This has been a damp, rainy summer. Although needed, all that rain has left many residents with a bad case of cabin fever.

This weekend, we have a great opportunity to step out of the doldrums.

Football is back. There is a sense of excitement as the barbecue grills get fired back up, the great scents of tailgating return, and the air seems just a little crisper. There’s a renewed bounce in everyone’s step.

On Friday night, Newton High and Eastside High resume their rivalry at Sharp Stadium, while Alcovy High has an away game at Jones County. Check our special high-school football kickoff section in Friday’s newspaper for more details.

On the college football scene, the Georgia Bulldogs face a major test on the road as they head into Death Valley to face No. 8-ranked Clemson.

The beginning of football season is a magic elixir for many of us. So enjoy yourself; just don’t drink and drive. You don’t want to miss a minute of the action.