Laurels to the 22 state legislators, including Sen. Andrew Brock (R-Davie), who won Sunshine Awards from the watchdog group Democracy North Carolina this week. The biennial awards recognize state lawmakers who follow campaign reporting rules and disclose details about who gave them campaign donations and how they spent the money. This yearís award winners included 13 Republicans and nine Democrats. While citing the winners as disclosure ěrole models,î Democracy N.C. Executive Director Bob Hall noted there are still many compliance laggards, particularly among legislators who are still filing reports on paper rather than electronically (which impedes the auditing process). ěWeíre stuck back in the paper age ó itís embarrassing for a state that prides itself on good government and open records,î Hall said.

Dart to another code orange ozone alert for the Charlotte region, extending at least through today. The alert means that people with respiratory problems, older adults and children should minimize physical exertion and outdoor activities in the afternoon, when ozone levels are highest. While code orange and code red periods are sometimes called ěozone actionî days, inaction is probably the best course to avoid heat- and pollution-related problems. Youíll stay cooler and expose your lungs to fewer harmful contaminants. State health officials say that even young and robust individuals should try to time their workouts to morning hours and limit strenuous outdoor activities during ozone alert days.

Laurels to the Salisbury Parks and Recreation Department, named a finalist for a National Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management. Regardless of the outcome of the judging, reaching the finals confirms what Salisbury residents already know. Theyíre fortunate to have a multifaceted parks and recreation system with facilities and programs to match a broad range of interests, ages and fitness levels. Want to play tennis, go fishing, hike a greenway trail or take a class in scrapbooking? The parks department offers those opportunities and a whole lot more.