MISS: To the nationwide average price of gasoline, which has now hit $4 per gallon of regular unleaded.

This area, of course, saw gas stations cross that mark a few days ahead of the national pace. It sure seems now that every day brings some type of record or milestone related to the price of oil.

To realize how fast prices have climbed, consider this from our archives. In March 2004 we did a story about the impact of rapidly escalating prices. The average for the Syracuse region at the time? It was $1.84 for regular unleaded.

HIT: To another successful year for the Falcon Sportsmen Club's annual fishing derby for children.

Despite the brutal heat, plenty of children came out to the club's grounds Sunday to take part. This event brings families together, and it teaches the area's youngest residents to have an appreciation for the outdoors and all it has to offer.

HIT: To another example of the steady fiscal turnaround for the city of Auburn.

Moody's Investor Services has upgraded the city's bond rating, removing the “negative outlook” tag and replacing it with a “stable outlook.” The city's overall rating is still far from stellar, but the upward progress cannot be ignored.

City hall takes plenty of criticism - much of it deserved - but city manager Mark Palesh and his staff deserve credit for this accomplishment, and we urge city councilors to continue supporting efforts to sustain this turnaround.

MISS: To the oppressive heat wave that came through the region.

A blistering sun, high humidity, soaring temperatures - we saw them all over the weekend and into Monday.

Days like these are bound to happen in this area, to be sure, but we hope they remain the exception for the rest of spring and summer.

On a serious note, we urge every one to be careful in this weather. If you have to be out, stay hydrated and protect your skin.