HIT: To the Christmas celebrations this past weekend in Union Springs and Weedsport.

Both of these community events represent the essence of small-town America. Other celebrations have taken place over previous weekends in Cayuga County communities. It's wonderful so many local municipalities have residents who work together to organize these holiday events, which give families some welcomed opportunities to get out together.

MISS: To a case that illustrates the dangers so many men and women face when they go to work each day at Auburn Correctional Facility.

A jury found a former ACF inmate guilty Friday night of assaulting and trying to rape a civilian female worker. Raymond Clyde, 35, was found guilty of one count of attempted first-degree rape, two counts of second-degree assault, one count of first-degree unlawful imprisonment, and one count of possession of prison contraband.

HIT: To Tom and Jeanie Lewis, for playing such a huge role in helping the United Way's fall campaign.

The Lewises volunteered to be this year's campaign co-chairs after their family benefited from United Way-funded services as their son Christian battled a rare medical condition that eventually took his life. Even before they accepted this challenge, Tom and Jeanie have amazed everyone they've encountered with their courage and positive spirit - something Christian displayed throughout his ordeal.

The campaign this year raised $1.5 million in pledges, and we're sure Christian is beyond proud of his parents' accomplishment.

HIT: To the Schweinfurth Memorial Art Center's Trunk Show series, which wrapped up Sunday.

These shows compliment the museum's impressive “Quilts = Art = Quilts” exhibit. For people who enjoy this form of art, the shows are a terrific learning opportunity because they bring the artists to the public.