From Leash to Leader: Sage the USU Police Dog's Mission of Comfort and Connection

Ever walked onto a college campus and felt a little…tense?

Like you're walking a tightrope between classes, social life, and maybe dodging a rogue frisbee or two? Now, imagine that feeling, but amplified by, say, a recent campus emergency or just the general stress of being a student.

That's where Sage comes in.

Utah State University has a secret weapon, and it's not a new app or a high-tech security system.

It's Sage, an 18-month-old English Labrador retriever who's not your typical police dog.

Forget the drug sniffing and suspect chasing; Sage's mission is all about cuddles, comfort, and connection.

She's a community engagement, critical incident, and crisis response K-9 – the first of her kind in Utah, and she's turning the USU campus into a happier, safer place, one paw at a time.

Most people think police dogs are all about the "tough love" approach – intimidating presence, serious demeanor, the whole nine yards.

But actually, the real magic happens when you break down those barriers. Sage isn't just a friendly face; she's a furry ambassador, bridging the gap between students and law enforcement.

Officer Shane Nebeker, Sage's handler, puts it best: she's an "ice-breaker," allowing him to have real conversations and interactions that most officers don't get the chance to have.

Students are noticing the difference.

One student, Dylan Elliott, admitted that seeing Sage on campus shifted his perspective on the police. "This dog is here for you," he realized, "and then it's like, 'Oh, also, the police are here for you,' right?" 

It's a simple but powerful message: the police aren't just there to enforce the law; they're there to support and protect the community, and Sage is living, breathing proof of that commitment.

Logan's Music Scene Just Hit Mute: WhySound Closes Indefinitely

Ever walked into a local venue, felt the bass thumping in your chest, and thought,

"This place is gonna be around forever"?

Well, sometimes forever lasts a lot shorter than you think. Case in point: WhySound, Logan's beloved all-ages music venue, just announced it's postponing WhyFest and closing its doors indefinitely.

Yeah, you read that right. Indefinitely.

WhySound was more than just a place with a stage.

It was a community hub, a launchpad for local artists, and a safe space for open mic poetry nights.

WhyFest, their annual music festival, was supposed to be the cherry on top – a three-day explosion of local talent.

But now? It's all on hold while the owners "reflect on their role and make some changes."

Most people think venues close because of money problems or lack of interest.

But actually, WhySound's closure is tied to "claims made recently against WhySound ownership."

They're talking about stepping back, bringing in new management, and even outside mediation to address community concerns.

From Cache Valley to The Bachelor: A Family's Perspective

Did you know that reality TV contestants are more likely to find fleeting fame than lasting love?

But for Litia Garr, a Cache Valley native, her journey on Season 29 of "The Bachelor" was less about the final rose and more about staying true to herself.

Her parents, Rob and Maurie Garr, recently shared their reflections on their daughter's experience, revealing a story of unwavering values and unexpected local fame.

Litia's adventure began on a whim, a casual application submitted with a friend, never expecting to catch the eye of producers.

But within days, the whirlwind started, catapulting her into the world of reality TV romance.

As she navigated cocktail parties and exotic dates, Litia remained grounded in her religious beliefs, a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. 

Most people think reality TV is all about manufactured drama and compromising your values for the cameras, but actually, Litia's story highlights the possibility of staying authentic even in the most artificial environments.

Her parents emphasized that Litia was upfront with the Bachelor, Grant Ellis, about her boundaries, stating she wouldn't spend the night.

Surprisingly, he respected her decision, showcasing a moment of genuine understanding amidst the reality TV spectacle.

The Garr family also became local celebrities, fielding questions from friends, neighbors, and even an 82-year-old patient of Rob's who confessed to being a secret "Bachelor" fan.

Even Litia's brother, serving a mission in Brazil, heard whispers of his sister's TV escapades.

However, the journey wasn't without its challenges. The family faced the harsh reality of social media negativity and misinformation.

Maurie expressed her frustration with untrue statements made by other participants, emphasizing the importance of honesty and integrity, even after the cameras stop rolling.

Litia's journey on "The Bachelor" may not have ended with a proposal, but it did offer a glimpse into the values of a Cache Valley family and the strength of a young woman who dared to be herself.

So, what does it mean to stay true to yourself in a world that often pressures you to conform?

Perhaps Litia's story can inspire us all to reflect on our own values and the courage it takes to uphold them, no matter the stage.

🗓️ Mark your Calendars

Cache Valley April 2025 Events

🎨 Classes & Workshops
• Pottery Studio Classes – Ongoing at Cache Valley Pottery Studio, Logan
• HypnoBirthing Classes – Apr 5, 12, 19, 26 (9am–12pm), Teralee Maleo’s
• CacheARTS – Classes & performances (cachearts.org)
• Greenhouse Events – Anderson’s Seed & Garden (Logan), Valley Floral (Smithfield)

🧒 Family Fun
• Baby Farm Animal Days – Apr 3–6 (10am–5pm), American West Heritage Center
• Plaza Movie Nights – Apr 5, 12, 19, 26 (8pm), Carol & Jim Laub Plaza, Logan
• Kids Runs & Eggivities – Apr 19 (10–11am), Downtown Logan
• Downtown Easter Walk – Apr 19 (10am–2pm), Downtown Logan
• Dandy Daughter Dance – Apr 25 (6–8pm), Castle Manor, Hyde Park
• Cache Valley Kids Market – Apr 26 (9am–12pm), Elk Ridge Park, North Logan
• Cinco de Mayo Celebration – May 3 (12–8pm), Cache County Fairgrounds

🎶 Music & Theater
• The Antics Comedy Improv – Apr 11, 18, 25 (7:30–9:30pm), Sky View High School
• Live Music Thursdays – Ongoing at The Gossner Center, Logan
• Sapphire Singers Treble Chorus Festival – Apr 11–12, Logan Tabernacle
• Mount Logan Symphony – Apr 11 (7pm), Mt. Logan Middle School
• 1940s Hangar Hop – Apr 19 (6:30–11pm), Cache Airport Hangar F19
• Sky High Players: Puffs & Sense & Sensibility – Apr 18–24, Sky View High, Smithfield

🌿 Nature & Wellness
• Vines & Views Open House – Apr 12 (4–7pm), Hyde Park
• Spring into Hope: CAPSA Fundraiser – Apr 13 (6pm), Naomi Winery
• Spring 5K & 1 Mile Races – Apr 26 (9am), Logan & North Logan
• National Prescription Drug Take Back Day – Apr 26
• Automate Utah Career Fair – Apr 10 (1–4pm), USU, Logan

👩‍💼 Networking & Business
• Cache Connect – Apr 3, 10, 17, 24 (6–8pm), The Book Table, Logan
• Women’s Networking Group – Apr 10 (6–7:30pm), Bridgerland Tech
• Cache Chamber LinkedIn Luncheon – Apr 15 (11:30am), Elements Restaurant, Logan

🍫 Date Night & Fun
• Aggie Chocolate Factory Date Night – Apr 4 (6:30–8:30pm)
• Dinner Fundraiser – Apr 6 (6pm), Riverwoods Conference Center
• Grand Salmon Film Screening – Apr 10 (6:30pm), Eccles Conference Center
• Sound of Ages Spring Concert – Apr 12 (7:30pm), USU Daines Concert Hall
• CacheARTS Gallery Walk – Apr 25 (6–9pm), Downtown Logan

Probiotic PSA 🦠

My favorite probiotic has been out of stock for months (so frustrating!) and the company has no clue when it'll be back. So... I’m officially on the hunt for a new go-to brand!

Have you tried any that you love?

What’s your favorite? Hit reply and let me know—I’d love your recs!

🐾 Cache Valley Pet Parents — Protect Your Pets Without Breaking the Bank 🐾

Mom Hack: Indoor Activities for When Cache Valley Spring Can’t Make Up Its Mind ☀️🌧️❄️

One minute it’s sunny, the next it’s snowing—welcome to spring in Cache Valley!

If your kids are bouncing off the walls and outdoor plans keep getting canceled, this video is packed with fun, easy indoor activities to keep everyone happy (and you sane). 🙃

See you around town!
– The Cache Valley Locals Team