HIT: To the Lock 52 Historical Society, for its tribute to Port Byron residents who have served in the military.

Society president Dorothy Walker and her mother, Betty Smith, have been collecting Port Byron military history artifacts for several years and recently put together an impressive display. An open house held Sunday highlighted that display.

It's displays and events like these that really build a sense of community, as well as an appreciation for those who wear the nation's uniform.

MISS: To the strain the economic slowdown is creating for local charities. These are tough times for the people and organizations whose missions are to help those in need. The economy has boosted demand for charitable services, while at the same time donations are slowing because many people just don't have as much to give.

For those of us who can, please try to do something to help out in these times. More than ever, a donation of time or money can make a huge difference.

HIT: To the Syracuse University football team, for its inspiring performance at Notre Dame last Saturday.

The Orange, with their head coach having learned he would be out of a job at the end of the season, managed to pull off a dramatic fourth-quarter comeback victory at one of the most difficult places for a visiting team to play.

For all the disappointment surrounding Syracuse's football program, this game showed that there's always hope.

HIT: To all the local fall high school sports athletes, for another great season.

The Citizen has launched its fall sports all-stars series, a tribute to the most outstanding boys and girls on the fields, trails and courts, or in the pool. Check them out all week on the front of the sports section, and see them as they're unveiled sport by sport online at auburnpub.com/allstars.