Homers -- What's going right

FIND OUT WHY WE'RE LAST: Iowa ranked last for growth in the number of companies owned by women, a 2012 American Express study of census data showed. So now, Ascent Iowa, a not-for-profit, Cedar Rapids-based organization, is working with the Iowa Economic Development Authority on a project named Stand Up and Be Counted. It will identify Iowa's women-owned businesses and whatever barriers they face toward growing their numbers.

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TOP-RATED: For 41 years, Cedar Rapids' city government has gained Moody's top bond rating of Aaa. And at the other end of the Corridor, Iowa City just learned it has been awarded the same rating for the 37th straight year. The Aaa rating reflects sound fiscal management including maintenance of healthy reserves and manageable debt levels. The top rating is key to getting the lowest interest rates when a city sells general obligation bonds to fund projects, which saves taxpayer money.

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YOUNG HERO: Five-year-old Leighlla Andrews' 911 call is credited with saving the life of her mother, Stephanie Andrews, a Marion woman who lost consciousness during a diabetic seizure.