Good morning, State College.

Out of the Cold will launch Shelter Fest, a four-day community music festival from Aug 7 to Aug10 that raises funds and awareness for homelessness in Centre County.

Fifteen local musicians will perform at four venues (814 Cider Works, University Wine Company, Boal City Brewing, Axemann Brewery) and donations will be accepted at the events.

Ellie Sheehan will make history as she becomes the first female Drum Major to lead the Blue Band for the 2025–26 season — THON 2026 will take place Feb.

20-22 at the Bryce Jordan Center — Michael E. Kupferman was named CEO of Penn State Health on May 28 — campus emergency services remind visitors to call 9-1-1 if they are in immediate danger.

Penn State is set to decide its backup quarterback spot between redshirt sophomore Smolik and redshirt freshman Grunkmeyer as they aim to fill the gap left when Beau Pribula transferred to Missouri last season.

Coach James Franklin said the tight competition could last through the season—both players stress preparation and teamwork in case starting quarterback Drew Allar is injured.

Penn State is working to find a new starting tight end after Tyler Warren left for the Colts, with redshirt senior Khalil Dinkins, sophomore Luke Reynolds and redshirt sophomore Andrew Rappleyea expected to compete for the role.

Coach James Franklin and offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki are refining the group—each player must prove they are a key receiving threat—while the offense benefits from strong wide receiver depth.

Penn State safety King Mack returned to Happy Valley after spending a season at Alabama — he said his time away helped him mature.

He will fill an opening in the secondary caused by an injury — coaches expect his experience to be key for the Nittany Lions this season.

Penn State football filled a gap at wide receiver after top players left by adding three experienced transfers—Kyron Hudson, Devonte Ross and Trebor Peña—to boost options for quarterback Drew Allar.

Coach James Franklin said the new additions are expected to improve the passing game and balance the offense in 2025.

Penn State tight end Khalil Dinkins earned praise from coach James Franklin and teammates after a strong spring and last season's performance, and he said he will work on his ball carrying skills ahead of Week 1 against Nevada—aiming to fill the gap left by Tyler Warren’s NFL departure. This marks his second season under offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki as he continues to stake his claim in a deep tight end room.

Jim Knowles started as Penn State's new defensive coordinator (working at Happy Valley) and installed a new defense system during spring practice, calling the secondary the team's real strength.

The team will open the season against Nevada on Saturday (Aug 30 at 3:30 p.m.) at Beaver Stadium.

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.

Molly Tuttle Live in Concert

8-11 p.m. — The State Theatre — $30+ — Experience the award-winning talents of Molly Tuttle in an unforgettable evening of music.

Anna Pearl Belinda at Seven Mountains Wine Cellars

2-4 p.m. — Seven Mountains Wine Cellars and Stonefly Cafe — Free entry — Enjoy original tunes from local singer-songwriter Anna Pearl in a cozy atmosphere.

Romperayo

7-10 p.m. — Manny's Performance Space — From $11.99 — Experience a vibrant musical journey through Colombian tropical folklore and modern rhythms.