STATE COLLEGE, Pa. — On Saturday, I made my first trip back to Penn State since last November’s game vs. Michigan State, the longest stretch between visits since I became a Penn Stater. As always, it seems like there are a lot more buildings than last time. Sadly, there are a lot fewer elms — a lot of them came down due to age, especially around the Carnegie building. Thankfully, a number of new ones have been planted, more than there were before, so in 25 years, there will be a pretty decent canopy again. The shepherd’s crook light posts are going in too, which is a major improvement over the 1960s-era light posts that were around previously.

Since it was an incredible spring day, Erica and I had lunch at Cafe 210 West. We shared one of their signature beverages as well while we enjoyed the setting out front facing West College Ave. The Cafe is exactly the same, as are the students. The piercing and tattoo trend has not abated either — I am afraid this is here for eternity now. The same goes for the tanning salon look, despite recent controversies (The Collegian). Why do coeds do that? I have never met a guy who thought it was attractive.

Downtown looked good, no major arrivals or closings along College Ave., but that usually happens in the summertime. Also, another big parking garage is going up on W. Beaver Ave. which is always helpful. State College has the best parking garages I have ever used — bar none — and another one will make downtown that much more accessible. Construction of the new Schlow Centre Region Library is making Beaver Ave. a little slow though.

This time around, my wait for another trip to Happy Valley will be much shorter. The Blue-White game is days away, so another daytrip is in order.