Free metered parking in downtown Hood River on afternoons during the holiday shopping season is starting today.  Hood River County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Kate Schroeder says this year the free parking will be offered from noon to 6 p.m. through December 24.  She says downtown businesses requested the free parking not start until noon to make sure customers get to use the spaces.  Although meter feeding is not necessary during the afternoon hours, all other City parking rules will be enforced.  This includes observing signed time limits on metered parking and reserved parking in the State St., Cascade St., Columbia St. and Front St. parking lots, which require paid passes.  Sunday parking is always free all-day long.