Homers -- What's going right

ENCOURAGING SIGN: Amid all the post-flood challenges, it's encouraging to see that Cedar Rapids businesses affected by our 2008 disaster are faring better overall than most others in recovery. During the first three years after a disaster, 55 percent of flood-impacted businesses in a community close, on average. In Cedar Rapids, 18 percent shuttered their doors - still a major setback, with 2,200 jobs lost, yet a sign of relative strength.

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TOGETHERNESS: University of Iowa and Iowa City leaders say that cooperation and collaboration between the two institutions is better than ever, and recent actions support that view. We hope it continues to grow. It can only benefit residents and the university community alike.

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PAYBACK: Because of city staff's recent efforts to improve flood preparedness, Cedar Rapids has joined the National Flood Insurance Program's community rating system, earning a mark that qualifies residents for a 10 percent discount when they renew or buy flood insurance.

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DYNASTY: Cedar Rapids Xavier's girls soccer team moved up a class and still won its sixth straight state title.