HIT: To the local community's display of support for the late Patrick Devoe II, who was killed more than a week ago serving his country in Afghanistan.

Whether it was in Auburn or Port Byron, people lined streets to honor Devoe and show support for his family as his casket passed by on Saturday on the way to the funeral home and Monday on the way to the cemetery.

Devoe was an American hero who completely deserved this public display of gratitude.

HIT: To the Syracuse University men's basketball team, for an excellent regular season and Big East Tournament run.

Unlike the previous two seasons, there's plenty of excitement in central New York this year for the NCAA championship tournament.

With a No. 3 seed in the South region, the Orange are poised for a strong showing. If this team can continue to play with the heart and skill they've shown the past couple of weeks, it has a chance to beat any team in the field.

MISS: To the not-so-surprising news that theft-related crimes are increasing in Cayuga County.

Sheriff David Gould confirmed last week that theft-related arrests are becoming more common, and he said the weak economy is certainly a factor.

Although losing a job is never an excuse to turn to crime, this trend highlights the need for a strong support system to help people develop skills and search for employment.

HIT: To all of the participants in the Odyssey of the Mind competition held last weekend at the Cayuga-Onondaga BOCES campus in Aurelius.

This event showcased the remarkable creativity, intelligence and problem-solving skills of students of all ages in this area. These boys and girls, along with their coaches, should be proud of their hard work.

We wish those teams who advanced to the statewide competition all the best, as well.