First Day hike welcomes visitors to Lake Macbride State Park
Chris Umscheid Solon Economist chris.umscheid@soloneconomist.com
(brisk as it may be) through nature in national and state parks.
“Iowa has joined in for quite a number of years now,” said Park Manager Ron Puettmann.
hot cocoa, and cookies in the lodge. While the First Day Hike was the first scheduled event of the season, Puettmann and his staff stay busy during the off-season.
SOLON — Brown leaves clinging to mostly bare trees and a profound lack of snow made it look more like November than January 1st, but even with the sunshine, the 20-degree temperature and stiff wind out of the north confirmed it was New Years Day as nature enthusiasts embarked on a two-mile hike at Lake Macbride State Park.
The event, a “First Day Hike,” was part of not only a statewide, but nationwide initiative started by the National Park Service to open the new year with a stroll
review
“Here at Lake Macbride we’ve been pretty consistent having a hike, either guided or unguided since they’ve started. This year happens to be one where I’m available and Cam’s (park ranger) available so we thought we’d usher in the New Year in-person and welcome people to the state park for 2025.”
The hikers gathered at the main lodge and made their way along the trail next to the lake out to the dam before turning around and heading back to a crackling fire,
A look at what made front page headlines in the past year
Solon Economist
January
• The Johnson County Sheriff’s Office opened a new substation at 223 S. Iowa Street. The building served as Solon’s fire station, police station (with jail cell), city hall, and library. Deputies are able to use the facility
“This time of year we really get after the TSI (Timber Stand Improvement). We’ve got a forestry stewardship program we’ve been working on for the better part of ten years now.” The park is divided into about 100 tracts, he explained, and the plan spells out prescriptions for each tract.
“We spend the early part of winter setting goals such as what we’re going to try to burn, where we’re going to try to do understory tree removal (clearing overhead tree canopy so young trees are able to get
to do their reports and meet with/interview people in a private setting. The Solon City Council unanimously approved dedicating the facility as the Steven R. Stange Public Safety Building later in the month after Stange’s years of service as a Solon volunteer firefighter, former law enforcement officer, city council member, and mayor. Stange was instrumental in forging a partnership with the Sheriff’s Office for renovation of the building.
• President-elect Donald J. Trump won all five Solon precincts in the 2024 Iowa Caucus topping Niki Haley 124-101. Overall in Johnson County, Republicans gave Haley the edge by one vote, 1,271-1,270. Democrats went with a mail-in “Expression of Presidential Preference, which was open until mid-February with the results to be released in March.
February
• Effective February 1, Woodward Community Media sold The Solon Economist to The Daily Iowan (managed
sunlight and thrive), do invasive species removal, and then we’re out there working on the trees and trying to make the forest better. It’s a lot of work, but very rewarding.”
Campgrounds closed for the winter, come back on April Fool’s Day
The park’s campgrounds open for the season on April 1 with a change that’s not an April Fool’s Day joke, and should make reserving a site easier.
“A new thing this year is, they’ll be 100%
by Student Publications, Inc.), forging a partnership with the University of Iowa’s journalism school and providing a practical lab for U of I students to gain real world experience in small town community journalism.
• Solon Community School District Superintendent Davis Eidahl discussed a number of safety and security upgrades planned for the district’s buildings with $200,000 of the estimated $328,000 cost coming from the State of Iowa through federal pandemic relief funds, which were being dedicated to enhanced security measures for 1,500 school buildings across the state. Davis also announced a new partnership with the Tipton and West Branch school districts and Kirkwood Community College to expand career exploration and preparedness options, and the return of vocational-technical classes. Also, a mild winter enabled work to begin early on the expansion of the Intermediate School.
Chris Umscheid | Solon Economist
Participants in the First Day Hike Wednesday, Jan. 1 at Lake Macbride State Park check out the view from atop the big rock overlooking the dam.
Margaret “Mydge” Ellen (Hewitt) Krob, 81, of Solon passed away peacefully on Friday, December 6 at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics after a sudden illness, surrounded by her family. Visitation was held Thursday, December 12, at St. Mary Catholic Church of Solon. Funeral Mass was held on Friday, December 13, at St. Mary Catholic Church, with Fr. Charles Fladung presiding. Burial was at Sts. Peter and Paul Cemetery in rural Solon. Brosh Chapel and The Avacentre in Solon are in charge of arrangements.
Mydge was born on September 16, 1943, in Moline, Illinois, the youngest of three children to Ransom Terry and Cora Florence (Lievens) Hewitt. Mydge graduated in 1961 from Alleman Catholic High School and was united in marriage to Duane Krob on February 24, 1962. She began her working career with John Deere in Moline, which she enjoyed greatly. Children arrived quickly and after Duane’s graduation from college, they located in Muscatine, IA, where, after three boys, a long-awaited daughter was born. Mydge worked full time as a legal secretary for a law firm in town while caring for the needs of a young family. It was during this time that she earned her Certified Professional Secretary rating. After moving to Charles City, IA in 1975, she continued working full-time as a legal secretary for different law firms while seeing to the needs of four kids and their increasing activities. In 1980, the family moved to Solon, IA where Mydge worked to keep the books for the newly created family business, Foundry Equipment Company. She was an important asset to the team for many years until she decided to pursue a lifelong dream of attending college. She proudly graduated with honors from the University of Iowa with an accounting degree in 1995 and remained a loyal Hawkeye ever since. She completed her working career with the Johnson County Auditor’s office, retiring in 2012.
Family was important to Mydge, including family vacations. Some were definitely more memorable than others, and she was quick to point out that the family seemed to continually travel under a black cloud with something always going wrong. She loved to talk about the year the family ventured to Canada, to the far north end of Big Sand Lake, by boat, and pitch a tent for the week. Never having tent-camped anywhere before such a venture, the rookies packed along everything but the kitchen sink. The week ended early, and was declared over, after a black bear demolished the food tent, about 20 feet away from the sleeping tent. A follow-up visit never occurred.
Mydge found great joy in sewing. For many years, she and her sister Mary Jo enjoyed traveling to sewing classes and fabric stores, where they were well known. In recent years, after moving to the Solon Independent Living, working jigsaw puzzles and crossword puzzles became a favorite activity, along with following the Iowa Hawkeyes, particularly the women’s basketball team. Any time the Hawks were on TV, you could count on her cheering them on.
Although never an Optimist Club member herself, she fully supported Duane’s advancements through the leadership ranks of Optimist International. She attended many conferences and conventions with Duane, which combined her joy of spending time with close friends made within the organization with her joy of traveling throughout the country. This love of traveling led to international traveling and eventually motor home travel. She had many life-long friends within the Iowa District Past-Governors association.
Her Catholic upbringing included St. Anne’s for elementary school, Alleman
High School, marriage at St. Anne’s Catholic Church in Moline, enrolling kids in Catholic elementary schools in Muscatine and Charles City, and involvement in Alter & Rosary Societies in each parish throughout her adult life. She was active helping with many funeral dinners, receptions, and cookie walks, as well as providing food and baked goods for many events. She was a part of the new church building committee, a 25-year member of the finance committee and part of the fundraising committee for both the new church and the new social hall.
Those left to share memories of Mydge are her children; Joe (Becky) of Solon, Terry of Shueyville, Kendall of Swisher, and Melissa Krob (Dan Grimm) of Solon; grandchildren, Stephanie (Sam) Early and Nick (Stephanie) Krob of Des Moines, Kolton (Mallorie) Krob of Swisher, and Jaley, Jamison, and Jake Grimm of Solon; great-grandchildren, Louise, Isaac, Reece, Norma, Knox, Louise (Lou-Lou), and Kooper; her brother-in-law
Kevin (Sherri) Krob of Solon, sister-in-law
Michelle Lenz (Donny Miller) of Solon, and sister-in-law Chloe Hewitt of Moline; as well as many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 60 years in 2022, her parents, her brother Dick, her sister Mary Jo Kline, her father-inlaw Joe Krob and stepmother-in-law Betty Krob, her brother-in-law Stewart Kline, and brother-in-law Mike Krob.
Memorials may be directed to St. Mary Catholic Church of Solon or Optimist International Foundation.
The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the entire staff of UIHC (Main Campus and Downtown Campus), and especially the MICU team, for their professional and compassionate care during a very challenging time. We deeply feel that mom received the very best of care.
Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.broshchapel.com.
David Douglas Brown, 63, of Solon, passed away on Tuesday, December 24, 2024. Services were held Friday, January 3, 2025, at Shueyville Church, with a Celebration of Life following at Shuey’s in Shueyville, IA.
Private family
inurnment will be in Alden Cemetery at a later date. Brosh Chapel and The Avacentre in Cedar Rapids are in charge of arrangements.
David was born May 4, 1961, in Omaha, Nebraska, the son of David Wayne and Carol (Moorhead) Brown. He graduated from Iowa City West, class of 1979. Dave was united in marriage to Cindy Leah Schager on November 24, 1990, in Iowa City. He worked at Modern Piping (Modern) for 37 years before retiring in 2022. Dave enjoyed Lake Macbride Boat Rides, Iowa Football, Water and Snow Skiing, Traveling, Lake Vermilion, Marco Island, Home Projects, and Photographing Soccer Games. He was active within MCAI (Mechanical Contractor’s Association of Iowa), YPO (Young President’s Organization), and JDRF (Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, now Breakthrough T1D).
Dave is survived by his loving wife of 34 years, Cindy Brown of Solon, IA; his children Bob (Audrey) Brown of Solon, IA and Nick (Madi) Brown of Minneapolis, MN; his grandchildren Blakely and Cooper; his sister Kristin (Rob) White of Solon, IA; his brother Ken (Alison) Brown of Greensboro, GA; his father-in-law Robert Schager of Iowa Falls, IA; his brothers-in-law Scott (Ginger) Schager of Dallas, TX and Jason Schager (Kelly Ribich) of Ames, IA; as well as aunts and uncles and nieces and nephews; and best friend Mike Shive of Solon, IA.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his mother-in-law Joyce Schager.
In lieu of flowers, Memorials may be
directed to the Dave Brown Memorial Fund.
Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.broshchapel.com.
Fred Mally, 95, of Solon, went home to be with the Lord on December 31, 2024 after a brief stay at Solon Care Center.
Visitation will be held from 4-6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 7, 2025 at Lensing Funeral and Cremation Service in Iowa City. Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 8, 2025 at Lensing. Interment will be at Buresh Cemetery in Ely.
Fred was born on May 8, 1929 in Cedar Rapids to Fred A. and Olga (Topinka) Mally. After graduating from Roosevelt High School, he served in the United States Navy where he was a flight instrument trainer and received his electrical training.
Following discharge, Fred returned to Iowa to pursue farming. His sons Dan and Pat were born in Iowa, and then in 1961, he and his sons moved to California, where he worked as an electrician. He met Alice MacDougall there, and the two were married on March 18, 1967 in Santa Barbara, California.
The couple welcomed daughters Rose and Jen before moving back to the farm in Solon, Iowa on Lake MacBride.
From 1975-1985, Fred worked for himself as an electrician as well as tending to the farm. In 1985, he began working in the maintenance department at the University of Iowa before retiring in 1996.
Fred never let his time go to waste, and enjoyed inventing new things – he even got one patented! He relished working on the farm, eating homegrown produce and listening to Dixieland jazz music. He and Alice traveled all over to attend jazz festivals. Fred was a master storyteller, and enjoyed recalling his Navy days and many other exploits, including skydiving, practicing karate, and working in many exciting places, including an oil platform and Diablo Canyon Nuclear Power Plant. He could start a conversation with anyone, no matter where he went. He doted on his John Deere tractors and his family (especially his grandkids!). He had the best of both worlds when he designed and installed a side-seat for his tractor, so the grandkids could sit next to him and ride out in the field.
Fred is survived by his loving wife, Alice; children Dan (Jan) Mally, Patrick Mally, Rose (Jason) Reiseck and Jennifer (Bill) Hawks; grandchildren Loren (Sara) Mally, Ian (Robyn) Mally, A.J. Mally, Bailey and Bella Reiseck, Wyatt and Landon Hawks; great grandchildren Nikolaus, Nathan, and Reznor. He is also survived by his sister, Rosalie Hensch, sister-in-law, Lorna (Tom) Griesbach, and many cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings Marilyn Kessler and Francis Mally; brothers-in-law Tom Kessler, Bill Manning, and Byron Hensch; and in-laws, George and Florence MacDougall.
The family extends a heartfelt thank you to Iowa City Hospice, Solon Care Center and the VA Medical Staff for the care and compassion they showed to Fred and his entire family.
Memorial donations may be made to Iowa City Hospice; online condolences may be shared at www.lensingfuneral.com.
Volume 145 I Issue 2 Of a Little Weekly Miracle PO Box 249, Solon, IA 52333 Phone: 319-624-2233 news@soloneconomist.com
The Solon Economist strives for accuracy and fairness in reporting news. If we’ve made an error or a report is misleading, let us know about it: news@soloneconomist.com.
STAFF
Publisher Jason Brummond jason.brummond@dailyiowan.com
Editor Chris Umscheid chris.umscheid@ soloneconomist.com
Advertising Sales Catherine Bilskie catherine.bilskie@ soloneconomist.com
Reporter Intern Joel Kellar
Production Manager Heidi Owen heidi.owen@dailyiowan.com
Business Manager Debbie Plath debra.plath@dailyiowan.com
Official Newspaper: Solon, Johnson County, Solon Community School District, Solon Tri-Township Emergency Response Solon Economist USPS #500860 Copyright © 2024 by Student Publications, Inc. is published weekly by Student Publications, 100 Adler Journalism Building, Room El31, Iowa City, IA 52242. Call 319-6242233 to subscribe. Periodicals postage is paid at Iowa City, IA, and additional mailing offices.
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Solon Economist at PO Box 249, Solon, IA 52333.
Subscriptions: Contact Catherine Bilskie at 319-624-2233 or catherine. bilskie@soloneconomist.com for additional information. Subscription rates: Johnson and adjoining counties – $55 annually; elsewhere In Iowa – $75 annually; out of state –$85 annually.
Copyright 2024 Solon Economist, a division of The Daily Iowan and Student Publications, Inc. All articles, photographs and graphics, both in print and online editions, are the property of Student Publications, Inc., and may not be reproduced or republished without written permission. soloneconomist.com
Margaret Krob
David Brown
Fred Mally
Happy New Year from Solon Senior Support!
Solon Senior Support is a non-profit volunteer group helping Solon-area senior citizens. Please call Jill Weetman at 319-624-2773 for questions or information.
Five New Year’s Resolutions for Older Adults
1. Keep moving: Walking or Chair Yoga are great options! 2. Nourish your body: Fruit, veggies, and water, or come to Senior Dining for a healthy meal.
3. Keep your brain active: Reading, learning a new skill, puzzles, and crafts will exercise your brain.
4. Stay connected with others: Come to Senior Coffee or visit the Library.
5. Get regular health check-ups: Call Senior Transport (319-360-3279) for a ride.
Senior Coffee
If you haven’t been to Senior Coffee group yet, you are missing out!
Stop by for FREE coffee/tea/hot chocolate and treats, meet new people, and enjoy great conversation Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9-11:00 a.m. at the Solon United Methodist Church. Need a ride? Call Jill at 319-624-2773.
Calling All Cards and Bingo Players!
We are looking to start a group to play cards and bingo on Fridays in the late morning/ early afternoon. We’ll order lunch from a local restaurant at low/no cost. Interested? Email Jill at solonseniors@gmail.com or call 319-624-2773. Feel free to leave a message!
Solon Senior Transport
Winter is here! Let our volunteer drivers transport you to and from medical-related appointments. An enrollment form and a detailed brochure will be sent upon request. Once enrolled, the senior may call for a ride to a specific appointment. Requests for rides should be scheduled several days prior to the appointment date. All volunteer drivers are self-insured. Call Cindy Jensen at 319-360-3279.
Our new online catalog system, Apollo, is right around the corner. The Solon Public Library will be open for limited hours Monday, January 13, from 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. to allow us time to begin the migration to our new system. We’ll return to regular hours Tuesday, January 14, and open with Apollo. Staff will be ready to help you with the changes too!
Beginning Tuesday, January 14,: for online access to your Library account, you’ll visit our website, www.solon.lib. ia.us, then click the orange flag in the upper right corner that says “Catalog Search & Account Login” to be redirected to our online catalog, Apollo.
Once there you’ll see the online features like searching for materials, new material lists, and you’ll be able to login to your account.
On Apollo, you’ll see the Log in to your account section in the upper right corner and enter your Library Card Number in the top field, then your Phone Number or Password. In Apollo, your default password is your phone number associated with your Library account.
Please also note that is how you’ll login to Bridges or the Libby app for the digital library.
We recognize that this will change the steps you typically follow for accessing the Library online, please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions. We’re happy to help!
Library Events
The Winter Library Challenge is for all-ages! Participate in activities and challenges at the Library in January to earn secret codes. It’s as simple as joining us for
one of our events, checking out different types of materials, and enjoying activities around the Library. Redeem four secret codes for a small prize and a chance to win a grand prize! You can track your progress on paper slips or using READsquared. Challenge yourself and win this WIN-ter! Join us for gym games and the movie, The Wild Robot [PG], at Fun For All Night, Saturday, January 11. Games begin at 6:00 p.m. and the movie begins at 7:00 p.m. This night of fun for all ages takes place at the Solon Community Center in partnership with Solon Recreation.
We’re getting our hands dirty and making beautiful paper with recycled papers at this month’s DIY Night! Register online to join us Tuesday, January 14, at 6:30 p.m. as we learn the steps to create masterpieces perfect for gifting or decorating your space.
Library Access
Regular Library hours are Monday-Thursday, 9:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m. and Friday-Saturday, 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Closed Sundays. Please always refer to our website calendar or call to check hours as winter weather may impact our ability to be safely open.
We will be open 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. Monday, January 13, as we begin the move to our new online catalog system. We will reopen Tuesday, January 14, with regular hours.
Don’t forget, the digital library is always available! Find an eBook, eAudiobook, magazines and more with Bridges, or with the Libby app on your favorite smart device. You can even stream classic films, discover new favorites,
JANUARY SOLON SENIOR ADVOCATES NEWS
As seniors we are responsible for many things, our family, our friends and our community. We have experienced many things, raising children, having a job, career, keeping a home, attending church, going on vacations plus myriad things during our lifetime. To date, we perhaps, live a more quiet life, limit activities, sometimes for health reasons and maybe lack of interest to get involved. We still see family, but maybe not as often, visit with friends occasionally and generally spend time reading or watching the tube. The Senior Advocates main purpose is to engage seniors in activities such as a weekly Senior Dining meals, participate in our bus trips or one of our monthly restaurant runs. We wish to reach out to those who haven’t joined in any of these activities but find them a way to become more connected. For more information please contact one of the Advocates.
Restaurant Runs
Thursday, Jan. 16 – El Sol, Solon. 12:00 Noon, personal cars. Sign-up sheet Wednesdays at Senior Dining or call 319-430-8655.
***Solon pictorial history book Solon Snapshots is now on sale at the Solon Public Library for $35***
Solon Senior Transport –
Provides volunteer transportation for seniors to medical appointments. For information and to enroll please call Cindy Jensen at 319-360-3279.
Senior Advocates Board
Art Tellin 319-626-2816, Sandy Hanson 319-430-8655, Barry Byrne 319-354-8757, Cindy Jensen 319-360-3279, Larry Brecht 319-624-2925, Ivan Hasselbusch 319-6709105, Phyllis Fiala 319-331-7447, and Mark Hollinrake 319-551-2811.
and more with Kanopy on your favorite smart device.
Everyone is welcome at the Library and our programs. Please contact us with access needs.
What’s New?
New year, new books! Continue growing your mind and stretching your body with these new nonfiction books at the Library!
Build the Life You Want by Arthur C Brooks & Oprah Winfrey. With insight, compassion, and hope, Brooks and Winfrey reveal how the tools of emotional self-management can change your life― immediately. They recommend practical, research-based practices to build the four pillars of happiness: family, friendship, work, and faith. And along the way, they share hard-earned wisdom from their own lives and careers as well as the witness of regular people whose lives are joyful despite setbacks and hardship. Equipped with the tools of emotional self-management and ready to build your four pillars, you can take control of your present and future rather than hoping and waiting for your circumstances to improve.
Meditations by Marcus Aurelius, translated, introduced and edited by Robin Waterfield. As Roman emperor, Marcus Aurelius was the most powerful man in the world, yet he was also an intensely private person with a rich interior life and
one of the wisest minds of his generation. He collected his thoughts in notebooks, the entries ranging from one-line aphorisms to essays, from profundity to bitterness, but always with an eye to how one can live with dignity and thrive in an adverse world. A beautiful object on your bookcase or in your hand, this hardcover edition offers the definitive translation of this much beloved text. Copious notes from world-renowned classics expert Robin Waterfield enrich the understanding of even the most devoted Stoic, while guiding those new to the text through Marcus Aurelius’ world and the timeless insights he offers.
The Miracle of Flexibility by Miranda Esmonde-White. The secret to mobility, strength, flexibility, good posture, and peak fitness is a daily Essentrics workout. Miranda’s revolutionary technique is paving the way to create younger, stronger, more mobile bodies without injury or pain. This trailblazing program rooted in science has delivered world champions and Olympic medalists by preventing injuries and healing pain. Now, for the first time, it is available in book form offering:
-A large range of motion sequences to strengthen the entire musculoskeletal system -Bonus posture workouts tailored for athletes, peak performers, and users who want to minimize back and joint pain -Information and strategies to completely restore the body -And much more.
Contributed photo
Attendees of Solon Senior Dining’s in-house meals enjoy food and fellowship Wednesdays at the Solon Methodist Church. Here, diners are seen enjoying the annual Christmas celebration.
OPINIONS
The trouble with things Q&A: Looking ahead to 2025 With U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley
Food for Thought
Milli Gilbaugh
As I look about at all the possessions cluttering up my house, my purse, my car, my life, I seriously wonder if acquisitiveness is a fundamental aspect of human nature or simply a bad habit.
It has been some time since I figured out that I don't need everything the advertisers tell me I need, and I've more recently concluded that I don't need most of the things I tell myself I need, either. My closets, kitchen cabinets, furnace room, garage are crammed with things that I, quite frankly, have forgotten that I own. They are there because: one, I still have room for them; and two, I was born in 1934. Anyone who grew up during the Great Depression knows you should save everything (broken, duplicated, outgrown, outdated) because someday you may need it, and, if it can be repaired, revived, or made into something else, you may be glad to have it.
Once a person acquires something, it becomes unclear who is the owner and who is the possession. Aside from having to earn the money to pay for it, we have to store it, wash it, buy gas or electricity for it, fill it, empty it, keep it warm, water it, adjust it, repair it or take it to the vet. We soon find we spend more time and money taking care of our possessions than they are worth to us.
It seems to me that, with far fewer things to take care of, we would have a lot more time to enjoy life. We could have smaller houses and could work fewer hours without all that stuff to pay for. With more leisure and less stress, we could have more time and energy for friends, creativity, exercise, learning, and enrichment. There would be fewer things for someone else to dispose of (or fight over) after we are dead.
At my present time of life, I am no longer responsible for feeding other people. I once thought that I enjoyed cooking but have discovered that the pleasure I derived seems to have been based mostly on the appreciation or admiration that the tasty meals and favorite treats evoked from the people I made them for. It has been humbling to admit that the pleasure came from the praise and not the act of preparing those foods.
My cupboards are still cluttered with cake pans I'll never again fill with sweet batter, baking dishes that will see no more pheasant and wild rice casseroles, and cookie sheets that will yield no more of Grandma's traditional holiday cookies. Electric appliances and special tools are pushed to the back of the pantry shelves; I won't be handgrating the cheese, shredding home-grown cabbage to make sauerkraut, whipping up real mayonnaise, or rolling out golden egg noodles. So why do I still have all those things? I'm not sure. Maybe they are part of who or what I think of as “me” and I'm afraid to let them go. I once thought they would be passed down to my grandchildren when I am gone, but I seem to have lived so long that the grandchildren have acquired too much stuff of their own.
A few classmates and other contemporaries I have contact with talk of down-sizing, moving in with their kids or to assisted living. They had both the help and the necessity to rid themselves of all that excess baggage. Unfortunately, I seem to still have several nooks and crannies in which to stash a few unused and useless possessions, so why not keep them? A few things that once belonged to my parents and even to my grandparents are, by now, officially antiques. I sometimes think it would be a great joy to simplify my life by getting rid of all the stuff I don't need. The problem is that you never know what supposedly useless thing holds someone else's special memories.
My mother weeded out the clutter many years before her death. When she was gone, my sisters and I were dismayed at the number of things we had been attached to that were no longer there. My youngest sister recounted a dream where she told Mother we couldn't find this or that. In the dream Mother laughed and said, “Of course you can't find them. I took them with me.”
Maybe I'll do that. You never know - you might need some of that stuff.
Q: What’s new on your plate in the U.S. Senate in the 119th Congress?
A: Voters in the 2024 elections delivered a fresh mandate to Washington, D.C., returning President Trump to the White House and putting Republicans in control of both houses of Congress.
That means the U.S. Senate will be led by a Republican Majority in the 119th Congress, where Sen. John Thune of South Dakota will serve as Majority Leader and I will resume chairmanship of the Senate Judiciary Committee. At the committee’s helm, I’ll work to uphold the independence of the federal judiciary, a vital lever of government accountability in our system of checks and balances. One of the original standing committees in the U.S. Senate, the Judiciary Committee has broad legislative jurisdiction, including issues related to immigration, crime, controlled substances, civil liberties, antitrust, intellectual property and more. Iowans know I place a high priority on congressional oversight and strengthening whistleblower protections; this platform will empower me to conduct rigorous oversight over the Department of Justice and various federal agencies, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Department of Homeland Security. In addition,
the Judiciary Committee manages all Article III judicial nominations, including nominees to district and circuit courts, as well as the Supreme Court.
On January 3, I was sworn in as President pro tempore in the Senate, a position customarily filled by the most senior member of the Senate Majority party. Having served in this leadership role during the 116th Congress, I appreciate what an honor it is for Iowans. I look forward to carrying out the responsibilities of this office, one of only three legislative officers named in the Constitution. The only other Iowan to ascend to this constitutional office was Senator Albert B. Cummins, who served as President pro tempore for four Congresses in the early 20th century.
Q: What’s on Congress’ to-do list?
A: One of the top priorities of the incoming Trump administration is border security. During the BidenHarris administration, more than ten million illegal immigrants broke federal laws to enter our country without permission, overwhelming social services in communities across the country, empowering dangerous cartels to exploit the border crisis, expand illicit drug and human trafficking networks
and imperil American sovereignty. With gavel in hand on the Senate Judiciary Committee, I’m eager to roll up my sleeves and work with my colleagues to secure the border and tackle violent crime on behalf of the American people. I’ll also continue serving on the Senate Finance, Budget and Agriculture Committees. From these policymaking tables, I’ll work to deliver on extending the Trump tax cuts before they expire at the end of 2025. Those efforts will include preventing a $4 trillion tax increase that would hit most families and small business owners, including family farmers, as well as a $1,700 tax hike for a typical family of four, restoring pro-growth business provisions, including bonus depreciation and full expensing for research and development costs. I’ll also continue pushing to cut drug prices and hold the pharmaceutical industry accountable, put more farm in a new five-year Farm Bill; and, restore regular order to the federal budget process. Americans are fed up with massive spending bills that drive up deficit spending and saddle the next generation with debt. As always, my door is open. I encourage Iowans to keep in touch and share your views and concerns.
The senator can be contacted at www.grassley.senate.gov/contact.
Attorney General Bird and Department of Public Safety warn public of rise in “Grandparent Scams”
Alyssa Brouillet
Communications Director Iowa Attorney General’s Office
DES MOINES — Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird and the Department of Public Safety are warning Iowans to be aware of a new wave of “grandparent scams.” Several Iowa communities throughout the state have recently reported efforts by criminal groups to swindle predominately older Iowans.
This scam is not new – the Attorney General’s Office has been warning Iowans about the grandparent scam since at least 2008.
In a grandparent scam, con artists call the victim posing as a grandchild and claiming they have been in an accident, hospitalized, jailed, or even in a foreign country, then ask the grandparent to send money to help them. At times, these scammers will go as far as to send an alleged courier to the grandparent’s home to retrieve the money.
Scammers will often trick the victim by using details about their grandchild that were obtained from social media accounts. The scammer might also team up with another scammer who pretends to be someone backing up the scammer’s claims, such as an attorney, doctor, or police officer.
“Scamming someone out of money is evil enough,” said Attorney General Bird. “But manipulating someone’s love for their grandchild shows just how low scammers will
go to steal from you. In today’s digital age, it is more important than ever to double-check when someone calls asking for money and to never send it over the phone. If you or a loved one is suspicious of a grandparent scam, please call law enforcement and my office at 1-888777-4590.”
The grandparent scam highlights the dangers of sharing personal information, wiring money, providing prepaid money card numbers or bank account information, and buying or transferring crypto currency to strangers by telephone. Grandparent scam transactions generally transfer funds abroad and are often nearly impossible to trace.
The Department of Public Safety and Attorney General Bird recommend the following tips to protect against the grandparent scam:
• Hang up. End the call and verify the information.
• Contact a trusted family member. Call a verified phone number for your grandchild, another family member, or friend to check out the story – even if you have been told to keep it a secret.
• Verify the person’s identify. Ask questions about your loved one that a stranger would not know.
• Resist the urge to act quickly or secretly. If someone is asking for money immediately and using fear, excitement, or sympathy, it’s a scam.
• Report the scam to local law enforcement authorities.
Scammers attack several residents and communities, so get assistance for yourself and help others avoid scam efforts.
• Don’t answer the door unless you know and trust the visitor. Don’t send money. Do not give out personal information, cash, wire money, or send a check or money order by overnight delivery or courier.
• File a complaint. In addition to notifying local law enforcement authorities, scam calls can be reported to the Federal Trade Commission (https://consumer. ftc.gov) as well as the Office of the Attorney General of Iowa.
• Learn more about family emergency scams. For more information, read the FTC’s Family Emergency Scams (https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/ scammers-use-fake-emergenciessteal-your-money) or visit the Attorney General’s Office website page on grandparent scams (www.iowaattorneygeneral.gov/ for-consumers/general-consumerinformation/phone-scams/ grandparent-scam).
Iowans suspicious of a grandparent scam should immediately contact local law enforcement for assistance or the Iowa Attorney General’s Office at 1-888-777-4590 or iowaattorneygeneral.gov.
They may also file a complaint with the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center at https://www.ic3.gov.
Johnson County sees a continuous drop in beef cattle herd
The
Johnson county beef cattle herd is shrinking, pointing toward shifting trends.
Evan Watson The Daily Iowan
Since 2000, the beef cattle herd in Johnson County, Iowa, and the U.S. has steadily shrunk as farmers’ average age increases and weather patterns make it harder to maintain the herd.
However, the herd shrinking is not strictly a bad thing. It is, however, an important marker of where the industry is positioned, according to market experts.
Ryan Drollette, farm management specialist at the Iowa State Extension Office in Johnson County, said drought is an ongoing factor in the herd’s reduction.
Drollette said drought directly reduces the amount of land for raising livestock. Not only is the amount of tenable land reduced, but he also said less forage and feed can be collected and used in livestock farming as a result.
“Feed isn’t as available as it typically is because not only are my pastures not doing well because of drought, but also I’m not producing the amount of hay that I normally would,” he said.
Drollette said these conditions are the main reasons farmers decide to reduce their herd, though other factors make it a longer-term choice.
Similar to other agriculture inputs, long life is a constant consideration. Farm machinery is an example of a large investment,
often costing over $300,000 on average. The equipment has an average lifespan of a decade or more.
The same theme is true for larger livestock animals. Drollette said the life span of small animals like poultry could see a turnaround of six months or less, whereas beef cattle can take upwards of two years from conception before it is marketed. This time can create a lag behind making proper decisions, as it becomes a game of prediction.
The long-life problem is a reason why this summer’s rainy conditions will not ultimately allow the herd to see substantial growth, Drollette said.
“There’s that life cycle issue where you need to retain those calves for a year,” he said. “So, instead of the calves being sold in the fall, I have to retain and feed them through winter and get them bred, and then they have another nine months to have their first calf.”
Rick Kasper, a local Johnson County livestock grower and board member of the Johnson County Cattlemen, said one main factor impacting individual farmers’ decisions to keep or reduce their personal cattle herd is age.
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the average age of farm producers has increased from 56.3 to 57.5 years between 2012 and 2017.
An average in the 50s is a high number, and considering the amount of physical work and time required to succeed in agricultural production, Kasper said it is reasonable that farmers eventually decide to cut down on their herds.
“There’s times I drag my feet in the snow and cold, but the animal needs to be taken care of,” Kasper said. “As farmers get older, they aren’t able to do a lot of the work.”
Kasper said the herd is at a
60-year low. Considering the high prices of beef, it is simply too expensive for most farmers to maintain a larger herd.
For reference, Iowa choice steer prices have risen 38 percent since 2000 from $68.41 to $176.58, according to Iowa State Extension.
Kasper, though, said he stays in the industry for a reason that retains many farmers: their inherent care for the animals.
“Part of the reason I’m farming is because of the cattle,” he said. “I could make a lot more money doing something else.”
Kelli Wicks, director of governmental relations for the Iowa Cattlemen Association, said all these factors contribute to a strong doubt that the herd will be rebuilt soon.
There are adaptations and improvements for farmers and the industry overall, Wicks said, that mark the herd reduction as more of a market shift instead of an absolute negative.
“Producers are choosing to take older cows out of their herds,” she said. “That means there are less cows in the herd. Feeder cattle markets are higher, so it makes sense for producers to take a heifer calf and put her in the feed yard.”
The other main improvement, she said, is the overall increased efficiency in processing meat from beef cattle.
She said the animals are bigger overall, allowing more meat to be extracted from them, and the meat is of a higher quality. The herd will likely not be fully rebuilt for this reason, but Wicks said this is not a bad thing.
“It’s not necessarily a bad thing either way, whether it is increasing or decreasing,” she said. “We want what is good for consumers and producers, and the farmers are both.”
COLLEGE
NEWS
Grimm named to UWMadison Fall Dean’s List
The University of Wisconsin-Madison recognizes Jamison Grimm, College of Letters and Science, from Solon for being named to the Dean’s List for the fall semester of the 2024-2025 academic year.
Johnson County Board of Supervisors appoints
Jon
Green as new Chairperson
IOWA CITY — The Johnson County Board of Supervisors held its organizational meeting for 2025 Thursday, Jan. 2. The Board began the meeting by appointing Jon Green as Chairperson for 2025. V FixmerOraiz was appointed as Vice Chairperson.
“I’m grateful to my colleagues for their confidence in serving as our Chairperson in 2025, which I expect to be a dynamic and challenging year at times. Fortunately, we have a good team to meet challenges and take opportunities,” said Green.
Governor Reynolds issues statement on the December REC Projections
DES MOINES— Gov. Reynolds released the following statement today in response to the December REC projections for Fiscal Year 2025 and 2026:
“The REC projections are what we expected due to our responsible, growth-oriented fiscal stewardship. The State of Iowa will end Fiscal Year 2024 with a balance of $2.05 billion in the General Fund, $961.2 million in reserve funds and $3.75 billion in the Taxpayer Relief Fund. Iowa’s conservative budgeting practices and commitment to shrinking the
size and scope of government have once again put our state in a strong financial position just as our low, flat income tax rate of 3.8% takes effect next year for every Iowa taxpayer,” Gov. Reynolds said.
“Our tax cuts, which return funds to hard-working Iowans, are driving the reduction of state revenue—but for the tax cuts, Iowa would see revenue growth. And yet, unlike so many states, Iowa is in a great financial position in no small part because of our spending discipline," Iowa Department of Management Director Kraig
Paulsen said. "And because of our strong fiscal health, Iowa has the flexibility to address the priorities of Iowans."
Students who achieve at a high level academically are recognized by the Dean at the close of each semester. To be eligible for the Dean’s List, students must complete a minimum of 12 graded degree credits in that semester. Each university school or college sets its own GPA requirements for students to be eligible to receive the distinction. Most call the honor "dean's list", but some grant the "Dean's Honor List" and "Dean's High Honor List." whats happening around you.
Jon Green
GIRLS'
Lady Spartans dominate Golden Hawks
Solon snaps twogame losing streak, upsets unbeaten MidPrairie 79-58
WELLMAN — The Lady Spartans snapped a two-game losing streak as they opened 2025 with a non-conference game against Mid-Prairie, handing the unbeaten Golden Hawks their first loss of the season 79-58 Saturday, Jan. 4 at Mid-Prairie.
Solon dominated the Hawks, ranked No. 15 in Class 3A in the Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union’s Dec. 19 rankings (the last such ranking for 2024) from the start with a 26-16 lead at the end of the first period. By halftime Solon was ahead 48-27 and led 66-40 going into the final period.
Five Lady Spartans scored in double digits led by junior Delainey Durr with 20. Freshman Quinn Armentrout had 14 with 11 points apiece by senior Kobi Lietz, sophomore Jerzey Haluska, and freshman Beckett Kruse.
The win moved Solon to 4-4 on the season while dipping Mid-Prairie to 7-1.
WaMaC East Standings (1-5-25)
BOYS' WRESTLING
Individual Stats
Scoring – Delainey Durr 20, Quinn Armentrout 14, Kobi Lietz 11, Jerzey Haluka 11, Beckett Kruse 11, Laeni Hinkle 9, Laney Johnson 3 3-point baskets – Durr 4/8, Hinkle ¾, Haluska 2/2, Armentrout 2/8, Johnson 1/5
Rebounds – Lietz 7, Kruse 7, Durr 3, Haluska 3, Armentrout 2, Hinkle 2, Sophia Link 1 Assists – Lietz 5, Johnson 5, Durr 3, Armentrout 2, Haluska 1, Kruse 1, Hinkle 1 Steals – Lietz 11, Armentrout 3, Durr 2, Kruse 2, Johnson 2, Hinkle 1 Blocks – Durr 1
Upcoming Schedule
Thursday, Jan. 9 – HOME vs. Monticello, 7:00 p.m.
Friday, Jan. 10 – HOME vs. South Tama, 6:00 p.m.
Tuesday, Jan. 14 – HOME vs. Marion, 6:00 p.m.
Friday, Jan. 17 – At West Delaware, 6:00 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 21 – At Independence, 6:00 p.m.
Friday, Jan. 24 – HOME vs. Mount Vernon, 6:00 p.m.
Tuesday, Jan. 28 – HOME vs. CPU, 6:00 p.m. Friday, Jan. 31 – At Marion, 6:00 p.m.
Chris Umscheid | Solon Economist Delainey Durr (shown here in action earlier this season against Benton Community) led the Lady Spartans with 20 points against Mid-Prairie in a non-conference upset win Saturday, Jan. 4 in Wellman.
Spartans take second place in home duals tourney
SOLON — The varsity Spartans went 4-1 for second place in their home duals tournament Saturday, January 4, falling to Wilton 48-29 in the final round. Central DeWitt (3rd place, 3-2), New Hampton/Turkey Valley (4th place, 1-3), Albia (5th place, 1-3), and Cascade (0-4) rounded out the field.
Solon 74 Cascade 5
Jackson Feuerbach (175 lbs.) pinned Cascade’s Carter Conrad (1:33), Kyler Jensen (190) pinned Cason Rausch (1:16), Charlie Karam (138) won by Technical Fall (17-0) over Bryce Carroll, Jordan Schmidt (144) pinned Charlie Simon (0:52), and Carson Kidwell (157) took a 10-9 decision from Kalvin Manternach. Teague Williams (165), Lucas Feuerbach (215), Grant Wilson (285), Anderson Osgood (106), Evan Gleason (113), Jayden Steapp (120), Justin Moore (126), and Evan Burg (150) won by forfeit.
Cascade’s Brock Morris won by Technical Fall (20-2) over Wyatt Cronan (132).
Solon 47 Central DeWitt 24
Osgood (106) won by Technical Fall (17-2) over DeWitt’s Zion Rooks, Schmidt (144) pinned Mason Bock (1:53), Burg (150) pinned Abe Vickers (4:33), Kidwell (157) pinned Colton Penniston (0:50), Jackson Feuerbach (175) pinned Brody Grell (1:12), Jensen (190) pinned Kazmir Senneff (1:30), Lucas Feuerbach (215)
took an 8-6 decision from Chris Wrage, and Wilson (285) won a 7-1 decision against Grayson Chrones. Moore (126) won by forfeit.
DeWitt’s Cale Johnson (113) pinned Quinten Henning (0:59), Eli Edfors won by Technical Fall (223) over Steapp (120), Blake Kent pinned Cronan (2:42), Dolan Theisen won in Sudden Victory (13-10) against Karam (138), and Callan Hursey took a 19-11 Major Decision from Williams (165).
Solon 41 New Hartford/Turkey Valley (NH/TV) 30
Steapp (120) pinned Ty Moudry (0:54), Schmidt (144) won a 4-2 decision against Jayden Bucknell, Kidwell (157) won by Technical Fall (16-0) against Tate Schwickerath, Williams (165) took an 11-10 decision from Chase Humpal, Jensen (190) pinned Jackson Kellogg (1:06), and Wilson (285) pinned Chase Gebel (1:47).
Osgood (106) and Lucas Feuerbach (215) won by forfeit.
NH/TV’s Dominick Reicks (113) pinned Henning (2:34), Xander Meyerhoff won a 15-14 decision against Moore, Braiden Schaufenbuel (132) pinned Cronan (0:45), Carter Cajthaml (138) pinned Karam (1:41), Jax Shekleton (150) pinned Burg (1:43), and Lohen Tank (175) won 5-4 against Jackson Feuerbach (175).
Solon 64 Albia 12
Osgood (106) won by Technical Fall (16-1) over
Brenden Lahart, Gleason (113) pinned Josiah Kaster (3:53), Steapp (120) pinned Wyatt Yule (1:10), Moore (126) won by 9-0 Major Decision over Carson Sohn, Karam (138) pinned Ty Pickerell (3:14), Schmidt (144) won by 12-3 Major Decision over Conner Pickerell, Kidwell (157) pinned Kael Hutchinson (3:36), Williams (165) won a 5-4 decision against Parker Hemann, Jackson Feuerbach (175) pinned Fletcher Mick (0:45), Jensen (190) pinned Gray Beckwith in 16 seconds, and Lucas Feuerbach (215) pinned Nate Ballard (2:07).
Wilson (285) won by forfeit.
Albia’s Kayden Henderson (132) pinned Cronan (1:36) and Carter Folkerts (150) pinned Burg (3:35).
Wilton 48 Solon 29
Kidwell (157) won by Technical Fall (19-3) over Corban Burford.
Jadyn Bevans (144), Jackson Feuerbach (175), Lucas Feuerbach (215), and Wilson (285) won by forfeit.
Wilton’s Romann Derksen took a 6-3 decision from Osgood (106), Austin Etzel pinned Gleason (1:07), Liam Adlfinger (120) pinned Steapp (1:07), Mason Shirk (126) pinned Moore (1:08), Gabriel Brisker (138) pinned Karam (1:57), Jensen Boorn (150) won a 15-3 Major Decision over Schmidt, Owen Milder (165) won a 19-3 Technical Fall against Solon’s Connor Dunn, and Gatlin Rogers (190) pinned Jensen (2:25).
Comments from Coach Aaron Hadenfeldt
“It was overall a good day for us and we got some guys back on the mat that hadn't been able to wrestle in a while, so we're getting closer to full strength. I
Solon Economist
was proud of the effort overall, but there are always things to improve on. Grant Wilson continues to show progress. He works on what we coach in the room and that shows when he goes out and wrestles against competition. Evan Gleason had a big win for us against Albia, which was a dual that we needed to win, and did, so that was fun to see. I'm hoping we can take some of this momentum and carry it into the second half of the season, because it will go fast.”
Solon Duals JV Scramble results
1st place winners – Connor Dunn, Jackson Burk, Sawyer Hancox, Logan Rudish, Colby Myers, and Dylan Branscomb.
2nd place finishers – Jadyn Bevans and Jeshua Botsford. 3rd place finishers – Deacon Waddell, Tate Rudish, and Owen Ulch.
Upcoming Schedule
Thursday, Jan. 9 – Double dual with Marion and South Tama at Marion HS, 5:30 p.m.
Thursday, Jan. 16 – Double dual with Benton Community and West Delaware at Benton, 5:30 p.m.
Saturday, Jan. 18 – Ed Hadenfeldt Wrestling Invitational at Solon HS, 9:30 a.m.
Thursday, Jan. 23 – Home dual vs. Mount Vernon, 6:00 p.m.
Friday, Jan. 24 – OABCIG Herb Irgens Invitational at OABCIG Senior HS, Ida Grove, 4:30 p.m.
Saturday, Jan. 25 – OABCIG Herb Irgens Invitational at OABCIG Senior HS, Ida Grove, 9:30 a.m.
Saturday, Jan. 25 – Anamosa Denny Christensen Tournament at Anamosa HS, 9:30 a.m.
Thursday, Jan. 30 – Home quad meet with Beckman, Maquoketa, and Midland, 5:30 p.m.
Golden Hawks fly ahead of the Spartans enough for the win
Solon opens 2025 with 61-57 loss to Mid-Prairie
Solon Economist
WELLMAN — The Spartans ended 2024 with a two-game losing streak to WaMaC foes Mount Vernon and Center PointUrbana. Hopes for opening 2025 on a high note were dashed as they dropped a non-conference game against Mid-Prairie, falling 61-57 Saturday, Jan. 4 at Mid-Prairie.
The Hawks held a slim 1-17 lead at the end of the first period but a 17-8 second period surge by the Spartans gave Solon a 34-27 halftime lead. MidPrairie battled back in the third, outscoring the Spartans 16-11 but trailed 45-43 going into the final period.
Mid-Prairie’s Bryce Henry, a junior, led all with 39 points including eight three-point baskets.
Caleb Bock, a senior, led Solon with 16 points while senior Isaiah Zoske produced a dozen.
The win set back Solon to 3-4 on the season while Mid-Prairie remained perfect at 8-0.
Upcoming Schedule
Friday, Jan. 10 – HOME vs. South Tama, 7:15 p.m.
Tuesday, Jan. 14 – HOME vs. Marion, 7:15 p.m.
Friday, Jan. 17 – At West Delaware, 7:15 p.m.
Tuesday, Jan. 21 – At Independence, 7:15 p.m.
Friday, Jan. 24 – HOME vs. Mount Vernon, 7:15 p.m.
Tuesday, Jan. 28 – HOME vs. CPU, 7:15 p.m.
Friday, Jan. 31 – At Marion, 7:15 p.m.
Individual Stats
Mustangs capsize the Little Hawks 123-47 in boys varsity swimming
Solon Economist
IOWA CITY — The City High Little Hawks’ varsity boys swim team opened 2025 with a 123-47 loss to Dubuque Hempstead Friday, Jan. 3 at the Mercer Park Aquatic Center. Solon freshmen Elliott Hamm and William Thomsen are swimming for City High this season. Thomsen was tenth in the 200-yard freestyle in 2:57.58 and eighth in the 100-yard backstroke in 1:25.38 while Hamm finished eighth in the 100-yard butterfly in 1:19.57 and eighth in the 200-yard individual medley in 2:44.88.
Little Hawks compete in Dubuque/Iowa City Quad
Dubuque Hempstead, Dubuque Senior, City High, and Iowa City West High/Liberty High competed in their annual quad meet Saturday, Jan. 4 at the Dubuque Community School District’s Aquatic Center. Hamm was 11th in the 100-yard freestyle in 1:03.29 and 15th in the 100-yard breaststroke in 1:30.89.
Upcoming Events
Tuesday, Jan. 14 – HOME vs. Iowa City West High/ Liberty High, 6:00 p.m.
Saturday, Jan. 18 – At Burlington HS Grayhound Invitational, 10:00 a.m.
Tuesday, Jan. 21 – At Cedar Rapids Jefferson, 6:00 p.m.
Saturday, Jan. 25 – MVC Boys Swimming Meet at CR Jefferson, 12:00 p.m.
Solon’s Reid leads City High on the lanes against rival Trojans
Iowa City West High tops City
2,743-2,731
Solon Economist
IOWA CITY — Solon senior Carson Reid led the Iowa City High School Little Hawks with 428 pins Friday, Jan. 3 in varsity bowling against rival Iowa City West High at Colonial Lanes. Reid bowled 191 in the first game and 237 in the second.
Solon junior Trendon Walker bowled 321 with 163 in the first game and 158 in the second.
The Trojans won the varsity match 2,743-2,731.
The Little Hawks were fifth in Prairie, Cedar Rapids’ Boys Baker Bowling Tournament Saturday, Dec. 21 with 3,398. Davenport North led the 22-team field with 4,374 followed by Waterloo West (4,312), Clinton (4,298), and Central DeWitt (4,159).
Upcoming Schedule
Thursday, Jan. 9 – HOME (Colonial Lanes) vs. Cedar Rapids Jefferson, 3:15 p.m.
Friday, Jan. 17 – HOME vs. Cedar Rapids Kennedy, 3:15 p.m.
Friday, Jan. 24 – At Prairie, Cedar Rapids (Cedar Creek Lanes), 3:00 p.m.
Monday, Jan. 27 – HOME vs. Western Dubuque (postponed from Dec. 13), 3:15 p.m.
Monday, Jan. 27 – HOME vs. Western Dubuque (postponed from Dec. 13), 3:15 p.m.
Zhenya E. Loughney | For the Solon Economist Caleb Bock (shown here in action earlier this season against Clear Creek Amana) led the Spartans with 16 points against Mid-Prairie in a non-conference loss Saturday, Jan. 4 in Wellman.
BOYS' BOWLING
Scoring – Caleb Bock 16, Isaiah Zoske 12, Nolan Seagren 7, Maddox Kelley 6, Grant Gordon 4, Kaden Hoeper 4, Simon Einwalter 4, Tanner Heims 2, Jackson Link 2
3-point baskets – Zoske 2/6,
1/2, Seagren 1/4
Rebounds – Bock 5, Gordon 5, Seagren 4, Kelley 4, Zoske 3, Link 2, Heims 1
Assists – Kelley 7, Zoske 3, Gordon 3, Seagren 2, Einwalter 2, Link 2, Bock 1, Heims 1
Steals – Kelley 2, Zoske 1, Bock 1
WaMaC East
Office of the State Treasurer of Iowa
DES MOINES — State Treasurer Roby Smith announces Iowa taxpayers can deduct up to $5,800 in contributions per ISave 529 Beneficiary account from their
income taxes in 2025. “With ISave 529, saving for education goes hand-in-hand with saving on taxes,” said Smith. “Since the deduction applies to each Beneficiary account, you can save even more when both adults open an account for each child
3 bedroom, 1 1/2 bath home for rent just outside of Solon and in the Solon School District. Unfinished basement for storage and on a blacktop road. Attached 1 stall garage. Nice deck with an amazing country view. No pets. Call Lou at 319-624-2912 Help WantedGovernment
POLICE OFFICER: Indianola Police Department will begin taking applications for the positions of Police/Patrol Officer starting 1/6/2025. Obtain applications by visiting https://indianolaiowa.applicantpro.com/jobs , choose Police Officer. Deadline 2/7/2025 EOE
Motion by Fixmer-Oraiz, second by Green-Douglass, to approve the payroll authorizations submitted by department heads and elected officials, as approved by a majority of the Supervisors. Motion by Green, second by Fixmer-Oraiz, to receive and place on file the Recorder’s Report of Fees Collected for the month of November 2024 in the amount of $218,365.57, as submitted by County Recorder Kim Painter. Motion by Fixmer-Oraiz, second by Green-Douglass, to approve Preconstruction Agreement No. 2025-C-010 with the Iowa Department of Transportation (Iowa DOT), Ames, for the Primary Road Project, Project #IMN-080-7(153)253--13-52. Motion by Green, second by Fixmer-Oraiz, to approve Preconstruction Agreement No. 2025-C-009 with the Iowa DOT, Ames, for the Iowa DOT Primary Road Project,#IMN-080-7(151)245-0E-52. Adjourned at 9:15 a.m. /s/ Jon Green, Chair, Board of Supervisors Attest: /s/ Julie Persons, Auditor
On the 2nd day of January, 2025. Recorded by Auditor’s Office: Marly Melsh, Executive Clerk to the Board. These minutes were sent for formal approval and publication on January 2, 2025. Published in the Solon Economist January 9, 2025.
Motion by Green, second by Green-Douglass, to approve the minutes of the Formal Meeting of
19, 2024.
– a total deduction of $23,200 for a family of four.”
ISave 529 is the State’s only direct-sold 529 plan, which means an account can be opened without a financial advisor. Account Owners can choose from four Age-Based Savings Tracks that adjust automatically based on the child’s age or create their own mix of up to five of 12 Individual Portfolios. “The flexibility of ISave 529 makes it so appealing for Iowans and savers nationwide,” Smith said. “And that goes for more than just investments. ISave 529 can help a child reach a one-of-a-kind dream that’s as unique as they are.”
Money in an ISave 529 account can be used for tuition, room and board, books and other qualified education expenses
at any accredited higher education institution in the U.S. or abroad, including community colleges, universities or graduate programs. Savings can also be used for equipment, tools and other materials required for apprenticeship programs.
In addition to higher education, funds can be used to pay for tuition expenses in connection with enrollment at a K-12 institution, repayment of qualified education loans or rolled over to the Beneficiary’s Roth IRA.
Learn more at ISave529.com. Follow ISave 529 on Facebook, Instagram and X for current events and updates. For additional details about ISave 529, read the Program Description at https://cdn. unite529.com.
SOLON SENIORS
A Big Thank You to our sponsors and donors for their support in Senior Dining’s mission to serve the Solon Community, and especially to those who support Senior Dining by attending the lunches or receive home deliveries.
Reminders
Bad weather closings – Senior Dining will notify our clients by phone of cancellations. Senior Dining will be closed Monday, Jan. 20 in recognition of Martin Luther King Day.
JANUARY HAPPENINGS •••••••
Wednesday, Jan. 15 – Sponsored Meal, Solon American Legion/Denny Hansen
Wednesday, Jan. 29 – City Representative
DINING ••••••••••••••••••••• Home Deliveries
Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Call 319-6242251 for information.
In-House Dining
Solon Methodist Church, Wednesdays only at 11:30 a.m. Meals cost $5.00, call 319-624-2251 for reservations (required) Monday between 10-11:00 a.m.
Bingo – Wednesdays AM/PM Cards – Wednesdays PM
JANUARY MENU
Friday, Jan. 10
Catch of the Day
Mini Baked Potatoes
Vegetable Blend
Sherbet
Monday, Jan. 13
Dijon Maple Chicken
Cornbread Stuffing
Hot Spiced Beets
Orange Poppyseed Cake
Wednesday, Jan. 15 – Sponsored MealSolon American Legion/Denny Hansen
Ginger Caramel Pork Loin
Candied Sweet Potatoes
Buttered Peas Lemon Meringue Pie
Friday, Jan. 17
Sauteed Shrimp Buttered Noodles Broccoli Raspberry Gelatin w/Marshmallow Topping
Thank you Solon Senior Dining volunteers! “Volunteers do not necessarily have the time, they just have the heart.”
SCHOOL BREAKFAST
The Solon Community School District is an equal opportunity provider.
Menus will vary to accommodate the Federal Nutrition Guidelines. Please understand that menus are subject to change as needed. Please check your lunch account balances, purchases, and deposits online at solon.total.k12.com.
Nutrition office: 319-624-3401, Ext. 1120 or bwest@solon.k12.ia.us.
Student breakfast is FREE again this year
The Solon Community School District (SCSD) is once again able to offer free breakfast to students for the academic year. Becky West, Nutrition Director, explained the Nutritional Department’s financial situation, based on standard practice and guidance from the state, makes it possible to offer this important service to the students. “I believe that eating breakfast fuels the kids and teaches them how to eat a healthy breakfast to start your day,” said West.
Adult/Guest breakfast: $1.75
Thursday, Jan. 9
Egg Scramble w/Hash Brown (LV/SIS)
G&G Bag (LV) Muffin
CC French Toast w/Sausage Links or Egg Scramble w/Hash Brown Fruit, Juice Crackers & Milk
Friday, Jan. 10
Muffin Top (LV/SIS)
SCHOOL LUNCH
For information on the free and reduced program, and an application, go to www.solon.k12.ia.us/ page/nutrition-program and scroll down to Nutrition Documents & Links.
STUDENT LUNCH PRICES
Thursday, Jan. 9
MS/HS Alt: Lasagna Roll-up
Chicken Drumstick
Baked Beans, Celery Stalks
Melon Fruit Salad, Sun Chips
Biscuit & Honey (HS)
Friday, Jan. 10
MS/HS Alt: Cook’s Delight
Bacon Scramble Pizza
Trix Yogurt Cup, Pepper Spears & Carrot Poles
Oranges, Cereal Bowl
Pineapple (HS)
G&G Bag (LV) Oatmeal Bar
— Elizabeth Andrew
Breakfast Pizza or Cinnamon Doughnuts
Fruit, Juice Crackers & Milk
Monday, Jan. 13
Muffin (LV/SIS)
G&G Bag (LV) Muffin
Mini Breakfast Corndogs or French Toast & Sausage Links Fruit, Juice Crackers & Milk
Tuesday, Jan. 14
Mini Doughnuts (LV/SIS)
G&G Bag (LV) Mini Doughnuts
Breakfast Bagel or Bubble Cake Fruit, Juice Crackers & Milk
Wednesday, Jan. 15
French Toast Sticks & Sausage Links (LV/SIS)
G&G Bag (LV) Waffle Crackers
Breakfast Sandwich or Tornadoes Fruit, Juice Crackers & Milk
Thursday, Jan. 16
Breakfast Sandwich (LV/SIS)
G&G Bag (LV) Cereal Bar
Egg Scramble w/Hash Brown or Mini Pancakes w/ Sausage Links Fruit, Juice Crackers & Milk
Monday, Jan. 13
MS/HS Alt: Shrimp Poppers/Fish Sticks
Pizza Crunchers & Marinara Tator Tots
Cucumbers, Applesauce Delight
Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie
Tuesday, Jan. 14
MS/HS Alt: Fiestada Pizza Tacos on Flour Tortilla Cheese, Salsa, Lettuce Corn, Queso (MS/HS)
Tortilla Chips, Kiwi, Pears (HS)
Wednesday, Jan. 15
MS/HS Alt: Quesadilla Mandarin Chicken & Rice
Caesar Salad, Grape Tomatoes Seasoned Broccoli (HS)
Fruit Cocktail, Cottage Cheese (SIS/MS/HS)
Cheeze its (HS)
Garlic Toast (MS/HS)
Thursday, Jan. 16
MS/HS Alt: Chicken Patty Sandwich
Chili & Cinnamon Rolls
Shredded Cheese (MS/HS)
Green Beans Fresh Citrus Fruit Salad
Across
1 They’re checked before a show
5 “I wasn’t finished …”
9 Does programming work
14 Mate’s call
15 Setting for the 2019 comedy “Wine Country”
16 “La Forza del Destino,” for one
17 Past issues to settle
19 Drawing on
20 Moxie
21 Out of this world
23 Singer with the 2016 #1 hit “Cheap Thrills”
24 What Monday meals might lack
26 Places in the pecking order
28 Nickname for N.B.A. great Nate Archibald (he was actually 6’1”)
30 Sickly-looking
32 Gear tooth
33 Melber on MSNBC
34 Tight curl
35 ___ Drafthouse (movie theater chain)
38 Big bash
40 Breaking down grammatically
42 Small earrings
43 Elaborate hairstyle
44 Org. with the sculpture “Kryptos” outside its headquarters
45 Lao-___
46 Symbol of obstinacy
47 ___ district, feature of many an urban area
48 Like much movie theater popcorn
52 Not for here
54 Atop, quaintly
55 To date
57 Rapper who founded Aftermath Entertainment
60 Big name in dental floss
62 Pixar film whose title suggests how to read five answers in this puzzle
64 Course concluder
65 Org. with conferences
66 Name on Canadian pumps
67 Marsh plant
68 Starting point
69 Word before a time stamp in direct messaging
Down
1 Raincoats, in England
2 Chain restaurant whose name sounds like something a rabbit might say?
3 Important post at the Post
4 Largest city on the Tasman Sea
5 12 meses
6 Dr. Zhivago’s love
7 Go caving
8 Fertile refuge
9 “A Series of Unfortunate Events” villain
10 Missions, in brief
11 Voltaire or Leibniz, religiously speaking
12 One of a pair of mismatched friends on “Sesame Street”
13 Long stories
18 ___ punk (hybrid music genre)
22 Like many romance novels
25 Matching pullover-and-cardigan pairs
27 Food thickener
28 Bit
29 Flower that gets its name from the Greek word for “rainbow”
31 Director Lee
34 No place for fine china
36 Small amount of LSD, e.g.
37 “Sure thing, boss!”
39 Native Rwandan
40 “Help wanted” sign?
41 Hefty expense for an R.V. trip 43 Pace 47 Matches (with) 48 They’ve got you covered 49 Like the feeling of déjà vu
Apple or BlackBerry
Looking over
Out of the ordinary
Onetime Kremlin ruler
Trick 59 College where 20 prime ministers were educated 61 Fall behind 63 First (and last) two words of “Green Eggs and Ham”
SUDOKU
To play: Complete the grid so that every row, column and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9. There is no guessing or math involved, just use logic to solve.
CONNECT THE DOTS & COLOR
KiDs'PAGe
CORNY JOKES...
What’s a spider’s New Year’s resolution?
What do you tell someone you didn’t see on New Year’s Eve?
What does every new year have in store for us?
Why is partying in Times Square overrated?
What New Year’s resolution should a basketball player never make?
When does New Year's come before Thanksgiving? Answers along bottom of page.
COPY PETE THE PENGUIN BY DRAWING IN THE GRID BELOW
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reservable, so we’re going to switch from 75% reservable to 100%. And it will be same day reservations so if you come in looking for a walk-in site, you’ll be able to reserve it on the spot if it’s available.”
Puettmann acknowledged this is a big change and noted the Army Corps. of Engineers went to a similar system in the parks they manage a few years ago, and that many county-owned parks have also gone to it.
“It’s just a natural progression in society now,” Puettmann said. The new system will also lighten the load a bit on park staff. “The reporting and documentation is all-electronic now and another big thing is, we won’t be taking any cash. There’s $40,000 in cash over the course of a camping season we no longer will take as it will all be credit cards.” He added it is very timeconsuming to process cash, maintain the accounting, and to make deposits.
REVIEW
from 1
• The Solon Optimist Club presented Solon Intermediate School (SIS) teacher Sami McAtee with the Club’s 2023 Achievement in Education award after forming a new group of younger Optimists, known as an Alpha Club, at SIS with 54 students joining and participating in community service projects.
• 200 cyclists competed in the annual Lake Macbride Fat Tire Classic bike race with $11,000 raised for the Solon Centennial Lions Club. This year’s event is scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 8 with a 9:00 a.m. start from the Lake Macbride Golf Course.
• The Solon Area Community Foundation presented two checks totaling $12,000 to the Solon American Legion Stinocher Post 460 for a pair of capital improvements including a new canopy along the front of their building on Main St.
March
• The Lady Spartans clinched their first State Basketball Championship since 1998 at Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines with a 54-47 win over Estherville-Lincoln Central in the finals. Solon knocked off Wahlert Catholic (Dubuque) 58-47 in the quarterfinals and pounded Des Moines Christian 49-25 in the semis. Senior standout Callie Levin was named the Iowa Pork Producers Association’s Class 3A Top Producer for scoring 56 points in the tournament while Anna Quillin set the 3A State Tournament record with 40 rebounds.
• University of Iowa men’s basketball players Brock Harding, Owen Freeman, and Pryce Sandfort read to Solon Intermediate School students during Read Across America Week.
• The Solon Fire Department took delivery of a 2023 Ford F-150 pickup outfitted as a command vehicle and personnel transport. The truck was made possible through a donation by the estate of Rose Marie Schwichtenberg and serves as a command post during incidents and also is a key element in a cancer risk reduction effort aimed at getting firefighters out of their toxic smoke-contaminated protective gear at the scene and hauling it back to the station for decontamination and cleaning. The all-volunteer department also honored retired Fire Chief Dan Smith, who died March 10, 2024, with a final salute in front of the old fire station.
• The City Council approved a $3 million loan for planning and design costs related to the new waste water treatment plant. Planning continues for the new facility.
April
• The Solon Community School District’s Board of Education held a public hearing, with one member of the public present, regarding the tax levy for the Fiscal Year 25 budget, which took effect July 1, 2024, and ends June 30, 2025. The district continued the $16.28 per $1,000 of taxable valuation
What’s new at Lake Macbride for 2025?
Puettmann said a new kayak launch dock and parking area is slated for the east side of the causeway crossing the south end of the lake (200th St.).
“There’s a little gravel parking lot and what they want to do is put in paved parking for handicap-accessibility and a handicap-accessible sidewalk that goes down to the lake, and a handicap-accessible kayak launch dock.” Puettmann said there is a lot of interest in paddle sports, especially on the east side with the beach and main boat ramp. “We’re just trying to spread out the use a little more and the availability of getting out onto the lake. I think that dock will make a big difference in spreading people out and giving them more opportunities.”
The project is in this year’s fiscal year budget, however it has not gone out for bids yet.
property tax rate noting property owners will see a higher tax bill due to an increase in valuation, which is set by the County Auditor’s Office. The district also approved its first five-year contract for teachers including raises in pay and a new higher starting wage.
And, Drew Bunkers was named the new high school principal.
• Solon High School’s 5th Street Jazz Choir was awarded the Class 3A Iowa Vocal Jazz Championship. Senior Sabrina Allen was awarded Outstanding Performer.
• Solon’s City Council approved setting the City’s property tax rate at $11.21346 per $1,000 of taxable valuation for Fiscal Year 25, a 6% increase over 2023. City Administrator Cami Rasmussen noted Solon’s property tax levy had previously been the third-lowest in Johnson County since 2018.
Council also approved renewing the annual lease with the School District for the Solon Community Center, located in the former middle school at 301 South Iowa St. The District plans to demolish the building within the next few years and replace it with a new central administrative office building. In the meantime the City utilizes the gym, lobby, adjacent offices and other rooms at a cost of $1 per year. The City also pays for gas and electricity.
May
• 475 people closed out the month of April by participating in the 2024 Spartan Dash under mostly sunny skies and temperatures in the 60s, a stark departure from past years when rain, sleet, and even snow has fallen on participants. The annual event raises money for the Parent Teacher Organizations at Lakeview Elementary and the Solon Intermediate School.
• Solon Middle School eighth graders held a career fair for the students in the Solon Intermediate School as part of an emphasis across the state to encourage students to plan for a career field and the educational path leading to it. In another cross-grade collaboration, Solon High School students teamed up with Intermediate School students for a day of environmental learning at the SRNA.
• Six Herky the Hawk statues were placed in Solon as the community joined the third Herky on Parade. The statues were delivered and placed around town in the late night hours of April 30 before being unveiled at 10:00 a.m. the next morning. The statues were on display through August. Some were auctioned off in the fall, but those purchased by Solon groups or organizations can be seen yet today.
• Seven Solon High School seniors –Anna Quillin, Rylen Stiegelmeyer, Kate Richards, Bryan Petrie, Autumn Griffith, Josh “Sparty” Milliman, and Grant Bumsted, signed a national Letter of Intent to continue their athletic endeavors in colleges and universities during a Signing Day event.
• Marilyn and Denny Hansen were
named the 2024 Solon Seniors of the Year joining 25 others since the recognition began in 2006.
• 138 seniors, the largest graduating class to date, received their diplomas during the annual commencement exercise held in Spartan Stadium. 74 graduated with the highest honors (3.75-4.0 GPA), 20 received high honors (3.5-3.74 GPA), and nine graduated with honors (3.25-3.49 GPA).
June
• The City Council approved a $55,000 five-year forgivable Tax Increment Financing (TIF) loan for the Solon Hardware Store to complete repairs from the March 31, 2023, tornado. It was hoped the work would be completed before Solon Beef Days in July, however further delays ensued and pushed completion until fall.
• The 2024 Music on Main Street concert series opened with the Solon High School Mariachi Band under the direction of Desmond Cervantez. The weekly series ran Wednesday evenings through August and showcased a variety of musical themes.
• Seven veterans passed through Solon on a coast-to-coast bicycle trek organized by Warrior Expeditions, a veteran nonprofit organization offering outdoor therapy programs designed to help vets transition from their wartime experiences. The cyclists followed the Great American Rail Trail, which when completed will span 3,700 miles along former rail lines including the ex-Rock Island line, now a nature trail, in Solon.
• The Solon Economist welcomed it’s first intern as University of Iowa student Joel Kellar joined the staff and provided excellent coverage of Spartan athletics and community events including Beef Days. Kellar blazed a path for several U of I journalism students who provided sports coverage during the fall semester.
July
• Solon Community School District staff and administrators underwent several safety training sessions including “Stop the Bleed®,” CPR, choking procedures, use of the Automated External Defibrillator (AED), and administration of Narcan®. In addition, installation of more security cameras was underway doubling the number. The cameras, Superintendent Davis Eidahl said, are capable of being accessed by the Johnson County Sheriff’s Department in the event of an emergency.
Partial funding came from a $200,000 grant from the State of Iowa.
• Big Grove in Solon was the halfway point for a 36-mile “Big Rove” bike ride between the Iowa City and Cedar Rapids Big Grove locations held in conjunction of the 20th anniversary of the Iowa Bicycle Coalition.
• Duane Mensen was named the 2024 Beef Days Grand Marshal. Mensen spent 20 years chauffeuring grand marshals in his Mustang GT convertible.
• The continued physical deterioration of the Johnson County Jail was in the spotlight as Sheriff Brad Kunkel provided
intern Joel Kellar with a tour of the aging facility. Previous attempts at a bond referendum have failed but with the situation only worsening, Sheriff Kunkel is working to put the issue before the public again with the possibility of another referendum in 2025.
• U of I’s Kade Pieper wins the 2024 Solon Beef Days Hay Bale Toss with a 12’ toss, coming up short of fellow Hawkeye and two-time Champion Gennings Dunker.
August
• Solon was well-represented at the 2024 Johnson County Fair as the Graham Champions and Macbride’s Pride 4-H clubs hauled in awards in all categories from public speaking to livestock, and everything in-between.
• The Board of Education of the Solon Community School District reviewed the district’s academic performance based on the Iowa Statewide Assessment of Student Progress (ISASP), formerly known as the Iowa Test of Basic Skills. While there were a few disappointments, there was also much to celebrate with the caveat that the tests are but a “snapshot” on a particular day.
• The Solon Public Library hosted their annual Dinosaurs at Dusk event with participants enjoying the hand-crafted dinosaurs made by Jack “The Dinosaur Man” Neuzil.
• A four-vehicle collision at Hwy. 1 and 140th St. north of Solon claimed the life of Usha Mallik, age 77 of Iowa City. Thomas Richard Hebel Perkins of Cedar Rapids was westbound on 140th when he failed to stop at the intersection with Hwy. 1 and collided with a northbound camper then T-boned a southbound vehicle driven by Mallik, who was pronounced dead at the scene.
• Erin Kerkhoff of Solon, and Jessica Heims of Swisher, competed in Paris, France in the 2024 Paralympic Games as members of Team USA. Heims placed sixth in the discus throw while Kerkhoff set a personal best of 12.70 in the 100-meter dash. Kerkhoff also ran in the 400-meter dash.
• Solon American Legion Stinocher Post 460 started a new tradition as they saluted area veterans with banners hung from poles in the downtown area in a program called “Solon Salutes.” The banners feature an individual veteran (photo provided by the family) and will go up in mid-May and stay up until shortly after Veterans Day.
September
• The Solon Public Library welcomed Christian Brauns to the staff as the new Teen Services Librarian.
• The second annual Ruck 22 event for veteran suicide awareness was held with participants hiking 2.2 miles through Solon and raising funds for Iowa Veterans Outdoor Experiences (IVOE), a Solon-based, all-volunteer organization,
Chris Umscheid | Solon Economist
Participants in the First Day Hike Wednesday, Jan. 1 make their way from the main lodge at Lake Macbride State Park downhill to the trail alongside the lake for a trek out to the dam and back.
that provides opportunities for veterans to bond and recover from their personal traumas.
• Armed Forces Night was celebrated at the Solon vs. Mount Vernon varsity football game with a bang, literally, as the Iowa Army National Guard’s 1st Battalion of the 194th Field Artillery Regiment provided a 105mm howitzer, which fired three rounds at the conclusion of the National Anthem.
Solon’s Major John Proe, US Army, retired, was recognized as the Honored Veteran of the Game.
October
• Aly Stahle and Eddie Johnson were crowned the 2024 Homecoming Queen and King in late September.
• The third annual Bone Dash benefiting kids with rheumatological diseases at the U of I’s Stead Family Children’s Hospital was held at the SRNA.
• The Solon High School Marching Band competed in the Iowa High School Music Association’s State Marching Band Festival at Kingston Stadium in Cedar Rapids. The band performed their 2024 competition piece (selected by senior Brady Evers, “Elemental,” which featured four individual pieces: “Dark Skies,” “Cyclonic Destruction,” Falling Snow, Rains, and Ice Storm,” and “Parting Clouds.” The marching Spartans were awarded a Division II rating for their performance.
• Solon Senior Support started a new bi-weekly Senior Coffee Group hosted by Jill Weetman at the Solon Methodist Church. The informal group meets Tuesdays and Thursdays at 9:00 a.m. with free coffee.
• Solon Community School District Board of Education member Jami Wolfe resigned due to moving out of the district. In November, the Board appointed Megan Laing to fill her vacancy and finish the final year of Wolfe’s term.
November
• Despite the “Red wave,” which swept across America and elected Donald J. Trump to the presidency with both the
popular vote and Electoral College and returned control of the U.S. Senate and U.S. Congress to the Republicans, Johnson County remained solidly blue. Vice President Kamala Harris easily won the heavily-Democratic county 58,772 to 26,069. Republican State Senator Dawn Driscoll retained her District 46 seat and Republican Judd Lawler won the State Representative District 91 seat previously held by Republican Brad Sherman.
• The Solon Community Food Pantry continued to see an uptick in clients served. Director Elaine Claude said the pantry is always accepting donations of food, toilet paper, paper towels, and soap as well as monetary donations or gift cards. Located in the basement of the Solon Methodist Church, Claude hopes to one day find a new and more accessible location.
December
• Knights of Columbus Council 12129 from St. Mary Catholic Church presented a $600 check to the Solon American Legion Auxiliary to be used to purchase items for area veterans in need. The money was raised during Donut Sunday on Nov. 10 when parishioners made a free-will donation for donuts.
• The City Council held their third and final reading approving rezoning a plot of land in the Fox Ridge development from commercial to residential, clearing the way for a proposed senior housing complex to submit site plans to the Planning & Zoning Commission for review before Council review and approval.
Chris Umscheid | Solon Economist
Below: Karen McFarland, 1st Vice-President of the solon Optimist Club (at left) presented SIS teacher Sami McAtee with the Solon Optimist Club’s 2023 Achievement in Education Award.
Joel Kellar | Solon Economist
Left: Kade Pieper throws the hay bale well over the bar during the contest. Pieper won the hay bale toss at the 2024 Beef Days, topping out at 12 feet. Pieper wanted to chase down the record held by his Hawkeye football teammate, Gennings Dunker, but fell a few throws short. “I think the bales were lighter last year, they were pretty green and heavy this year.”
Jeff Schmatt (Rubicon Photo) | submitted photo
Above: Solon’s 5th Street jazz choir was awarded the Class 3A Iowa Vocal Jazz Championship at Waukee High School. Additionally, Sabrina Allen (front row middle) was selected as the Outstanding Performer.
Chris Umscheid | Solon Economist
The first group to tackle the ten obstacles of the 2024 Spartan Dash leave the starting line in front of the Timberdome at the SRNA.
Chris Umscheid | Solon Economist
The Lady Spartans react to being presented with the 2024 Class 3A State Basketball Champions trophy Friday, March 1 after defeating Estherville-Lincoln Central 54-47 at Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines. This is the first State Championship for the varsity girls since 1998 (Class 2A).
Chris Umscheid | Solon Economist
Josh Koza, Solon High School art teacher, celebrates the Solon Strong Herky designed and painted by members of the high school Art Club after the statue was unveiled last Thursday morning. Solon Strong joins five other Herky statues in Solon as part of Herky on Parade III.
Jordan Barry | The Daily Iowan Left: A rider navigates a narrow single track trail during the seventh annual Lake Macbride Fat Tire Classic in Solon on Saturday, Feb. 10, 2024.