Good morning, State College.

Penn State announced non-tenure-line faculty promotions that will be effective July 1, raising staff to ranks such as assistant, associate and teaching professor across various departments and campuses.

The list also includes promotions in research and library services, with faculty in fields from finance to English plus other areas receiving new titles.

James Marden, professor of biology and operations director at the Huck Institutes, will retire at the end of June after a 40-year career that built key research facilities at Penn State — he said he plans to remain active in academia while enjoying more time with family and nature.

The Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences at Penn State has launched its 2025-26 seed grant program for Huck-affiliated researchers to develop innovative interdisciplinary research—proposals are due by 5 p.m. ET on July 15.

Single investigator grants may receive up to $30,000 while multi-investigator proposals can secure supplemental funding totaling up to $80,000.

Today in Pa., state officials say an invasive tick species is spreading quickly while federal investigators review schools for asbestos risks and lawmakers may ban single-use plastic bags — the Blue Angels are set to fly again soon.

Local authorities are watching these issues closely for any impact on public health.

Penn State defensive end Max Granville is predicted to have at least eight tackles for loss in 2025.

Granville, now listed at 247 pounds and coming off his redshirt season, is expected to step up in Jim Knowles’ defense — his increased size and work ethic fueling a potential breakout season.

Penn State basketball star Yanic Konan Niederhauser decided to forgo his final year of college eligibility and enter the NBA Draft, officially leaving Happy Valley after one season—he averaged 12.9 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per game as a transfer.

His decision creates a challenge for coach Mike Rhoades, who now must lead a team with only three returners after the loss of 10 players.

On May 27, 2025, PennLive presented studio-shot portraits taken by award-winning photographer Sean Simmers to high school sports award winners at its banquet.

The framed photos—replacing traditional trophies—honor top athletes from several schools and are now available for public viewing.

Yard Sale Extravaganza

10 AM — Holmes-Foster Park — Free entry — Discover a variety of treasures for kids, crafts, and home decor at this exciting yard sale.

Boalsburg Wine Walk

4:30-8:30 p.m. — Duffy's Tavern — All items available for purchase — Sample local wines, ciders, beers, and enjoy live music and food trucks.

Teen Mental Health Book Signing

1-2 p.m. — Barnes & Noble — Free entry — Explore new insights on teen mental health during a special book signing event.

Steep Canyon Rangers Concert

8:00-9:30 p.m. — The State Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of traditional bluegrass with a contemporary twist from award-winning songwriters.

Happy Valley Puzzle Swap

1-2 p.m. — Walmart Supercenter — Free entry — Exchange gently used jigsaw puzzles in a community-friendly environment.

Open Gym

Beat the evening heat and have the kids burn off some energy at CEG's Summer Tuesday night Open Gyms! Open for ages 1–18, but please note that ages 1–5 require a parent or guardian to stay with them. 6:15pm–7:30pm at Centre Elite Gymnastics, 177 Champion Drive, Suite 200, State College, PA 16803. $5/members, $10/non-members.

Remington Ryde Bluegrass Festival

June 25-29 — Centre County Grange Fair — Ticketed event — Enjoy performances from 19 Bluegrass bands including Grand Ole Opry star Rhonda Vincent.

Sips & Sounds Downtown Celebration

4:00 – 8:45 p.m. — Sidney Friedman Park — Free entry — Experience a vibrant summer celebration with live music and refreshing beverages in downtown State College.

Langhorne Slim Concert

8:00-9:30 p.m. — The State Theatre — Ticket prices not specified — Experience the powerful and raw sounds of acclaimed singer-songwriter Langhorne Slim.