typing the URL of the retailer or vendor into your browser to check its legitimacy. Stick with trusted retailers. Don’t put your wallet at risk by making a purchase with an unknown vendor. Also, be mindful to only use secure Wi-Fi. When scrolling or browsing online away from home, take care to double-check network names. Wi-Fi with typos and those not requiring a password are red flags for criminal scams. Take a moment to review security settings on your social media platforms and internetconnected devices. Tighten up privacy settings to prevent bad actors from mining your information, stealing your identity and targeting you for their next scam. Enable automatic software updates and use complex passwords. Throughout the year, it’s good practice to keep close tabs on your banking and credit card accounts. During the holiday shopping season, it’s even more important to closely track charges and withdrawals to verify you made those purchases. Before typing in your payment information online, make sure your information is encrypted. Look for the URL to begin with https: and show the padlock icon. As you go about your holiday to-do list, don’t let cybercriminals take the joy out of the season. Be sure to add cybersecurity to your checklist.
As a former and incoming chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, I’ve long worked to combat counterfeiting, protect consumer safety and strengthen intellectual property and trademarks. Counterfeit products not only rip off consumers, they harm innovation, impede entrepreneurism and damage the American economy. In our consumer-driven economy, it’s imperative to keep the integrity of the marketplace intact, protect creators from intellectual property theft and ensure consumers are buying authentic products, not getting duped by fake knock-offs. From luxury brands to cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, the distribution of counterfeit products undermines the rule of law and is bad for consumer safety, economic growth, competitiveness and innovation. As co-chair of the bipartisan Congressional Trademark Caucus, I’ve worked to raise public awareness about dangerous counterfeit goods and strengthen intellectual property rights. In 2021, I helped
enact legislation to beef up protections against fraudsters who sell stolen, counterfeit or dangerous products to unsuspecting consumers using the online marketplace. In the 118th Congress, I re-introduced legislation to crack down on money laundering schemes by criminals trafficking illicit products to American consumers.
Q: Is consumer fraud a problem in Iowa?
A: According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), consumer fraud in Iowa reached $42.6 million in losses in 2023. Last year, Iowans filed nearly 20,000 fraud reports to the FTC, and more than 3,700 cases to the Iowa Attorney General. Those numbers underscore why Iowans need to stay vigilant and take steps to prevent fraud, particularly online. The FTC says the three most reported scams in Iowa in 2023 were imposter scams, identity theft and fraudulent online shopping experiences. I hear from Iowa financial institutions that invest in antifraud software and employee training to thwart fraud and protect customers from financial losses and theft. The Iowa Attorney General advises Iowans to only do business with established sellers, avoid unsolicited messages and be wary when sending money electronically – such as Cash App, cryptocurrency, or Pay Pal – and avoid such payments to people you haven’t met. Know that law enforcement and government agencies will never threaten arrest for refusing to pay over the phone, or demand that Iowans keep their conversations secret. In this season of gift-giving, don’t let fraudsters be the Grinch who steals your hard-earned money.
Iowans also need to beware of a scam that’s called “check washing.” Criminals get checks—often by stealing them in the mail—use chemicals to remove ink, write in their own names and payment amounts and then cash them in. If online payment isn’t an option, or you prefer writing a check to pay bills, take precautions to protect your money. According to the U.S. Postal Service (USPS), inspectors recover $1 billion in counterfeit checks and money orders every year. The USPS advises people not to
Recount confirms Republican Miller-Meeks wins 1st Congressional District
Incumbent
Mariannette Miller-Meeks
secured third term after recount.
Incumbent Mariannette Miller-Meeks, R-Iowa, wins Iowa’s 1st Congressional District after a recount confirmed her victory.
Miller-Meeks secured her third term in the U.S. House with 50.1 percent of the vote, defeating Iowa City Democrat Christina Bohannan by less than 800 votes.
“I am deeply honored to have the recount completed and once again secure reelection so I can continue serving the hardworking people of southeast Iowa,” Miller-Meeks said in a statement released Wednesday. Miller-Meeks said in the statement she is looking forward to returning to Washington, D.C. to lower gas, grocery, and prescription drug prices, secure the border, and help farmers — all pillars of her campaign.
The Associated Press called the race at 3:02 p.m. on Wednesday. The incumbent declared victory on election night, despite results still rolling in.
“This comes as no surprise, but I’m grateful the race has been called by AP and very appreciative of all the county auditors, staff and volunteers who worked tirelessly to get the recount done, even this week of Thanksgiving,” Miller-Meeks said on social media on Wednesday. “I’m honored and humbled to be re-elected to a 3rd term.”
Bohannan challenged Miller-Meeks in 2022, and fell to the incumbent by seven percentage points.
Miller-Meeks has fended off extremely tight races for three campaign cycles now. She first won her seat in Congress against former Iowa State Senator and current Iowa Democratic Party Chair Rita Hart in 2020 by just six votes.
The 2020 race against Hart required a recount as well. Miller-Meeks had a 282 vote lead over Hart on election night and a 47 vote lead when results were canvassed, which shrunk to just six votes after the
recount.
“Christina Bohannan outperformed the top of the ticket by one of the widest margins in the country. Unfortunately, this year wasn’t quite enough. Her campaign is a model for putting people over politics,” Hart said in a statement Wednesday.
Hart said Iowa Democrats hope Miller-Meeks will view the election as a “wake-up call” and that she works to represent Iowans instead of special interests.
Hart said Iowa Democrats will work to hold MillerMeeks accountable to her constituents’ best interests.
Bohannan requested a recount of votes in all 20 counties within the congressional district on Nov. 14, saying in a statement that a recount would ensure “every voter is heard.”
The margin was less than a percentage point, so the state, not the candidates, will pay for the costs of the recount.
Bohannan released a statement Wednesday thanking election officials and volunteers who helped with the recount process.
Bohannan received criticism for calling for a recount by Republicans. Miller-Meeks and the Iowa GOP Chairman Jeff Kaufman said in separate statements that Bohannan wasted $20,000 of Iowans’ taxpayer dollars in calling for the recount.
“The bogus recount of votes in the first district is finally over, with Rep. Miller-Meeks being declared the official winner,” Kaufman said in a statement Wednesday. “Bohannan has cemented herself as an election denier and has no place running in this district for a third time.”
Bohannan congratulated Miller-Meeks in a statement Wednesday.
“I am honored by the roughly half of Iowans in this district — people of all political parties — who voted for me to be their next congresswoman,” Bohannan said in the statement. “Although I won’t be able to represent them in [Washington, D.C.] this January, I want them to know that I will continue our important work of putting Iowa first.”
The certified results from each of the 20 counties will be canvassed by the bipartisan State Board of Canvassers on Dec. 2.
leave checks in the mailbox overnight. The best protection is to drop check payments inside the post office or hand directly to a postal carrier. Unfortunately, flipping the flag at your home mail box is a red flag that scammers use to steal your mail and your money.
To report a potential scam to the Iowa Attorney General, contact (515) 281-5926 or file a complaint here: https://www.iowaattorneygeneral.gov/forconsumers/file-a-consumer-complaint
To file a report with the FTC, visit: https://reportfraud. ftc.gov/#/
To report suspected mail theft, visit: https://www. uspis.gov/report, or call (877) 876-2455.
Roxy Ekberg
The Daily Iowan
Iowa Equestrian Center to Host Third Annual Deck the Stalls Holiday Event Dec. 15
CEDAR RAPIDS — Kirkwood Community College’s Iowa Equestrian Center will host the third annual Deck the Stalls event
Sunday, Dec. 15, from 10:00 a.m. – 4:00
p.m.
The family-friendly experience will feature activities for people of all ages. Attendees will be able to enjoy horse and pony rides, farm animals, a mechanical bull, vendors, a shopping village and a hot cocoa bar. In addition, Santa will be on hand to greet those who stop by as well.
According to Iowa Equestrian Center Manager Renee Price, due to the event's popularity, this year Deck the Stalls will feature longer hours and more activities for attendees.
“We’re thrilled to see how much the community has embraced Deck the Stalls over the past few years,” said Iowa Equestrian Center Manager Renee Price. “This year, we’re expanding the event with longer hours and even more activities to make it a truly magical experience for families and horse lovers of all ages. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate the holiday season while showcasing everything our facility has to offer.”
The Iowa Equestrian Center, located on Kirkwood’s main campus in Cedar Rapids, is the largest equine facility in Iowa. It hosts a variety of events, from world and national qualifying competitions to regional and local shows, every week of the year. The center features top-notch facilities, amenities and customer service geared to cater to
equine industry managers, exhibitors and enthusiasts.
For more information about the Deck the Stalls event, and to purchase tickets, go to www.iowaequestrian.com/events.
EVENT
What: Deck the Stalls
When: Sunday, Dec. 15, from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Where: The Iowa Equestrian Center, 801 76th Ave Dr SW in Cedar Rapids Cost: $10 (Children two and under are free), Parking is free
With more than 140 majors and programs, Kirkwood Community College boasts 16,000 annual collegecredit students, while maintaining one of the lowest tuitions in the state. All degree-seeking students are eligible for federal financial aid and the college offers more than $3 million in scholarships each year to students from all walks of life. Kirkwood is a convenient, innovative and visionary educational leader that strives to remain affordable and accessible.
Iowa’s busiest deer seasons are almost here
Jace Elliott State Deer Biologist, Iowa Department of Natural Resources
Iowa’s most popular deer hunting seasons are just around the corner, when roughly 100,000 hunters take to the timber for the long-awaited gun seasons.
Iowa’s first gun season is Dec. 7-11. Second gun season is Dec. 14-22.
Last year, hunters reported around 60,000 deer during these two seasons, which is more than half of the total deer harvested for all seasons, and wildlife experts are forecasting a similar harvest.
So far this fall, youth, disabled hunter, early muzzleloader and archery hunters have reported more than 25,000 deer through the harvest reporting system, which is about the five-year average.
“We’ve had a strong harvest in Eastern Iowa, but the declining populations in Western Iowa has impacted hunting opportunity and led to an overall lower harvest,” said Jace Elliott, state deer biologist with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR). The 2024 harvest to date is about six percent behind the 2023 harvest.
Archery season got off to a slow start due to summer temperatures extending into early October but harvest has been strong as the calendar turned to November. The long-range forecast calls for above normal temperatures extending into middle December.
“More hunters participate in cooler temperatures,” Elliott said. “Cold weather puts deer on their feet and hunters in the woods.”
The gun seasons have been traditionally associated with groups of hunters walking through the timber, pushing deer towards other members of the hunting group, but results of the recently completed deer
hunter survey found that gun season hunters are divided evenly in how they pursue the deer.
About half participate in traditional deer drives, while the other half prefer to hunt from stationary position. The deer hunter survey found that overall, 80 percent of respondents indicated they are satisfied with the overall deer hunting experience, citing the social aspect of the hunting groups and the opportunity to put deer meat in the freezer as two reasons they hunt.
Main beam antler measurement
This is the second year the Iowa DNR is requiring hunters to include the main beam antler measurement when reporting their deer.
“Last year, for the first time, we could estimate the percentage of yearling bucks as part of the harvest based on the antler measurement. There was a strong variation across counties in Iowa where some counties had 50 percent of their harvest consisting of yearling bucks, compared to other counties where they were 20 percent,” Elliott said.
Statewide, yearling bucks made up 38 percent of the total buck harvest.
Hemorrhagic disease
Iowa experienced another outbreak of hemorrhagic disease with 93 counties reporting deer mortality. Hemorrhagic disease tends to affect deer in Iowa between late summer and early fall, though outbreak severity can vary from year to year. Hunters and landowners may discover multiple deer carcasses on a property, specifically near a water source, during these months as a result of hemorrhagic disease. There is no effective treatment or known
prevention for wild deer.
“Central Iowa has been the most impacted to date, with Guthrie County reporting the highest deer mortality,” Elliott said. Western Iowa from Lyon County to Monona County have also reported high deer mortality, along with a few Eastern Iowa counties.
“The disease doesn’t impact counties equally, and local deer harvest often lags slightly following outbreaks due to loss of opportunity,” he said. “Populations often recover a few years following the disease, however, in Western Iowa, it may take more time due to an already limited population. As we continue to monitor the effects of this year’s outbreak on county deer populations, hunters in some areas may see responsive regulatory changes in the next hunting season. However, hunters should always remember that the decision to pull a trigger is their own and populations are sensitive to doe harvest.”
In Western Iowa, the DNR has taken steps to recover the deer herd by reducing or eliminating county specific antlerless only deer licenses and adding six counties to the list where hunters in the first gun season are limited to bucks only.
“We’ve had almost 2,000 dead deer reported across the state with nearly 900 entries coming through the new online reporting option,” Elliott said.
The DNR rolled out a webpage that allowed Iowans to report finding dead deer to provide a better picture of the extent that hemorrhagic disease has impacted the deer in a given year. Go to https://www.iowadnr. gov/Hunting/Deer-Hunting/DeerHealth then click on Seasonal Diseases.
Identifying hemorrhagic disease is pretty straightforward: mortalities occur between July and September, sometimes later during unseasonably warm weather;
more than one deer carcass is found, and carcasses are found near a water source.
Virtual meeting updating status of chronic wasting disease
The Iowa DNR is holding a virtual public meeting on chronic wasting disease at 7:00 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 5. There is no cost to attend. To register, visit: https://bit.ly/ CWD120524.
Staff with the Wildlife Bureau will provide an update on the science of chronic wasting disease, status in Iowa, and current management efforts. Participants have the opportunity to ask questions live or in the chat. Staff will answer as many questions as time allows.
Safety first, during the gun deer seasons
For an expected 100,000-plus deer hunters, the long wait is almost over, Iowa’s gun deer seasons are right around the corner.
But before heading to the timber, it’s important that hunters go through their gear, sight in their gun and take time to review their hunting safety plan, said Craig Cutts, chief of the Iowa Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Bureau.
“Hunters should check their blaze orange gear to make sure it still fits and that that orange hasn’t faded to the point of being ineffective,” Cutts said. “We’re not hiding from deer during the firearm seasons; we want to be seen by the other hunters. The more external blaze orange that’s worn, the better the chance that hunters will be seen in the timber.”
The minimum amount of blaze orange required by
Iowa law to hunt in the firearm deer season is a 100 percent solid blaze orange vest, but hunters should wear as much blaze orange as possible, he said.
“We have a lot more hunters choosing rifles and rifles can travel much greater distances so blaze orange is really important,” he said. “But they also need to be cognizant of that distance, so they need to take good shots – avoid shooting at running deer and know what’s in front of and behind the deer, in case the shot misses.”
Not shooting at running deer is key to avoiding property damage or injuring another hunter. With the added distance rifles are capable of, hunters really need to be aware of what is behind the deer if the shot misses.
Cutts said there has been an average of nine hunting related incidents over the past three deer gun seasons involving rifles with around six involving personal
Donated deer hides benefit disabled veterans
Hunters donated more than 4,700 deer hides to Elks Lodges across Iowa last year, which was an increase of nearly 200 hides from the 2023-24 season. The deer hides are used by the Elks Veterans Leather Program to make professionally-crafted leather gloves for veterans in wheelchairs and also turned into leather used for therapy programs for recovering veterans.
The Elks Veterans Leather Program
relies on the charity of hunters to donate their deer hides. Hunters willing to donate their hides are encouraged to contact the local Elks Lodge for drop off locations or visit www.elks. org/lodges to find the nearest lodge. The therapeutic kits and gloves are distributed at no cost to the veterans. Contact Lisa Widick at 208-360-6294 or ozzywidick@gmail.com for more information.
injuries. Following the hunting plan is another way to avoid problems.
The hunting plan identifies the location, outlines each person’s role, describes how it will unfold and when the hunters are expected to return home. Hunters are encouraged to leave a copy of the plan with someone in the event of an emergency.
“You cannot deviate from the plan,” Cutts said. “The problems start when you see the deer coming out of a different area than you expected, then leave your location to get closer to the deer and suddenly the hunter is in the line of fire.”
Iowa’s first gun season is Dec. 7-11; second gun season is Dec. 14-22.
For more information on hunting safety, contact your local conservation officer.
Deer donation program
The Iowa DNR, the Food Bank of Iowa and 31 meat lockers are participating in the Help Us Stop Hunger program for 2024. Hunters are encouraged to contact a participating locker before they harvest a deer to see if the locker has any additional drop off instructions.
Hunters may also sign up as a deer donor or recipient with the Iowa Deer Exchange at www.iowadnr.gov/deer then scroll down to Iowa’s Deer Exchange Program link. There, donors can provide
their information on what they are willing to donate. The database creates a map and table with information deer donors and deer recipients can use to get connected.
Hunters and recipients who had previously registered for the Deer Exchange Program should review their information to make sure it is still accurate and active. There is no cost to participate. It is illegal to sell wild fish and game in Iowa.
Cost of this publication: $252.01 Fiscal year to date cost: $7622.07
THE JOHNSON COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS FORMAL MEETING MINUTES
NOVEMBER 21, 2024
Ordinances and resolutions adopted by the Board of Supervisors are only summarized in the published minutes; the full text may be inspected at the Office of the County Auditor, 913 S. Dubuque Street, Iowa City, Mon. thru Fri., between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. and at www.johnsoncountyiowa.gov.
Chairperson Sullivan called the Johnson County Board of Supervisors to order in the Johnson County Health and Human Services Boardroom at 9:00 a.m. Members present: V Fixmer-Oraiz, Jon Green, Lisa Green-Douglass*, Royceann Porter*, and Rod Sullivan. *Denotes electronic participation. Unless otherwise noted, all actions were taken unanimously. PUBLIC COMMENT: No business. American Planning Association Iowa Chapter (APA Iowa) Board President Madeline Sturms and APA Iowa Diversity,
Motion by Fixmer-Oraiz, second by Green, to approve the minutes of the Formal Meeting of November 14 and November 18, 2024.
Motion by Green, second by Fixmer-Oraiz, to approve the payroll authorizations submitted by department heads and elected officials, as approved by a majority of the Supervisors.
Motion by Fixmer-Oraiz, second by Green, to receive and place on file the Clerk’s Report of Fees Collected for the month of October 2024, in the amount of $33,904.75, as submitted by Clerk of District Court Alison Meade.
The Board acknowledged receipt of the October 14, 2024, Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting Minutes and the November 18, 2024, Report of the Planning and Zoning Commission.
ORDINANCE NO. 11-21-24-01
Zoning Application PZC-24-28582
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE JOHNSON COUNTY UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT ORDINANCE BY CHANGING THE CLASSIFICATION OF CERTAIN PROPERTY FROM A-AGRICULTURAL TO R-RESIDENTIAL
Summary: The purpose of this ordinance is to amend the Johnson County Unified Development Ordinance by changing the classification of the real estate described below from A-Agricultural to R-Residential located in Jefferson Township and comprised of approximately 1.99 acres to wit: A Portion of the Southeast One-Quarter of the Northwest One-Quarter of Section 13, Township 81 North, Range 7 West of the 5th Principal Meridian, Johnson County, Iowa, more particularly described as: Commencing at the Northwest corner of the Southeast One-Quarter
of the Northwest One-Quarter of Section 13, Township 81 North, Range 7 West of the 5th Principal Meridian, Johnson County, Iowa; thence S89°59'25"E, along the North Line of a tract of land described in a warranty deed recorded in Book 5344, pages 863-864 in the records of the Johnson County Recorder's Office, 422.90 feet to the Northeast Corner of said tract of land; thence S04°55'11"W, along the Easterly line of said tract of land, 442.00 feet to the point of beginning; thence continuing S04°55'11"W, along said Easterly line, 335.21 feet to a point on the existing Northerly road right-of-way of Mohawk Road Ne; thence S28°47'09"W, along said Easterly line, 33.00 feet to the most Southerly corner of said tract of land; thence Northwesterly, 257.95 Feet, along the southerly line of said tract of land and an arc of a 750.00 foot radius curve, concave Southwesterly, whose 256.68 foot chord bears N71°16'37”W; thence N00°00'00"E, 280.50 Feet; thence N90°00'00"E, 287.73 feet to the point of beginning, containing 1.99 acres and is subject to easements and restrictions of record is hereby changed from A-Agricultural to R- Residential. Effective Date: After its passage, approval, and publication as part of the proceedings of the Board of Supervisors, and only upon recording of a boundary line adjustment or subdivision of the subject property approved by the Board of Supervisors which contains one zoning classification per lot or parcel in such subdivision.
Motion by Fixmer-Oraiz, second by Green, to approve the proposed ordinance associated with Zoning Application PZC24-28582 on third and final consideration and approve Ordinance No. 11-21-24-01 amending the Johnson County Unified Development Ordinance. Roll call: Aye: Fixmer-Oraiz, Green, Green-Douglass, Porter, Sullivan. ORDINANCE NO. 11-21-24-02
Zoning Application PZC-24-28583 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE JOHNSON COUNTY UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT ORDINANCE BY CHANGING THE CLASSIFICATION OF CERTAIN PROPERTY FROM R-RESIDENTIAL TO RUB-RESIDENTIAL
Summary: The purpose of this ordinance is to amend the Johnson County Unified Development Ordinance by changing the classification of the real estate described below from R-Residential to RUB-Residential located in Penn Township and comprised of approximately 0.23 acres to wit: Beginning at the Northeast Corner of Lot 17 of Second Bane Subdivision of Part of Government Lots 9 and 12 Section 16-T80N-R6W, in accordance with the Plat thereof Recorded in Plat Book 4 at Page 380 of the Records of the Johnson County Recorder's Office; Thence S28°31'23"W, along the Easterly Line of said Lot 17, a distance of 120.09 feet, to the Southeast Corner thereof; Thence N61°37'58"W, along the Southerly Line of said Lot 17, and the Southerly Line of Lot 16 of said Second Bane Subdivision of Part of Government Lots 9 and 12 Section 16-T80N-R6W, 84.13 feet, to the Southeast Corner of Auditor's Parcel 96104, in accordance with the Plat thereof Recorded in Plat Book 37 at Page 96 of the Records of the Johnson County Recorder's Office; Thence N28°31'55"E, along the Easterly Line of said Auditor's Parcel 96104, a distance of 120.15 feet, to the Northeast Corner thereof, and a Point on the North Line of said Lot 16; Thence S61°35'40"E, along said North Line, and the North Line of said Lot 17, a distance of 84.11 feet, to the POINT OF BEGINNING. Said Rezoning Parcel contains 0.23 Acre (10,105 square feet) and is subject to easements and restrictions of record is hereby changed from R-Residential to RUB- Residential. Effective Date: After its passage, approval, and publication as part of the proceedings of the Board of Supervisors. Motion by Green, second by Fixmer-Oraiz, to approve the proposed ordinance associated with Zoning Application PZC-24-28583 on third and final consideration and approve Ordinance No. 11-21-24-02 amending the Johnson County Unified Development Ordinance. Roll call: Aye: Fixmer-Oraiz, Green, Green-Douglass, Porter, Sullivan. RESOLUTION NO. 11-21-24-01
RESOLUTION SETTING A PUBLIC HEARING ON VARIOUS DEVELOPMENT APPLICATIONS
Summary: The Johnson County Planning and Zoning Commission has filed its report and recommendations for certain actions. Board Action: Set a public hearing for December 12, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. CT in Room 203 B/C, Johnson County Health & Human Services Building, 855 South Dubuque Street, Iowa City, on the following applications: Zoning applications filed by Casey Maxted & Matt Tobin (PZC-2428581), Dale & Edith Marlene Schrock (PZC-24-28597), Jeff Carew (PZC-2428598), Mitch Olson (PZC-24-28599), and Austin & Elizabeth Miller (PZC-2428600); and platting applications filed by Mark Kruse (PZC-24-28603). Mitch Olson (PZC-24-28604), Paula Altmaier (PZC-24-28607), and JBL Holdings, LLC (PZC-24-28608). Authorize the Auditor to publish the official notice of the above public hearing. Motion by Fixmer-Oraiz, second by Green, to approve Resolution No. 11-21-24-01. Motion by Green, second by Fixmer-Oraiz, to set a public hearing on proposed plans, specifications, form of contract, and probable cost for the Johnson County Courthouse Third Level Office Renovation Project, December 12, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. CT in Room 203 B/C, Johnson County Health & Human Services Building, 855 South Dubuque Street, Iowa City, and authorize the Johnson County Auditor to publish the notice of public hearing. Motion by Green second by Porter, to approve the 28E Agreements for the Provision of Law Enforcement Services, as contained in the agenda packet of the meeting, with the following cities: City of Hills, City of Lone Tree, City of Oxford, City of Shueyville, City of Solon, City of Swisher; and authorize the County Sheriff to sign the agreements. Roll call: Aye: Green, Green-Douglass, Porter, Sullivan; Nay: Fixmer-Oraiz. Adjourned at 9:25 a.m. /s/ Rod Sullivan, Chair, Board of Supervisors Attest: /s/ Julie Persons, Auditor
On the 26th day of November 2024 Recorded by Auditor’s Office: Marly Melsh, Executive Clerk to the Board These minutes were sent for formal approval and publication on November 26, 2024. Published in the Solon Economist December 5, 2024.
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whats happening around you.
F U S on community
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Attorney General Bird helps Iowans and businesses overcome social media account takeovers
DES MOINES — Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird today warns Iowans of a rise in social media account hacks and takeovers—totaling nearly 400 reported incidents to the Attorney General’s office in 2024. Account takeovers occur when scammers and fraudsters break into someone’s account, often by changing passwords or stealing login credentials. Once in control, those hackers can exploit personal information, impersonate the account owner, and scam the account owner’s friends and family.
“Many Iowans spend years building networks and profiles on social media,” said Attorney General Bird. “When a scammer takes over, masquerading as these Iowans or sabotaging their hard work, it is easy to feel helpless. The good news is we can take action to stop it. My team is committed to helping Iowans recover their accounts and preventing future takeovers.”
Iowa businesses are particularly vulnerable to account takeovers, as they often rely on social media platforms to reach customers and promote their
products or services.
One example is when a hacker took over an Iowa woman’s Facebook accounts. The hacker locked her out of both her personal profile and professional account for the Iowa Hall of Fame and Racing Museum. The professional Facebook page played a critical role in promoting events, fundraising, and sharing announcements with supporters. The account takeover cost the museum business by restricting its outreach to the public for nearly a year, even though the woman repeatedly sought help through Facebook’s customersupport channels. It also kept her disconnected from her friends and family by blocking her from viewing posts on her personal feed. It was only after the woman reached out to the Iowa Attorney General’s office that she was able to regain control of her accounts.
How to Protect Yourself:
• Use strong, unique passwords: Avoid using easily guessable information such as birthdays, pet names, or common phrases.
• Two-Factor authentication: Use two different forms of identification to access an account. This adds an
additional layer of protection beyond a traditional password.
• Be cautious of suspicious links and attachments: Do not click on links or download attachments from unknown sources, as they may contain malware.
• Keep your software updated: Ensure that your operating system, browser, and antivirus software are up-to-date with the latest security patches.
• Be mindful of what you share online: Avoid sharing personal information like your full date of birth, home address, or financial information on social media.
• Monitor your account activity: Regularly check your account for any unusual activity, such as unauthorized posts or messages.
In March, Attorney General Bird called on Meta, the owner of Facebook and Instagram, to address the rise in account takeovers and lockouts on its social media platform.
Any Iowan experiencing an account takeover or lockout should contact the Iowa Attorney General’s office at 888-777-4590 or file a report online: https:// www.iowaattorneygeneral.gov/for-consumers/filea-consumer-complaint/complaint-form.
Alyssa Brouillet
SOLON SENIORS
Happy Holidays From Solon Senior Dining, a non-profit organization serving the Solon Community for over 40 years at the Solon Methodist Church.
DECEMBER
HAPPENINGS ••••
Wednesday, Dec. 11 – Sponsors Jay & Helen Proffitt
Wednesday, Dec. 18 – Holiday Cheer
CLOSED Wednesday, Dec. 25 and Friday, Dec. 27, Merry Christmas!
CLOSED Wednesday, Jan. 1, Happy New Year’s!
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
DECEMBER MENU
Friday, Dec. 6
Catch of the Day
Mini Baked Potatoes
Vegetable Blend
Sherbet
Monday, Dec. 9
Dijon Maple Chicken
Cornbread Stuffing
Hot Spiced Beets
Orange Poppyseed Cake
Wednesday, Dec. 11
Sponsored Meal-Jay & Helen Proffitt
Ginger Caramel Pork Loin
Candied Sweet Potatoes
Buttered Peas
Lemon Meringue Pie
Friday, Dec. 13
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
SCHOOL LUNCH
For information on the free and reduced program, and an application, go to www.solon.
k12.ia.us/page/nutritionprogram and scroll down to Nutrition Documents & Links.
STUDENT LUNCH PRICES
High School - $2.70
Middle School - $2.60
SIS/Lakeview - $2.55
Reduced - $.40
Adult/Guest lunch: $4.70
Thursday, Dec. 5
MS/HS Alt: Spicy Chicken
Sandwich
Pepperoni Stuffed Crust Pizza
Colorful Mixed Vegetable, Pepper Strips
Triple Fruit Salad
Cheez it’s
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, Dec. 5
Mini Pancakes (LV/SIS)
G&G Bag (LV) Mini Pancakes
Muffin Top, Mini Pancakes & Sausage Links Fruit, Juice Crackers & Milk
Friday, Dec. 6
Long John (LV/SIS)
G&G Bag (LV) Donut Potatoes & Egg Boat or Long John Fruit, Juice Crackers & Milk
15 The “boy” in the Broadway lyric “Never before has a boy wanted more!”
— Elizabeth Andrew
Fruit, Juice Crackers & Milk
Tuesday, Dec. 10
Pumpkin/Banana Bread (LV/ SIS)
G&G Bag (LV) Pump/Banana Bread
Egg Breakfast Bake, Dutch Waffle & Bacon
Fruit, Juice Crackers & Milk
Wednesday, Dec. 11
Fruity Oatmeal (LV/SIS)
G&G Bag (LV) Poptart
Breakfast Sandwich, Frudel Fruit, Juice Crackers & Milk
Thursday, Dec. 12
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
Tortilla Chips, Fruit Slushy Bananas IMS/HS)
Wednesday, Dec. 11
MS/HS Alt: Pork Tenderloin
Sandwich
French Toast Sticks & Syrup
Egg & Cheese Omelet, Hash
Brown
Cucumber, Fresh Strawberries
Chocolate Chip Muffin (SIS/ MS/HS)
Thursday, Dec. 12
MS/HS Alt: Cheese Bites
Chicken Tenders (LV/SIS)
Chicken Wings & Sauce (MS/ HS)
Steamed Carrots, Celery
Chilled Pears
Biscuit with Butter Patty, Sunchips (HS)
16 Cruise through 17 “Duh!,” in textspeak
18 Noted convention center?
19 “Moo, ___, La La La!” (children’s book)
20 June observance
22 Pastry whose dough is used in making pigs in a blanket
24 Common situations in time travel narratives
26 The emperor Caligula wanted to name his a consul, in legend
27 Lowercase “n” lookalike
28 Its cups aren’t supposed to runneth over
29 Singer Lewis
30 Last word in the full title of Cervantes’s most famous novel
33 Pigeonry
34 Halloween-themed hit, with a hint to four squares in this puzzle
36 What the puck is going on?
37 “ … have it your way, then”
38 BeBe’s sister, in a gospel duo
39 Something “dead” in a haunted corn maze?
40 ___ powder (manicure type)
43 It comes from the heart
45 Summer drink made from the fruits of two tropical trees
48 Graphic showing the status of a download, say
50 Like Polish, but not polish
51 Lionizing lines
52 General during the Clone Wars
54 “Last Christmas” pop duo
55 Marble count for each side in Chinese checkers
56 Opposite of a jumbo shake?
57 Prefix with trust or rust
58 Sounds of hesitation
59 Recorded, in a way
60 Throw hard, in modern slang Down
1 Quaint store
2 Maze runner
3 “Mistress of the Dark” in a 1988 film
4 “Othello” role
5 Sound sounds
6 Encouragement to a flamenco performer
7 Cut finely
8 Civil rights leader Medgar
9 Campbell of horror film fame
10 Just terrible, in slang
11 One of the original five inductees into the Baseball Hall of Fame
12 “Yes, that’s abundantly clear”
13 Source of refreshments on a train to London
21 Financial institution with A.T.M.s known as “Green Machines”
23 Fellow presenter
25 Art knife brand
30 Paintings in the “Water Lilies” series, e.g.
31 Dating app for queer women
32 Elizabeth of cosmetics
33 Openness
34 Certain edible seedlings
35 Khan tract?
36 Keep in stock, say
38 “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” author
40 “Apollo and ___” (Bernini masterpiece)
41 Kick around some concepts
42 Aspiring driver’s need
44 Invite for
45 Painter whose “Olympia” caused controversy for its depiction of a sex worker
46 Result of burning sage
47 “Not happening!”
49 2016 election nickname
53 Catchy song
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.
End of Life and Financial Records
Discussion at the Holidays
Sonya Sellmeyer Consumer Advocacy Officer for the Iowa Insurance Division
This holiday season Iowans will gather with loved ones and it is a great time for an open discussion about the location of important documents which detail end-of-life plans.
An end-of-life plan is
a set of arrangements or decisions made in advance regarding the care, treatment, and personal affairs at the end of a person's life. It typically involves preparing for the final stage of life in a way that aligns with the individual’s wishes, values, and goals. The discussion doesn’t have to divulge details you are not comfortable sharing, it just ensures the following information may be found in case of an emergency.
A will outlines how a person’s assets should be distributed after death. Trusts are legal arrangements that help manage how assets are distributed, potentially avoiding probate. A power of attorney designates someone to manage financial and legal affairs on your behalf if you cannot do so. All parties assigned to carry
Johnson County begins annual budgeting process for fiscal year 2026
Each year, the Johnson County Board of Supervisors, coordinating with other County elected officials and department heads, conducts a thorough budgeting process to create the County’s budget for the upcoming fiscal year. The public is invited to attend all meetings.
A preliminary schedule for the fiscal year 2026 budget meetings, including specific department budget discussions, is listed below. Meeting dates, times and department discussions are subject to change. All budget work sessions are in the Johnson County Health and Human Services Building, 855 S. Dubuque Street, Iowa City. All budget work sessions will be livestreamed via the Johnson County website and Zoom. Check the website to confirm the schedule and view meeting agendas at bit.ly/jocomeeting.
The first budget work session begins at 9 a.m. on Monday, Dec. 9, 2024. Department-specific meetings wrap up in early February 2025, with general budget discussions and decisions occurring in February. There will be two public hearings – one at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, and a second at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, April 16, 2025. The board will discuss the budget at a work session at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, and will vote on it at the formal meeting which begins at 9 a.m. on Thursday, April 24, 2025. County budgets must be filed with the State of Iowa by April 30, 2025.
The full schedule of Fiscal Year 2026 budget meetings is available at https:// www.johnsoncountyiowa.gov/finance/ budget-documents.
out these duties should have copies of these legal documents.
Assemble a list of banking and financial accounts with the policy or account numbers, passwords, etc. Accounts should have updated beneficiaries or designate a payable-on-death designation. Consider consolidating financial accounts to one or two financial institutions. If using a licensed financial professional, ponder an introduction to those tasked with handling your affairs. Add trusted contacts to your financial accounts so that if there is a change in behavior or something seems suspect with the account, the contact may be notified.
Outline information on life insurance policies, and if they are paid up. If assistance is needed in locating a policy after a loved one has passed you may use the free National Insurance Commissioners Life Insurance Policy locator service at https://content.naic.org/article/ learn-how-use-naic-life-insurancepolicy-locator?utm_medium=email@ utm_source=govdelivery.
Advance directives include a living will and a durable power of attorney for health care. A living will is a document that specifies the types of medical treatments
and life-sustaining measures a person wishes to receive or avoid in case they become unable to communicate their wishes. A durable power of attorney for health care appoints someone to make medical decisions on behalf of the person if they are incapacitated (e.g., in a coma or terminal illness).
If there is a long-term care policy, know how the premiums are paid, and the requirements for benefits to start. Request a designee on the policy who receives a notice if a premium is not paid. Discuss palliative care and hospice preferences for pain management and comfort care. Funeral and burial preferences should be communicated in writing. Include any specific wishes or instructions, and if your loved one wants to be an organ and tissue donor. Communicate any prepaid funeral policies.
Having discussions about the location of these documents and future legacy planning does not require someone sharing more about their finances than they desire. It is about knowing where documents are kept and being able to assist with the care of a loved one when needed. These conversations create transparency and understanding with everyone involved.
Sellmeyer
SPORTS
IATC announces Class 3A AllState girls cross country honors
Lady Spartans earn first win of the season with 44-41 win over Cascade
The Iowa Association of Track Coaches (IATC) recently released their picks for 2024 All-State Cross Country Teams with Solon represented.
Senior Sydney Dee was named to the Class 3A Second Team for her State Meet time of 19:24.9. Dee also was received Academic All-State honors with teammate and fellow senior Ella Sheeley.
To be eligible for Academic All-State an athlete must be a senior, have a 3.8 or higher cumulative grade point average,
Rebounds
CASCADE — The varsity Lady Spartans rebounded from a season opening loss to Iowa City West with a 44-41 win against Cascade Tuesday, Nov. 26. For unranked Solon it was an upset win over the No. 3 team in Class 2A per the Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union’s preseason rankings released Friday, Nov. 22.
The Cougars led 17-10 after the first
IOWA CITY — The 2024-2025 boys bowling season got off to a rocky start for the City High Little Hawks Tuesday, Nov. 26 as they dropped their home opener against Dubuque Senior at Colonial Lanes in Iowa City. The Rams topped City High 2,845 – 2,825. Solon senior Carson Reid and junior Trendon Walker are bowling for the Little Hawks this season.
Individual scores were not available as of deadline.
The Little Hawks will close out 2024 on the road with their next home meet (at Colonial Lanes, 2253 Old Hwy. 6 in Iowa City) Friday, Jan. 3 as they host crosstown rival Iowa City West.
Far left: Sydney Dee (shown here in the 3A Regional Meet in October) was recently named to the Iowa Association of Track Coaches’ Class 3A AllState 2nd Team.
Left: Solon cross country Coach Emy Williams embraces Sydney Dee during the award presentations at the 3A Regional Meet in October. Williams was named as one of five Class 3A At-Large Coach of Year recipients by the Iowa Association of Track Coaches.
an ACT score of 28 or higher, and be a State Coed Meet qualifier or finish in the top-30 at a State Qualifying Meet (during the year of application).
Cross Country Head Coach Emy Williams was also recognized as she was named as one of five 2024 Class 3A At-Large Coach of the Year recipients with Kory Swart of Mount VernonLisbon, Brock Lehman of Sioux Center, Trey Thompson of Winterset, and Zach Klaassen of Harlan. Pella’s Douglas Cutler was named the Girls 3A State Coach of the Year.
period and held a 23-16 halftime advantage. A 16-point effort from Solon, while holding Cascade to seven points in the third shifted the lead 32-30 in favor of the Lady Spartans. Solon outscored Cascade 12-10 in the fourth for the win, improving to 1-1 on the season.
Sophomore Laney Johnson led Solon with 11 points including three three-point baskets while sophomore Jerzey Haluska led all on the boards with ten rebounds.
Upcoming Schedule
Friday, Dec. 6 - HOME vs. Clear Creek Amana, 6:00 p.m.
Tuesday, Dec. 10 - AT Grinnell, 6:00 p.m.
Friday, Dec. 13 - HOME vs. Benton Community, 6:00 p.m.
Tuesday, Dec. 17 - AT Mount Vernon, 6:00 p.m.
Friday, Dec. 20 - AT Center Point-Urbana, 6:30 p.m.
Upcoming Schedule
Friday, Dec. 6 - AT Cedar Falls (Maple Lanes), 3:45 p.m.
Friday, Dec. 13 - HOME vs. Western Dubuque, 3:15 p.m.
