Strike up the band.

It may still be hot as blazes but a true sign of fall has finally arrived. The sounds of marching bands and referees’ whistles are set to echo around football fields throughout Georgia, and it’s about time.

In this state, football is as much a part of the changing of the seasons as the earth’s rotation around the sun. We think this has been one of the more turbulent summers in recent memory and it’s time to cool off.

Big changes happened this summer, and frightening events are in the headlines weekly. As parents, teachers, students or regular citizens we are all at risk and the possibilities and dangers of what could happen is paralyzing sometimes.

We need a break from reality, and the people responsible for these events need a little joy and a chance to forget the things that have gone wrong with their life.

Football gives that chance, especially on the high school level.

Our local high school athletes compete to gain another yard, another six points another cheer from the crowd. Let’s revel in that.

The season kicks off with a good ole’ fashioned rivalry game with Heritage at Rockdale County High on Aug. 21 and then Rockdale at Salem on Aug. 28.

Go out and cheer on the players. Scream at the top your lungs. Show some school spirit and good sportsmanship. And leave it all on the field.

We are expecting good things from all of our teams, and we’re eager to see their progress each week.