eye. It was like watching a cheetah chase a snail – no contest.

The lead just kept growing, hitting 23 by halftime and ballooning to a ridiculous 51 points at one point.

Offense was sizzling, and the defense? Impenetrable. Think Fort Knox, but with more sweat and less gold.

Now, here's where it gets interesting.

Most teams, when they're up by a mile, start coasting. Not these Aggies.

Remember those games against Fresno State, Colorado State, and New Mexico?

Big leads that shrunk faster than your paycheck after taxes. But this time, they were determined to slam the door shut.

Sophomore forward Tucker Anderson said it best: "Defensive stamina." They focused on their strengths, played hard for the full 20 minutes of the second half, and didn't even glance at the scoreboard.

It's like they were playing against themselves, not the other team.

And the highlights? Oh, they were plentiful. Ian Martinez led the charge with 22 points, while Mason Falslev was slinging assists like he was running a fast-food drive-thru.

Then there was Drake Allen, who threw down a dunk so nasty, it made a 7-foot-2 center question his life choices.

Even Jaxon Smith, the walk-on guard, got in on the action, nailing a pair of 3-pointers. It was a team effort, a symphony of swishes and slams.

But wait, there's more! Former Aggie Josh Uduje, now playing for San Jose State, made his return to the Spectrum.

And the student section, The HURD? They gave him a warm welcome, cheering him during introductions and chanting "We love Josh!" during his free throws.

Of course, they also razzed him when he missed, because, you know, gotta keep it real. Even SJSU coach Tim Miles got some love, receiving a half-gallon of chocolate Aggie Ice Cream from The HURD.

It's like a family reunion, but with more basketball and less awkward small talk.

So, what's the takeaway?

Utah State is hungry. They're not just winning; they're dominating. And they're doing it with a team-first mentality and a whole lot of swagger.

With a sold-out crowd expected for their next game against San Diego State, the Spectrum is about to become a house of horrors for opposing teams. 

What if I told you Utah's got a sweet hookup for emerging businesses? They're throwing a "Get Started" challenge, and the prize? A cool $500 grant.

Let's dive in, because this could be your golden ticket.

Utah's Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity (GOEO) and the Lassonde Entrepreneur Institute just launched the _Get Started: Business Idea Challenge.

This isn't just some pat-on-the-back program; it's real, tangible support to get your ideas off the ground.

We're talking about micro-funding for those crucial early-stage expenses.

Most people think you need a ton of capital to even start thinking about a business, but actually, the real magic happens when you bootstrap and get scrappy.

This challenge understands that. $500 might not sound like much, but it's enough to validate your market, build a basic prototype, or snag that essential business license.

It's about removing those initial hurdles that often stop great ideas in their tracks.

Here's how it works:

Each month, you pitch your business idea and outline short-term, achievable milestones.

A panel of judges (the gatekeepers of your dreams, no pressure!) selects the top applicants.

If you make the cut, you get the funding, and GOEO keeps tabs on your progress, ready to amplify your success story.

It's like having a supportive uncle who also happens to be a venture capitalist.

And get this – Utah is already crushing it in the innovation game. Ranking first in the nation for innovation capacity and output, according to a recent report. 

This challenge is just another step in solidifying Utah as the place to be for startups.

So, what's your million-dollar idea?

Could $500 be the spark that ignites your entrepreneurial journey?

Maybe it's time to throw your hat in the ring and see what happens.

After all, the next big thing could be brewing right here, right now, in Cache Valley.

GET STARTED HERE

Alright sports fans, let's talk hoops!

You know, that glorious time of year when brackets become gospel and Cinderella stories are brewing faster than your morning hot chocolate.

But forget the national stage for a minute. Let's zoom in on Region 11, where the hardwood is hotter than a Utah summer and the stakes are higher than your grandma's expectations for your dating life.

This week, the 4A girls' and boys' basketball playoffs went down at Southern Utah University, and let me tell you, it was a rollercoaster.

We're talking buzzer-beaters, nail-biting overtimes, and enough drama to make your favorite reality TV show look like a documentary on paint drying.

The local teams showed up ready to rumble, proving that Cache Valley ain't just about cheese and Aggies (though, let's be real, those are pretty great too).

Now, most people think that the regular season is where the real battles are fought.

But here's the twist: playoffs are where legends are made.

It's where underdogs become heroes, and where that kid who usually warms the bench suddenly transforms into Steph Curry.

Take, for example, the Sky View Bobcats girls' team.

They went into the tournament as the #6 seed and then BAM! They took down #3 Payson with a score of 58-47. Talk about an upset!

And the Green Canyon boys? They lived up to their #1 seed, but not without a fight.

They clawed their way to victory against #9 Timpanogos, setting up a showdown with #4 Dixie.

Meanwhile, the Ridgeline girls reminded everyone why they were top-ranked, cruising past #8 Cedar.

But hold up, the Hurricane boys pulled off a stunner, knocking off #3 Ridgeline in overtime. Who saw that coming?

So, what's the takeaway here?

It's simple: expect the unexpected.

In the world of high school basketball, anything can happen.

Upsets, comebacks, and moments of pure, unadulterated glory are all part of the game.

And as we head into the semifinals, the question isn't just who will win, but who will rise to the occasion and etch their name into Region 11 history.

READ MORE

Aggie Nation, Get Ready: Utah State’s 2025 Schedule Sets the Stage for a Big Year

Alright, sports fans, let's talk about the future. Not flying cars or robot butlers, but something equally important: the Utah State Aggies' 2025 football schedule.

The Mountain West just dropped the dates, and let me tell you, it's juicier than a perfectly grilled tailgate burger.

Utah State's got a golden opportunity to build some serious momentum right out of the gate.

Three of their first four games are at home. That's right, the Aggies get to defend their turf early and often, setting the stage for a potentially epic season.

August 30th, UTEP comes to town. September 6th, they head to Texas A&M. Then BAM! September 13th, Air Force. September 20th, McNeese.

That's a chance to stack some wins, fire up the fanbase, and maybe, just maybe, start dreaming of a Mountain West Championship.

Most people think non-conference games are just warm-ups, right? Filler before the "real" season starts.

But here's the thing: those early games are where teams find their identity.

They experiment with plays, figure out who the playmakers are, and build that crucial team chemistry.

For Utah State, those first four weeks are a pressure cooker to forge a team ready to dominate.

And let's not forget those conference road games.

Hawai'i on October 11th? New Mexico on October 25th? UNLV on November 15th? Fresno State on November 22nd?

Those are all potential trap games. Games where a team can get complacent, overlook their opponent, and stumble.

But if the Aggies can navigate those challenges, they'll be battle-tested and ready for anything.

So, Aggie faithfuls, are you ready for 2025?

Are you ready to pack the stands, make some noise, and cheer the Aggies to victory? 

READ MORE

🏃‍♂️ Sky View Youth Track & Field – Registration Now Open! 

Exciting news for young athletes! The Sky View Youth Track & Field program is back, and this year, it's better than ever.

In partnership with the Sky View High School Track team, this program offers expert coaching from experienced athletes and coaches to help kids learn the fundamentals of track and field in a fun, engaging environment.

Participants will develop running form, technique, and event strategies while competing in at least three track meets. 

👉 Register today
🌐 www.smithfieldrecreation.com 
👤 or in person at 315 E 600 S in Smithfield.
📩 For more details, contact Ryan Egbert at ryanegbert15@gmail.com.

Cache Valley Style: Copper Lane Clothing Brings Local Flair to Your Wardrobe

Alright, fashion lovers—if your closet needs a refresh, Copper Lane Clothing is about to be your new go-to.

This Cache Valley gem blends timeless style with modern trends, giving you pieces that make you look effortless and feel confident—whether you’re running errands or picking up kids.

Need chic everyday essentials? They’ve got ‘em.

Looking for statement pieces that turn heads? They’ve got those, too.

From cozy layers to must-have dresses, every item is thoughtfully curated to fit your lifestyle—because great fashion should be as versatile as you are.

But Copper Lane isn’t just about clothes—it’s about empowering women right here in Cache Valley and beyond.

They take pride in offering high-quality, feel-good fashion that celebrates confidence, individuality, and community.

So, if you're ready to upgrade your wardrobe with some local style that speaks to YOU, check out their online store and find your next favorite outfit.

Trust us—your closet will thank you.

Place a dry towel with your laundry to cut down on drying time!

Look A Like Cam