a garbage truck during the annual Citywide Clean Up Day this past Saturday morning at the SRNA. Solonites were able to dispose of items cluttering up their residences.
Cleaning up the town
Chris Umscheid Solon Economist chris.umscheid@soloneconomist.com
SOLON — The annual Citywide Cleanup Day was held this past Saturday morning at the Solon Recreation and Nature Area (SRNA) affording residents an opportunity to dispose of hard to get rid of items for free or a small fee. Bookcases, chairs, mattresses, a large sectional couch, broken flat screen TVs, some appliances, area rugs, at least one treadmill, and a vast array of other items arrived at the SRNA piled up in the back of pickup trucks, SUV’s, and cars. A small army of employees with Johnson County Refuse swiftly and deftly unloaded the
junk, placing it into the backs of garbage trucks or roll off containers before hauling it to the County’s landfill for final disposal.
The annual event used to be scheduled for the week after the citywide garage sales, but City Administrator Cami Rasmussen noted that is historically a very busy time for the SRNA with the multiple trucks and additional traffic adding to the congestion during sports tournaments and other activities. Rasmussen expressed her gratitude to the crews from Johnson County Refuse for their hard work as well as to the residents who took advantage of the event to clean up unwanted items from their property, contributing toward keeping Solon clean.
PHOTOS | 6 & 7
Joel Kellar Solon Economist
SOLON — School starts this year on many kids' favorite day of the week, Friday, as the 2024-2025 school year will begin on August 23.
This is the earliest schools can start due to state law. Most schools typically start at this date because their goal is to finish the school year before June each year. Solon School District Superintendent Davis Eidahl said, “We try our best to set a calendar to where we can get out as close to Memorial Day as we possibly can. Anything beyond that day you start to lose student focus.”
The state chose August 23 to be the official earliest start date allowed for schools because of how important kids and families were to the Iowa State Fair. Eidahl said, “We have a lot of students around Iowa that not only attend the state fair but participate in the state fair.”
With the new school year soon to begin, there are a few new things around the district. For the first time in just over a decade, there will be a full industrial tech program in the High School. The class will aim to open the door to freshman and sophomores for an exploratory opportunity. It will also be available for any upperclassmen who want to dip their toes into the industrial tech world. Mr. J.J. Cooper will teach the program this year. There will be a new playground at the intermediate school. The school has received all of the pieces
Chris Umscheid | The Solon Economist
An employee of Johnson County Refuse hurls an item into the back of
needed for the climbing apparatus to be assembled, but the assembly will not be complete until late September. Eidahl said, "If kids are busy, are entertained, and have things they like doing, then they are less apt to be ornery.”
The transportation offices for the district will not only have a new location (at the former truck shop along Hwy. 1 on the north end of Solon), but also a new phone number. The number to call when needing to contact the transportation office is (319) 624-2047.
Transportation will be adding a tenth bus route this year as well. Information can be found under the transportation tab of the school district website. Eidahl said, “There will be a few routes adjusted by that as we pull students off their original route and put them on a new route. Which means that hopefully they are on a bus with fewer students
and on that bus for a shorter amount of time."
There will be open houses in the district for parents and kids to meet teachers and walk around the school Wednesday, August 21, starting at 4:00 p.m.
Tips to get kids back in the learning mindset
The beginning of school means kids’ summer of relaxation has come to an end. No longer are the days of staying up until the early hours of the morning or sleeping in until lunch. To prep for the school year, kids should begin to get into the school routine of waking up early and going to sleep at a decent time. Associate Superintendent Josh Lyons even advises to have kids go through the motions of getting ready for school.
A way to help ease kids into the school year nutritionally is to look ahead and plan for lunches over the first couple of weeks of school. This can be deciding what days they want to eat hot or cold lunch and what they want in their cold lunches as well as providing healthy options for snacks
to fuel their day. Lyons said, "As we get into the first week of school, the kids need healthy meals, healthy snacks, and bedtime routines so they have the energy when they come to school to make it through the day.”
Parents play an important role in preparing their kids for the new school year. Often in the summer kids can forget some of the things they learned the year prior. Lyons says a way to combat a slow start to the year learning-wise is simply to read to or have a kid spend 15-20 minutes a night.
Lyons believes parents should also reach out to the classroom teachers. Parents reaching out to their kids’ teachers to introduce themselves can open a line of communication that can help down the road. Lyons said, “We want to be partners with our families, and we want to make sure everyone has a smooth transition into school.”
The beginning of school can lead to anxiety and nervousness for many kids. Lyons advises parents to not only talk about
Solon Retirement Village receives a “Deficiency Free” state survey
Scott Maiers Community Relations Director, Solon Retirement Village
Solon Retirement Village recently achieved one of the highest designations on its annual survey by the Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals.
A “Deficiency Free” survey certifies that all nursing care and services provided by the community meet or exceed the regulatory standards outlined by both the State of Iowa and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).
According to Melissa Reed, Administrator/COO at the retirement village, there are 442 nursing homes in Iowa and only about 5% of them achieve
this designation. “This is a huge accomplishment, and we are extremely proud of our staff”, said Reed.
Over the course of four days, State Health Facilities Surveyors interviewed staff, residents, and family members. They also reviewed hundreds of specific state and federal standards including; quality care, safety, food service, resident rights, and clinical records to ensure compliance with state and federal rules.
Solon Retirement Village is a continuing care retirement community (CCRC) and offers independent & assisted living, nursing home care, skilled rehab, and outpatient therapy services. They have been proudly serving this community since 1973.
why they are nervous, but to talk about what they are excited about. Keeping conversations about school positive can help ease the transition back into school. Lyons said, “It’s always a good strategy to reflect on the day and think about how if today wasn’t a great day, how could we make tomorrow a better day. And sometimes it also helps parents reflect and calm their anxieties.”
Of course, each grade possesses its own challenges during the year but the beginning of a senior year can be one of the most difficult times to stay focused and motivated. A common terminology, "senioritis,” means that seniors become too relaxed in school because they are so close to the end. Lyons believes a way to prevent this loss of motivation begins with a strong start to the year. Lyons said, "For the seniors they need to anticipate what a great year it’s going to be. They should think about all that they want to accomplish that final year, because it will go by like that [Lyon’s snapped his fingers].”
Sheriff’s time report for Solon
SOLON — The Johnson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) provides law enforcement to the city of Solon on a contracted basis and releases a monthly Town Time Report documenting the agency’s activities and time spent within the corporate limits of Solon.
July
Deputies conducted 30 traffic stops, responded to nine 9-1-1 hangups, 16 emergency medical incidents, and three fire responses among 166 total calls for service. Also, deputies responded to four animal calls, three motor vehicle accidents, three intoxicated persons, one missing person, and one theft. Deputies also provided traffic control and security for Solon Beef Days.
As a reminder the Sheriff’s substation is open at 223 S. Iowa St. in Solon. The facility is not staffed 24/7 but if a deputy is needed (non-emergency) call 319-356-6800 to make a request to have one meet you. In an emergency, dial 9-1-1.
July Hours in Solon
S on community .
Volume 144 I Issue 32 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.
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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
Dean C. Santis, 81 years young, unexpectedly went home in the arms of his family on Aug. 2,2024 at St. Luke’s Hospital. A visitation was held Thursday, Aug. 8, at Seeds of Faith Church in Lisbon. Dean’s Graveside Service was Friday, Aug. 9, at Campbell Cemetery 7501 Mount Vernon Road SE, Cedar Rapids with Rev. Erika Uthe officiating. Dawson Funeral Services is caring for his family at this time. Online condolences may be directed to the family at www.dawsonfuneral.com.
Dean was born March 12, 1943, in Chicago, Ill., to Lysander and Efiginia Santis. He was raised in Chicago, Ill., with his grandmother, aunt, and mother. His father was serving in the Army at this time during World War II. Dean moved with his parents to Lombard, Ill., where he was raised. The family welcomed his baby sister, Amelia. Dean’s first language was Greek due to his parents and relatives speaking Greek. His first year of school was challenging. He quickly overcame the language barrier . His strict but loving upbringing helped shape him into the man he became. He was one of the most honest and giving people that anyone has ever known. He had the rare trait that if he gave you his word he would keep it. A handshake or verbal agreement with him was as good as a legally written contract. He was very generous with everything he had in life, including his time, which he would devote to anyone in need (no matter how big or time consuming the project was). Like people of Greek heritage, family and extended family were a big part of his life; this led to him being a very social person.
Dean went to the University of Illinois at Navy Pier in Chicago and then onto the Champagne, Urbana U of I campus. He received his bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering in 1966. He met Joan at the university, she became the love of his life. They were married Sept. 3, 1966 after graduating. This year they would be celebrating their 59th anniversary, but God had different plans. Dean and Joan then moved to Pittsburgh, Penn., because Dean received a fellowship from Westinghouse to work on his master degree in electrical engineering. He received his M.S.E.E from the University of Pittsburgh in 1968. He was a very sought after engineer and was recruited by several government agencies. He was able to apply his skills at multiple companies both national and private (Motorola, International Harvester, Rockwell Goss, and Technology Inc. He designed nuclear reactor controls, intricate electronics, alternators, electrical systems for International Harvester tractors, and printing press electronics). He holds multiple patents in these areas. Dean had many accomplishments in his professional career, but he received the most joy from his family. He would tell people that his greatest accomplishments were his two sons, Christopher and Matthew. In all honesty they also brought him the most challenges, gray hair, and a lot of joy to his life. Dean and Joan raised their family in Winfield, Ill., and Crystal Lake, Ill.. Dean and Joan retired in Mount Vernon and loved to watch the deer, fox, turkeys, and hummingbirds. They did not like groundhogs and raccoons. Dean spent countless hours working on cars and machinery of all types. If something happened to one of the cars it was treated as if it were a family member in the hospital. He was a mentor, teacher, leader, protector and role model for his children and grandchildren. He passed his mechanical knowledge and construction abilities on to them. He was also an accomplished woodworker. He never met a challenge that he would give up on.
Left to mourn for him is his loving wife, Joan. She was his strength, advocate, and his best friend. Also in mourning are his two sons Christopher (Angela) Santis of Lisbon, and Matthew (Lisa) Santis of Crystal Lake, Ill.; his grandchildren Caden, Andrew, Logan. Alea, Kaylee, and Alyssa; his sister , Amelia (Jim) Corso of Sarasota, Florida; brothersin-law Robert Russell ( Lynn) Gerches of Fort Myers, Fla.; his brothers-in-law Richard Gerches and Lloyd Witting and his sisters-in-law Betty Gerches and Lucille Witting; many nieces, nephews, and several cousins. He is now united in Heaven with his granddaughter Chrissa and his mother and father whom he missed dearly.
The family would like to thank Dr. Sheeley and Dr. Ahmed for taking good care of Dean. We would also like to give a very special thank you to Chaplan Loren Olson for his comforting words; to ICU Dr. Cyrus Askin for his honesty about Dean’s medical situation; to ICU nurse Tannah Tedesco and Palliative care nurse Angie for answering all our questions. We greatly appreciate them giving us the gift of time to say goodbye to our loved one.
Dean cherished going out to eat at restaurants as this allowed him to spend time with family and reflect on his father’s profession of being an excellent waiter. Dean also cherished cuddling and feeding his pug, Daisy while watching Fox News.
Cards of condolences may be mailed to Dawson Funeral Services ATTN: Dean Santis Family PO Box 258 Wyoming, Iowa 52362.
Linda Marie Wilkerson, 78, of Solon, IA, died on August 6 at her home with her husband by her side.
A private family burial will be at Oakland Cemetery in Solon, Iowa.
Memorial contributions may be made to Juvenile Diabetes Foundation or to the Solon Fire Department.
Linda was born April 17, 1946 in Iowa City, the daughter of Harvey and Genevieve Kaspar Volk. She was raised in Cosgrove, Iowa before moving to Iowa City and then to Solon in 1977. She graduated from Iowa City High School.
She married Loren Wilkerson on March 6, 1971 in Iowa City.
She worked as a factory clerk for RR Donnelly from 1967 until her retirement.
Survivors include sons Erick Wilkerson of Solon, IA, Justin Wilkerson of North Liberty, IA and Jason Wilkerson of Tiffin, IA; daughters Deanna (Donald) Sedlacek of Iowa City, IA and Cammy (Mario) Ficarola of Long Island, NY; brothers James (Janet) Volk of Tiffin, IA; Steve (Karen) Volk of Solon, IA and Bill (Kathy)Volk of Naperville, IL; sister Mary (Randy) Phillips of Solon, IA; grandchildren Levi, Dakota, Gabriel, Benjamin, Andy, Owen, Nicholas and Ava and four great-grandsons. She was preceded in death by her parents Harvey and Genevieve Volk.
Online condolences and memories may be shared on Linda’s Tribute Wall.
SOLON PUBLIC LIBRARY NEWS
We’re blown away by the Summer Reading numbers yet again! Each summer you surprise us with amazing amounts of reading. Take a look at these numbers!
Total picture books read by littles (0-5 years): 12,137
Total minutes read by kids (1st-5th grades): 265,818
Total minutes read by teens (6th-12th grades): 187,574
Total picture books read by adults: 4,465
Total JFIC and above books ready by adults: 902
Total programs held: 97
Total attendees: 2,260
As readers turned in completed levels, they picked out a small prize. We gave out a total of 4,671 small prizes!
Congratulations to the Grand Prize Winners:
Candy & Movie Bundle 1: Kaylee M.
Candy & Movie Bundle 2: Lena C.
Compost Kit: Kris B.
Giant Dino Stuffie: Camille B.
Giant Gummy Shark: Eleanor C.
Gift Card Bundle 1: Amelia M.
Gift Card Bundle 2: Raysa G.
Iowa Children’s Museum 1-Year Family Membership: Abbie V.
Mother Bruce Bundle: Beau S.
Niabi Zoo Family Pass: Hazel T.
Outdoor Relaxation Bundle: Willa N.
Sustainable Snacks Bundle: Peggy C.
Technology Bundle: Sofia C.
Thank you to our community sponsors and partners who helped us fill the summer with great books, engaging programs, and so much more.
Library Events
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.
The Library is open 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Friday, August 23 to allow time for our monthly staff in-service. The Library will be closed Monday, September 2 in observance of Labor Day.
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, and more with Kanopy on your favorite smart device. Everyone is welcome at the Library and our programs. Please contact us with access needs.
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.
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, 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?
The latest non-fiction additions range from bookstores, to diet programs, to biographies. Come check one out!
The Bookshop: A History of the American Bookstore by Evan Friss. An affectionate and engaging history of the American bookstore and its central place in American cultural life, from department stores to indies, from highbrow dealers trading in first editions to sidewalk vendors, and from chains to special-interest community destinations.
The New Whole 30 by Melissa Urban. Do you struggle with cravings, blood sugar regulation, inflammation, fatigue, digestive issues, pain, or other symptoms? The Whole30 can help you discover the foods that are holding you back—in just 30 days.
Since 2009, the Whole30 program has helped millions of people radically transform their health, habits, and relationship with food and discover lasting food freedom. Grounded in nutrition and behavior-change science and fifteen years of clinical evidence, the Whole30 program has been praised by countless doctors and dietitians and is supported by thousands of glowing testimonials.
True Gretch: What I’ve Learned About Life, Leadership, and Everything in Between by Gretchen Whitmer. From trailblazing Michigan governor and rising Democratic star Gretchen Whitmer comes an unconventionally honest, personal, and funny account of her remarkable life and career, full of insights that guided her through a global pandemic, showdowns with high-profile bullies, and even a kidnapping and assassination plot.
Dean Santis
Linda Wilkerson
Outdoor Relaxation Bundle winner, Willa N.
Sustainable Snacks Bundle winner, Peggy C.
No bragging on this Olympics Iowa angle My week at the farm
Food for Thought
From the time I was about eight or nine years old, I spent a week or two every summer at my grandparents' farm. They lived in Clarke County, south of Indianola. Aside from my grandparents, there were three uncles, an aunt and her son who was my age. My mother's youngest sister, still in her teens, seemed more like an older sister than an aunt. Life on the farm was busy and exciting. They still farmed mostly with horses, raised virtually all their own food, “washed up” on Saturday evenings before going to town to shop and meet with friends for a bit of socializing.
My grandma and aunts cooked on a wood-burning stove, and on hot summer days, in the wash-house on a stove used to heat water for “washing up” and laundry. They turned out hearty, delicious noontime meals often including two kinds of meat raised there on the farm (mostly pork and chicken) and vegetables fresh from the large garden. There were always homemade bread or biscuits, fresh fruit in summer, pickles and relishes, two or three desserts – usually involving whipped cream – and finally, Grandma's crystal candy dish with hard candies and peppermints. After dinner, the men retired to the living room for naps on the sofas and over-stuffed chairs while the women and girls spent an hour or so washing dishes and turning leftovers into sandwich filling, soup or casseroles for the evening meal.
Once the men had “settled their dinner” they stopped in the kitchen for another bite of pie or cake and a glass of milk or iced tea before going back to the field, the barn or other chores. Twice a day they milked several cows by hand,. The women made butter and rich desserts from the cream that rose to the top of the milk, saving the watery skimmed milk that remained for the chickens and pigs and any dogs or cats that lived mainly on leftovers from the days' meals. In summer, after the crops had been planted and baby animals born, the main farm chores consisted of mowing, turning and storing loose hay in the big, airy hayloft. In due time, oats were harvested for winter feed for the livestock along with the corn that would be picked and shelled later. The golden oat straw was heaped into huge straw stacks for later use as bedding for the animals that would spend most of the winter in the barns.
Summer work was less labor-intensive, but hotter than at other times of the year, and progressed at a slower rate. Machinery and tools were cleaned and repaired in the relatively cool shade of the machine shed. Fences were tightened, rotting posts replaced, leaky roofs patched. And when there was a lull in the chores, there was time to dig a few worms and spend an hour or three under a willow tree by the river with a rod and reel in hand.
Being a city girl, I preferred to spend hot afternoons splashing in the town's swimming pool or catching a matinee in an air-conditioned theater. I could walk the three short, shady blocks from our house to the locker plant where they sold ice cream cones, Popsicles and other cool treats. At home, there was always my mother's solution for a sweltering summer afternoon – a long, cool soak in the bathtub. But even that wasn't possible on the farm, we had to settle for “stand-up sparrow baths.”
On the farm, little kids could splash in one of the washtubs set under a tree near the wash-house. Older kids were limited to water fights and dips in the horse tank, which was cooling but creepy with green, mossy stuff growing on its concrete sides and long-ago pet goldfish darting about. The goldfish, believed to be simply fancy carp, had been introduced to the tank in hopes that they would eat the green slime, but if they did, they couldn't keep up with the supply.
There were plenty of fun, adventures and mischief with my young aunt and boy cousin, but we helped with some of the summer chores, too. I especially liked hunting for the eggs that Grandma's hens laid everywhere but in the laying boxes in the chicken house, and I helped a lot in the kitchen – until I was banned for breaking two water pitchers in a row while washing dishes. Back home again, I treasured those farm memories – but it was sure nice to get a leisurely soak in a real bathtub!
Stray Thoughts
During the 40 years I was a newspaper editor/manager, I strived to ensure the staff incorporated context into their articles. Sometimes, in a journalistic shorthand, that was described “the Iowa angle.”
If there was a mass murder in Iowa, I would dip into my stash of clippings and find the list of the worst mass killings in Iowa history. That allowed us to give context to the magnitude of the tragedy.
The same with tornadoes and floods. How does the number of deaths compare with the worst of these nightmares we have experienced in the past?
During the Vietnam war, and later during the Gulf wars, we turned to bound desk calendars where we pasted clippings to track the running tally of deaths of Iowa soldiers.
So, over this past weekend a friend and I pawed through statistics to provide important Iowa context when Belgium’s mixed relay triathlon team pulled out of the Olympic competition in Paris.
Belgium’s decision was made after one of its athletes became ill and was hospitalized, reportedly for an E. coli infection, after she swam in the River Seine earlier in the competition. The same day as the announcement about Claire Michel, Olympic organizers canceled a training session for the swimming leg of the triathlon because the Seine’s water pollution levels were too high.
The quality of the Seine’s water has been a persistent worry leading up to this year’s Olympic Games. The pollution levels forced organizers to consider delaying, or even canceling, some outdoor swimming events.
This is where the Iowa angle comes into the picture — and it provides some interesting context for the news out of Paris.
Just as water quality stats for the Seine have fluctuated, based on the relationship between rainfall, runoff and drier weather, the quality of water at Iowa’s
beaches this summer has fluctuated, too.
Iowa Department of Natural Resources specialists monitor water at beaches because poor water quality can cause intestinal problems that may develop into serious infections. As Claire Michel’s experience shows, poor water quality should not be brushed aside and taken lightly. Contaminated water can lead even healthy young people to need medical treatment.
Here is how the River Seine’s pollution stats look when compared with some Iowa beaches, where the DNR has said at various times that swimming is not recommended because of the contamination.
On July 31, the highest E. coli concentration along the Seine’s race course was 649 MPN/100 ml. That measurement tallies the density of E. coli organisms per 100 milliliters of water.
The Iowa angle shows these readings from tests on July 30 or 31:
• Hickory Grove Park, Story County — 24,000 MPN/100mL
• Edson Park beach, Buena Vista County — 20,000
• Awaysis beach, Storm Lake — 9,200
• Bel Air beach, Buena Vista County — 3,900
• Big Creek State Park, Polk County — 3,400
• Gray’s Lake, Des Moines — 3,000
• Lake Iowa Park, Iowa County — 2,900
• Lake Ahquabi State Park, Warren County: 2,100
• Sandy Hollow Park, Sioux County — 1,500
• Chautauqua beach, Storm Lake — 750
• Lacey-Keosauqua State Park, Van Buren County — 660
• Lake Wapello State Park, Davis County — 600
• Lake of Three Fires State Park, Taylor County — 590
• Beeds Lake, Franklin County — 540
• Union Grove State Park, Tama County — 470
• Lake Darling State Park, Washington County — 470
Unlike the Olympics, these comparisons between Paris and Iowa draw attention to persistent problems in our state that no one wants to celebrate.
No one plans a trip to Paris to swim in the Seine. The Eiffel Tower, yes. The Louvre and the thousands of restaurants that offer something much different from loose-meat sandwiches, yes, those are the pull for tourists and French locals alike.
But Iowa does not have an Eiffel Tower. Swimming at Iowa beaches is one of the recreational attractions in a state without mountains and seashores.
And whether we like it or not, water quality that discourages swimming, kayaking and fishing are activities that should concern people who call this state home or who come to visit us.
Or, it should.
Randy Evans can be reached at DMRevans2810@gmail.com.
Randy Evans Iowa Freedom of Information Council
Milli Gilbaugh
No matter where you are in life,
Kirkwood’s ready to walk alongside you as you take your next step
It’s happening. Thousands of area students are getting ready to go back to school this fall to start or take their next step in a life-changing educational journey. I want to remind you that it’s not too late to join these students … students just like Collin, who I bumped into this morning as I walked through the Kirkwood parking lot. Collin looked lost and a little overwhelmed, so I walked with him and asked how I could help. He was interested in taking classes in the fall but he wasn’t sure where to start. We chatted as I walked him into the advising office and I left him in their capable hands … but the interaction stayed with me the remainder of the day.
My experience with Collin left me feeling energized and excited for the start of our classes at Kirkwood in a couple of short weeks. As president of Kirkwood Community college, I remember feeling excited and nervous, just like Collin, when I started my journey as a student at Kirkwood. There’s no way I could have known back then the incredible impact this institution, and the education I received here, would have on my future. And that’s what’s so great about community colleges like Kirkwood … it’s the perfect place to explore your interests, learn more about who you are, discover exciting career pathways and opportunities, and learn how to get there faster and more affordably. No matter where you are in life, Kirkwood’s ready to walk alongside you as you take your next step.
If you’re a recent high school graduate considering a four-year college, Kirkwood is a great place to start. You can spend your first two years in an incredibly supportive learning environment with small class sizes – for about half the annual cost you’ll find at four-year institutions.
If you’re a high school grad who has a specific career in mind, Kirkwood has dozens of exciting programs offering specialized degrees, certificates, and diplomas. These programs are designed to get students trained and into the workforce in just two years or less. Many of our graduates end up in high-demand fields with high-paying positions, often with no or low student debt.
If you weren’t quite ready for college right after graduating high school, but are considering enrolling now, why wait? Kirkwood understands the challenges you’re facing and has the resources and support you need to succeed. We make it easier for you to balance work, family, and education with multiple start date options throughout the year, as well as online, daytime, and evening classes.
If you started college but never graduated, Kirkwood’s got your back. You may worry about being academically ready to return, catching up on missed coursework, or how to fit classes into your already busy schedule. Our faculty and staff understand and are ready to help you every step of the way.
If you have been displaced or discouraged at work, Kirkwood can help you find your way to new and rewarding career opportunities. Our career services specialists, and industry partnerships with local employers, can help prepare and train you for in-demand jobs you’ll love.
Even if you didn’t graduate from high school, Kirkwood’s high school completion program can help you finally earn your diploma, and better prepare you for college and the workplace.
So, with our fall semester starting soon, now’s a great time to consider taking your next step at Kirkwood. I might not meet you walking across the parking lot like I did with Collin, but I’ll definitely be there as you walk across the stage at your future Kirkwood graduation.
Attorney General Bird delivers on promise to work with Iowans in all 99 counties each year
Alyssa Brouillet Communications Director
DES MOINES — Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird today announced that since January, she has traveled to meet with Iowans in all of the state’s 99 counties. These meetings consisted of roundtable discussions, business tours, and community conversations that sought to not only identify the issues Iowans are facing, but to create solutions.
Across the state, Attorney General Bird gathered with law enforcement, farmers, medical professionals, local community leaders, small business owners, and hard-work-
ing Iowans. The conversations focused on protecting crime victims, combatting scams, supporting farmers, building out a statewide cold case unit, and protecting Iowans’ rights and freedoms.
“I am committed to keeping Iowa the best place for my family, and every other Iowa family, to call home,” said
Attorney General Bird.
“That is why when I ran for attorney general, I promised that I would protect victims, lock up criminals, support farmers, and defend your rights and freedoms. And as I have worked in all of Iowa’s 99 counties, I have partnered with law enforcement and other
local leaders to deliver on those promises. Together, we have fought to combat scams, human trafficking, and illicit drugs. We have pushed back against the Biden-Harris administration’s attacks on farmers. And we have completed a full audit to improve all victim services across the state. We have gotten a lot accomplished together so far, and it is only the beginning. I promise that as long as I am Attorney General, Iowans will always have an ally in the Attorney General’s office.”
Attorney General Bird has been on the frontlines in fighting crime in Iowa. Earlier this year, Attorney General
Bird championed a bill to heighten penalties for human traffickers, launched a statewide cold case unit to investigate Iowa’s more than 400 unsolved murders, hired more prosecutors, and announced changes to improve all victim services. As the threat of scams continues to rise, Attorney General Bird has partnered on a Stop the Scammers tour to warn Iowans, especially seniors, of the red flags of scams. Attorney General Bird has also taken the lead on numerous multistate actions to protect farmers, truckers, and families at home and across the country.
Attorney General Bird remains committed to working with Iowans in every county every year.
Kristie Fisher President Kirkwood Community College
Iowa Attorney General’s Office
Employees with Johnson County Refuse unload a woman’s pickup truck during the annual Citywide Clean Up Day this past Saturday morning at the SRNA.
Below: Employees with Johnson County Refuse unload items for disposal from residents’ vehicles during the annual Citywide Clean Up Day this past Saturday morning at the SRNA.
Photos by Chris Umscheid | Solon Economist
Above: Employees with Johnson County Refuse unload items for disposal from residents’ vehicles during the annual Citywide Clean Up Day this past Saturday morning at the SRNA.
Left:
Two employees of Johnson
wait while a third crushes and compacts a plastic deck box during the annual Citywide Clean Up Day this past Saturday morning at the
Residents were able to dispose of unwanted items cluttering up their property during the
Above and left: City Administrator Cami Rasmussen talks with a resident waiting to unload her vehicle during the annual Citywide Clean Up Day this past Saturday morning at the SRNA. Rasmussen provided traffic control directing Solonites during the two-hour event.
County Refuse
SRNA.
twohour event.
Lakeview Elementary PRESCHOOL
Supply List — 2024-2025
All Students
• Medium/large backpack
Lotion
Chapstick
Extra set of clothes
Sturdy headphones
• Water bottle (sent home weekly)
Full Time Only
• Blanket for nap (large enough to cover entire body)
• Small/travel pillow for nap (optional)
Optional
• Sunscreen
• Bug spray
Lakeview Elementary BEGINDERGARTEN
Supply List — 2024-2025
PLEASE PUT STUDENT NAMES ON THE FOLLOWING:
• Old adult size short sleeve shirt for art shirt
• Pencil box - to hold pencils, crayons and scissors
• 1 pair of STURDY headphones, NOT earbuds
• 1 pair of Fiskars brand scissors
NAMES NOT NEEDED ON THE FOLLOWING:
• Crayons - 2 boxes of 24 count Crayola Classic
• Markers - 2 sets of Crayola Classic Colors
“regular” size AND 1 set Crayola Classic Colors “skinny” size
• Folders - 5 total 2 pocket PAPER folders WITHOUT prongs - 1 of each of the following colors: red, yellow, blue, green, purple
• 1 set of Crayola watercolor paints
• PRE-SHARPENED pencils - 24
#2 Ticonderoga brand
• 1 Large Pink Eraser (not pencil toppers)
• 1 large box of Kleenex
• 10 Elmer’s glue sticks
• Dry erase markers - 10 BLACK SKINNY EXPO markers (for student use)
Lakeview Elementary KINDERGARTEN Supply List — 2024-2025
PLEASE PUT STUDENT NAMES ON THE FOLLOWING:
• Old adult size short sleeve shirt for art shirt
• Pencil box - to hold pencils, crayons and scissors
• 1 pair of Fiskars brand scissors
• Folders - 3 total 2 pocket WITHOUT prongs
1 of each of the following colors: blue, red and green
• 1 pair of STURDY headphones, NOT earbuds, need a cord
NAMES NOT NEEDED ON THE FOLLOWING:
• Crayons - 2 boxes of 24 count Crayola Classic
• Markers - 2 sets of Crayola Classic Colors “regular” size
• PRE-SHARPENED pencils - 24 #2 Ticonderoga brand
• 1 large pink eraser (not pencil toppers)
• Dry erase markers - 10 BLACK SKINNY EXPO markers (for student use)
• 1 large box of Kleenex
• 10 Elmer’s glue sticks
• 1 bottle of hand sanitizer
• Notebook - wide ruled COMPOSITION style (no spiral)
Lakeview Elementary FIRST GRADE
Supply List — 2024-2025
PLEASE PUT STUDENT NAMES ON THE FOLLOWING:
• Crayons - 2 boxes Crayola Classic colors
• Markers - 2 sets, 10 Crayola Classic colors
• Composition Notebook - 1 wide-ruled notebook
• Folders - 5 total 2 pocket folders with prongs 1 of each of the following colors: red, yellow, blue, green, orange
• 1 pair scissors
• Old adult shirt without sleeves for art shirt
• Pencil box - plastic, snap-top
• 1 pair of STURDY headphones, NOT earbuds For personal use, will be kept in desk
NAMES NOT NEEDED ON THE FOLLOWING:
• 1 large pink eraser
• 3 glue sticks
• PRE-SHARPENED pencils - 24 #2 Ticonderoga brand
• Dry erase markers - 12 BLACK SKINNY EXPO markers (for student use)
• 1 box of Kleenex
• 1 bottle Hand Sanitizer
Lakeview Elementary SECOND GRADE
Supply List — 2024-2025
• Crayons - 1 box of crayons
• Markers - 2 sets of Crayola Classic Colors “regular” size AND 1 set Crayola Classic Colors “skinny” size
• Dry erase markers - 4 Markers
• 2 large glue sticks
• 1 package of pencil top erasers
• Folders - 5 total: 2 pocket PLASTIC folders WITHOUT prongs - 1 of each of the following colors: red, yellow, blue, green, orange, 1 fun choice (kittens, sports, etc.)
• 1 Pencil box
• 1 pair of 5’’ pointed scissors
• Spiral notebook - 2 - one subject notebooks
• PRE-SHARPENED pencils - 12 #2 Ticonderoga brand
• 1 pair of STURDY headphones, NOT earbuds For personal use, will be kept in desk
• Plastic sleeve page protectorsstandard sheet protectors- 50 count
• Binder - 1 1’’ binder with clearview front pocket
Lakeview Elementary THIRD GRADE Supply List — 2024-2025
• 1 package wide ruled loose leaf paper
• 1” white binder with clear sleeve
• 1” black binder with pockets
• 25 count plastic sleeve page protectors
• 2 boxes Kleenex
• Pencil box
• PRE-SHARPENED pencils - 24 #2 Ticonderoga brand
• 1 eraser or pencil erasers
• 1 set of 16 or more Crayons
• 1 set Color pencils
• 1 set Washable Markers
• 2 glue sticks
• 2 spiral notebooks
• 3 plastic folders - 1 red, 1 green, 1 yellow
• 1 Folder (to be used as a take home folder, any color)
• 1 pair scissors
• 1 roll Scotch tape
• 2 dry erase markers
• Post-Its - 2 packages - 3 inch, solid color
• Earbuds/headphones - for personal use, will be kept in desk
• 1 bottle of hand sanitizer
Solon Middle School School Supply List - 2024-25 6TH GRADE
7TH & 8TH GRADE
CALENDAR & PUZZLES
SOLON SENIORS
AUGUST EVENTS ••••••••••••
Wednesday, August 21 – Sponsored meal – Sam’s Mainstreet Market and music by Gale & Kirk
Wednesday, August 28 – City Representative – “Happenings in Solon”
DINING •••••••••••••••••••••
Meals cost $5.00, call 319-624-2251 for reservations (required) between 10-11:30 a.m.
Home Deliveries
Monday, Wednesday, Friday
In-House Dining
Solon Methodist Church, Wednesdays ONLY at 11:30 a.m.
Except for Meal and Movie the last Friday of the month (meals will be catered). Call Sandy for reservations and information, 319-430-8655.
Thank you Solon Senior Dining volunteers!
“Volunteers do not necessarily have the time, they just have the heart.” — Elizabeth Andrew
AUGUST MENU ••••••••••••••
Friday, August 16
Panko Crusted Tilapia Lemon Kissed Asparagus Cheesy Potato Tot Bake Fresh Fruit Bingo/Cards
Monday, August 19
SCHOOL BREAKFAST
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.
The SCSD Board of Education approved the free breakfast proposal 4-0 last month.
Adult/Guest breakfast: $1.75. lunch $4.70
SCHOOL LUNCH
STUDENT LUNCH PRICES
High School - $2.70
Middle School - $2.60
SIS/Lakeview - $2.55
Reduced - $.40
Adult/Guest breakfast: $1.75. lunch $4.70
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.
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.
Spinach Alfredo Lasagna Roll-Up Carrots Garlic Toast Monster Cookie Cake
Wednesday, August 21
In-House Dining - Sponsored Meal-Sam’s Mainstreet Market, Entertainment-Gale & Kirk Loaded Turkey Noodle Casserole Blended Vegetable Breadstick French Chocolate Cheesecake
Friday, August 23
Shrimp & Chips Broccoli w/Cheese Cornbread Fresh Fruit Bingo/Cards
Monday, August 26
Fried Chicken Mashed Potatoes Carrots Strawberry Rhubarb Snickerdoodle Crunch
Wednesday, August 28
In-House Dining – City Representative Lasagna Roll Up Green Beans Garlic Toast Banana Berry Gelatin
Friday, August 30
Glazed Salmon Filet Mini Baker Potatoes Creamed Peas Smores Cheesecake Fluff Bingo/Cards
Friday, August 23
Long John (LV/SIS) G&G Bag (LV)
Donut
Potatoes & Egg Boat or Long
John Fruit, Juice Crackers & Milk
Monday, August 26
Blueberry Waffle & Bacon (LV/ SIS)
G&G Bag (LV) Cereal Bar
Breakfast Taco & Cini Mini Fruit, Juice Crackers & Milk
Tuesday, August 27
Pumpkin/Banana Bread (LV/ SIS)
G&G Bag (LV) Pumpkin/ Banana Bread
Egg Breakfast Bake, Dutch Waffle & Bacon Fruit, Juice Crackers & Milk
Wednesday, August 28
Cini Mini’s (LV/SIS) G&G Bag (LV) Pop Tart
Breakfast Sandwich, Frudeltm Fruit, Juice Crackers & Milk
Thursday, August 29
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, August 30
Mini Doughnuts (LV/SIS) G&G Bag (LV) Mini Donut
Breakfast Pizza or Cinnamon Doughnuts Fruit, Juice Crackers & Milk
1 They’re made in the kitchen and not at the gym, it’s said
4 “Dukes”
9 Prepare for a shot
13 Determined
14 Totally in the dark?
15 Disapproving sound
16 2011 Margaret Thatcher biopic
18 Petrol purchase
19 Go on and on, maybe
20 Brown, e.g.
21 Katniss’s partner in “The Hunger Games”
22 Professions
24 Defensive boxing strategy
26 Within bounds
27 Norton’s “Fight Club” co-star
28 Place for a peel
29 Player one?
32 Equal
33 Minor setback … or a hint to entering 16-, 24-, 44- and 52-Across
36 Bad thing to be caught on
37 Hairstylist, at times
38 Apr. addressee
39 Tests for college seniors, for short
40 Q: “Why don’t scientists trust ___?”
A: “Because they make up everything!”
44 Saint Petersburg, once
46 “Yeah, don’t do that”
48 What bass guitars have that double basses do not
49 Ice cream container
50 It has its limits
51 Disney toon originally called Dippy Dawg
52 Musicians of the Middle Ages
54 Samsung competitor
55 Rolls-___
56 Italian possessive
57 Western tribe
58 Tennis announcer’s cry
Friday, August 23
MS/HS Alt: Pork Tenderloin
sandwich
French Fries, Tomatoes Sliced (MS/HS) Pickles (SIS/MS/HS) Applesauce Cup, Fruit Roll-Up
Monday, August 26
MS/HS Alt: Fish Fillet Sandwich
Mandarin Chicken and Rice
Broccoli, Sweet Potato Fries
Apple Weges, Yo Caramel (HS)
Pineapple (MS/HS), Garlic Knot
Tuesday, August 27
MS/HS Alt: BBQ Pork Sandwich
Walking Taco’s with Fixings
Mixed Vegetables
Diced Pears
Goldfish (SIS/MS/HS) Trail Mix (MS/HS)
Wednesday, August 28
MS/HS Alt: Spicy Chicken Patty
Chicken Patty on a Bun
Cauliflower & Cheese
Shredded Romaine
Sweet Mandarin Oranges, Wacky Cake
Thursday, August 29
MS/HS Alt: Creamed Turkey/
Mashed Potatoes & Dinner Roll
Cheese Pizza, Seasoned
Crinkle Cut Fries, Tasty Peas
Mango Cubes
Tiger Bites (SIS/MS/HS)
Friday, August 30
MS/HS Alt: Cook’s Delight
Sloppy Joe Sandwich
Delicious Baked Beans, Carrots
Watermelon Chunks
Baked Lays Chips
1 Kind of projection
2 Parent’s demand
3 Court figure, for short
4 Trade from which John Jacob Astor made his fortune
5 How latkes are cooked
6 Some Balkan natives
7 Not messy
8 Total mess
9 Worked steadily at
10 Living off the land?
11 Got rid of
12 Scratch (out)
59 Duke, but not duchess: Abbr. Down
15 It can help you get a grip
17 *sheepishly raises hand*
21 Like bonsai trees
23 Off-kilter
24 Sunak of British politics
25 Meaning of the prefix “oto-”
27 Pockets for falafel
30 Some fall babies
31 When rights may be restricted
32 Staple of classical Greek architecture
33 How many people walk along the beach
34 Certain calligraphy mark
35 Interpretation
36 Farthermost point
39 April Fools’ Day declaration
41 Intense aversions
42 Standard for evaluation
43 Opens up to a doctor, in a way
45 Some mortgage loans, in brief
46 Channel guides?
47 Counting devices of old
49 Bring (out)
51 Hyena’s prey
52 Prefix with athlete
53 Groundhog’s home
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.
AUGUST
by Green, second by
approve the minutes of the Formal Meeting of July 25, 2024. Motion by Porter, second by Green, 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 Porter, to approve the Application for a Retail Cigarette/Tobacco/Nicotine/Vapor Permit for 380 BP, as contained in the agenda packet of this meeting. Motion by Green, second by Porter, to authorize the Auditor’s Office to publish the Notice of Intent to Fill Vacancy of Johnson County Auditor by Appointment, to serve for the tenure set forth in and otherwise in conformance with Iowa Code 69.14A(2). RESOLUTION NO. 08-01-24-01 DESIGNATING FUNDS TO BE TRANSFERRED FROM THE GENERAL BASIC FUND TO THE CAPITAL PROJECTS FUND IN THE FY25 BUDGET Summary: It is desired to make periodic transfers of the budgeted amount from the General Basic Fund to the Capital Projects Fund during the 2025 Fiscal Year. Board Action: The Auditor is authorized to make periodic transfers from the General Basic Fund to the Capital Projects Fund during the 2025 Fiscal Year as funds are needed and available, not to exceed the sum of $8,200,000. This resolution replaces the previously adopted transfer resolution, Resolution No. 05-09-24-08 originally adopted on May 9th, 2024. Motion by Porter, second by Green, to approve Resolution No. 08-01-24-01 effective August 1, 2024. Motion by Green, second by Porter, to approve the Professional Services Agreement/Contract for Services with Iowa Valley Resource Conservation and Development, Amana, for farm planning and management services at the Johnson County Historic Poor Farm in an amount not to exceed $105,000. Motion by Porter, second by Green,
to approve the Professional Services Agreement with Axiom Consultants, LLC, Iowa City, for the Equipment Storage Building Site Plan at the Johnson County Historic Poor Farm in an amount of $9,210. Motion by Porter, second by Green, to approve contract renewal with Delta Dental of Iowa, Johnston, effective July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025. Motion by Porter, second by Green, to approve the Agreement for Reimbursement of Judicial Hospitalization Referees with the State of Iowa Judicial Branch, Des Moines, in an amount not to exceed $29,250.
Adjourned at 9:07 a.m. /s/ Rod Sullivan, Chair, Board of Supervisors /s/ Attest: Chris Edwards, First Deputy Auditor
On the 8th day of August, 2024
Recorded by Auditor’s Office: Marly Melsh, Executive Clerk to the Board These minutes were sent for formal approval and publication on August 8, 2024. Published in the Solon Economist August 15, 2024.
ORDINANCE
NO. 482
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE OFFICIAL ZONING MAP OF THE CITY OF SOLON, IOWA BY DESIGNATING A NEWLY ANNEXED PARCEL AS R-1 RESIDENTIAL IN THE CITY OF SOLON. BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF SOLON, IOWA
SECTION 1
PURPOSE. The purpose of this ordinance is to set a zoning classification for a newly annexed parcels of land located along Hwy 1 for the future development by Watts Group and owned by Raymond Greazel and also the Iowa Street right-of-way, more particularly described below as R-1 Residential and note the inclusion of the parcels on the City zoning map accordingly.
Legal Description R-1
Beginning at the Northwest Corner of Section 24, Township 81 North, Range 6 West, of the Fifth Principal Meridian, Johnson County, Iowa, and the Southwest Corner of Auditor's Parcel #2003042, in accordance with the Plat thereof Recorded in Plat Book 46 at Page 49 of the Records of the Johnson County Recorder's Office; Thence N89°44'20"E, along the South Line of said Auditor's Parcel #2003042, a distance of 1151.86 feet; Thence S00°15'40"E, along said South Line, 15.00 feet; Thence N89°44'20"E, along said South Line, 45.00 feet; Thence N00°15'40"W, along said South Line, 15.00 feet; Thence N89°44'20"E, along said South Line, 219.89 feet, to the Southeast Corner of said Auditor's Parcel #2003042, and a Point on the West Right-of-Way Line of Iowa Highway #1; Thence Southeasterly, 358.21 feet, along said West Right-of-Way Line on a 2915.00 foot radius curve, concave Northeasterly, whose 357.98 foot chord bears S13°27'42"E, to its intersection with the Centerline Line of Iowa Street NE (formerly Military Road, Highway #261); Thence S03°30'35"E, along said Center Line, 60.65 feet; Thence S70°39'18"W, 174.63 feet; Thence S03°30'35"E, 728.83 feet, to a Point on the North Line of the Parcel of Land depicted on a Plat of Survey, as Recorded in Plat Book 17 at Page 5 of the Records of the Johnson County Recorder's Office; Thence N89°48'08"W, along the North Line of said depicted Parcel, 1359.21 feet, to the Northwest Corner thereof, and a Point on the West Line of the Northwest Quarter of said Section 24; Thence N01°11'01"W, along said West Line, 1183.10 feet, to the Point of Beginning. Said Tract of Land contains 37.81 Acres, and is subject to easements and restrictions of record.
SECTION 2.
AMENDMENT. The official zoning map of the City of Solon, Iowa, is hereby amended by classifying the below described property as R-1 Residential, situated in Solon, Johnson County, Iowa to-wit:
SECTION 3.
SEVERABILITY. Should any section or provision of this ordinance be decided by a Court of this State to be unconstitutional or invalid, such decision shall not affect the validity of the ordinance as a whole or part thereof other than the part so decided to be unconstitutional or invalid.
SECTION 4.
EFFECTIVE DATE. The ordinance shall be effective upon final passage and notification as provided by law. Passed by the Council the 6th day of March, and approved this 6th day of March, 2024.
Dan O’Neil, Mayor ATTEST: Susie Siddell, City Clerk Published in the Solon Economist August 15, 2024.
Help WantedGovernment
POLICE OFFICER TEST
NOTICE Test Dates: September 20th & 21st, 2024 Application deadline is September 4th @ 4:00pm. Lakes Area Law Enforcement Employment Co-op is establishing an eligibility list for current and future law enforcement openings in the beautiful Iowa Great Lakes Area! Successful applicants are eligible for employment by all agencies: Arnolds Park, Emmetsburg, Estherville, Lake Park, Milford, Okoboji, Spencer, Spirit Lake Police Departments; Palo Alto, Osceola & Dickinson County Sheriff’s Offices At the time of application, candidates must meet State Requirements for Law Enforcement Employment. Currently certified ILEA applicants are allowed lateral transfer. Applicants without certification are required to pass P.O.S.T. & physical agility exams. For application details visit www.dickinsoncountysheriff. com to complete an application or call 712-336-2793. EOE
Pets
Labradoodle puppies for sale. 3 months old. Asking $500 OBO. Call 319-560-2137.
Miscellaneous
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Miscellaneous
Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today. 20% off Entire Purchase. Plus 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-855-913-1560.
Prepare for power outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 7-Year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-855-954-5087 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move.
Auditor’s Office returning to newly remodeled JoCo Administration Building Monday, August 19
The Johnson County Auditor’s Office will be moving back to the Johnson County Administration Building, 913 S. Dubuque Street, Iowa City following the completion of remodeling construction.
Detailed schedule changes include:
Auditor’s Office: The Auditor’s Office will be open to the public in its current location on the third floor of the Health & Human Services Building, 855 S. Dubuque
Street, Iowa City until noon Friday, Aug. 16. The Auditor’s Office will resume normal business hours and reopen in its permanent location on the first floor of the Administration Building Monday, Aug. 19.
Public parking for the Administration Building will be available in front of the main entrance. Public parking for the Health & Human Services Building will be available in front of the building and the adjacent parking ramp.
Johnson County remains committed to delivering high-quality services while creating a safer, more accessible, and productive environment for all residents and staff. The County is excited to welcome the community back to an improved Administration Building.
For further information and updates on the Johnson County Administration Building remodel, please visit www.johnsoncountyiowa.gov/remodel.
Solon Robotics to hold open house ahead of 2024-2025 season
William
Mattaliano Solon Robotics Coach
Robotics is an after school program currently for 7th – 12th grade students in Solon Community Schools and surrounding area. We compete in FIRST Tech Challenge Robotics. Each season, a different challenge (or game) is announced and student teams design, build, program, test, and compete against other teams in Iowa. Teams are set up using all grade levels and are limited to 10 members per team. Meetings are held in the old classrooms
SPORTS BRIEFS
below the Central Office at 301 South Iowa St. Open house for students and parents to see more details of the robotics program and ask questions will be Friday August 23 from 4:30-7:00 p.m., and Saturday August 24 from 8:00 to 10:00 a.m. Other times can be arranged by contacting coach Bill Mattaliano, at solonrobotics367@gmail. com or bmattaliano@solon. k12.ia.us.
Team meetings are held Monday and Thursday from 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. starting Monday, August 26. Parents and other adults are always welcome at any meeting.
IHSBCA names Spartans to All-State Baseball teams
Brett White named to the Super Team
Solon Economist
The Iowa High School Baseball Coaches Association (IHSBCA) released their All-State Baseball selections for 2024 last week with three Spartan seniors selected. Brett White was named to the prestigious 2024 AllState “Super Team” as a utility player for the second year in a row. White was previously named to the Class 3A Southeast District First Team and also earned Unanimous Selection to the WaMaC East First Team, picking up Player of the Year recognition as well. Gehrig Turner, an IHSBCA 3A SE District First Team pick, received the Lanny Peterson “All-Academic Award” and was a 3A All-State Second Team pick. Turner was also a WaMaC East Second Team selectee. Vince Steinbrech was also named to the 3A All-State Second Team after receiving 3A SE District First Team and WaMaC East First Team honors.
The game reveal will be September 7 and we will travel to Prairie HS in CR for ½ day of seminars and the kickoff of the season.
More information about FIRST Tech Challenge can be found at: https://www. firstinspires.org/robotics/ ftc/what-is-first-tech-challenge
This is a club sport through the school district with the goals of: learning about S.T.E.A.M, teamwork, life skills, and cooperative competition. Secondary goals are advancing to the FTC-Iowa Championship and having fun.
Consumer Connection: Saving money on your auto insurance
Sonya Sellmeyer Consumer Advocacy Officer for the Iowa Insurance Division
Auto insurance is a necessary expense for drivers, but it doesn't have to break the bank. According to the Insurance Information Institute, Iowa had the third least expensive auto insurance in 2021 with an average expenditure of $725.30. Still, the U.S. Department of Labor states auto insurance rates rose 19.5% over the last year. Consumers can effectively save money on their auto insurance premiums. Here’s how:
Compare quotes from different insurance companies regularly. Prices can vary significantly between insurers for the same coverage. Many insurers offer discounts if you bundle multiple policies, such as auto and home insurance.
Inquire about discounts for being a safe driver or good student, or affiliations with certain organizations or employers.
Increasing your deductible typically means lower premiums. Just make sure you can afford the deductible in case of a claim by having an emergency fund to cover any deductible expenses you may incur.
Safe driving habits can lead to lower premiums over time. Avoid accidents and traffic violations. Some companies may offer lower rates when you install an app on your phone to monitor your driving habits.
Consider the type of car you drive. Vehicles with high safety ratings and lower repair costs generally have lower insurance rates. Before purchasing a car, research insurance costs associated with different makes and models to make an informed decision.
Review your coverage needs. For instance, if your car's value has decreased, you might not need comprehensive coverage anymore.
Some insurers offer lower premiums for drivers who drive fewer miles. Pay-as-you-drive programs, which base premiums on the number of miles driven, can also be cost-effective for low-mileage drivers.
Your credit and insurance score may also factor into your premium.
A credit score predicts the likelihood of paying back a loan, and an insurance score determines the probability of an insurance loss. An insurance score is calculated using
Solon’s Grant Moses honored at State Fair
DES MOINES — Grant Moses of Solon was among young artists from across the Midwest honored for their award-worthy drawings in the Iowa State Fair’s Ag Art competition.
Moses took third place in the five-and-six-year old category.
Each entry was a drawing demonstrating the theme ‘Farm Fever” and was required to be on an 8-1/2” x 11” piece of white paper, in color, and using a medium of the artist’s choice. The artwork was judged prior to the start of the 2024 Iowa State Fair.
Elsie Nell of Des Moines won first place in the age group with Lynlee Shinkle of Ashland, Missouri taking second place.
the information on your credit report and not your annual income, ethnic group, age, gender, and other similar factors. A high insurance score translates to less probability of filing an insurance claim, thus leading to lower premiums. Ask your insurance carrier about access to your insurance score.
Insurers offer discounts for cars with safety features like anti-lock brakes, airbags, and anti-theft devices. Make sure the proper vehicle identification number for your vehicle is submitted to your agent so you receive discounts for these features.
Paying your premium in one lump sum annually rather than monthly may lead to savings.
Maintaining continuous auto insurance coverage which demonstrates reliability to insurers and may lead to lower premiums over time.
If you are unable to obtain coverage in the voluntary market, the Iowa Auto Insurance Plan (available online at www.aipso.com/PlanSites/Iowa) may provide you access to automobile insurance coverage. Speak to a licensed insurance agent if you need to inquire.
The Iowa Insurance Division licenses many auto insurance carriers. To find the appropriate policy for your situation, speak to a licensed insurance agent regarding insurance options. Exploring your options may provide the most affordable coverage.
Providing a closer view of our community
File photo
Solon alliance Team 367 Salad (Ian Ressler, Jack Rekers, and Ryan Bilskie) and Team 20349 Chaotic Good (Rene’ Meza, Paige White, and Mackenna Kramer) put their robots through their paces in competition Thursday, Nov. 17, 2022, at the Solon Community Center.
White