December in Happy Valley: Your Guide to the Best Events of the Season
As the semester winds down, it’s the perfect moment to step outside, connect with friends, and enjoy what’s happening around Happy Valley. From live music and holiday traditions to theatre, sports, and New Year’s celebrations, December is packed with can’t-miss moments that showcase the warmth, creativity, and heartbeat of our region.
The Duo Who Glued Penn State Together
The sun shone brightly on an excited Beaver Stadium crowd in early September of 2022. It was the start of another football season, and their Nittany Lions were hosting the Ohio Bobcats for the home opener, a typical early-season mismatch, the sort where the visitors collected a paycheck in return for the indignity of being walloped by the home team.
BYU Just Showed College Football the Future. Penn State Must See the Leader Who Was Here All Along.
When Lane Kiffin walked away from Ole Miss for LSU in the middle of a playoff chase, the country finally saw the truth. The old leadership model in college football, the ego-driven, resume-first, mercenary coach, is collapsing. It does not work in the NIL era. It does not work in the transfer portal era. It does not work with today’s athletes or today’s communities.
Out with the Old, Up with the New at 321 West Beaver
Within the next two weeks, the old Plasma Center at 321 West Beaver Avenue will come down, clearing the way for the Nittany Residence Club, a 70-unit condominium-hotel that reflects long-term confidence in Happy Valley’s future.
Hallmark Moments Await: Shop Small, Shop Local, Celebrate Downtown
Downtown State College is alive with excitement, and the holiday spirit fills the air. Lights twinkle spectacularly along Allen Street and beyond, creating Hallmark-style magic you cannot replicate with an app. It’s a feeling only those who come can experience.
Meet Matt Wolosz, the Guy Behind the “Hire Terry” Signs
Matt Wolosz, the 41-year-old husband, father of two (ages 9 and 7), is the unexpected force behind the “Hire Terry” signs.
One more sign, literally and figuratively, pointing to Why Penn State and Why Terry.
Gratitude in Our Blue-White Zone
In our blue-white zone, gratitude is more than a sentiment. It’s a way of life. While Happy Valley is celebrated for its scenic beauty and Penn State pride, the true soul of our community shines through in our everyday expressions of thankfulness and the many ways we practice it together.
The Closing Argument for Terry Smith
A Personal Appeal for Leadership, Culture, and the Future of Penn State
It wasn’t a championship game. In fact, we’d lost four in a row. I had purposely chosen to work instead of going to the game. I was in my office when I finally checked the score in the third quarter. Oh my.
We were in a tight game against Indiana. I called my son in San Diego and asked, “Did you sell your ticket?” “Nope,” he said. And just like that, he texted it to me.
Here’s to You, Tailgate Hosts
by Greg Woodman It’ll be cold. It’ll be dark. The game starts at 7, and most students will already be home. Thanksgiving break starts on Saturday, and many are heading home Thursday and Friday. But you? You’ll be there. At your post. In the lot. Tongs in hand. Crockpot humming. Cooler stocked. Because you know […]
