While everyone is returning from spring break, their fun days in the sun now over, they have come back to a harsh reality: There’s nothing to do on this campus. There’s no nightlife, no weekend fun and the music scene is all but dead.

Have faith, my fellow Huskies, because the future has been foretold. The salvation finally has arrived, and it’s located at 118 E. Lincoln Highway.

The future of DeKalb lies in the success of the 18-and-older shows Otto’s Niteclub has organized.

Talk on campus is that a decade ago the music scene was alive and well with bands like Pearl Jam, the Red Hot Chili Peppers and The Smashing Pumpkins all playing here. Today’s equivalent of what these bands were a decade ago could be Nickelback, The Calling or even Linkin Park, and the only chance of landing any of those bands depends on the success of the Otto’s 18-and-older shows.

While the pessimists may say it’s ridiculous to think so because they haven’t brought anyone even recognizable yet, it must be given time.

Only if the turnouts are strong will the demand for bigger names arise. Then, who knows who could be playing here a year from now?

For those who think the 18-and-older shows are a hassle and they’re taking away a perfect opportunity to drink, just remember, there is The Underground at Otto’s and there are other bars. This is all about the local music scene resurrecting itself.

The first few shows have been staged with moderate success, but more needs to be done.

Just think strength in numbers.

It would be nice to see one day a line forming outside of Otto’s. A line that stretches down the block past Lan Sir’s and wraps around the corner. The message will be loud and clear.

Let the music scene live!

Now this task cannot be taken on by NIU students alone. Music-lovers from across Illinois must unite to bring the life back to this town.

Instead of going to visit friends on the weekends, have them visit here and catch an 18-and-older show. Over the summer, keep an eye on the Otto’s Web site (www.ottosdekalb.com) for upcoming shows. If one seems interesting, take a road trip out to DeKalb and catch the performance. It sure beats sitting at home watching MTV all day.

Sitting around complaining will not solve anything. Drastic changes call for drastic measures.

Mobilize. Remember: Strength in numbers.

So now that the future is here, let the renaissance of DeKalb’s music scene begin. Embrace the 18-and-older shows, and in no time, reap the benefits with bigger, better shows. Perhaps, one day, Otto’s could be NIU’s version of Chicago’s Metro. Our own little Metro West.