HIT: To the long list of Memorial Day ceremonies held throughout the area on Monday.

It's important to remember what the holiday is about - not barbecues and sales - but honoring the men and women who sacrificed everything for their country. Fortunately this area offers plenty of ways to do that.

The people who organize and volunteer at these Memorial Day events - the parades, cemetery services, flag raisings, etc. - deserve our gratitude. It's also encouraging to see parents bringing their children along so they can learn about some real heroes.

HIT: To charitable spirit on display throughout the holiday weekend.

Numerous community events not only provided a nice diversion, but they also helped raise funds.

From the famous Duck Derby that brings thousands of people to downtown Auburn, to the Majorpalooza, a Relay for Life fundraiser held in Sennett that has grown from its roots as a simple backyard party, the combination of festivity and generosity was impressive.

MISS: To a fatal ATV accident in the town of Niles over the weekend.

An Onondaga County man lost his life when he lost control of his ATV and struck a tree on Friday night.

Recreational vehicles, whether on land or in the water, can be a tremendous source of enjoyment, but this case is an unfortunate reminder that they can also be extremely dangerous.

HIT: To the graduates of Wells College, who received their degrees Saturday.

The small, private school in Aurora has long been known for its stellar academic programs, and some of the proof is in the significant number of Wells grads who have made a positive difference in the community.

Hopefully, a fair number of this year's class will stick around and continue building on that impact.