Editor's note: The combined editorial boards of the Clarksburg Exponent and Telegram newspapers devote Saturday's editorial to recognizing positive efforts from people throughout our readership area. We call this feature "Hats Off." To nominate a person or group for recognition, contact John Miller (626-1473), Bob Stealey (626-1438) or James Logue (626-1031).

n Liberty High School band director Mike Perri, selected W.Va. Bandmaster of the Year for his outstanding effort and dedication to music instruction. Perri's bands have long been regarded as some of the state's best, as a number of his students have gone on to perform in college as well as professionally.

n Adamston Elementary, Lumberport Middle and Washington Irving Middle -- selected as West Virginia Schools of Excellence by the state Department of Education. We salute the administrators, teachers, students and parents who made the honors possible.

n Fifteen fourth-grade students from Alum Bridge Elementary School and 45 fifth-grade students from Norwood Elementary School who were honored at the Junior Special Agent Graduation Ceremony held at the FBI's Criminal Justice Information Services Complex.

n Nutter Fort resident Voie Perine, whose letter to Sen. John D. Rockefeller IV helped prompt our lawmakers to consider new legislation that would extend veterans benefits past the age of 65 to better provide health care to those who have earned it.

n The staffs and volunteers who play such pivotal roles in the success of area senior citizens centers and their various programs.

n The Clarksburg Area Darts Association and local business owner Claudene Cross, for working to bring the National Darts Hall of Fame to Clarksburg.

n Pastor Kurt Busiek, director of the Clarksburg Mission. Busiek, who formerly was pastor at the Clarksburg Baptist Church, has contributed to the spiritual community during his time in the area. Busiek will be leaving soon to take over the ministerial duties at a church in Parkersburg.