Homers: What's going right

SOLDIER PORTRAITS: Susan Shogren Smith of Minneapolis and her four children are touring Iowa. Not vacationing or visiting relatives. They're taking high-quality photos of Iowa Army National Guard soldiers, and their families, who are headed overseas - and they're doing it for free. Smith's non-profit organization is online at www.pictureahero.org.

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PAY UP: A year ago, the city of Cedar Rapids hired Republic Parking to oversee the downtown parking system. One problem was unpaid parking fines: $600,000 worth. Since then, Republic has collected $230,000. The goal is to make downtown parking easier by encouraging more rotation of spots. Reminder: If you have five or more unpaid tickets, your vehicle can be towed the next time it's in violation.

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PLAY BALL: Jason Pershing and Trent Gaines grew up playing basketball at the Jane Boyd Community House gym in southeast Cedar Rapids. This summer, they organized a six-week Midnight Hoops program that helps teens avoid criminal activity. Friendly competition, teamwork and motivational speakers are offered. A Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation grant assisted.