HIT: To the recently completed firefighter training academy that was hosted by the Auburn Fire Department.

After hitting roadblocks from the city's civil service commission and the AFD firefighters union in an attempt to get new firefighters on the job in the most efficient and cost-effective manner, City Manager Mark Palesh and AFD Chief Mike Hammon decided they had enough trainees to bring the training program home.

Typically new firefighters get training through the state's program, but that would have kept new firefighters off the job into the fall. The accelerated program, which also provides more hands-on training and less standing around because of its smaller size, has them on board now.

HIT: To the Wheat Harvest Festival, which had another successful year last Saturday in King Ferry. This event brings people together, and plenty of people who have left the area back, for a day of celebrating rural living.

Organizers continue to do a wonderful job putting it all together.

MISS: To the death of Eleanor “Ellie” Walsh, a true supporter of local arts and artists.

The Owasco resident passed away last week at the age of 83.

Walsh was active in local arts and community causes, but perhaps her biggest contribution came from her behind-the-scenes efforts to simply encourage others to pursue their dreams.

Many people know of her son, the late Thommie Walsh, who made it big on Broadway, but there's a long list of people in addition to family whom Ellie inspired, as well.

HIT: To the induction of Art Monk, a former Syracuse University star, into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Monk's stellar NFL career, mostly with the Washington Redskins, earned him this honor, though it should have come sooner.

But it was uplifting to see the reception this quiet, humble man received at Saturday's induction ceremony.