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Well, Cache Valley, the pumpkins are plump, the sweaters are out, and the smell of cinnamon candles is basically mandatory at this point.

If you’ve been waiting for an excuse to emerge from your blanket burrito and rejoin society—this is it.

From ghost tours to car shows, we’ve got more fall fun than a PSL has sugar.

Let’s dive into what’s brewing around the valley this week!

In this issue:

- Word on the Street
- Where to Be
- I'll Take One of Everything
- Life Comes at You Fast

- Locals Who Mean Business

- This Made Us Smile

USU Just Made “Catching Shooting Stars” Way Cooler (and Smarter)

Forget wishing on stars—Utah State University just handed you the software to track them instead.

Their open-source meteor-tracking system lets anyone (yes, even you, backyard astronomer with binoculars and a dream) collect data from fireballs streaking across the night sky.

Basically, USU just turned star-gazing into a science fair on steroids.

If your idea of a good night is staring up at the stars instead of your phone screen (or both, let’s be honest), you’re gonna want to read this:

USU’s Meteor Software Is Now Available to Everyone

CEHS Banquet Serves Up Awards, Applause… and Probably a Few Awkward Speeches

It was a big night for Utah State’s Emma Eccles Jones College of Education and Human Services—the kind of night where everyone’s a little overdressed, the applause is endless, and the chicken is fine.

Professors, students, and local legends were honored for their work shaping minds, hearts, and probably a few lesson plans that’ll make you cry a little.

It’s the annual banquet where Cache Valley’s brightest get their moment to shine (and hopefully not trip walking to the stage).

Catch the full lineup of who snagged what and why it matters here:
Annual Banquet Honors CEHS Award Recipients

USU’s Honors Program Is Leveling Up (and Taking the Whole State With It)

Turns out, “honor roll” just got a major upgrade. Utah State’s Honors Program isn’t just for Logan anymore—it’s expanding across the state!

From Blanding to Brigham City, students are getting a taste of that Aggie-level academic glow-up.

We’re talking smaller classes, personalized projects, and enough leadership opportunities to make your LinkedIn profile do a happy dance. 

Basically, it’s USU saying, “Smart kids—assemble!”

See how USU’s Honors Program is growing statewide

REAL ESTATE LISTING

Privacy, Ponds & Perfect Mountain Views — This Wellsville Home Has It All

If “living your best life” had an address, it might just be this one. This dreamy Wellsville property sits on 1.55 acres of pure peace and privacy, surrounded by over 100 mature trees (yes, you’ll finally have enough shade to sip lemonade and read that novel you started three summers ago).

Inside? Hardwood floors, a cozy gas fireplace, Viking appliances, and a saltwater aquarium so fancy it basically has its own app.

Outside? A koi pond, waterfall, and mountain views that’ll make you forget what stress even feels like.

This is one of those homes where every corner whispers, “stay a while.”
See the full listing on Zillow

The Cozy Season MVP: Butternut Squash Soup That’ll Make You Forget About PSLs

If fall had a flavor, this would be it. This butternut squash soup is creamy, cozy, and just fancy enough to make your family think you’ve been watching cooking shows on the sly.

It’s the kind of soup that warms your soul, makes your house smell like a Hallmark movie, and pairs perfectly with fuzzy socks and your favorite oversized sweater.

Bonus: it freezes beautifully—if you can resist eating it all first.

👉 Get the “Best Butternut Squash Soup Ever” Recipe

The Pumpkin Spice Snack Station Hack

Here’s how to win fall and parent of the year: create a little “Fall Snack Station” in your kitchen.

Fill a basket with apple chips, caramel popcorn, hot cocoa packets, and pumpkin spice EVERYTHING.

Then—here’s the magic—add a thermos, paper cups, and napkins so the kids (and you) can grab and go before soccer practice or a leaf-peeping drive. 

It’s cozy, it’s organized, and it saves you from the “MOM, I’m STARVING” meltdown right as you’re pulling out of the driveway.

Bonus points if you toss in some cinnamon sticks so the car smells like a Yankee Candle ad. 

Dr. Kirkman – Cache Valley Women’s Center

Meet Dr. David Kirkman! The man, the myth, the baby-delivering legend.

As one of the four physician owners at Cache Valley Women’s Center, Dr. Kirkman has spent nearly four decades caring for women through every stage of life—from the first heartbeat to the final postpartum visit.

He’s delivered around 10,000 babies (yes, you read that right) and still lights up talking about the magic of every single one.

When he’s not guiding moms through labor or performing robotic surgeries, you might find him drumming like it’s the 8th grade again or dreaming of joining the San Diego Padres’ starting lineup—though a Pacific Coast Highway road trip with his sweetheart Holli sounds like a close second.

His advice to every patient?

“Trust your body, do your homework, and take care of yourself every day—physically and mentally.”

Wise words from someone who’s truly dedicated his life to women’s health and the community he loves.

Have you met Dr. Kirkman? He's the best!

And there you have it—your weekly lineup of good times and questionable decisions.

Whether you’re haunting Main Street, belting karaoke at Cache Bar, or pretending you’re “just looking” at the Fall Boutique (sure, Jan), make it count.

See you out there, Cache Valley—same time next week, but probably in a slightly puffier jacket.

- your Cache Valley Locals team

P.S. Share this issue with a friend who needs a little Cache Valley sparkle in their inbox. Until next time, stay cozy and stay local!