Solon Economist — 02.13.25

CR man recovered from Lake Macbride

Saturday morning

Johnson County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the incident

Emma Jane The Daily Iowan

Chris Umscheid Solon Economist chris.umscheid@soloneconomist.com

Emergency crews recovered a body from the icy waters of Lake Macbride State Park on Saturday morning after a passerby noticed broken ice and a pair of gloves near the boat ramp.

According to a press release from the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office, 85 year old Jack Peacock, of Cedar Rapids, was taken by ambulance to the University of Iowa Hospital, but did not survive.

“It is unknown how long the subject was underwater,” the release states.

Assistance was provided by the Solon Fire Department, North Liberty Fire Department, Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Johnson County Metro Dive Team, Johnson County Emergency Management, Johnson County Ambulance, UI Med 1 EMS Physicians, and the Johnson County Medical Examiner.

The Lake Macbride Fat Tire Classic bike race was underway at the time of the incident, leading to a temporary reroute of the planned course.

Cyclists take on snow and steep climbs at Lake Macbride

Riders braved cold temperatures and rugged terrain in Solon’s annual Fat-Tire race.

Emma Jane The Daily Iowan

Cyclists braved the cold and flurries near Lake Macbride State Park on Saturday for the Lake Macbride Fat Tire Classic, an annual bike event bringing cyclists from across the state to Solon.

Presented by Sugar Bottom Bikes and The Solon Centennial Lions Club, cyclists rode either a 15 or 30-mile path around the lake, tackling a mix of terrains on mountain bikes with extra-wide tires built for the challenge.

Nathan Kullbom, manager of Sugar Bottom Bikes and event organizer, stood at the finish line outside Lake Macbride Golf Club, tracking cyclists' finishing times.

“The course is unique; it uses all sorts of terrain,” Kullbom said. “We're on grass, gravel, hiking trails, snowmobile trails, deer trails — just a wide mix.”

In addition to the mixed terrain, Kullbom said the 30–mile route featured around 2,300 feet of climbing elevation gain.

“Which is a lot for Iowa,” Kullbom said.

Wayde Stover, an avid cyclist, said he often rides his fat-tire bike on trails near his home in Des Moines year-round but had never com-

peted in a fat-tire race before.

“It was awesome,” Stover said of the scenic route. “Super fun course, lots of variety.”

As he trains for an upcoming 60-mile gravel bike race, Stover said participating in the Fat Tire Classic provided good practice.

However, as other cyclists crossed the finish line with rosy cheeks and flecks of snow speckled on the layers of clothing shielding them from the cold wind, Stover said he was slightly disappointed with the weather

“I was a little bummed there was no snow on the ground,” Stover said.

Having seen pictures of past races where cyclists navigated inches of snow on their fat tires, Stover said he would have enjoyed the challenge. But on this year’s race day, while flurries swirled in the air, none had accumulated on the frozen ground.

Another cyclist embracing the light snowfall was Iowa City resident Jenna McCoy, returning for her second year in the race.

“The snow was great,” McCoy said. “Any sort of precipitation adds a level of fun to a race, like being a kid playing in the snow.”

Riding alongside McCoy was Solon resident Siri Felker, a first-time participant.

“It’s such a good course,” Felker said. “It’s

all the best parts of this area in one 30–mile experience.”

Felkner said she often bikes leisurely but had little experience with racing before the Fat Tire Classic.

“The challenge was expected, but there’s always a level of brutal you’re not prepared for,” Felker said. “You can know it’s going to be hard, but then you’re riding over a frozen pile of cow turds.”

With a laugh, McCoy insisted that riding across icy farmland — frozen cow turds and all — only added to the fun.

Traversing more strenuous parts of the route, Felker and McCoy said they were motivated by the presence of the other cyclists.

“You get herd confidence,” Felker said.

Both plan to participate again next year, saying that training for and riding the race kept them active during a time when many tend to stay indoors.

“It’s breaking the hibernation,” McCoy said. Jeff Storjohann, participating for the second year in a row, echoed that sentiment.

“Because we’re all out of shape this time of year, it’s a good time,” Storjohann said.

It’s

so long, but he’s

sticking around

Scott Kleppe retires after 26-1/2 years with the City of Solon

Solon Economist

SOLON — After a little over a quarter-century, several major projects, and countless hours spent plowing snow, cutting up fallen trees, tossing sandbags, and responding to all manner of citizens’ public works requests; Scott Kleppe is hanging up his bright yellow shirt with reflective material for the last time as he retires this Friday, Feb. 14, after 26-1/2 years of serving the City of Solon (and the surrounding area) as the Public Works Director and Assistant City Administrator.

Kleppe initially announced his retirement via email Friday, Jan. 24, stating he has taken on the position of a Program Manager for Wichita State University Environmental Finance Center, “… helping small and tribal communities with their environmental challenges for the State of Iowa.”

The Environmental Finance Center (EFC) is one of ten located across the country providing communities with professional training opportunities, technical assistance, and applied research to help communities build their capacity to address environmental challenges and provide quality of life, according to the EFC’s website. The EFC assists with projects including water utilities, solid waste management, and sustainability issues. Although Wichita State and the EFC are located in Wichita, Kansas, Kleppe won’t be leaving the Hawkeye State for the Sunflower State anytime soon.

“It is a remote position, so leaving the city I love is not in the plans,” wrote Kleppe.” In recognition of Kleppe’s

years serving the City of Solon, and his 36-1/2 total years in local municipal government, a small retirement ceremony was held during the Wednesday, Feb. 5 City Council meeting.

“There’s a lot of people that you mean a lot to in the room tonight that you have worked with over the years, and you definitely are going to leave big shoes to fill,” said Mayor Dan O’Neil. “…The pride that you have for the town, how you care about the people.”

Former mayor Rick Jedlicka reminisced about Kleppe’s interview for the Public Works Director.

“There was no doubt when he left that he was going to be the person we were going to hire. Part of that was the answers that he gave, but it was also what I observed. Scott walked in, very firm handshake, dress shirt, dress pants, a pair of shoes that looked like they just came out of a box.” Jedlicka noted the job wasn’t going to be a nice clean desk job in an office, but that Kleppe, or whoever was hired, was going to be very hands on plowing snow and literally “shoveling crap” at the sewer plant. “I have never in my life seen a guy that was that uncomfortable in dress clothes. The reality is, from that day forward, the one thing Scott never did was try to be somebody that he isn’t. And that’s why he was successful.”

Former mayor Steve Stange knew Kleppe from serving together as volunteers on the Solon Fire Department.

“He was that guy that would always help me, and he’s that guy for everyone. He was that guy who was always going to help you.”

Stange it didn’t matter how, or when, Kleppe was going to be there whether it was a downed branch or a battle against nature itself.

“Christmas Eve, he’s out there plowing snow by himself because he didn’t want his guys to have to come in on Christmas Eve.”

Stange recalled Kleppe being a natural fit as Assistant City Administrator. “I really saw him blossom. His mind is really amazing in so many different things. He’s got this great brain of knowledge. When he told me he’d accepted this new position, I was just so excited for him. Its just awesome.” To Kleppe, he said, “You don’t have to worry about weekends anymore, your family’s going to get to see you on Christmas and Christmas Eve. I want to thank you for the sacrifices you made for the City, that’s a massive impact that people don’t realize. You can be proud of what you’ve done and the neat thing is you’ll be able to drive around, and your kids will be able to drive around here, for a long time, and see the impact you’ve had on this town.”

City Administrator, and also a former mayor, Cami Rasmussen, did some calculations related to Kleppe’s time with the City since his start (with Rasmussen) in 1998.

“You worked with six mayors, eight city clerks, four city administrators, two library directors, three building inspectors, four city attorneys, three finance directors, eight recreation directors, 12 fulltime public works employees, and 26 city council members. Are we going to miss him? Immensely. Are we happy for him? Immensely.”

Kleppe also received tributes from Sheriff Brad Kunkel, Johnson County Emergency Management Agency Director Dave Wilson (who presented Kleppe with a plaque of appreciation), and the

Solon Pantry to host vaccination clinic March 3

VFA program provides vaccinations to uninsured and underinsured adults

SOLON — Johnson County Public Health is partnering with communitybased organizations in the county to offer Seasonal Flu and COVID-19 vaccines for eligible adults through the Vaccines for Adults (VFA) program. The VFA Program aims to increase adult vaccination rates and decrease disparities in immunization coverage by providing no-cost vaccine for uninsured or underinsured adults 19 years of age and older. The CDC recommends updated 2024-2025 vaccines to protect against severe COVID-19 and flu this winter and spring.

The Solon Community Food Pantry will host a vaccination clinic Monday, March 3, 2-6:00 p.m. at the pantry located in the basement of the Solon Methodist Church, 122 N. West St., Solon. Eligibility criteria applies to receive the vaccines.

Eligibility criteria for VFA vaccines:

Adults 19 years of age or older who are...

• Uninsured - Does not have private insurance, Medicare, or Medicaid

• Underinsured - A person who has health insurance, but the insurance does not cover any vaccines; a person whose insurance covers only selected vaccines; a person whose insurance does not provide first-dollar coverage

Photo contributed by Cami Rasmussen, City Administrator

Solon Mayor Dan O’Neil presents a plaque of appreciation to Public Works Director and Asst. City Administrator Scott Kleppe during the Wednesday, Feb. 5 City Council meeting. Kleppe is retiring Friday, Feb. 14 after 26-1/2 years serving the City of Solon and the surrounding area.

current councilmembers.

“I appreciate everybody’s comments,” said Kleppe. “Probably the hardest thing for me is sitting here and listening to it. I do think you guys are going to have success in finding someone to replace me and the way the town’s growing your new person’s going to come with new ideas and ways to do things. And that’s not going to be a bad thing. I enjoyed everything I did here. The

town is very different (now) and one thing that was very important to me is maintaining the small town feel, especially as Solon continues to grow. I think the Mayor, the Council, and the Staff have done a great job with that but it’s going to get tougher to do.

One of the things that I like about Solon is the welcoming of everybody and the collaboration. It’s a great place.”

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.

January

Deputies conducted 45 traffic stops (258 total since July 1), responded to nine 9-1-1 hangups, 15 emergency medical incidents, and eight fire responses among 175 total calls for service for the month. Also, deputies responded to two motor vehicle accidents, conducted 11 business checks, and responded to four civil and two domestic disturbances. Also, one fraud/forgery case was investigated along with one case of criminal mischief/ vandalism.

As a reminder the Sheriff’s substation is located 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.

January Hours in Solon Patrol

Volume 145 I Issue 7

Of a Little Weekly Miracle PO Box 249, Solon, IA 52333 Phone: 319-624-2233 news@soloneconomist.com

The Solon Economist strives for accuracy and fairness in reporting news. If we’ve made an error or a report is misleading, let us know about it: news@soloneconomist.com.

STAFF

Publisher Jason Brummond jason.brummond@dailyiowan.com

Editor Chris Umscheid chris.umscheid@ soloneconomist.com

Advertising Sales Catherine Bilskie catherine.bilskie@ soloneconomist.com

Reporter Intern Joel Kellar

Production Manager Heidi Owen heidi.owen@dailyiowan.com

Business Manager Debbie Plath debra.plath@dailyiowan.com

Official Newspaper: Solon, Johnson County, Solon Community School District, Solon Tri-Township Emergency Response Solon Economist USPS #500860 Copyright © 2024 by Student Publications, Inc. is published weekly by Student Publications, 100 Adler Journalism Building, Room El31, Iowa City, IA 52242. Call 319-6242233 to subscribe. Periodicals postage is paid at Iowa City, IA, and additional mailing offices.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Solon Economist at PO Box 249, Solon, IA 52333. Subscriptions: Contact Catherine Bilskie at 319-624-2233 or catherine. bilskie@soloneconomist.com for additional information. Subscription rates: Johnson and adjoining counties – $55 annually; elsewhere In Iowa – $75 annually; out of state –$85 annually.

Copyright 2025 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

OBITUARY

Eileen Marie Leland, 90, from Solon, passed away February 4, 2025, in her home surrounded by family. She lived a long, beautiful life, making her family and faith a priority. A celebration of life will be held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church on Saturday, March 8th. in Solon, Iowa. A visitation will begin at 9:00 am, the rosary will be recited at 10:45 am, with a Catholic Funeral Mass to follow at 11 am. We welcome you to join us for a reception in the fellowship hall following the service. To share a thought, memory or condolence please visit Gay & Ciha Funeral and Cremation Service website @ www.gayandciha.com.

Eileen Leland was born on June 7, 1934, the daughter of William Patrick Burns and Mary Ellen Donohoe Burns. She attended high school at St. Mary’s in Iowa City and went on to earn her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from St. Ambrose College in Davenport, IA.

Throughout her nursing career, she spent time working at the Veterans Administration Research Hospital in Chicago, IL, Mercy Hospital in Iowa City, Burlington Hospital in Burlington, Edgewood Manor in Cedar Rapids, Solon Nursing Care Center in Solon, and Oaknoll Care Center in Iowa City. She retired after a long, meaningful career from Oaknoll Care Center.

Eileen and James J. Leland (Bricelyn, MN) united in marriage on August 20, 1960, at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Iowa City, IA. The couple lived in Burlington, IA, and settled in the community of Solon, IA, where they raised their 6 children.

Eileen cherished every moment spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchild, taking immense joy in watching them grow and flourish in their own personal achievements. She enjoyed preparing baked treats for others and traveling with her family and friends. She was fortunate to travel to Hawaii, Colorado, New Mexico, Louisiana, California, Belgium, and The Netherlands, notably. Her life was one of caring and sacrifice. She was proud of her Irish heritage and a devoted member of the Catholic faith.

One of her favorite sayings was “Life is a journey!” Your family feels so blessed to have been a part of yours. Rest peacefully.

Eileen was preceded in death by her parents, William P. Burns and Mary Ellen Donohoe Burns, and her siblings, Thomas W. (Rita) Burns, Anna K. Burns, Louis J. (Rose) Burns, Edward J. (Marian) Burns, and Mary Patricia Dikitolia. Eileen loved her parents and siblings, sharing special memories of each of them.

Eileen is survived by her loving husband James Leland and her children David (Shawn) Leland, Daniel (Mary) Leland, Mary (Anthony) Egts, Ann (Chris) MurdersLeland, Kerry (Donald) Meiers, and Kyle (Dawn) Leland.

She is also survived by her 16 loving grandchildren and 1 great-grandchild: Kira Leland, Alexandra Leland, Jack Leland, Nicholas Leland, Benjamin (Katy) Egts, Courtney Egts, Matthew Egts, Ashley Serbousek, Ava Murders, Brenden Murders, Peyton Meiers, Cole Meiers, Morgan Meiers, Hayden Leland, Reagan Leland, Kiersten Leland, Blythe Privitt, and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family.

The family would like to recognize the outstanding care provided by the late Dr. Moy. As well as the Compassus care team. Our family has appreciated your love and support over the years and during this time. We thank you.

In lieu of flowers, Eileen has requested that memorials be made to St. Mary’s Catholic Church of Solon.

Library Events

Bust the winter boredom and join us for Game Night for All on Monday, Feb. 17, at 6:00 p.m. We'll bring the games, and you can bring the fun. From little toddlers to grown adults, come enjoy board games, card games, and a larger than life game of Twister! Bring a whole housefull or just bring yourself. No registration necessary.

The Fourth Annual “Put A Bid On It” Art Auction hosted by the Solon Public Library Foundation opens on Monday, Feb. 24. Bid high and bid often at the Foundation’s silent art auction. With generous donations from local artists and art collectors the meeting room and display case will be bursting with art pieces. All proceeds will help to fund the replacement of the meeting room dividing wall. Bidding closes at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, March 15. Thank you for supporting the Foundation and Library!

Get ready to fill your bookshelves, find a gift for a friend, and stock the neighborhood library at the Friends of the Library Annual Used Book Sale on Saturday, March 1st from 8:00 a.m. - Noon. All books and movies are offered for a free-will donation, with all proceeds supporting the Friends mission to help the Solon Public Library provide special programs throughout the year. Littles and caregivers can enjoy Storytime books and songs Tuesday mornings at 10:30. Saturday Storytime is monthly the second Saturday at 10:30 a.m. and is a great chance for friends to enjoy Storytime on the weekend.

Library Access

Regular Library hours are Monday-Thursday, 9:00

a.m.-7:00 p.m. and Friday and Saturday, 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Closed Sundays. Please always refer to our website calendar or call to check hours as winter weather may impact our ability to be safely open.

Please note the upcoming special hours at the Library: The Library will be closed Thursday, Feb. 20, for a special Corridor Library Staff In-Service.

The Library will be open Friday, Feb. 28, 9:00 a.m.4:00 p.m. to allow time for our regular monthly staff in-service after closing.

Everyone is welcome at the Library and our programs. Please contact us with access needs.

What’s New?

Don’t miss these big names and blockbuster hits! Check them out from the library and enjoy movie night at home.

Cabrini. After witnessing disease and poverty in the slums of New York, Italian immigrant Francesca Cabrini embarks on a daring journey to persuade the hostile mayor to provide housing and health--care for hundreds of orphaned children. [PG-13]

Here. A generational story about families and the special place they inhabit, sharing in love, loss, laughter, and life. Starring Tom Hanks and Robin Wright. [PG-13]

Wicked. Elphaba, a misunderstood young woman because of her green skin, and Galinda, a popular girl, become friends at Shiz University in the Land of Oz. After an encounter with the Wonderful Wizard of Oz, their friendship reaches a crossroads. [PG]

South Slope secures REDL&G funding for North Liberty’s Centennial Center

Josie Bedard

Marketing Coordinator, South Slope Cooperative Communications

NORTH LIBERTY — South Slope Cooperative Communications has secured $300,000 in USDA REDL&G (Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant): helping fund North Liberty's new Centennial Center and simultaneously establishing a new Revolving Loan Fund (RLF). Additionally, South Slope and Aureon each contributed $30,000 in matching funds for the Centennial Park project.

Once the City has repaid the Revolving Loan Fund, which has generously been offered by South Slope at 0% interest, the money will be regranted to projects that create or retain rural jobs within South Slope’s service area.

The Centennial Center will feature an indoor event center, connected outdoor stage, exterior restrooms, and expansive plaza space. The venue will host public and private events, including business functions, recreational activities, concerts, and other community gatherings. North Liberty Assistant Director of Community Relations, Jillian Miller, emphasized the project's potential to enhance quality of life and attract visitors.

Construction is slated for completion in Fall of 2025. “We are proud to support the Centennial Center project and invest in North Liberty’s growth and community development,” said Chuck Deisbeck, South Slope CEO. “By funding this venue, we are not only enhancing recreational and business opportunities for our community but also contributing to the overall quality of life in the area. South Slope is committed to empowering our communities, and this project aligns with our mission to invest in local development that benefits everyone.”

About South Slope Cooperative Communications South Slope Cooperative Communications provides reliable broadband internet, phone and television services to homes and businesses in East Central Iowa. With unrivaled customer service and a dedication to the community, South Slope operates as a co-op so members’ investments go right back to improving Eastern Iowa infrastructure. Providing cutting-edge communications solutions since 1958, South Slope continues to lead the charge in delivering world-class technologies to its service area on an extensive fiber network. For more information, please visit southslope. com.

Beef Days Committee presents check to girl wrestlers

Don Ellis, representing the Solon Beef Days Committee, introduces the 20242025 Solon Lady Spartans wrestling team during halftime of the varsity girls basketball game Tuesday, Feb. 4. Ellis presented a $225.00 check to head coach Jacob Munson for State Wrestling Tournament expenses for seniors Kara VeDepo and Olivia Bonnema, junior McKenna Rogers, and sophomore Tess Richards, who qualified for the tournament.

OPINIONS

Pointing the finger of blame Bird calls or dog whistles: What our attorney general is doing Stray Thoughts

Food for Thought

Milli Gilbaugh

A couple of months ago I heard some statistics that seemed to support my long-standing belief that smoking cigarettes is not the only cause of lung cancer. The report said that lung cancer in men was declining but increasing in women – including women who had never smoked. Before I was in college in the early 1950's, I was aware that most men and few women in my parents' generation were smokers, and around that time we were warned that smoking might possibly be the cause of respiratory ailments, including lung cancer. Doctors seemed to be sure it did, and if a cancer patient was a smoker, tobacco was automatically blamed and few people bothered to look for other causes.

It seemed that a lot of long-time smokers didn't die of lung cancer and many had no symptoms of the disease. And I knew of both men and women who suffered from it but had never used tobacco in any form. The question “Do you smoke?” is still one of the first questions every doctor asks every new patient, no matter what the patient is seeking treatment for. I have long believed that there are other things that cause cancer – even among smokers. If those recently reported statistics mean anything, then there must be something else that causes all those nonsmoking women to become victims of the disease – some reason that does not affect men. I doubt if it has anything to do with the physical differences between the sexes, so it could be environmental. What are most women routinely exposed to that men are not? Or maybe I should ask what those women who are now developing lung cancer were exposed to over their lifetimes that the men of their generation were not.

At the time these women were in their late teens and twenties, women were still considered to be the main homemakers, even those women who held down jobs outside the home. They were responsible for doing the laundry, cleaning the bathroom, battling flies, mice and other household pests. They did the lion's share of the gardening, and with the advent of products such as drain cleaners, oven cleaners, spray cans, paint rollers and other innovations, took on more and more of the nasty jobs that men had previously been responsible for. They were exposed to a lot of potentially dangerous products, among them were bleach, ammonia, insecticides, weed killers, air fresheners, and personal products that few men used at the time, including spray deodorants and hair spray. And women tended (as they still do) to stay in the house, breathing in those questionable fumes as they went about making beds, ironing clothes, vacuuming carpets and preparing meals.

Having kept house for close to seventy years, I sometimes wonder how many gallons of potentially deadly substances I inhaled, tiny whiffs at a time, over those years before I was diagnosed with lung cancer and had life-saving surgery. The doctors, of course, once they discovered that I had been a smoker for several years in earlier times, never asked if I had been exposed to other potential carcinogens. I'm not claiming they were wrong in blaming the use of tobacco for my cancer, but everybody seems to assume that if a smoker develops cancer, there is no other possible cause. So, how do they explain these recent statistics that show an increase in women nonsmokers developing lung cancer while it decreases in men? Just asking.

If you haven't done anything about Valentine's Day yet, at least let that special person know how much you value their presence in your life. Believe me, it's better to admit you forgot (or didn't have time or couldn't afford a gift) than to let it pass unacknowledged. Spending some extra time together, writing a sentimental little note, a couple extra hugs or an unexpected courtesy can speak as clearly as expensive gifts, extravagant dinners or elaborately arranged parties – as long as they are from the heart. I'm not speaking exclusively about romantic attachments here. You have neighbors, teachers, friends, the kid who shovels your walk in winter or helps with the yard work, who are special. Tell them how much they matter.

Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird again tried to put herself in the national spotlight last week as leader of a group of Republican attorneys general who fixed their sights on Costco over the warehouse retailer’s DEI policies.

The state attorneys sent a stern warning letter telling the company, “We … urge Costco to end all unlawful discrimination imposed by the company through diversity, equity and inclusion (“DEI”) policies. … Costco should treat every person equally and based on their merit, rather than based on divisive and discriminatory DEI practices.”

The letter came about the same time as 98 percent of Costco’s shareholders voted *against* a proposal to cut the company’s DEI statements. The vote puts Costco executives in a tight spot of serving the wishes of shareholders or acquiescing to Bird and her friends.

Bird’s office issued a press release with the letter, quoting her saying, “It’s time to ditch DEI. While other companies right the ship and abandon their illegal, woke policies, Costco has doubled down. I’m putting Costco on notice to do the right thing and eliminate discriminatory DEI. No American should be denied an opportunity because they don’t fit the woke mold.”

Bird continued, “Costco needs to show us the proof that they are following the law because they have public statements that cause us great concern. Many other big retailers have changed their policies and are now following federal law, just like President Trump is doing with his executive orders rooting out DEI.”

Irony abounds considering this comes from a lawyer who touts her prosecutorial experience, where those accused of wrongdoing are presumed innocent. And it comes from an administrator who should know the burden of proving non-compliance with employment laws rests on the government, not the employer.

Even so, Bird said Costco executives and directors “need to make sure they’re actually doing the right thing here. That’s what we’re keeping an eye on, and if they don’t, we’ll look at all available options.”

You do not need a bunch of red MAGA caps hanging in your closet to know what “all available options” means in Bird’s eyes. But not all legal scholars share the conclusions asserted by these attorneys general.

Plus, those not wearing MAGA caps might wonder if Iowa’s attorney general has bigger issues closer to home, considering Costco only has four stores in Iowa, in Ankeny, Coralville, Davenport and West Des Moines. Some in Iowa might wonder when we can expect Attorney General Bird to issue similar “we expect you to follow the law — or else” warnings to businesses with a larger presence in our state and demand they send her proof of their compliance.

Those warnings might include putting companies like CRST or Heartland Express on notice that Bird will “look at all available options” if their trucks break the speed limit or exceed weight limits.

Or a warning might go to Iowa Select Farms, putting the hog confinement company on notice that Bird will “look at

all available options” if its animals end up polluting Iowa rivers, lakes and drinking water.

Will Bird put the fear of God into the owners of Iowa nursing homes, such as Care Initiatives and Aspire/ Beacon Health, that she and her staff will bring down the wrath of state government on them if they do not fully comply with government regulations designed to protect their residents?

Fair-minded as she professes, it is hard to imagine Iowa’s attorney general will use politics to select those she targets with letters to shape up and abandon what she deems are “woke” policies.

Since taking office in 2023, Bird filed or joined other states in at least nine lawsuits challenging policies of the Biden administration. Now, with Biden gone and time on her hands, it appears Bird is turning her attention to businesses whose actions or internal policies do not square with the agenda she is taking from our new president.

Yet, anyone who steps into Iowa courtrooms knows passionate litigators present two or more sides to an issue. Just look at President Trump’s attempted executive order to cancel the constitutional amendment granting “birthright citizenship.”

It is the same with his and Bird’s attempt to stamp out diversity, equity and inclusion policies in business, not just government — even though these policies on their face seek equal treatment, rather than command discrimination, in hiring, pay, advancement or retention.

Husch Blackwell LLP, a Kansas City law firm with offices across the United States, sent a client alert last week to help employers stay on the right side of the dividing line between legal and unlawful corporate DEI policies.

The firm advised, “The vast majority of DEI programs and policies currently utilized by most employers — which include employee resource groups, optional DEI and bias trainings, and strategies for diversifying candidate pools for recruiting purposes — would appear to fall well outside the definition of ‘illegal’ practices under existing law.”

The alert added, “Indeed, the former chair of the EEOC [the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission] made clear in a 2023 press release that it ‘remains lawful for employers to implement diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility programs that seek to ensure workers of all backgrounds are afford equal opportunity in the workplace.”

Husch Blackwell told employers they can use lawful DEI programs so long as they avoid quotas and focus their workplace initiatives on promoting inclusion without implementing discriminatory practices. Employers, it said, should use a broad definition of diversity that includes such characteristics as veteran status and life experience, not race, gender or other characteristics.

That brings us back to Bird, who seemingly wants it both ways.

To hear her, Costco should drop statements confirming a desire to have its workforce reflect the breadth of its communities, including the four in Iowa.

Meanwhile, on job postings on Bird’s Iowa attorney general website, this notation appears with a listing for a “farm and freedom lawyer:” “The State of Iowa is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply.”

Do you suppose Bird intends to follow affirmative action guidelines, even if her friends think they are woke? Randy

Iowa Gaming Association expresses concern over Cedar Rapids casino license decision

ALTOONA — While the Iowa Gaming Association (IGA) respects the Iowa Racing & Gaming Commission (IRGC) and its role in overseeing Iowa’s gaming industry, the IGA is concerned over the decision to issue a new casino license in Linn County. The IGA,

representing the interests of the state’s existing licensed casinos, has continually expressed concerns that this license will significantly destabilize the Eastern Iowa gaming market.

Market studies have consistently shown that the majority of revenue for a Cedar Rapids casino will come at the expense of existing casinos in Eastern Iowa. Riverside Casino & Golf Resort alone is projected to lose

more than $34 million in annual revenue, a destabilizing shift that threatens jobs, economic contributions, and charitable giving in communities that rely on established gaming venues. Given these concerns, the Iowa Gaming Association has strongly supported, and continues to support, a legislative five-year moratorium on new casino licenses to protect the stability of the state’s gaming industry. The IGA extends its sincere gratitude to the Iowa House of Representatives for passing House File 144 with an overwhelming majority last week.

The IGA will continue to advocate for measures that ensure Iowa’s gaming market remains stable while also encouraging ongoing economic development at existing casino properties. Preserving the health of our industry is critical to sustaining the jobs, tourism, and economic benefits that our casinos provide to communities across the state.

Q&A: Tax season underway

With U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley

Q: Why does the nation’s chief executive have a team of advisors known as the President’s Cabinet?

A: During the Constitutional Convention in 1787, delegates hashed out how to organize the executive branch and whether the president would act independently or collaborate with a council of ministers. One proposal suggested a council comprised of the Speaker of the House, the President of the Senate, and the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. Ultimately, the delegates vested the executive power in a single person: the President of the United States. However, they also included constitutional guardrails unique to our system of checks and balances, granting the power of “advise and consent” to the Senate on appointments and treaties. So, while the president’s “Cabinet” is not spelled out in the Constitution, Article II, Section 2, clause 1 authorizes the president “may require the Opinion … of the principal Officer in each of the executive Departments, upon any Subject relating to the Duties of their respective Officers.” In other words, the president has the power to surround himself with a team of people to carry out the laws of the land.

President George Washington created the first Cabinet and nominated four individuals for Secretary of the Treasury, Secretary of State, Secretary of War and Attorney General. Washington met regularly with his Cabinet to discuss core functions of the new federal government: money supply, diplomacy, defense, enforcement of laws and administration of justice. His successors followed this precedent

to surround themselves with trusted advisors to “take Care that the Laws be faithfully executed.” The Cabinet has expanded over the years, most recently with creation of the Department of Homeland Security post-9/11. Today, the Cabinet includes the Vice President and heads of 15 executive departments, including the U.S. Attorney General; Secretaries of Agriculture; Commerce ; Defense; Education; Energy; Health and Human Services; Homeland Security; Housing and Urban Development; Interior; Labor; S tate; Treasury; Transportation; and, Veterans Affairs. Also serving in Cabinet-level positions are the Administrators of the Environmental Protection Agency and Small Business Administration; Directors of the Central Intelligence Agency; National Intelligence; and, Office of Management and Budget; U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations; and the U.S. Trade Representative. Since the 113th Congress, Cabinet nominees are confirmed by a simple majority in the U.S. Senate. If approved, nominees are sworn in before beginning their duties.

Q: What is the Senate’s role in the confirmation process?

A: The Constitution gives the president and the Senate shared authority to make appointments to high-level positions in the federal government, including the federal judiciary and the president’s Cabinet. History shows the Senate extends deference to presidents selecting advisors to help them carry out the operations of the executive branch of government. In the 19th century, the Senate revised its rules to require the referral of nominations to the appropriate committees. A

century later, Senate committees held public hearings and questioned nominees in person. As chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee in the 119th Congress, I’ve led confirmation hearings for President Trump’s nominees to serve as the Attorney General and the Director of the FBI. From my assignments on the Senate Agriculture, Finance and Budget Committees, I’ve participated in confirmation hearings for the Secretaries of Agric ulture, Treasury, Health and Human Services and Director of the Office of Management and Budget. It’s my policy to wait until after these hearings conclude to make my final decision on the nomination. The Senate’s “advise and consent” authority is one tool to keep check on the executive branch and has factored into the rejection or withdrawal of Cabinet nominees for centuries. At the same time, the Senate has a compelling interest not to impede the continuity of government from one administration to the next. It’s critical to the functioning of government to have these highlevel officials in place. For Presidents Clinton, Bush and Obama, 84 percent of Cabinet secretaries nominated before Inauguration Day received quick Senate approval, an average of 2.4 days. After passing background checks, answering questions in writing, in private meetings and under the Senate microscope in public confirmation hearings and being referred favorably by the committees of jurisdiction, the president’s nominees deserve a timely vote in the U.S. Senate. The devastating collision on Jan. 29 over the Potomac River – the worst aviation crash in America in a quarter century – underscores the urgency to get the president’s team in place.

the refundable tax credits for which they are eligible, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). EITC is a special benefit for working people with an annual household income of less than $67,000. Workers who qualify for the EITC and file a federal tax return may be eligible for a portion or all the federal income tax taken out of their pay during the year. They may also receive additional cash back from the IRS, including workers whose earnings were too small to owe income tax, through the EITC.

JOHNSON COUNTY — Tax season just got easier for qualifying households in Johnson County. The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program provides free tax preparation services for low-tomoderate income residents, thanks to trained volunteers from the Johnson County Social Services Department. These services will be available until April 9, 2025. The VITA program offers two convenient options for tax preparation assistance. Taxpayers

with an income of $67,000 or less in 2024 can have their returns completed and filed by an IRScertified tax preparer at no cost. Appointments are required and can be scheduled at www. johnsoncountyiowa.gov/vita.

Additionally, taxpayers making under $84,000 in 2024 can access free resources to file their taxes on their own.

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) estimates that 20% of American workers do not claim

Trained volunteer tax preparers help ensure that eligible taxpayers claim the EITC and any other qualifying tax credits, maximizing potential refunds.

Electronic filing is provided so that taxpayers can receive their tax refunds quickly. Taxpayers using VITA volunteers, or the free filing software to file taxes, are not charged for tax preparation or for receiving their refunds.

For more information on these services, visit www. johnsoncountyiowa.gov/vita.

SPORTS

Lietz shines on Senior Night

Lady Spartans improve to 10-10 with wins over Independence and West Delaware

Kyle T. Prondzinski

For the Solon Economist

SOLON – Basketball is a team game, with every player having a role to play in every moment. Credit rarely goes to just one person. But Friday night was different.

In Solon’s (10-10) commanding 64-37 victory over the Independence Mustangs (7-12), senior Kobi Lietz had a moment to remember. With a minute left in the

Linda Lako | For the Solon Economist Independence’s Reaghan Ressler (5) calls out directions for guarding Kobi Lietz (1) as she drives toward the basket Friday, Feb. 7 on Senior Night. Lietz is the Lady Spartans’ only senior this season.

game, Head Coach Jamie Smith subbed Lietz out, allowing her to hug her teammates and coaches while receiving a standing ovation from the home crowd on Senior Night.

After the game, no one left. Her teammates lined the baseline, watching as Lietz’s parents met her on the court. Together, they shared a long embrace, posed for photos, and took a moment to soak in the cheers from the packed bleachers. Many fans wore shirts featuring her face, a tribute to her impact over four seasons.

“I’m just very thankful that I’ve had these opportunities. I love this town, I love this school,” Lietz said.

Her legacy is one to remember. She helped lead Solon to two state championship appearances, winning it all in 2024. Heading into this season, she had only lost six games in her career. Coach Smith called her the best defender he’s seen in 20 years.

“She meant everything. We build our program on kids like her,” Smith said. “If I’m only going to have one senior, I want it to be her.”

After surviving a tight 55-53 contest on Tuesday night against the (10-8) West Delaware Hawks. Solon wasted no time setting the tone, jumping out to a commanding 22-0 run to start the game. The Spartans dominated every aspect early—outshooting, out-rebounding, and out-hustling the Mustangs. Five different players scored in the first quarter, giving Solon an 11-0 advantage after one. Independence players walked back to the bench with their heads down, searching for answers.

The Mustangs finally got on the scoreboard with 4:34 left in the second quarter, but the damage was already done.

“We like to guard,” Coach Smith said postgame. “We got to where we needed to be to put pressure on the ball.”

Despite the slow start, Independence fought back. Sometimes, all it takes is one shot to find rhythm. The Mustangs closed the first half on an 11-5 run, cutting the deficit to 27-11 at halftime.

Coming out of the locker room, Independence kept the momentum going. They opened the second half with a quick three-pointer, followed by an easy two, cutting Solon’s lead to just nine points.

Then, Solon’s offense surged again, they found themselves up 20 after a Lainey Johnson (Sophomore) three pointer and then followed by going 7-8 at the free throw line to get the lead back up to 20. The difference in the game was Lainey Johnsons long range shooting, hitting five shots from behind the arc and Lietz playing making ability as she led all scorers with 17 points.

The Spartans went out in style as Sophomore Laeni Hinkle gathered a rebound and quickly set her feet and threw a full court pass football style, just in time for Super Bowl Sunday, to Lietz, who laid it in to give the Spartans a 56-35 lead, ultimately making the lead insurmountable.

Chris Umscheid | Solon Economist

Above: Kobi Lietz, the only senior on the Lady Spartans’ roster this season, puts up a two point shot as Independence’s Addison Lange attempts to block Friday, Feb. 7 on Senior Night.

Bottom: Family and friends show their support as Kobi Lietz is introduced during the starting line-up’s Friday, Feb. 7 on Senior Night. Lietz is the solitary senior on the Lady Spartan’s roster this season.

Solon vs. Independence, Individual stats

Scoring – Kobi Lietz 17, Laney Johnson 15, Jerzey Haluska 10, Beckett Kruse 9, Laeni Hinkle 5, Delainey Durr 3, Quinn Armentrout 3, Sophia Link 2

3-point baskets – Johnson 5/10, Hinkle 1/4, Durr 1/6

Rebounds – Lietz 6, Kruse 6, Haluska 5, Armentrout 5, Durr 3, Johnson 1

Assists – Armentrout 5, Lietz 2, Hinkle 1, Haluska 1, Durr 1 Steals – Lietz 4, Haluska 3, Kruse 3, Durr 3, Armentrout 2, Johnson 1

Solon vs. West Delaware, Individual stats

Scoring – Kobi Lietz 21, Delainey Durr 8, Quinn Armentrout 8, Jerzey Haluska 7, Laeni Hinkle 4, Laney Johnson 3, Beckett Kruse 2

3-point baskets –Durr 2/7, Armentrout 1/4

Rebounds – Kruse 8, Durr 6, Haluska 5, Lietz 3, Armentrout 3, Hinkle 1

Assists – Durr 2, Hinkle 2, Haluska 2, Armentrout 2, Lietz 1, Kruse 1

Steals – Lietz 5, Armentrout 3, Hinkle 2, Durr 1, Haluska 1

WaMaC East Standings (2-9-25)

Postseason Schedule

Saturday, Feb. 15 – 3A Regional Quarterfinals at Solon vs. Assumption Catholic, 7:00 p.m.

Tuesday, Feb. 19 – 3A Regional Semifinals at Mt. Vernon, 7:00 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 22 – 3A Reginal Championships at highestranked remaining team’s site, 7:00 p.m.

Tickets – www.gobound.com/ia/ighsau/ girlsbasketball/2024-25/tickets

Monday, March 3-Saturday, March 8 – 2025 State Tournament, Wells Fargo Arena, Des Moines

Spartans cruise to victory on Senior Night

Solon tops Independence 69-53 and slips past West Delaware 65-61

Kyle T. Prondzinski For the Solon Economist

SOLON – There’s no stronger wake-up call in high school sports than realizing it's your turn to be honored on Senior Night. Four years of practices, scrimmages, and games seem to fly by in an instant.

The Solon Spartans (13-5) made the most of their special night, securing a commanding 69-53 victory over the Independence Mustangs (7-11). Before tipoff, eight seniors—Karsyn Regennitter, Isaiah Zoske, Caleb Bock, Nolan Seagren, Owen Einwalter, Eddie Johnson, Jackson Link, and Beau Mullen—were recognized on the court alongside their parents. Mothers received flowers in appreciation of their support.

Head Coach Jared Galpin honored his seniors by rolling out an all-senior starting lineup.

“This was my first freshman class of coaching. It was awesome seeing these guys go through the program,” said Coach Galpin.

After escaping with a 65-61 win over the West Delaware Hawks(4-13). The seniors wasted no time setting the tone. Solon’s first four made baskets came from beyond the arc, with a fifth just inside the line for two points. Owen Einwalter knocked down two early threes, pumping up the home crowd by throwing up three fingers after each shot.

Independence, however, kept pace in the first quarter. The Mustangs responded with baskets of their own and even provided a moment of chaos when a Mustang forward, Crayton Iverson, chased a loose ball into the

bleachers, leaping over a few rows to avoid colliding with families in the stands.

Despite the back-and-forth action, Solon held a 16-11 lead after the first quarter.

The second quarter was where the Spartans took control, thanks to a dominant stretch from senior Isaiah Zoske. He poured in 11 points, showcasing his shooting ability from deep and finishing strong at the rim, including an and-one play that ignited the crowd.

“Every time I'm open, I pull the trigger. That’s what I like to do,” Zoske said with a smile postgame.

Solon’s defense also tightened up, holding Independence to just nine points in the quarter. By halftime, the Spartans had built a commanding 43-20 lead.

The second half featured a steady exchange of baskets until one of the most electrifying moments of the season. With the game in control, Coach Galpin called a timeout and drew up a play for Beau Mullen, a senior who had rejoined the team this season after not playing since seventh grade.

On the inbounds pass, Mullen caught the ball under the basket, took flight, and threw down a powerful slam dunk. The gym erupted. The crowd jumped in unison, the bench exploded, and the energy inside the gym hit its peak.

“We were looking for that moment the whole game. It was a cool moment,” Mullen said.

The Spartans cruised through the final stretch, allowing their seniors to soak in every second of their final regular season home game.

Solon vs. Independence, Individual stats

Scoring – Isaih Zoske 22, Caleb Bock 15, Maddox Kelley 13, Owen Einwalter 6, Karsyn Regennitter 4, Beau Mullen 3, Nolan Seagren 2, Grant Gordon 2, Jackson Link 1, Kaden Hoeper 1 3-point baskets – Zoske 3/5, Einwalter 2/2, Bock 1/2, Kelley 1/4 Rebounds – Bock 10, Link 5, Seagren 3, Tyler Greazel 2, Kelley 2, Zoske 1, Regennitter 1, Gordon 1, Hoeper 1 Assists – Zoske 3, Seagren 3, Bock 2, Kelley 2, Link 1, Regennitter 1, Gordon 1, Hoeper 1, Mullen 1 Steals – Kelley 6, Bock 2, Zoske 1, Regennitter 1 Blocks – Zoske 1, Mullen 1

WaMaC East Standings (2-9-25) Conf Overall

Mount Vernon 11-3 15-4

Upcoming Schedule

Thursday, Feb. 13 – At West Branch, 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 20 – HOME vs. Washington, 7:00 p.m.

Postseason

Monday, Feb. 24 – 3A Substate First Round Thursday, Feb. 27 – 3A Substate Monday, March 3 – 3A Substate Finals

Monday, March 10-Friday, March 14 – 2025 State Tournament, Wells Fargo Arena, Des Moines

Championship hopes dashed as Solon girls state wrestlers fail to advance past the quarterfinals

Willis For the Solon Economist

CORALVILLE — The four state qualifiers from Solon High School sat on the floor of Xtream Arena with tearfilled eyes.

On Thursday, February 6, the Lady Spartans state qualifiers – Olivia Bonnema, Tess Richards, McKenna Rogers, and Kara VeDepo – failed to advance past the quarterfinal round in the Iowa High School Girls State Wrestling Tournament held at Xtream

Arena.

Bonnema and Rogers advanced to the quarterfinals while VeDepo and Richards were eliminated in the first round.

“Things don’t always go our way,” Head Coach Jake Munson said Thursday evening.

A state final farewell Bonnema and VeDepo, took the wrestling mat for the last time this

weekend in a Solon uniform. Coach Munson said they haven’t ruled out wrestling in college.

Bonnema is a three-time state qualifier. Ahead of the season she tore her labrum, so at the end of the tournament on Saturday she defined her senior season in one word, perseverance.

“It’s something that I love to do,” Bonnema said.

Bonnema wrestled all season with two torn labrums, one tear was 6 cm and the other tear was 4 cm. She competed in her final season injured for her teammates and the love of the sport.

“I didn't want my final season to slip away like that,” she said.

Making it to the state quarterfinals on injury is no small feat, but it also wasn’t the results that Solon’s Lady Spartans had hoped for.

“It’s unbelievable,” Munson said, “I’m just in shock.”

A promise to come back stronger

After a disappointing first day of competition at the State Wrestling Competition, Munson said Solon will rebound and rebuild.

“Tomorrow will be better,” he said.

Munson reflected on how wonderful the 20242025 season was for the Solon Girls Wrestling Program.

“...the camaraderie this team has shown and the way they’ve worked together,” he said.

And there’s more work to be done, more meets to look forward to.

Next season, the Lady Spartans will have two state qualifiers returning to their team: Junior McKenna Rogers and Sophomore Tess Richards.

“Both of those two are two of [the] more talented wrestlers in the area and in the state,” Munson said.

Bowling bringing together community

Bobcats knock Spartans out of shot at State Dual Meet by slimmest margin

Benton Community tops Solon 35-34

Solon Economist

INDEPENDENCE — The varsity Spartan wrestlers traveled to Independence Tuesday, Feb. 4 for a Regional Dual meet with Benton Community and the Independence Mustang in a bid to qualify for the 2025 State Dual Meet Tournament. The Bobcats tangled with Solon in the first round, knocking the Spartans out of contention 35-34.

IOWA CITY — By the tenth and final frame of Carson Reid’s bowling set, all eyes were on his lane. The high school senior had accumulated 270 points during his first set as Iowa City, City High School faced off against Xavier Catholic (Cedar Rapids) High School.

The culmination of a bowling game ends in three opportunities to roll the ball for a maximum of 30 more points. A perfect 300.

Reid’s first and second throw were perfect strikes. Friends and family spectated from the viewing area, hands clasped in anticipation. Then came the final roll.

Reid slightly shimmied his hips at the back of the lane. He cradles the ball, almost like a baby, as he shuffled forward with uneven steps. The usual sound of pins tumbling to the ground and heavy bowling balls thudding against the wood was absent.

The ball veered toward the gutter before pivoting to hit the center of the pins.

One was left standing.

The groans quickly turned to applause as the jampacked Colonial Lanes bowling alley celebrated Reid’s 11 consecutive strikes, despite the bittersweet ending. Reid, a student from Solon High School, has been bowling with the City High team for the past four years. This matchup, however, marked the first time his peers drove down to Iowa City to watch him bowl.

“It was pretty cool to bowl that well in front of them,” he said.

Because Solon doesn’t have a bowling team, Both Reid and junior Trendon Walker make the trek from Solon to Iowa City for practices and meets. On Friday, Feb. 7, during the matchup between City High and Xavier High School, Reid bowled a 299 and 247, while Walker bowled a 224 and 213.

City High Athletics Director Phil Lala said it was rather common for students from smaller towns to compete with City High, as Iowa City’s student population allows for a more diverse set of athletics opportunities students can participate in.

Lala said, despite going to different schools, both Reid and Walker have adapted to City High’s team and made valuable connections with both the players and the coaching staff.

“If you didn’t know they were from Solon, you’d just assume they were City High kids,” Lala said. Reid and Walker’s participation has expanded their own classmates’ perception of bowling. Lily Owen, a student at Solon High School, made the drive down from Solon to Iowa City after school on a Friday to watch her classmates compete.

While this was only her first time coming down to support, Owen said she enjoyed attending the matchup.

“Bowling is definitely underrated,” Owen said. “I feel like I don't see a bunch of people coming and supporting.”

Pyeper Hurd, another student who attended the Friday matchup, said the perception surrounding bowling tends to be pretty negative. Hurd said the work that these players put into their craft — not only the act of bowling itself but the dedication required

from the Solon players who have to travel — is an underrecognized component.

“Honestly, the fact that they travel so far to play the sport they love is inspiring,” Hurd said.

Along with support from their Solon classmates, Reid and Walker said they have felt supported by their fellow athletes at City High.

“It was a little different at first because you don’t know anyone,” Walker said. “But now I’ve made plenty of friends.”

The energy before the start of the bowling matchup was unexpectedly vibrant, with both the City High and Xaiver teams chanting in huddles before starting. As the competition progressed, bowlers gave each other subtle high fives and fist bumps in passing after each good roll.

However, despite any and all outside energy, Reid said the most important part of his game is focusing on his own peace and consistency — hence the almostperfect game in front of a rowdy crowd.

“You really have to try your hardest to not think about it,” Reid said. “Whatever happens, happens.”

Upcoming Schedule

Friday, Feb. 14 – At Waterloo West (Cadillac XBC, 650 Laporte Rd., Waterloo), 3:15 p.m.

Tuesday, Feb. 18 – 3A IHSAA State Qualifying Meet at Colonial Lanes (2253 Old Hwy. 218 S., Iowa City), 9:00 a.m.

Tuesday, Feb. 25 – 2025 IHSAA Class 3A Bowling Championships (Team) at Cadillac XBC, 3:00 p.m.

Wednesday, Feb. 26 – 2025 IHSAA Class 3A Bowling Championships (Individual) at Cadillac XBC, 9:00 a.m. For State Tournament information – www.iahsaa.org/ bowling/state-central/

Lucas Feuerbach (215 lbs.) won by technical fall (16-0, 3:55) over Benton’s Troy Kupka, Grant Wilson (285) took a 19-10 major decision from Will Clausen, Anderson Osgood (106) won by technical fall (16-1, 1:22) against Memphis Bishop, Jayden Steapp (120) took a 9-8 decision from Garrett Kuch, Charlie Karam (138) won by technical fall (15-0, 3:25) against Ryan Koehler, Jordan Schmidt (144) took a 9-6 decision from Elijah Kupka, Carson Kidwell (157) won 8-5 against Elias Bieschke, and Jackson Feuerbach (175) won by forfeit.

The Bobcats fell in the second round 32-28 to Independence.

Postseaon Schedule

Saturday, Feb. 15 – IHSAA Class 2A District (State Qualifying) Meet at Williamsburg HS, 10:00 a.m. Tickets: $8 via HomeTown Ticketing (www.iahsaa.org/tickets/)

The top-two place winners in each weight class advance to the 2025 IHSAA State Traditional (individual) Tournament at Wells Fargo in Des Moines.

Wednesday, Feb. 19-Saturday, Feb. 22 – State Tournament

SOLON SENIORS

A Big Thank You to our sponsors and donors for their support in Senior Dining’s mission to serve the Solon Community, and especially to those who support Senior Dining by attending the lunches or receive home deliveries.

Reminders

Bad weather closings – Senior Dining will notify our clients by phone of cancellations. No meals Tuesdays and Thursdays Bingo Wednesdays AM/PM Cards Wednesdays PM

DINING •••••••••••••••••••••

Home Deliveries

Monday, Wednesday, and Friday within a 5-mile radius, on hard surface roads only. Call 319-624-2251 for information.

In-House Dining

Solon Methodist Church, Wednesdays only at 11:30 a.m.

Meals cost $5.00 and are provided by the Solon Retirement Village Kitchen. Reservations for dine-in are required by calling 319-624-2251 Mondays between 10-11:00 a.m.

FEBRUARY HAPPENINGS••• • • •

Wednesday, Feb. 12 – Happy Valentines Day/ sponsored meal – SRV Foundation Monday, Feb. 17 – CLOSED for President’s

CALENDAR & PUZZLES

Day Wednesday, Feb. 19 – Sponsored meal –Wehrheim Wednesday, Feb. 26 – City Representative

FEBRUARY MENU • • •••••••••

Friday, Feb. 14

Catch of the Day

Mini Baker Potatoes

Vegetable Blend

Sherbet

Monday, Feb. 17 CLOSED for President’s Day

Wednesday, Feb. 19

Sponsored meal - Wehrheim Ginger Caramel Pork Loin

Candied Sweet Potatoes

Buttered Peas

Lemon Meringue Pie

Friday, Feb. 21

Sauteed Shrimp

Buttered Noodles

Broccoli

Raspberry Gelatin w/Marshmallow Topping

Monday, Feb. 24

Smothered Pork Chop

Scalloped Potatoes

Maple Brussel Sprouts & Squash

Thank you Solon Senior Dining volunteers! “Volunteers do not necessarily have the time, they just have the heart.”

SCHOOL BREAKFAST

The Solon Community School District is an equal opportunity provider.

Menus will vary to accommodate the Federal Nutrition Guidelines. Please understand that menus are subject to change as needed. Please check your lunch account balances, purchases, and deposits online at solon.total.k12.com.

Nutrition office: 319-624-3401, Ext. 1120 or bwest@solon.k12.ia.us.

Student breakfast is FREE again this year

The Solon Community School District (SCSD) is once again able to offer free breakfast to students for the academic year. Becky West, Nutrition Director, explained the Nutritional Department’s financial situation, based on standard practice and guidance from the state, makes it possible to offer this important service to the students. “I believe that eating breakfast fuels the kids and teaches them how to eat a healthy breakfast to start your day,” said West.

Adult/Guest breakfast: $1.75

Thursday, Feb. 13

Breakfast Sandwich (LV/SIS)

G&G Bag (LV) Ceral Bar

SCHOOL LUNCH

For information on the free and reduced program, and an application, go to www.solon.k12.ia.us/ page/nutrition-program and scroll down to Nutrition Documents & Links.

STUDENT LUNCH PRICES

Thursday, Feb. 13

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)

Friday, Feb. 14

MS/HS Alt: Cook’s Delight

Mac & Cheese, Little Smokies

Caesar Salad, Fava Crisps

Green Beans (MS/HS)

Across

1 Eat dirt, say

7 Info at JFK or LAX

10 One image on a Monopoly board

14 Longtime Ford S.U.V.

15 Bring trouble to

16 Knight of film

17 Charlie horse

19 “To suffer ___ which Hope thinks infinite”: Shelley

— Elizabeth Andrew

Egg Scramble w/Hash Brown or Mini Pancakes w/ Sausage Links Fruit, Juice, Crackers & Milk

Friday, Feb. 14

Mini CC French Toast (LV/SIS)

G&G Bag (LV) Donut

Long John or Cinnamon Roll Fruit, Juice, Crackers & Milk

Monday, Feb. 17 NO SCHOOL

Tuesday, Feb. 18

Parfait (LV/SIS)

G&G Bag (LV) Snack bread French Toast Bake, Fruity Oatmeal, Waffles & Sausage Patty Fruit, Juice, Crackers & Milk

Wednesday, Feb. 19

Sausage Pancake Wrap (LV/SIS)

G&G Bag (LV) Nutri Grain Bar

Breakfast Pizza or Cinnamon Doughnuts Fruit, Juice, Crackers & Milk

Pineapple Chunks, Garlic Toast (HS)

Monday, Feb. 17 NO SCHOOL

Tuesday, Feb. 18

MS/HS Alt: Fish Fillet Sandwich

Mandarin Chicken and Rice

Broccoli, Sweet Potato Fries

Apple Wedges, Yo Caramel (HS)

Pineapple (MS/HS), Garlic Knot

Wednesday, Feb. 19

MS/HS Alt: BBQ Pork Sandwich

Walking Taco’s with Fixings

Mixed Vegetables

Diced Pears

Goldfish (SIS/MS/HS)

Trail Mix (MS/HS)

Thursday, Feb. 20

MS/HS Alt: Spicy Chicken Patty

Chicken Patty on a Bun

Cauliflower & Cheese

Shredded Romaine

Sweet Mandarin Oranges, Wacky Cake

20 Fictional thief Lupin

21 Papa bear

22 Body with many pages

24 Awesome, in 1990s slang

26 Sierra Leone

27 Tango number

31 Twin actress Mary-Kate or Ashley

32 Harbor markers

33 Longtime wire service inits.

34 Haunted house feeling

35 Italian for “baked”

36 Mystery writer, in brief?

37 Danger in a Wile E. Coyote cartoon

38 Point at, in a way

39 Pizzeria purchase

40 Golf course

42 Whiskey soda

43 Yours, in French

44 Dave or Ray of the Kinks

45 Quebec city

48 Cut some slack?

50 Strong push

51 Alpha male (double)

55 Stands at first, say

56 Vivacious, theatrical and passionate type, it’s said

57 Info in a job posting

58 Casting director’s offering

59 Candy in plastic dispensers

1 “Fleabag” airer

2 Off-line, to those online

3 Plaything

4 Put at risk

5 Cold-weather driving hazard

6 Lob in the direction of

7 Film writer/director Goldberg

8 Kind of lens for long-distance shots

9 Bit of medieval weaponry

10 Three-time N.F.L. Defensive Player of the Year (2012, 2014 and 2015)

11 Long, long time

12 Pointed the finger at

13 TV journalist Ling

18 Poor mark

21 Links figures

22 Singer Gomez

23 Fake

25 Casual greeting

26 Leader of Germany?

27 Entire, in Italian

28 ___ Kennedy Shriver, founder of the Special Olympics

29 Time periods

30 To the ___ (with style)

32 Notable site of enlightenment

35 Pixar film set in the fictional town of Santa Cecilia

36 At the end of the day

38 Grp. whose alphabet is used eight times in this puzzle

39 More than a few

41 One of 3,000+ annually for IBM

42 1960s dance craze

44 “Obviously!”

45 Groucho Marx specialty

46 ___ Major

47 Composer Stravinsky

49 The whole shebang

51 Challenge for a skier

60 “Maybe. Give me time to think” Down

52 One of the founding airlines of Star Alliance

53 Realm of Charlemagne, for short

54 Fashion designer’s asset

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.

KiDs'PAGe

You’re a-MAZE-ing! Find your way to the candy heart!

AROUND

MEOWENTINE JOKES. . .

Who always has a date on Valentine’s Day?

What did the stamp say to the envelope on Valentine’s Day?

What do you call two birds in love?

What do you call a ghost’s sweatheart?

What kind of shape is most popular on Valentine’s Day?

(Answers along bottom of page.)

U of I 2024 fall semester President’s List honorees

IOWA CITY — More than 1,000 undergraduate students at the University of Iowa were named to the President’s List for the 2024 fall semester including:

From Ely – Natalie Brown, Rylee Lueken, and Dylan Seiffert

From Solon – Beth Richards and Liona Rocca

The University of Iowa undergraduates who achieve a grade point average (GPA; 4.0 is an A) of 4.0 in 12 semester hours or more of UI graded coursework and who have no "I" marks (incompletes) or "O" marks (no grade reported) on their records for two consecutive semesters (excluding summer session) are recognized by inclusion on the president's list.

Please note that courses graded with the pass/ non-pass system are not included in grade-point average calculations or graded semester hour counts, potentially impacting eligibility for the president's list.

2024 fall semester Dean's List honorees announced

IOWA CITY — More than 8,700 students at the University of Iowa were named to the dean's list for the 2024 fall semester.

From Ely – Natalie Brown, Rylee Lueken, and Dylan Seiffert.

From Solon – Beth Richards and Liona Rocca.

About the University of Iowa

As a top global university, Iowa is the ideal destination for learning, discovery, and innovation. We bring art and science together to create a truly unique interdisciplinary education. With over 200 areas of study to choose from, students are encouraged to mix and match majors, minors, and certificates to earn a degree that reflects their unique interests.

with experts in their field while earning valuable, practical skills.

Our campus seamlessly blends into the heart of downtown Iowa City, making it easy to access academic resources and belong to a larger, welcoming community. With over 500 student organizations, clubs, and communities on campus, and countless in-town events scheduled throughout the year, Iowa makes it easy to build a network of friendships and connections that last a lifetime.

Clinkinbeard graduates from ISU

AMES — More than 1,600 graduates received degrees from Iowa State University this fall including Nicholus R. Clinkinbeard, Doctor of Philosophy, Mechanical Engineering, from Ely.

Graduate and undergraduate commencement ceremonies were held Dec. 20-21 at Hilton Coliseum.

Of the 1,675 students who graduated in December, 1,357 earned undergraduate degrees and 318 earned masters or doctoral degrees.

Sieverding named to ECC fall Dean’s List

IOWA FALLS — Gavin Sieverding, of Solon, is among 149 students named to the Fall 2024 (August to December) Dean’s List at Ellsworth Community College. To be eligible for the Dean’s List, students must have earned a minimum of 12 credit hours during the semester (a full-time class load) and had at least a 3.5 grade point average for the Fall 2024 semester. Part-time students are not included in this list.

The ECC staff and administration congratulate these students for their academic excellence.

Color the valentine for your sweetheart!

Word Scramble

From inside our world-class medical center to the most prestigious creative writing program in the U.S., students have access to quality academic support and are equipped with the tools they need to stand out in a competitive workforce. Our 15:1 studentto-faculty ratio allows students to work directly

Ellsworth Community College, located in Iowa Falls, is a member of the Iowa Valley Community College District. The District is comprised of Ellsworth Community College, Marshalltown Community College, Iowa Valley Grinnell, and Iowa Valley Business and Community Solutions. The District serves a broad range of students and businesses throughout Central Iowa. For more information, check out the website at ecc.iavalley.edu.

Sean Mithani named to the Fall 2024 President's List at Georgia State University

ATLANTA, GA — Sean Mithani of Cedar Rapids (52227) was named to the fall 2024 President's List at Georgia State University.

To be eligible for the President's List, degree-seeking students must have earned a GPA of at least 4.0 for a minimum of nine semester hours of academic credit taken at Georgia State during the fall or spring term with no incompletes for the semester. Eligible students must have a minimum GPA of 2.0 for all classes taken at Georgia State.

Georgia State University, one of the largest, most innovative multi-campus public research universities, transforms the lives of students, advances the frontiers of knowledge and strengthens the workforce of the future. With campuses in and around metro Atlanta, Georgia State readies students for professional pursuits, educates future leaders and prepares citizens for lifelong learning. Enrolling one of the most diverse student bodies in the nation, Georgia State prioritizes student success ensuring that students from all backgrounds graduate at high rates. The university provides outstanding experiential educational opportunities and exceptional support for students seeking degrees from the associate to the doctoral level.

One of the nation's fastest-growing research institutions, Georgia State's scholarship and research focus on solving complex issues ranging from the most fundamental questions of the universe to the most challenging issues of our day, while our creative activities expand and enrich the world.

Meier graduates UW-Platteville, named to fall Dean’s List

PLATTEVILLE, Wis. The University of WisconsinPlatteville awarded diplomas to approximately 400 undergraduate students in its winter commencement ceremony, held Dec. 14, 2024.

Included was Bennett Meier (Criminal Justice and Forensic Investigation BS, Main Campus) of Solon. Meier was also named to the Dean’s List honoring those fulltime students who earned a grade-point average of 3.75 and above in the fall 2024 semester. COLLEGE NEWS

• The minutes of the Formal Meeting Minutes of January 23, 2025.

• Payroll authorizations submitted by department heads and elected officials.

• Receive and Place on File with the County Auditor the County Recorder’s Report of Fees Collected for December 2024 in the amount of $216,712.51 as submitted by County Recorder Kimberly Painter. Approved unanimously.

PROCLAMATION NO. 01-30-25-01

AMERICAN HEART MONTH- FEBRUARY 2025

Summary: Johnson County is designated as a HeartSafe community; a program designed to promote survival from sudden out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. A HeartSafe community status is focused upon strengthening the “chain of survival” in communities to improve their system for preventing sudden cardiac arrest from becoming irreversible death. The county-wide campaign was inspired by pioneering resuscitation and defibrillation research and American Heart Association leadership of the late Dr. Richard E. Kerber; and the Rotary Kerber HeartSafe Community Campaign. Board Action: Proclaim February 2025 as American Heart Month in Johnson County, and recognize and celebrate the Rotary-Kerber HeartSafe Community Campaign and urge residents to learn more about the campaign at iowaheartsafe.org. Motion by Green-Douglass, second by Fixmer-Oraiz, to approve Proclamation No. 01-30-25-01. Approved unanimously.

PROCLAMATION NO. 01-30-25-02

WORLD HIJAB DAY- FEBRUARY 1, 2025

Summary: the Hijab, a traditional veil that covers a woman’s hair, neck, and chest, has deep historical and cultural significance in Islam and is intended to promote dignity, respect for women, modesty, and reverence for religious faith. World Hijab Day, recognizes millions of Muslim women who choose to wear the Hijab as an expression of their religious faith. Board Action: Proclaim February 1, 2025, as World Hijab Day in Johnson County and encourage greater religious tolerance and understanding in our community and call upon residents to recognize the day and promote awareness, understanding, and unity. Motion by Fixmer-Oraiz, second by Sullivan, to approve Proclamation No. 0130-25-02. Approved unanimously.

Motion by Green-Douglass, second by Fixmer-Oraiz, to authorize the Chairperson to sign the Johnson County pledge to support Iowa’s Five-Year Strategic Highway Safety Plan, which will be included in the Johnson County Safety Action Plan. Approved unanimously.

Motion by Fixmer-Oraiz, second by Green-Douglass, to approve the agreement with OPN Architects, Inc., Iowa City, for a site evaluation and project feasibility services for the Dr. Lulu Merle Johnson Exhibit in an amount not to exceed $51,365. Approved unanimously.

Motion by Fixmer-Oraiz, second by Remington, to approve the Amendment to the Amended Agreement for Juvenile Justice Pre-Charge Diversion Coordination and Expansion Program Subcontract with United Action for Youth, Iowa City, as contained in the agenda packet of the meeting.

Approved unanimously. ORDINANCE NO. 01-30-25-01

AN ORDINANCE CODIFYING THE JOHNSON COUNTY UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT ORDINANCE - VOLUME TWO OF THE JOHNSON COUNTY CODE OF ORDINANCES

Summary: The purpose of this ordinance is to codify certain Johnson County ordinances in accordance with Iowa Code Section 331.302(10). The compilation entitled “Johnson County Code of Ordinances, Volume 2, Unified Development Ordinance”, is hereby codified and adopted. All other ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict with the provisions of this ordinance are hereby repealed. Effective Date: After its final passage and approval, upon publication as part of the proceedings of the Board of Supervisors. Motion by Green-Douglass, second by Fixmer-Oraiz, to approve the proposed ordinance codifying Johnson County Code of Ordinances -Volume Two, Unified Development Ordinance on third and final consideration and adopt Ordinance No. 01-30-25-01. Approved unanimously.

Motion by Sullivan, second by Green-Douglass, to appoint Benjamin Kayser, Iowa City, to the Johnson County Compensation Board to fill a vacancy for a three-year term expiring June 30, 2027, as the Board of Supervisors representative. Adjourned at 9:46 a.m. /s/Jon Green, Chair, Board of Supervisors Attest: /s/Julie Persons, Auditor

On the 6th day of February, 2025

Recorded by Auditor’s Office: Eric Van Lancker, Deputy Auditor (Minutes) Published in the Solon Economist February 13, 2025.

SOLON COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

The Solon Community School District will hold a public hearing for the 20262027 School District Calendar Thursday, February 20, 2025, at 5:25 p.m. at the Central Office Board Room, 301 South Iowa Street, Solon, IA, 52333. Published in the Solon Economist February 13, 2025.

SOLON COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

The Solon Community School District will hold a public hearing for the purchase of furniture for the Solon Intermediate School Thursday, February 20, 2025, at 5:20 p.m. at the Central Office Board Room, 301 South Iowa Street, Solon, IA 52333. Published in the Solon Economist February 13, 2025.

WANTED

WANTED: JUNK APPLIANCES. Will pick up for free. Farm clean-up, batteries. Will buy junk cars. 319-331-8122

Sporting Goods

GUN SHOW: February 21-23, 2025, Hippodrome, Waterloo IA Fri 4-9pm, Sat. 9am-5pm, Sun. 9am-3pm. $10 (under 14 FREE). Large selection of GUNS and AMMO for sale! More info: 563-608-4401 www.marvkrauspromotions.net

GUN SHOW: LARGE GUN & COIN AUCTION; Friday 2-282025, 28810 Hwy 5, Cincinnati Iowa. Coin Show starts @ 9a.m., Gun Auction @ 1p.m., Preview on 2-27 from 1-5, 641895-736

Miscellaneous

Does your basement or crawl space need some attention?

Call Thrasher Foundation Repair! A permanent solution for waterproofing, failing foundations, sinking concrete and nasty crawl spaces. FREE Inspection & Same Day Estimate. $250 off ANY project with code GET250. Call 1-866-5541730

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.

Safe Step. North America’s #1 Walk-In Tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-the-line installation and service. Now featuring our FREE shower package and $1600 Off for a limited time! Call today! Financing available. Call Safe Step 1-844376-4154.

Storjohann made the nearly three-hour drive from his home in Carroll to Solon for the Fat Tire Classic Saturday morning, emphasizing that Eastern Iowa’s strong biking culture makes events like this possible.

“In this part of the state, there’s more gravel races and fat tire races than in Western Iowa,” Storjohann said. “There’s more [bike] clubs, a few more bike shops catering toward those that are a little more serious.”

While Storjohann said he enjoyed the ride, he was among the cyclists whose time on the trail overlapped with an unfolding tragedy at Lake Macbride State Park.

Just ten minutes before the race began, the Johnson County Joint Emergency Communication Center received a call from a passerby on the walking trail near the lake. The caller reported seeing a pair of gloves on the boat dock and a patch of broken ice nearby, fearing that someone may have fallen in.

As several departments, including the Solon and North Liberty Fire Departments, as well as the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Johnson County Metro Dive Team, and others, arrived at the lake, Storjohann said an officer intercepted passing cyclists and directed them to veer slightly off course, giving the first responders more space.

“[The route] was only affected maybe one minute,” Storjohann said, noting that he did not witness any of the first responders or the victim but did see a stretcher on the ice.

According to a Saturday afternoon press release from Johnson County Sheriff’s Office, responding emergency personnel observed a body in the lake when they arrived.

“Members of the Solon Fire Department donned ice rescue suits and were able to remove the individual from the water,” the release reads. “The individual was transported by ambulance to the University of Iowa Hospital but did not survive.”

The release further states that the length of time the victim was underwater remains unclear, and the incident is under investigation by the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office.

“That was a horrible tragedy,” Kullbom said. “We had to take a short detour off route to avoid the emergency rescue area.”

Despite the nearby tragedy, Kullbom was pleased with this year’s turnout. He noted that 239 cyclists had registered for the event, a significant increase from the 84 participants when he began managing Sugar Bottom Bikes and organizing the race eight years ago.

Ultimately, Jason Rassi won the men’s division with a time of 2:10:37, while Nicole Roth claimed the women’s title at 2:43:14.

Ethan McLaughlin |

The Daily Iowan

Four of the top finishers, from left: Ethan Sabers, Ben Jansen, Jason Rossi, and Michael Maney pose for a photo following the finish of the Lake Macbride Fat Tire Classic in Solon, IA on Saturday, Feb. 8, 2025.

The annual race featured a 30-mile loop as well as a 15-mile loop and spanned across wooded single track, gravel trails, and fields.