HIT: To a couple of local renewable energy projects getting a big boost from the federal government.

The Cayuga County methane digester project and a project in Port Byron to install solar units secured substantial funding under a round of grants announced last week for the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

These projects show tremendous potential to contribute toward a cleaner environment while also helping to save money.

MISS: To state government agencies that are holding parties and retreats during business hours.

The New York Public Interest Research Group last week publicly decried practices such as apple picking, playing miniature golf and seeing a movie during work hours that are taking place in some state agencies.

While there's no harm and actually some benefit to organized social activities, they should be taking place during non-business hours, when employees are not getting paid by state taxpayers to be doing their actual jobs - especially at a time when the state budget is in such bad shape.

HIT: To the organizers of and participants in a pair of local fundraising walks held Sunday.

Both the CROP Walk in Weedsport and the Rise and Walk for Breast Cancer in Auburn illustrated the tremendous spirit of caring that exists in this area.

It's especially encouraging to see so many families take part in these events. What better way to teach a lesson about community service that to bring your children out to a fun event such as one of these charitable fundraisers.

The Weedsport CROP Walk, by the way, was one of many in this region but it was also held a little early. Several local walks are planned for Oct. 18.

HIT: To the Vanguard, Auburn High School's competition field band.

The band hosted its annual Harvest of Sound event over the weekend, and won in its division.