Oh sweet summertime, why must you slip away?

Though temperatures are still pretty toasty, we're all starting to feel the inevitable -- the upcoming fall semester approaching.

Though State College is a great place during the months of sunshine, there's no denying that with new leases, classes, jobs and eventual snow comes a much more diverse and exciting arts scene in town.

It's not that there is no entertainment during the summer. I hope Venues this summer has proven that's not the case. In fact, the summer season presents the opportunity for students and community to get involved in many outdoor shows, Tussey Mountain events and other cultural and musical happenings that don't happen as often during the school year.

Rather, it's just the fact the summertime means one or two venues are hosting decent events, while the fall means more people are around attracting and putting together bigger events of all kinds.

So to all Venues readers who have been with us this summer, I hope you've gotten the chance to see that summertime in State College still has a pretty kick-ass local music scene. With local bands playing all around town, musicians hitting the bars (which actually aren't too crowded to get into), outdoor festivals and venues like SoZo, 256 E. Beaver Ave., that offer the music without the alcohol to all ages. Even community theater and places like Palmer Museum present great performances and exhibitions open to people, and, more times than not, without having to battle a crowd.

Though the summer may have been excitement enough for you, make sure to pick up Venues the first week of publication this fall. Not only will readers find greater coverage of the music scene and performing arts downtown, but also Penn State theater, music and visual arts, too. Plus, students can learn more about film, TV, where to eat downtown, what to read and even what to wear.

As we at the Daily Collegian revamp for the great student migration back to Penn State, I thank you for reading this summer and for supporting local artists in town trying to do their thang. I also encourage you to stick with us or join our readership for the first time this fall.

Jillian Raines is a senior majoring in journalism and English and is The Daily Collegian's arts chief. Her email address is jmr5113@psu.edu.