I am considering an offer from Penn State which would require the move to State College, PA from Silicon Valley. I was amazed during my visit how strict the alcohol control is in the state and was pretty depressed at the selection of wine at the state controlled store.

Any thoughts from the wine drinkers in Philly or Pittsburg? Do you just stock up when you visit NYC or DC?

Also, can anyone from the area share opinions of the restaurants in the state college area? I was only able to visit for two days so I didn't get out much.

Thanks....

Can't say much about the PA wine scene (check winodepot.com, that is where Ant and Budman hang out, both PA dudes), but I'd certainly stop and shop in DC, NYC and NJ and haul back as needed.

Oh and by the way, I hope that State College has improved its wireless coverage. It seems like with most every carrier that place was (maybe still is?) a black hole.

In addition to a bad wine scene, etc. They have real rotton weather from October thru late April.

I'd stay in Napa.

Ah, PA isn't that bad. There are different types of wine stores here, there is the Premium stores and the regular stores. The premium store obviousley has all of the good stuff. They do put their purchasing power to good use, you will def. see some great deals. They are the countrys largest purchaser of booz. Also there website (www.pawineandspirits.com) is good and you can order from there. I also go to Deleware to buy wine. Hope this helps.

Appreciate the advice. I did have trouble with my cellphone coverage (I use sprint) and one of the other professors noted that nobody gets good reception. Seems strange for such a large college town.