Solon Economist — 10.8.26

PAGE 6 Swimming: Little Hawks dominate Senior High Rams

SOLONECONOMIST.COM

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2026 • $1.50

‘…we have some Preserving the past through petals of the worst water quality in the nation’ Solon Public Library welcomed University of Iowa professor David Cwiertny for an interactive, informational talk about water quality across the state Grace Escritt Solon Economist

news@soloneconomist.com

‘ On Sept. 24, the Solon Public Library welcomed David Cwiertny — professor at the University of Iowa and director of the Center for Health Effects of Environmental Contamination — for a talk about water quality throughout Iowa. The talk was organized by Adult Services Librarian Victor Resendiz, who is responsible for planning and executing events that seek to engage adults within the community. Cwiertny said the purpose of this event was to answer frequently asked questions about Iowa water quality in relation to environmental and public health. “I think it is important that we point out that, in fact…we have some of the worst water quality in the nation,” he said during his introduction to the talk. Following this statement, Cwiertny explained that Iowa’s “surface waters” — which include rivers, streams, lakes and more — are all regulated by the Clean Water Act, which allows states to define how each body of water is used. Each body of water has a designated use, and once that use is identified, water quality is assessed according to federal standards to determine whether it should be used for that purpose. “In all of Iowa, out of the thousands of water bodies that we regulate, only 15 have all those uses (standards) met,” Cwiertny said. In addition, Cwiertny emphasized to the audience that this conclusion was reached through limited available data about Iowa’s surface waters. He said there are still around 1,500 water bodies within the state that there is little to no data on and that Iowa’s standards for determining whether water bodies meet designated use standards are far less rigorous in comparison to other states. “If you go to the DNR website, it will say that the reason we don’t have this information is because we don’t have the budget to do it,” Cwiertny said. “We choose not to invest in monitoring. We choose not to collect the data to know, so in some ways, we take a fairly lackadaisical approach to how we handle our surface waters.” After briefly explaining the poor state of Iowa’s water quality, Cwiertny began to explore the causes behind it. He said due to 70% of Iowa’s land being in corn-soy rotation as well as the high number of WATER | 2

INSIDE

Grace Escritt | Solon Economist

Antonia Russo (right) hands Colleen Altman (left) the iris that once belonged to Tom Altman’s grandmother on Sept. 26, 2026.

Since 1985, Antonia Russo has maintained a sprawling flower garden at her home in order to preserve history, maintain memories and connect Solon locals with their heritage Grace Escritt Solon Economist

news@soloneconomist.com

For Antonia Russo, storytelling is an art that spans far beyond the pages of a book or the words of an orator. Stories, memories and history are

Contributed photo

Sisters Winifred Ham and Elnora Altman tend to their garden; the flowers of which now reside in Russo’s garden.

preserved in nature; namely, the petals of the over 100 species of flowers growing in her garden. For over four decades, Russo has dedicated herself to preserving the past and connecting people to their ancestors through her heritage flower garden, which she has operated out of her home since 1985. The inspiration for her heritage garden first began around 40 years ago when she came across a beautiful set of roses that had been dug up and swept into a brush pile. Upon seeing these flowers swept to the curb, Russo felt a call-to-action. Right away, she contacted Winifred Ham, a friend who lived nearby. Together, these two women formed

the Solon Heritage Flower Society, which later grew and became composed of members of the community who felt passionate about maintaining the beauty and history of Solon through flowers. Over the years, the flower society has prioritized saving flowers from the homes of individuals who have moved or passed away. This way, they are not neglected or dug up and discarded. Once she transplants them into her garden, Russo refrains from using any fertilizers on her flowers, allowing them to grow organically. In the instance flowers are given to someone else, Russo gives them one condition: RUSSO | 3

LWVJC hosts District 2 County Supervisor debate Incumbent Jon Green (D) and challenger Phil Hemingway (R) shared what their priorities and goals would be upon getting elected as the District 2 County Supervisor Grace Escritt Solon Economist

news@soloneconomist.com

On Sept. 29, the League of Women Voters of Johnson County (LWVJC) hosted a debate Tuesday, Sept. 29,

Solon Public Library News - 3 | Opinions - 4 & 5 | Sports - 6-8 |

between incumbent Jon Green (D) and challenger Phil Hemingway (R): the two individuals running for the county supervisor position in Johnson County’s second district. The debate, which was held at the Solon Public Library, was moderated and timed by LWVJC members Nancy Dietz Jan Gorman. The first question asked to both candidates came from the league, but all others came directly from members of the public in attendance. Green introduced himself as the board of supervisors’ current chair as well as co-chair of the Yes JoCo Committee, which is an organization in support of the bond referendum that, if passed, would result in the creation

of a new Johnson County Sheriff’s Office and Jail. He explained this referendum has been central to his campaign focus and that he has been working to develop a proposal that he believes will be able to win the votes necessary to pass the referendum. During his introduction, Hemingway held a moment of silence for the two lives lost at Lake MacBride in late Sept. Following this, he introduced himself as a lifelong county resident who farmed with his father in the area following high school graduation, worked at a ranch in Belize for five years, and is presently retired — although he still works a couple of

9 | Public Notices - 10

SOLON

EC N MIST Focused on community.

DEBATE | 2

NEWS

2 | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2026 | SOLON ECONOMIST

WATER from 1

livestock being raised on farmland, Iowa disproportionately contributes to the landscape’s nitrogen load. He said around 3 billion pounds of anthropogenic nitrogen is added to the landscape each year; a lot of which becomes runoff. In addition to nitrogen runoff concerns, Cwiertny explained another concern in relation to Iowa’s water quality is the level of nitrate. He said Iowa regulates nitrate in water at 10 mg/L. This is because if consumed at high levels, nitrate — which is a product of things like fertilizer runoff and septic tank leaching — may result in acute health risks like methemoglobinemia, or “blue-baby syndrome.” There are many different methods that may be used to maintain nitrate levels below this threshold of 10 mg/L. Cwiertny explained that in Des Moines, for example, multiple different water sources may be mixed together in order to dilute them. Des Moines may also employ its nitrate removal system on one body of water, then mix that filtered water with other bodies to reduce the

DEBATE from 1

days a week as a small engine mechanic. He later mentioned that he formerly served on the Iowa City Community School District’s Board of Education as well. Following opening statements, the first question asked was in relation to Senate File 75: a new state law that allows residents to only cast votes for the supervisor candidates in their district. This means if one lives in district two, they can only vote for candidates in district two. Both candidates were asked how this would change the work of the board as well as how they would go about balancing the needs of the county and their individual district. Responding first, Green said he did not support this change in law and believes it is poorly drafted. He also said he believes being chosen by his colleagues as the board of supervisors’ chair for two straight years demonstrates his ability to serve. “...I do have the ability both to serve county constituents, but also my colleagues on the board,” he said. “I feel that serving as chair is in service to the board as an entity, and so I feel like I have demonstrated that I can hold that dichotomy in my service.” Reflecting on the same legislation, Hemingway said he feels having stronger rural representation in supervisor elections has been long overdue. He expressed he is concerned that in the past, as a result of Johnson County having an urban tilt, the needs of rural areas have gone under-addressed. He said although he hopes rural areas will be better represented in this upcoming election due to this legislation, this does not change the fact that a supervisor must represent the entire county. “It changes how you’re elected, but not how you gov-

nitrate levels. However, issues arise when all water levels are so high to the point where dilution and mixing is ineffective in getting below that threshold. “We call this pollution-induced water scarcity,” Cwiertny said. “It’s not that Des Moines is out of water and they’re restricting use…we’ve got plenty of water. It’s just too polluted to use.” Although he acknowledged Iowans are most commonly concerned about nitrogen runoff and nitrate levels within water sources, C w ier tny said the issues present go far beyond. He said water streams are most commonly impaired by bacteria more than anything. After discussing the issues present in relation to Iowa’s water qua lit y, C w ier t ny explained some of the most common health concerns that arise upon hearing of these issues. He said one of the most common questions he gets is whether factors like these contribute to Iowa’s rising cancer rates. In addressing this common question, Cwiertny explained that ultimately, environmental factors such as water quality should not be excluded from consideration. However, cor-

relation does not necessarily mean causation, meaning that although Iowa’s water quality may be poor, this does not mean it is causing these types of health risks. Although there is no accurate measure of if — or how much — Iowa’s environmental factors are contributing to the state’s cancer and health risk epidemic, Cwiertny said people should not wait for there to be definitive proof before taking action. He said considering Iowa’s intensive land use and natural threats, it is better to be proactive than reactive. “What I would just say is… there is a bit to this where we need more people who are willing to just talk about this with friends, with neighbors, because I don’t think the status quo is going to get us where we want to go, right? I think there are other alternatives. We just need more people understanding how this is affecting them potentially and wanting something different,” Cwiertny said.

ern,” Hemingway said. “You still have to weigh the concerns of everyone in the county, not just the district that gets you into office.” In relation to the sheriff’s office and jail bond referendum, both candidates expressed they are in support of it. Green said if the new office and jail were to be built, he foresees the county bulldozing the current facilities and selling that land to the highest bidder. Following this, he would support those proceeds going toward paying off the bond debt in advance to reduce property taxes sooner. Reflecting on the tax impacts that would result from this bond’s passage, Hemingway said one of his main priorities as supervisor would be to serve as a “fiscal watchdog” by searching for ways to get rid of unnecessary county assets. He said he would approach the role of supervisor as a “fiscal conservative” in relation to all issues. Following the bond discussion, Green and Hemingway gave their views on supervisor salaries. According to Green, board supervisors currently make around $98,000 per fiscal year, which is under 1% of the board’s roughly $165 million annual budget. Green said he believes this salary is justified, as the board of supervisors is far different from most other county boards. He said supervisors often serve on numerous different boards and are charged with overseeing 24 county departments and around 700 employees each day. He believes the supervisor role has a broad scope and that the salary matches the work. “I know how much I’ve worked, especially these last couple of years, and you see that in what we’re doing,” Green said. In contrast, Hemingway said he does not agree with the current supervisor salary. “When I first ran, I said that I would not accept anything

more than the 2018 level,” he said. “That’s a difference of $31,100, which I will donate to 4-H and FFA when I am elected, and I will keep that as the ceiling, not the floor. I want it to go lower. It’s fiscally irresponsible, and it is one of the reasons why Johnson County is one of the most expensive places in the state to live.” After discussing their views on a few more topics, Green and Hemingway wrapped up the debate by summarizing their three main priorities as supervisor candidates. Green said his focus is on combatting legislative uncertainty, getting the bond passed and executing “good government” behind the scenes. Hemingway explained his focus is on lowering county costs, addressing the jail issue and promoting county efficiency. Early voting begins on Oct. 14, and Election Day is on Nov. 3. To find your polling place, visit https://gis.johnsoncountyiowa.gov/pollingplaces/.

Grace Escritt is a senior in the University of Iowa’s School of Journalism and Mass Communication. Grace is an intern with the Solon Economist.

Grace Escritt is a senior in the University of Iowa’s School of Journalism and Mass Communication. Grace is an intern with the Solon Economist.

SOLONECONOMIST.COM

Sheriff’s time report for 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. September summary Deputies reported 204 hours, 49 minutes spent in Solon in June with 168 calls for service. 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 319-3566800 to make a request to have one meet you. In an emergency, dial 9-1-1. September calls for service in Solon 911 Hangup 10 Alarm 4 Animal complaint 2 Assault 0 Assist other agency 0 Burglary 1 Business check 5 Child abuse/Neglect 0 Civil Tow 1 Community policing 6 Criminal mischief/vandalism 1 Disturbance/Civil 2 Disturbance/Domestic 1 Disturbance/Other 4 Escort/Relay 0 Extra patrol request 0 Fire response 5 Fraud/Forgery 0 Harassment/Obscene phone 5 Info/All other info 1 Intoxicated pedestrian 0 Juvenile 2 Littering/Illegal dumping 0 Medical emergency 24 Mental impairment 1 Missing/Juvenile/Adult 0 Motor Vehicle Accident 7 Narcotics 0 Open door/window 0 Out for follow up 3 Out with subject 1 Paper service 0 Phone request 8 Property/Lost/Found 0 Public assist 2 School visit/Patrol 28 Sex abuse 1 Special assignment 4 Suicide 1 Supervisor response 1 Suspicious act/pers./veh. 2 Theft 1 Threats 2 Traffic stop 19 Traffic/other 5 Trespass 0 Unknown problem 0 Vagrant/Transient 0 Vehicle unlock 2 Violation No Contact Order 0 Welfare Check 6 Total Calls for Service Total for the year

168 491

September hours in Solon Accident Investigation Animal Civil Criminal Investigation Door Checks Medical Assist Motorist Assist On Foot Other Patrol Public Relations Radar Reports Training Vehicle Maintenance

4:01 1:08 0:48 4:13 0:15 6:06 0:09 0:43 4:30 174:07 3:03 2:39 1:18 0:35 0:49

Total Hours Logged Hours Required Hours Over Hours Logged for the year Hours Over for the year Hours Required for the year

204:49 200:53 3:56 662:43 46:42 2,444:00

Volume 146 I Issue 41 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 Production Manager Heidi Owen heidi.owen@dailyiowan.com Advertising Director Juli Krause juli.krause@dailyiowan.com Interns Grace Escritt, reporter Cadence Dighton, reporter Abby Princehouse, digital/ social media, sports reporter Official Newspaper: Solon, Johnson County, Solon Community School District, Solon Tri-Township Emergency Response The Solon Economist (USPS 500860), a division of The Daily Iowan, is published weekly on Thursdays by Student Publications, 100 Adler Journalism Building, Room El31 Iowa City, IA 52242. Periodicals Postage Paid at the Solon Post Office and additional 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 2026 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

SOLONECONOMIST.COM

NEWS

OBITUARIES

SOLON ECONOMIST | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2026 | 3

SOLON PUBLIC LIBRARY NEWS Thomas Kral

Thomas J. Kral, 66, of Coralville, passed away on Thursday, October 1, 2026, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, surrounded by his family. Visitation with rosary will be from 4 to 7 p.m., Monday, October 5, 2026, at St. Mary Catholic Church in Solon. Funeral Mass will be at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at St. Mary Catholic Church, with burial to follow in Oakland Cemetery. Brosh Chapel and The Avacentre are in charge of arrangements. Tom was born May 16, 1960, in Iowa City, the son of Joe and Judy (Shebetka) Kral. He graduated from Solon High School, class of 1978, and earned an associate degree in agricultural business from Kirkwood Community College. Tom was united in marriage to Kathy Struzynski on October 2, 1982, at St. Mary Catholic Church in Oxford, to whom he remained married for 28 years. He was a manager at Paul’s Discount in Iowa City for many years. Tom enjoyed hunting with friends, gardening, cooking for his family, playing cards with neighbors, reading the newspaper, and most of all spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He "never met a stranger" and was a person of strong faith. Tom is survived by his three daughters, Anastasia (Dustin) Whited, Miranda Kral, and Ashley (Joshua) Beer; his grandchildren, Cole Whited, and Noelle and Audrey Beer; his former wife, Kathy Kral; his father, Joe B. Kral; his siblings, Tammy (Buddy) Johnson, Tim (Natalie) Kral, and Tricia Brinkman (Wayne Reynolds); former sister-inlaw, Vicki (Jim) Struzynski Olson; as well as his nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother, Judy; his grandparents, Louis and Anna Kral and Leonard and Hazel Shebetka; and former in-laws, Ivan and Mary Struzynski. Memorials may be directed to Coralville Community Food Pantry or Houses into Homes. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.broshchapel.com.

RUSSO from 1

they must be passed on and kept alive as time goes on. Although her work with the heritage garden formally began in the 1980s, Russo has always had a love for flowers. She said this passion derives from her childhood, where she spent a considerable amount of time at a flower garden in Dubuque while being babysat by a woman named Sister Roberta. “Somehow in that time, she gave to me a love of flowers,” Russo said. “I don’t know anybody that feels the same way I do about flowers.” Along with initiating Russo’s love for flowers, Sister Roberta continues to inspire Russo every day. She said a while ago, the scent of a blue phlox flower triggered a memory of her and Sister Roberta strolling through the garden and watching a hummingbird enjoy the environment. Taking these experiences into consideration, Russo has personally witnessed the power flowers have when it comes to preserving memories and serving as a reminder of the joyful past. Many of the flowers in her garden were initially planted as far back as three to four generations ago. For the original owners, they serve as memories of home and togetherness. They are also a way for families to connect with their ancestors, which Russo said is the entire purpose behind her work. On Sept. 26, Tom and Colleen Altman visited Russo’s heritage garden to retrieve irises that formerly belonged to Tom’s grandmother, Elnora. For Tom, these irises hold nostalgic memories of his childhood and Elnora. “Her garden was her favorite thing, and the irises and the black raspberry bushes are the two things that I remember the most from her yard, so it’s just a great thing,” he said. Looking back on the past 40 years, Russo is ecstatic to see that not only has she succeeded in her goal to bridge the gap between the past and present, but that her garden has also evolved into a habitat for local wildlife. Due to her organic gardening practices, she said her garden has become a sanctuary for monarchs, honeybees, birds and other animals. “It’s why it’s here: It’s becoming a habitat,” Russo said. For more information about the history of Russo’s garden or to save local flowers, she can be reached at (319) 644-2777. Grace Escritt is a senior in the University of Iowa's School of Journalism and Mass Communication as well as Department of Political Science. Grace is a reporting intern with the Solon Economist.

It’s pumpkin season! Come celebrate the spookiest of months with a plethora of programs for all ages! The 6th Annual “Put a Bid On it” Art Auction hosted by the Solon Public Library Foundation will be held in March 2027. The Foundation is seeking donations for the art auction. If you have a piece that no longer works in your space, are an artist, collector, or just love the Library, please keep the Foundation in mind. Donations can be dropped off at the Library during regular hours, receipts are available. Thank you for supporting the Solon Public Library Foundation as we build funds for projects above and beyond the library budget.

Library Programs Coming up is our Sixth Annual Great Pumpkin Decorating Contest! Pick out the perfect pumpkin and get it all dressed up for the season! Decorate (not carve) a pumpkin no larger than 8 inches diameter. Get creative! Paint, glue, or any medium you can think of. Bring your decorated pumpkin to the Library between Monday, October 12, and Saturday, October 17, before closing to be considered in our contest. Thursday, October 15, we’re having a Paint and Watch party at 3 p.m. Come chill with a spooky movie while painting ceramic Sugar Skulls and pumpkins! We'll vote on a selection of movies, grab our paint supplies, and fuel up on snacks. This program is intended for teens (6th - 12th graders), no registration required. Cookbook Club is quickly coming up! Saturday, October 17, at 11 a.m., we're going with autumn's seasonal fruit--the apple. So we're reading The Apple Cookbook: 125 Freshly Picked Recipes. Pick a recipe, take inspiration from the book or just bring your favorite food related to the theme!

Library Access Regular Library hours are Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-7 p.m. and Friday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Closed Sundays. Please always refer to our website calendar or call to check hours as weather may impact our ability to be safely open. Thursday, October 8, the Library will be closed for staff training as we attend the Iowa Library Association’s annual conference. Friday, October 23, the Library will be closed for annual staff safety training. Everyone is welcome at the Library and our programs. Please contact us with access needs.

What’s New?

Here’s what’s new in Non-Fiction at the Library! Never Say Die: A Memoir by Ke Huy Quan. Ke Huy Quan's Hollywood adventure began when he was twelve years old, a mere five years after his family escaped Communist Northern Vietnam and settled down to a relatively peaceful life in L.A.'s Chinatown. After attending an open call audition on a whim, he was unexpectedly swept up in the wild world of filmmaking: learning to swim from Harrison Ford on the set of Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, receiving trucks full of toys from Steven Spielberg and George Lucas for his birthday, meeting Princess Leia and Luke Skywalker, and making lifelong friends on the set of The Goonies. The Case for Quitting: The Surprising Benefits of Opting Out by Lindsay Crouse. We live in a society that champions perseverance, sweat, and tenacity no matter what the cost. But what if our relentlessness results in failure, sunken costs, and poor health, rather than success, happiness, and vitality? For anyone at a crossroads in their personal or professional lives, The Case for Quitting is a groundbreaking guide that ruptures our core beliefs. Career seekers, athletes, entrepreneurs, and anyone exploring new opportunities or feeling stuck in unproductive routines will appreciate its insights on the courage and strategy involved in quitting. House Hushing: The Simple Method to Declutter and Decorate for a More Peaceful Home by Myquillyn Smith. Your home can be both simple and soulful. If you've ever found yourself in an endless loop of decorating and decluttering, you're not alone. We've been told that a peaceful home means a nearly empty home. But peace isn't found in emptiness; it's found in intention. Myquillyn Smith, the original voice behind House Hushing, will help you create a simple, storied home full of personality, without being overly full of stuff. In House Hushing you'll learn to: declutter backwards--a mercifully simple, revolutionary new way to make decisions about what should stay and what should go, decorate quietly--make small, thoughtful shifts that major on impact, style soulfully--personalize your space with pieces that matter, and live seasonally--recognize rhythms that help you create a home that supports your ever-changing life. House Hushing isn't about having less for the sake of less--it's about creating clarity, comfort, and beauty that lasts, so your home can finally feel like a place to rest, gather, and belong. It's time to finally hush your house.

COMMUNITY PROFILE With the help of the UI Community News class, the Solon Economist plans to spotlight some of the people who live or work in Solon Name: Lisa Bishop Job: Owner of Zoetic Coffee since July 2021 Age: 43 Education: Graduated from Saint Ansgar High School in 2001; graduated from Iowa State University with a degree in art and design in 2005. Family (including children’s ages): Husband, Andy; son, Zander, 17; daughter, Zephie, 14; son, Zeke, 11. Childhood hometown: Saint Ansgar How long have you lived in Solon? 12 years. Favorite part of job: Being with people and community members. Whether it’s the staff, like I love managing and working with our staff, but then just our customers and getting to know them, especially our regulars, people who come through, and then you start building a relationship with them, but then also meeting new faces too. Most challenging part of job: Any office work. Anything on the computer. Hobbies/interests: I love art and sports. I'm doing any kids’ events that we're a part of. I've coached a lot of my kids' teams. So, I feel like we do a lot of that. We're also very involved at our church, so any type of, like whether it be Bible study or church events that we put on as well. Church and/or other memberships: We go to Jordan Creek Church here in town, and we were kind of a part of planning it. When we first moved here, there was not a nondenominational church in town, so there was like six of us families that started it up. Favorite book(s): The Bible Favorite TV show(s): I don't really watch TV enough to say it's my favorite. For a while we were watching “Tiny House Nation.” I thought that was funny . . . Oh, “The Office.” We'll do “The Office.” Favorite movie(s): I just saw the Michael Jackson one [“Michael”], that was interesting and fascinating to me cause you’re hearing people's stories, you know? That was probably the most recent that I really liked. I like musicals. I liked Willy Wonka. Favorite music genre: Christian Favorite sports team(s): Iowa State, whoop, whoop. Iowa State, I mean, that's it. I was like, do I say [the Indiana] Fever? I enjoy watching

Lily Kopp | For the Solon Economist

Lisa Bishop is seen in her business, Zoetic Coffee. them; they're entertaining. I wouldn't necessarily say that they're my favorite. Favorite food: Anything from Zoetic, the chicken harvest wrap, sushi. Favorite vacation spot: Cancun, Mexico, anywhere on the Caribbean. Anywhere. I want to go right now. Greatest role model: Jesus. Favorite quotation: “He > I.” What do you like best about Solon? I love the size that it is. I love that it's big enough that we have restaurants, and it's close to both bigger cities, but that it's small enough where you really feel like you know, you get to know a lot of people. So, the community members, getting to know the community.

OPINIONS

4 | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2026 | SOLON ECONOMIST

The job description

Food for Thought Milli Gilbaugh Most of the candidates for elective office are listing details of their work history as if being a farmer or restaurant owner somehow qualifies them to be governor or state auditor. Well, unless they can claim experience at the job they want, I guess the next best thing is to convince us that they are like us, so they understand exactly what we want from them. All this relatively meaningless hoopla about jobs has started me remembering the few actual paying jobs I've had during my lifetime. My dad had lined up a few "artistic" jobs for me with some of his friends who wanted signs or simple illustrations such as posters or price tags for booths at the county fair. The biggest project he set up for me was painting DICKERSON on both sides of a semi-trailer truck, The four-foot tall letters fitted nicely in the allotted space and required many hours on a stepladder which had to be moved frequently. Then there were the tedious FCC permit numbers required to be painted on both doors of the cab. I think I was paid about $25 for the job - which, although it took several days, seemed like a lot to me at the time. I had been helping out at the miniature golf course nearly every evening from 6:00 until closing (often as late as 11:00, and never expected to be paid for my time which included selling tickets, pop and candy bars, running the popcorn machine, changing reels on the tape recorder that broadcast popular music over a loud-speaker, and explaining the game and rules to first-time players. It never occurred to me to expect wages for all that - the golf course was, after all, a joint project between Dad and me, and I had been involved in every aspect from its creation drawing the plans, designing the scorecards and writing the rules, painting the signs and recording music tapes. My work would be rewarded by Dad's unquestioning help with my college expenses not covered by scholarships and part-time jobs. A senior girl I knew slightly had been working parttime at the J.C. Penney Store arranging display windows and tackling assorted odd jobs. She would be attending college and had recommended me as her replacement. This was the summer of 1950, and fifty cents an hour was the usual pay for those beginner jobs. We high school sophomores were glad for the chance to earn our own pocket money. I started my first paying job that summer, putting in about five hours a week. I would continue that schedule until I graduated in 1952, working after school and on Saturdays. My boss weas Frank Artz, who took delight in signing my paycheck 'FAatz.' He was easy to work for and assigned me a variety of chores in addition to the display windows. I lettered small signs and arranged tables of special sale merchandise, helped out at the hosiery department when the regular clerks were on break or extra busy, got in a little experience making change and zapping money and receipts to and from the different departments via the storewide overhead transport system. Dave, a boy from my class, worked mostly in the men's department doing basically the same jobs as I did except for the big display windows. We sometimes worked together unpacking huge boxes of tightly packed sale clothing, ironing out the wrinkles and putting them on hangers. I sometimes helped him refold and tidy up display tables of sweaters, scarves and other items that thoughtless browsers had left in a jumble. We were working on a display of men's underwear one day when the mother of my boyfriend, Jim, came in and sweetly asked me to pick out a dozen of the brightly colored boxer shorts for Jim. By noon on the following Monday, the entire high school student body knew that I was responsible for the colorful nature of Jim's college-bound underwear. My next part-time would pay the same fifty cents per hour but it would be much more interesting, involve several different bosses and many fellow students who would become cherished friends. Nobody had ever talked to me about attending college and I didn't expect it, even though I had dreamed of becoming a teacher.

SOLONECONOMIST.COM

Law enforcement protects and serves — and it should inform, too

The school field trip tragedy last week at cations in 2026 — when smartphone video Lake Macbride State Park again demoncameras are everywhere and social media strated the adage that a rumor can travel wirelessly connects the masses to remote halfway around the globe while the truth is locations. still putting on its shoes. It also means that when tax money goes for Government silence during a public crisis salaries of government information officers, or mass-casualty event creates an informaas in the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office and tion vacuum that rumor, speculation and Iowa City Community School District, these misinformation quickly fill. employees should work from the outset of a As the events last week north of Iowa City crisis or tragedy to inform the community, show, often that noise is simply wrong. rather than waiting for the end of the day’s It need not be that way — if government search and recovery efforts. officials would run toward the truth as fast as By the time sheriff’s and school officials first responders head toward danger. ultimately provided the public with inforAlmost always, the rumors, speculation, mation about the tragedy, those facts were misinformation and errors are avoidable if overshadowed by a rumor mill containing a Randy Evans government officials follow a simple rule of mixture of accurate and false details. Some Iowa Freedom of Information Council public service: When a serious public incierroneous information remains in circuladent occurs, become the go-to source of tion even now. information by releasing facts as quickly and There is no lid on information until govfrequently as you can. ernment speaks, nor should there be. But once emergency Informing the public does not mean disclosing details vehicles arrive and roads are blocked, people who see or that could jeopardize an ongoing investigation. It can mean hear about the events start posting on Facebook and X. The requesting patience while families of victims are notified. public learns about a tragedy, whether government officials And it certainly does not mean officials should speculate provide information or not. about the cause before an investigation ends. The choice officials face at times like this is not between But it does mean telling the public what officials know, saying everything and saying nothing. A better option is which often is a lot. telling what is known and specifying what is not. The tragedy on September 22 illustrates this. Explaining what cannot be released and why beats Johnson County sheriff’s deputies were dispatched to the silence every time. Updating the public as additional facts park adjacent to the Coralville Reservoir about 12:10 p.m. are verified also ensures accuracy. after receiving a report of people in the lake. As law officers That progression protects the official investigation and and firefighters converged, a helicopter circled overhead. allows for compassion while still helping the public receive Yet, basic facts about the incident remained unavailable reliable information about what occurred. for nearly nine hours — until the sheriff’s office released a Consider what happened last March 24 outside St. Luke statement shortly after 9 p.m. the Evangelist Catholic School in Ankeny. By then, bloggers and social-media users had posted A car left the school driveway, jumped the curb and claims about what occurred. One alleged a student died struck down 16 children. Ambulances rushed the youngand a teacher was in critical condition. Another reported sters to Des Moines hospitals, while police sought to that a teacher tried to rescue two students who had entered determine the cause of the crash. a spillway near the dam. Two months later, police announced that the 76-yearFacebook comments repeated other claims, including old driver had mistakenly pressed the accelerator instead that a teacher and child were dead. Victim names readily of the brake. No criminal charges would be filed. Because circulated on the web even though they cited no sources. of that decision, police said the driver’s name would not be made public. ***Editor’s note: This is exactly why we did not post By then, however, the name of a grandparent was circuanything about the incident until we had the JCSO press lating informally, and police had released a log of the day’s release in-hand. We’d seen the posts Evans mentions, even events. But a lot of unanswered questions remained. a report from somebody on scene that AirCare was leavThat it took two months for authorities to provide basic ing with a patient. We saw other media outlets, going for incident information, and did so with heavy redactions, “engagement,” essentially saying, “Something happened. raises another problem with withholding information. We don’t know what, but we want to be the first to tell you When the identity of a key participant in a serious incithat something happened.” I would argue that being the dent is kept confidential, reasonable people ask why and most local (to the incident) media outlet meant I had to be wonder whether a different driver would be afforded the hand-on-the-Bible certain about what was being pub- same consideration under similar circumstances. The lished-online and for last week’s print edition. public cannot independently assess whether a person has It’s better to wait, even if everybody is clicking away on received preferential treatment because of community every other media outlet’s websites/social media, gener- standing or connections with public officials. ating “clicks” and “page engagements,” than to have to go Transparency is important in maintaining public confiback an hour or two later and say, “Well, that wasn’t right.” dence in government decisions, even when officials reach We may never be “first,” but we’ll damn-sure be sure a defensible conclusion about criminal charges. Plus, being it’s right. open and prompt with the facts fosters accountability and Even if that means we’re the last. understanding, just as silence leads to rumor and fiction. Government officials cannot prevent people from posting When law enforcement and Iowa City school officials speculation on social media. It is not their job to prevent finally provided details that night about what had trans- fringe or sensational websites from publishing gossip and pired, facts started to separate from fiction — but only for invective. those who lingered to track developments about the inciBut officials also should not expect the public to remain dent. accommodating when community members hunger for That is precisely the problem. Information-hungry facts and knowledge and have the right to measure perforpeople often do not distinguish reality from rumor when mance of their government. authorities with factual details are not talking. In times of crisis, facts protect as well as inform. The public may accept initial speculation as final facts. And considering that timely, authoritative information This is not an argument for abandoning caution. is the best antidote to misinformation, law enforcement Instead, it is a call to recognize the reality of communi- officials should embrace their duty to inform.

Stray Thoughts

Q&A: Runaway government weaponization hurts Iowans With U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley Q: What should Iowans know about Jack Smith’s criminal investigations against President Trump? A: Three days after President Trump announced his

campaign for re-election in 2022, the Biden Justice Department appointed Special Counsel Jack Smith to conduct an investigation into Trump for allegedly mishandling classi-

SOLONECONOMIST.COM

OPINIONS/NEWS

fied documents and election interference. The genesis for Smith’s election investigation began at the Biden Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) under the codename “Arctic Frost.” An FBI agent – who was later forced to resign for publicly posting blatant political content online – broke the FBI’s own rules to get the investigation off the ground. That agent was found to have violated the Hatch Act for his political conduct on the taxpayers’ dime. As chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, my congressional oversight of Smith’s “Arctic Frost” case exposed a dangerous weaponization of the federal government that reinforces the importance of our robust system of checks and balances. Reckless, partisan investigations that misuse federal law enforcement, waste taxpayer dollars and target everyday Americans for partisan advantage undermine the public trust in government. Thanks to courageous whistleblower disclosures, my oversight showed the Biden Department of Justice was out to get President Trump, and cast a net over the entire Republican Party, including groups and individuals. At the congressional hearing I led in September, I called Smith to testify and answer questions about the blatant abuse of power by partisan federal agents and prosecutors that swept lawmakers, journalists and ordinary Americans into their dragnet. My oversight revealed extensive government overreach by Smith and his team, including how they: Subpoenaed the personal checks of 4,782 Americans from all 50 states who donated to President Trump or Trump-aligned campaigns between 2019 to 2023, including 42 Iowans. Obtained the phone toll records of at least 16 members of Congress and the content of text messages of 44 lawmakers,

including mine. This violated a constitutional guardrail known as the Speech or Debate clause, which prevents the executive branch from infringing on the legislative branch’s ability to carry out its core constitutional responsibilities. Obtained the communications of journalists, vacuuming up messages between nearly 50 reporters and their government sources, including 60 Minutes, Associated Press, CNN, CBS, NBC, the Wall Street Journal and more. Scooped up records from more than 400 Republican groups and individuals. Smith and his team of prosecutors and investigators broke the rules to throw the book at President Trump and put a target on the backs of his supporters. This bad faith approach to the rule of law gives the Department of Justice a black eye and erodes public confidence in government institutions. Q: How did 42 Iowans get swept up in Jack Smith’s investigation? A: Jack Smith’s subpoenas scooped up individual donor checks that included the sensitive information of private citizens across all 50 states. Among them, copies of the bank account numbers, routing numbers, home addresses and individual signatures of 42 Iowans were handed over to the Biden Justice Department and FBI. Sweeping up donor checks in a partisan dragnet is not the proper use of our justice system. This was an egregious invasion of privacy and a clear cut example of government overreach. As a government watchdog, my oversight will continue to keep check on abuses of power and ensure the laws passed by Congress are faithfully executed. On behalf of Iowans, I’m working as hard as ever to restore public trust in government. Sadly, every single

Adler Dental celebrates one-year anniversary Grace Escritt Solon Economist

news@soloneconomist.com

Oct. 1, Adler Dental celebrated Dr. Eric Adler’s one-year anniversary of holding his dental practice in Solon. Adler, who is originally from Omaha, NE, earned his bachelor’s degree in nutrition science at the University of Nebraska. Later, he completed a master’s degree in oral biology and a Doctor of Dental Surger y (DDS) degree at Creighton University. For Adler, dentistry is a way for him to combine multiple different lifelong interests and values he has. “I wanted to do something in the sciences,” he said. “I wanted something where the lifestyle matched helping people as well, and I think I liked really working with my hands and just creating…I think that’s what drew me, as well as being an entrepreneur.” Adler’s first job in dentistry was as an associate at Creighton, which he did for around a year. Following this, he did a startup, and after achieving considerable success, he decided to scour the Midwest for a place to move his practice. He said due to the town’s uniqueness and kind residents, Solon ended up being just the place he was looking for. Although a few internal and technical changes took place upon Adler Dental taking the place of Medin Family Dental in town, Adler said

SOLON ECONOMIST | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2026 | 5

Democrat in the U.S. Senate voted against the Stop Insider Trading Act that would ban members of Congress, spouses and their dependent children from purchasing stocks in publicly traded companies. That bill also includes a commonsense voter ID requirement that’s supported by more than 80% of Americans. The bill passed the House of Representatives earlier this year, with backing from Reps. Miller-Meeks, Hinson, Nunn and Feenstra. Democrats’ obstruction is yet another example of their party putting politics before the American people. Partisanship also is contaminating the federal bench. I’ve called on Chief Justice John Roberts to look into incendiary comments by federal judges that undermine public confidence in the courts and erode the perception of impartiality upon which our justice system depends. Iowans deserve and expect the nonpartisan administration of justice and equal treatment under the law. When partisanship steers prosecutions or infiltrates the court of law, public confidence wanes. As Iowa’s senior U.S. Senator, I’ll continue working to restore faith in government and bring common sense to Washington.

BUSINESS SERVICES SENIOR LIVING

VET SERVICES

FITNESS

TREE CARE

HOME SERVICES

HEALTH CARE

INSURANCE Contributed photo

Dr. Eric Adler smiles with dental assistants Holly, Carly and Lacy, who he thanks for their ongoing support and belief in the vision of Adler Dental.

the biggest change was ultimately the business’ name. He said settling into his practice was made easy due to the business’ staff. “I really liked the staff,” he said. “They did an awesome job in accommodating me.” Ref lecting on his past year spent operating his practice, Adler expressed Solon has star ted to feel like home to him. He said this is a product of his involvement with St. Mary’s Catholic Church as well as the community’s support and encouragement of him; that is, community at the individual and business levels. He and his wife Lauryn, who is also a den-

tist, are looking to settle down in Solon for the long term. “Solon is very accepting, and people have spoken highly of the practice,” he said. “It’s nice to know I’m doing right by them…I thought that was super cool to see how much goes into that and how much people care.” Tak ing into consideration the community support he has received over the past year, Adler said he looks forward to giving back as his practice expands over the next few years. “I want to help or be just a little part of the growth of the town, and I’m super excited to see what’s next for the community,” he

said. “I want to get more involved, and whatever little piece I can do to help it grow, I want to be a part of it.” Adler would like to acknowledge Lauryn due to her ongoing support of his vision as well as members of Adler Dental’s staff — including Carly, Lacey and Holly — for their ongoing support. He would also like to give thanks to his parents, who have been instrumental in helping him with repairs and ongoing renovations. Adler Dental 610 S. Market St., Solon 319-624-3495 www.adlerdentalclinic.com

YOUR AD HERE 319.624.2233

SUBSCRIBE • 319.624.2233

SPORTS

NEWS

6 | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2026 | SOLON ECONOMIST

UPCOMING SPORTS EVENTS

FOOTBALL Week Seven Friday, October 9 AT Washington, 7:30 p.m. Week Eight Friday, October 16 HOME vs. Mount Pleasant, 7:30 p.m. Week Nine Friday, October 23 HOME vs. Fort Madison, 7:30 p.m. (Senior Night)

SOLONECONOMIST.COM

SOLONECONOMIST.COM

SWIMMING

Little Hawks dominate Senior High Rams Chris Umscheid Solon Economist

chris.umscheid@soloneconomist.com

The City High Little Hawks hosted the Dubuque Senior Rams Tuesday, Sept. 29 and notched a dominating win with a 121-63 varsity score and 113-43 total for the junior varsity (JV) Solon’s Madelyn Elkins, Avery Feuerbach, and Ireland Hagarty are competing with City High this season and made multiple appearances on the night. Feuerbach led off for the winning JV 200yard medley relay (2:19.43), the winning JV 200-freestyle relay (2:08.22), and the winning JV 400-yard freestyle relay (4:40.51). Feuerbach also won the JV 100-yard backstroke in 1:17.20. Elkins was third in the varsity 200-yard individual medley (IM) in 2:37.67, third in the varsity 100-freestyle in 1:02.49, and swam the third leg of the winning varsity 200-yard freestyle relay (1:48.59). Elkins also had the third leg of the third place varsity 400-freestyle relay (4:09.48). Hagarty took third in diving with 158.40 points. The Little Hawks faced off against the “Trojan-Bolts” of Iowa City West High and Liberty High in the annual crosstown rivalry Tuesday (after this edition had gone to print) and will host the 2026 Mississippi Valley Conference Championship Swimming Meet Saturday, October 24.

VOLLEYBALL Saturday, October 10 CPU Tournament, Center Point, 8:30 a.m. Thursday, October 15 WaMaC Tournament, Solon HS, 4:00 p.m. CROSS COUNTRY Saturday, October 10 Bob Mudd Lynx Invitational (B&G), North Linn HS, Troy Mills, 8:40 p.m. Wednesday, October 14 WaMaC XC Championship (B&G), Seminole Valley Park, Cedar Rapids, 4:30 p.m. GIRLS SWIMMING (with Iowa City High School)

Thursday, October 22 MVC Championship Diving Meet at IC West (Coralville Rec Center), 5 p.m. Saturday, October 24 MVC Championship Swimming Meet at IC West (Coralville Rec Center), 12 p.m.

Photos by Megan Heine | For the Solon Economist

Top: Senior Irelynd Hagarty was captured in the air during the dive portion of the Little Hawks dual meet against Dubuque Tuesday, Sept. 29. Above left to right: Sophomore Avery Feuerbach leads off the JV 200yd freestyle relay at the Little Hawks dual meet against Dubuque Tuesday, Sept. 29. Senior Madelyn Elkins swims the backstroke during her varsity 200yd individual medley. Head coach Mandi Kowal cheers on the JV medley relay at the Little Hawks dual meet against Dubuque Tuesday, Sept 29. Iowa City HS vs. Dubuque Senior 9-29-26 Team scores Junior varsity – City High 113, Dubuque Senior 43 Varsity – City High 121, Dubuque Senior 63 Results JV 200 medley relay – 1 City High (AVERY FEUERBACH, Lydia Brown, Halie Schweitzer, Elsa Packer) 2:19.43. 2 City High (Malorie James, Vivian Gustafson, Kameron Kurpa, Rhett Coiner), 2:34.23 Varsity 200 medley relay – 1 City High (Ava Remme, Louisa Berry-Stoelzle, Maeve Waas, Clara Solt Espinosa) 1:56.12. 3 City High (Norah White, Lily Rowlette, Vidya Kumar, Miriam Karbeling-Kruth) 2:08.85 JV 200 freestyle – 1 Brooke Kehres 2:26.46. 3 Nora Langfitt 2:59.02. 4 Beatrix Bjarnadottir 3:12.65 Varsity 200 freestyle – 2 Helena Mundisev 2:01.99. 4 White 2:06.62. 5 Adel Cilek 2:15.42

JV 200 IM – 1 Kurpa 2:52.91. 2 Gustafson 2:53.59 Varsity 200 IM – 1 Remme 2:17.98. 3 MADELYN ELKINS 2:37.67. 4 Karbeling-Kruth 2:46.91. JV 50 freestyle – 2 Alice Fahey 31.93. 3 Packer 32.66. 5 Coiner 35.07. 7 Hannah Lens 39.64 Varsity 50 freestyle – 1 Waas 25.81. 3 Cilek 27.98. 5 Brown 29.29 Varsity 1-meter diving – 1 Anne Clifton 170.25. 3 IRELYND HAGARTY 158.40. 5 Calista Cahill 118.85 JV 100 fly – 1 Karbeling-Kruth 1:16.51. 2 Kurpa 1:19.16 Varsity 100 fly – 1 Waas 1:01.50. 3 BerryStoelzle 1:16.62. 4 Kehres 1:18.49 JV 100 freestyle – 4 James 1:22.61. 5 Ashlyn Bentler 1:23.48. 6 Langfitt 1:26.32. 7 Lens 1:29.03 Varsity 100 freestyle – 2 Solt Espinosa 57.21. 3 ELKINS 1:02.49. 5 Kumar 1:06.68 JV 500 freestyle – 1 Fahey 7:14.41. 2 Anna

Busard 8:23.94. 3 Bjarnadottir 8:32.12 Varsity 500 freestyle – 1 Mundisev 5:25.43. 2 Rowlette 5:33.77. 3 Schweitzer 6:33.35. JV 200 freestyle relay – 1 City High (FEUERBACH, Gustafson, Kurpa, Fahey), 2:08.22. 3 City High (James, Langfitt, Packer, Bentler) 2:26.60 Varsity 200 freestyle relay – 1 City High (Solt Espinosa, Cilek, ELKINS, Berry-Stoelzle) 1:48.59. 3 City High (Kehres, Brown, Karbeling-Kruth, Kumar) 1:59.29 JV 100 backstroke – 1 FEUERBACH 1:17.20. 3 Bentler 1:38.95. 4 Coiner 1:43.91 Varsity 100 backstroke – 1 Remme 1:02.50. 2 White 1:05.94. 5 Kumar 1:17.07 JV 100 breaststroke – 1 Schweitzer 1:29.66. 2 Gustafson 1:30.69. 5 Busard 1:48.69 Varsity 100 breaststroke – 1 Rowlette 1:14.83. 3 Berry-Stoelzle 1:17.36. 5 Brown 1:26.93 JV 400 freestyle relay – 1 City High (FEUERBACH, Kehres, Fahey, Schweitzer)

4:40.51. 2 City High (James, Langfitt, Packer, Coiner) 5:39.70. 3 City High (Clifton, Bentler, Bjarnadottir, Busard) 6:06.03 Varsity 400 freestyle relay – 1 City High (Waas, Remme, Mundisev, Solt Espinosa) 3:50.33. 3 City High (White, Cilek, ELKINS, Rowlette) 4:09.48

Mississippi Valley Standings Conf. Overall

Cedar Falls Linn-Mar IC West High Wahlert Catholic IC City High CR Kennedy Dubuque Senior Dubuque Hempstead CR Washington CR Jefferson

4-0 4-0 5-1 5-1 4-2 2-2 1-4 1-5 1-5 0-5

26-4 21-9 18-1 23-8 13-6 12-13 11-19 7-8 6-15 0-11

SOLONECONOMIST.COM

SPORTS

CROSS COUNTRY

Solon XC runs in Wartburg’s Steve Johnson High School Invitational

SOLON ECONOMIST | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2026 | 7

Solon cross country teams compete strong at Williamsburg Kate Blodig For The Solon Economist news@soloneconomist.com

Solon Economist WAVERLY — Wartburg College hosted the ninth annual Steve Johnson Invitational Saturday, October 3, on their Max Cross Country Course, an NCAA-level course. After varsity women and varsity men ran, high school competition began with varsity girls and the Lady Spartans finishing 15th out of 32 teams, led by Addison Seamans (55, 19:58.6). Varsity boys followed with the Spartans placing 30th out of a 39-team field, led by Anders Holmes (82, 17:00.2). The JV boys were 22nd (23 teams total), led by Asher Sutton (216, 20:00.1), and the JV girls were ninth (17 teams), led by Hannah Thomsen (46, 22:50.6). 2026 Steve Johnson Invitational Saturday, October 3 Varsity boys team scores – 1 Liberty HS 84, 2 Wayzata 87, 3 Cedar Falls 107, 4 Dowling Catholic 128, 5 Valley West Des Moines 224, 6 Iowa City, City High 242, 7 Davenport Central 260, 8 Dubuque Hempstead 272, 9 Norwalk 279, 10 Linn-Mar 308, 11 Decorah 326, 12 Mount Vernon-Lisbon 349, 13 Gilbert 395, 14 Clear Creek Amana 420, 15 Assumption Catholic 426, 16 Ames 432, 17 Dubuque Senior 491, 18 Cedar Rapids Kennedy 492, 19 Clear Lake 554, 20 Blake 556, 21 Rockford 574, 22 Marshalltown 616, 23 Kasson-Mantorville 627, 24 Earlham 670, 25 Nodaway Valley 709, 26 Columbus Community 748, 27 Notre Dame/West Burlington 750, 28 Williamsburg 751, 29 Waverly-Shell Rock 761, 30 Solon 798, 31 Rochester Lourdes 850, 32 Cedar Rapids Washington 878, 33 Kewaskum 960, 34 Newton 997, 35 Onalaska 1041, 36 Austin 1050, 37 Osage 1080, 38 Mid-Prairie, Wellman 1125, 39 Clayton Ridge 1144 Results – 82 Anders Holmes 17:00.2, 155 Deacon Waddell 17:47.0, 159 Brooks Kabela 17:50.3, 242 Colton Kolar 18:46.1, 245 Layne Harden 18:49.4, 319 Ben Yeomans 20:21.1, 326 Sam Ekroth 20:49.2, 329 Anthony Havlicek 21:02.9, 330 Will McAtee 21:03.7, JV boys team scores – 1 Wayzata 19, 2 Iowa City, City High 85, 3 Cedar Falls 99, 4 Linn-Mar 105, 5 Liberty HS 126, 6 Valley West Des Moines 147, 7 Decorah 201, 8 Dowling Catholic 212, 9 Norwalk 253, 10 Dubuque Senior 305, 11 Ames 372, 12 WaverlyShell Rock 392, 13 Mount Vernon-Lisbon 426, 14 Assumption Catholic 429, 15 Gilbert 439, 16 Cedar Rapids Kennedy 492, 17 Kasson-Mantorville 527, 18 Clear Lake 532, 19 Williamsburg 608, 20 Newton 661, 21 Osage 665, 22 Solon 701, 23 Clayton Ridge 747 Results – 216 Asher Sutton 20:00.1, 390 James Zimmerman 22:51.3, 428 Benjamin Fetzer 24:09.8, 429 Caden Brock 24:10.9, 443 Ian Stranberg 25:04.3, 451 Clayton Cooney 25:27.6, Varsity girls team scores – 1 Wayzata 77, 2 Cedar Fals 102, 3 Pleasant Valley 106, 4 Iowa City, City High 183, 5 Valley West Des Moines 187, 6 Williamsburg 215, 7 Linn-Mar 246, 8 Mid-Prairie, Wellman 316, 9 Mount Vernon-Lisbon 334, 10 Clear Creek Amana 344, 11 Clear Lake 362, 12 Davenport Central 364, 13 Dubuque Senior 389, 14 Decorah 411, 15 Solon 414, 16 Kewaskum 450, 17 Newton 470, 18 Boone 475, 19 Rochester Lourdes 494, 20 Xavier Catholic 510, 21 Blake 517, 22 Onalaska 564, 23 Rockford 566, 24 Austin 576, 25 Notre Dame/West Burlington 618, 26 Earlham 723, 27 Marshalltown 777, 28 Kasson-Mantorville 781, 29 Assumption Catholic 800, 30 WaverlyShell Rock 867, 31 Osage 901, 32 Kingsland 1010 Results – 55 Addison Seamans 19:58.6, 69 Mailee Schmidt 20:16.6, 102 Falyn Svalstad 20:51.6, 117 Kinley Mai 21:08.1, 126 Ava Rolwes 21:14.5, 129 Laeni Hinkle 21:16.3, 130 Stella Beck 21:16.7, 133 Liv Nelson 21:22.0, 210 Jillian Janssen 23:08.6, 220 Mya Fordice 23:34.1 JV girls team scores – 1 Wayzata 17, 2 Cedar Falls 62, 3 Iowa City, City High 82, 4 Pleasant Valley 123, 5 Dubuque Senior 147, 6 Valley West Des Moines 154, 7 Decorah 161, 8 Linn-Mar 249, 9 Solon 272, 10 Mount Vernon-Lisbon 347, 11 Clear Lake 348, 12 Kewaskum 407, 13 WaverlyShell Rock 410, 14 Xavier Catholic 412, 15 Mid-Prairie, Wellman 439, 16 Newton 451, 17 Clayton Ridge 472 Results – 46 Hannah Thomsen 22:50.6, 70 Raelynn Hamer 23:30.6, 82 Quinn Armentrout 23:54.1, 88 Alli Kallaus 24:04.5, 104 Joselyn Donnenwerth 24:41.1, 137 Seneca Terzano-Borovic 25:56.1, 165 Beckitt Kabela 27:29.9, 166 Taylor Jett 27:30.0, 174 Jorilyn Bell 27:51.0, 179 Ellie Durr 28:15.4, 183 Scarlet TerzanoBorovic 28:42.5, 184 Maya Lord 28:43.1, 192 Violet Houtakker 29:30.2, 209 Lillian Burk 31:42.0, 211 Gabby Jedlicka 32:24.8, 213 Caidence Macke 32:42.8 Source: Wisconsin Athlete, Steve Johnson Invitational — 2026 Cross Country Results, https:// wiathlete.com/cross-country/meets/steve-johnsoninvitational-2026-10-03, updated October 4, 2026

Photos by Kate Blodig | For the Solon Economist

Top: Addison Seamans, a junior on the Solon varsity cross country team, competes at the Williamsburg XC Invitational on Tuesday, Sept. 29. Seamans placed 13th overall. Above: Anders Holmes, a junior on the Solon varsity cross country team, competes at the Williamsburg XC Invitational on Tuesday, Sept. 29. Holmes placed 32nd overall. Williamsburg Invitational, Tuesday, Sept. 29 Middle School boys 2,400-meter run – 3 Braxton Reed 8:33.00, 12 Sebastian Holmes 8:55.10, 18 Cody Kraxner 9:07.50, 37 Tyler Juhl 9:30.80, 46 Calvin Nelson 9:40.50, 51 Alex Bochmann 9:46.30, 71 Ezra Harris 10:02.60, 82 Jack Bogard 10:17.10, 88 Maverick Hansen 10:23.60, 99 Landon Branscomb 10:36.50, 101 Hank Clippert 10:36.80, 103 Sawyer Frazier 10:38.10, 170 Mathew Walker 11:53.10, 199 Landon Kunkel 12:38.50, 220 Noah Hale 13:21.30 Team scores – 1 Iowa City 68, 2 Regis MS 90, 3 Williamsburg 99, 4 Solon 107, 5 Prairie 118, 6 Vinton-Shellsburg 141, 7 Van Meter 237, 8 Mount Vernon 265, 9 Pella Christian 270, 10 Tipton 273, 11 English Valleys 327, 12 Mediapolis 339, 13 Danville 351, 14 Colfax-Mingo 355, 15 Baxter 416, 16 South Tama County 425, 17 Meskwaki Settlement 438, 18 Belle Plaine 526 Middle School girls 2,400-meter run – 4 Emma Olsem 9:30.00, 8 Ashlyn Schmidt 9:48.10, 9 Kendall Henning 9:50.10, 14 Drew Hinkle 9:58.30, 15 Vayda Svalstad 10:04.60, 19 Briar Kabela 10:15.70, 27 Sumayya Ahmed 10:27.00, 29 Eva Aldrich 10:29.20, 37 Aubrey Kelley 10:37.70, 52 Brinley Janssen 10:52.60, 54 Katelyn Merrick 10:54.20, 81 Kinsley Ehmsen 11:36.20. 89 Cora Thomsen 11:51.80, 111 Lola Thompson 12:35.60, 114 Brie Cooney 12:41.00, 129 Ava Laroche 13:11.30, 139 Sophia Jedlicka 13:34.70, 156 Adalee Sedlacek 14:55.80 Team scores – 1 Solon 50, 2 Van Meter 75,

After three canceled meets and altered training schedules due to a soggy fall, the Solon cross country teams were finally able to compete against someone other than themselves the last week of September. Both varsity and JV competed at the Williamsburg XC Invitational on September 29, finishing third in the varsity and JV race for the girls, and 17th in the boys varsity and 13th in the JV. The varsity teams also competed a few days earlier at the Anamosa XC Invitational on September 26, when the girls team placed first and the boys team finished tenth. Both meets came after a frustrating stretch for Solon. Three meets were canceled due to weather, leaving the Spartans without a competition for more than two weeks in the heart of their schedule. With championship season approaching, the Anamosa and Williamsburg meets gave the team a long-awaited opportunity to see how their training was translating to competition. Even the meets that happened didn’t come without changes. The Williamsburg Invitational moved its start time up four hours, taking competitors out of school, due to a threat of rain in the forecast. The Solon girls varsity team placed third out of 19 teams, with junior Addison Seamans leading the way for the Spartans. Seamans placed 13th with a time of 20:52.9. Sophomore Mailee Schmidt followed closely behind, placing 16th with a time of 21:04.3. “Our girls ran really well. Addison Seamans had a great race today,” head Coach Emy Williams said. “I felt alright about my race,” Seamans said. “I feel like it was pretty good with not having that many meets.” Senior Laeni Hinkle also had a

3 Williamsburg 83, 4 Prairie 114, 5 Tipton 162, 6 Iowa City 175, 7 Mount Vernon 188, 8 English Valleys 204, 9 Vinton-Shellsburg 232, 10 Pella Christian 250, 11 Regis MS 278, 12 Iowa Valley 304, 13 Eddyville-Blakesburg 351, 14 Colfax-Mingo 408, 15 Mediapolis 433 JV boys 5,000-meter run – 1 Brooks Kabela 18:25.40, 95 Anthony Havlicek 21:54.40, 97 Sawyer Gerlits 21:56.70, 102 Sam Ekroth 22:03.50, 198 Ben Fetzer 25:51.70, 199 Ian Strandburg 25:58.20, 209 Clayton Cooney 26:23.20, 217 James Zimmerman 27:18.00, 235 Caden Brock 29:54.00 Team scores – 1 ADM 76, 2 Pella 94, 3 Mount Vernon 116, 4 Carlisle 117, 5 Bondurant-Farrar 122, 6 North Scott 150, 7 Pella Christian 205, 8 Marion 233, 9 Baxter 243, 10 Tipton 289, 11 PCM 293, 12 Williamsburg 307, 13 Solon 334, 14 Van Meter 353, 15 Grinnell 457, 16 VintonShellsburg 464, 17 West Delaware 486 JV girls 5,000-meter run – 1 Jillian Janssen 22:06.00, 9 Mya Fordice 23:29.20, 17 Hannah Thomsen 24:16.40, 19 Quinn Armentrout 24:21.20, 32 Alli Kallaus 24:50.70, 43 Raelynn Hamer 25:09.00, 59 Madelyn McCandless 26:05.50, 84 Beckitt Kabela 27:46.00, 86 Viviana Schmooke 27:48.40, 87 Seneca Terzano-Borovic 27:52.00, 99 Taylor Jett 28:21.50, 106 Ellie Durr 28:41.50, 113 Kendall Werner 29:21.90, 114 Lily Zimmerman 29:30.20, 115 Isabelle Walter 29:37.40, 116 Violet Houtakker 29:41.20, 119 Jorilyn Bell 30:00.70, 121 Scarlet Terzano-Borovic 30:20.20, 126

strong performance. Hinkle placed 41st in a time of 21:57.1, finishing sixth for the Spartans. “[For] Laeni Hickle, it was her first time in a varsity race. It was her second ever cross country meet, so that was good to see,” Coach Williams said. The starting gun went off approximately 30 minutes later, signaling the start of the varsity boys race. The Solon boys placed 17th out of 20 teams, with junior Anders Holmes finishing first for the Spartans. He placed 32nd in a time of 17:53.0. Junior Deacon Waddell placed second for the Spartans, placing 57th in a time of 18:39.5. “Today was a great day. They all took advantage of actually getting to run on a beautiful day,” Coach Williams said. “The course was in pretty great condition, and everyone ran really well. I think we just competed really well with some teams that have beaten us in the past.” Williams’ said the team's main goal heading into the meet was to compete and use the race as an opportunity to evaluate their progress. She wanted runners to learn what they could improve on in practice before their next meet. “I think we just showed that, you know, we are better than what we’ve maybe raced in the past,” Williams said. After a few meets that gave Solon a chance to see where they stand, the Spartans head into the final stretch of the season with confidence. With three more regular season meets and the state-qualifying meet on Oct. 21, the team will have the opportunity to build on what they have learned and continue to compete against some of the teams they have been chasing. Kate Blodig is a sophomore in the University of Iowa's School of Journalism and Mass Communication. Kate is a student in the Prep Sports Report class.

Miranda Simison 31:08.20, 140 Lillian Burk 33:55.20, 145 Caidence Macke 37:06.50 Team scores – 1 Williamsburg 63, 2 Mount Vernon 69, 3 Solon 77, 4 Tipton 92, 5 Pella 113, 6 ADM 155, 7 Bettendorf 177, 8 Bondurant-Farrar 205, 9 Pella Christian 242, 10 Van Meter 250, 11 Marion 298, 12 Vinton-Shellsburg 346, 13 West Delaware Varsity boys 5,000-meter run – 32 Anders Holmes 17:53.00, 57 Deacon Waddell 18:39.50, 94 James Dooley 19:37.70, 118 Layne Harden 20:41.20, 122 Ben Yeomans 21:03.50, 132 Will McAtee 22:15.20, Team scores – 1 Mount Vernon 80, 2 Pella Christian 125, 3 ADM 164, 4 BondurantFarrar 173, 5 Pella 183, 6 Baxter 203, 7 North Scott 204, 8 Washington 208, 9 Marion 222, 10 PCM 229, 11 Carlisle 233, 12 Van Meter 316, 13 Grinnell 320, 14 Mount Pleasant 333, 15 Williamsburg 339, 16 Tipton 340, 17 Solon 417, 18 West Delaware 442, 19 Burlington 518, 20 Vinton-Shellsburg 520 Varsity girls 5,000-meter run – 13 Addison Seamans 20:52.90, 16 Mailee Schmidt 21:04.20, 31 Liv Nelson 21:38.70, 32 Kinley Mai 21:45.20, 39 Falyn Svalstad 21:54.50, 43 Stella Beck 22:01.50 Team scores – 1 Williamsburg 68, 2 Pella 111, 3 Solon 131, 4 ADM 144, 5 Mount Vernon 160, 6 Tipton 174, 7 Van Meter 196, 8 PCM 244, 9 Pella Christian 268, 10 North Scott 271, 11 Marion 283, 12 Mount Pleasant 338, 13 Bettendorf 347, 14 West Delaware 355, 15 Burlington 358, 16 Washington 395, 17 Bondurant-Farrar 407, 18 Baxter 409, 19 Carlisle 497

SPORTS

8 | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2026 | SOLON ECONOMIST

SOLONECONOMIST.COM

FOOTBALL

Spartans shut out the Keokuk Chiefs on the road Solon 51 Keokuk 0 Quinn Felderman For the Solon Economist news@soloneconomist.com

KEOKUK — Another week, another blowout for the Solon Spartans as they marched down to Keokuk to shut out the Chiefs 51-0. Despite Solon’s strong position at the top of 3A, Head Coach Lucas was focused on keeping a tight ship, “Glancing at scores around the state, I saw a lot of unranked teams beat ranked teams. We can't let complacency set in.” Stanton Said. Maddox Kelley continues to be a problem for defenses all across 3A play with his dual-threat abilities. He finished 6/9 for 76 yards in the air, finding Kaden Hoeper in the endzone twice. On the ground, Kelley broke free for 128 yards on 5 attempts, dashing in for 3 more scores on the ground. After taking a massive 42-0 lead at halftime, the Spartans had another opportunity to pull the starters, allowing for other athletes to get some varsity snaps. “It was really nice to see tonight, and over the last couple of weeks, the opportunities to get some guys experience in a varsity game. During these moments, many of our starting guys or guys who play a little bit more are doing a good job of supporting and even coaching guys up at their respective positions.” Stanton said. Running back Sawyer Hancox opened

the second quarter with a 34-yard burst to score his first touchdown of the season. Defensively, the Spartans played flawlessly. They completely stuffed the trenches, forcing -36 net rushing yards. Keokuk couldn’t find much rhythm in the air either; along with Kelley’s first-quarter interception, Michael Bigelow hauled in three more in the second half. Solon’s defense ended with 4 turnovers, 14 TFLs, 7 sacks, and a safety on the last play of the game. Late in the game, Keokuk’s offense began to gain some momentum with a few big plays, that had them in position to ruin the shutout. Coach Stanton called a timeout, challenging his athletes to meet expected standards of the program, “They needed to wake up and play Solon Football. Their response was outstanding and we ended up coming up with a big interception on the drive. The standard doesn't change based on who is in there or what the score is. I was so excited and proud of that group and their response.” Stanton said. “It doesn't matter who we play or where. We want to compete to a high standard in doing things disciplined and at a high level” Next week, the Spartans will travel to Case field to take on the 3-3 Washington Demons. “We have a good road game routine that this group is used to, so for us it's staying in that routine. Every team wants to win, and Washington will be preparing just like us to try to win the game - they have good coaches, and they have good kids, it's a program with some history of success. We will get their best”

Highlights Ryan Paris For the Solon Economist news@soloneconomist.com

Quarterback Maddox Kelley accounted for three touchdowns on the ground and threw for three more as a passer. Defensive lineman Simon Einwalter recorded two sacks and four tackles for loss, as the Spartan defense forced four turnovers as a unit. It was Solon’s first time breaking 50 points this season. This Week: #1 Solon (6-0) travels to Washington to play the Demons (3-3) on Friday, October 9, at 7:30 PM.

“Each team has its own unique strengths and weaknesses. It's on us as coaches to come up with a plan, and one that the boys can execute. And they sure did that tonight.”

Lady Spartans shut out West Delaware 3-0

Solon holds off 3rd set challenge by Hawks to secure shutout Aliya Stork For the Solon Economist news@soloneconomist.com

No. 4 Solon went 3-2 last week beating No. 15 West Delaware 3-0 (25-20, 25-14, 25-22) in Manchester Tuesday, Sept. 29, and going 2-2 at the Union Varsity Invitational. Amelia Guinn had ten kills against West Delaware and 18 kills Saturday in the invitational. This week: Solon will play in the Center-Point Urbana Tournament Saturday, October 10.

“We knew coming into today it was going to be some hard competition, and this tournament never disappoints. Beckman and Union both came out strong, Beckman was fast and we didn't anticipate that and never got into that game. After we met as a team, they got refocused and their effort against Union was really good, unfortunately it was enough to get the win. They are a good team, and these are the types of games we need getting ready for state. Now we refocus and look to Tuesday." Ruben Galvan, Head Coach

Aliya Stork is a freshman at the University of Iowa’s School of Journalism and Mass Communications. Stork is a student in the Prep Sports Report class. Editor Chris Umscheid contributed to this story.

Class 3A District 4 scores Solon 51 Keokuk 0 Fairfield 28 Washington 14 Mount Pleasant 45 Fort Madison 10

Lucas Stanton, Head Coach Quinn Felderman is a senior in the University of Iowa’s School of Liberal Arts and Sciences. Quinn is a student in the Prep Sports Report class. Ryan Paris is a senior in the University of Iowa’s School of Journalism and Mass Communication. Ryan is a student in the Prep Sports Report class.

VOLLEYBALL Solon 3 West Delaware 0 Kills – Amelia Guinn 10, Charleigh Whitford 8, Zephie Bishop 7, Addison Walter 5, Harper Nicholson 4, Makinley Galvan 2, Kalynn Timmons 1 Assists – Ava Hohn 17, Scarlett Ferin 13, Macy Fuller 3, Anabelle Boelkins 1 Solo blocks – Walter 1 Block assists – Nicholson 8, Bishop 4, Galvan 3, Walter 2, Guinn 2, Whitford 1 Dig – Fuller 13, Timmons 9, Boelkins 7, Ferin 5, Hohn 3, Nicholson 2, Guinn 2, Walter 1, Whitford 1, Bishop 1 Ace – Fuller 4, Boelkins 2, Ferin 2 Solon 2 Dunkerton 0 (21-14, 21-17) Kills – Amelia Guinn 6, Addison Walter 5, Hailey Gorham 4, Zephie Bishop 3, Charleigh Whitford 2, Harper Nicholson 1 Assists – Scarlett Ferin 12, Ava Hohn 5, Macy Fuller 3, Bishop 1 Solo blocks – Whitford 1 Block assists – Nicholson 4, Guinn 2, Bishop 2 Dig – Hohn 7, fuller 6, Ferin 4, Whitford 3, Kalynn 2, Walter 1, Anabelle Boelkins 1 Solon 2 South Tama County 0 (21-14, 21-8) Kills – Amelia Guinn 6, Addison Walter 4, Charleigh Whitford 4, Harper Nicholson 3, Makinley Galvan 2, Beckett Kruse 2, Zephie Bishop 1 Assists – Scarlett Ferin 10, Ava Hohn 8, Macy Fuller 1 Solo blocks – Walter 1, Guinn 1

Stats Passing – Maddox Kelley 6/9, 76 yards, 2 TDs. Ryder Laing 3/5, 36 yards, Receiving – Quinten Henning 1-28, Cody Milliman 2-24, Jackson Burk 1-23, Kaden Hoeper 2-17-2 TDs, Owen Bock 1-12, Paxton Holtkamp 1-5, Jonathan 1-3 Rushing – Kelley 5-128-3 TDs, Sawyer Hancox 5-54-1 TD, Burk 4-54, Grant Milliman 1-11, Owen Heesch 1-8-1TD Tackles – Simon Einwalter 5.0-5-2 sacks, Caden Kilburg 5.0-4-1 sack, Michael Bigelow 4.5-3, C. Milliman 3.5-2-1 sack, Cohen Leichtman 2.0-2-2 sacks, Kelley 2.02, Hoeper 2.0-2, Rowan Ashbacker 2.0-1, G. Milliman 1.5-1, Owen Bock 1.5-1, Drew O’Neill 1.5-1, Holtkamp 1.5-1, Foster Owens 1.0-1-1 sack, Wyatt Young 1.0-1, Logan Ross 1.0-1, Mac Svalstad 1.0-1, Hudson Pauley 1.0-1, AJ Haege 1.0-1, Bradyn Schnoor 1.0-1, Grant Gordon 0.5, James Thomsen 0.5, Sawyer Hansel 0.5, Lucas Feuerbach 0.5 Interceptions – Bigelow 3-8, Kelley 1-11 PAT – Collin McKie 6/6, Ashbacker 1/1

Block assists – Nicholson 2, Guinn 1, Bishop 1 Dig – Fuller 10, Walter 2, Kalynn Timmons 2, Ferin 2, Whitford 1, Hohn 1, Kruse 1 Ace – Ferin 2, Hohn 1 Beckman Catholic 2 Solon 0 (21-13, 21-11) Kills – Zephie Bishop 5, Hailey Gorham 3, Addison Walter 2, Makinley Galvan 2, Scarlett Ferin 2, Amelia Guinn 1 Assists – Ava Hohn 6, Ferin 5, Kalynn Timmons 2, Macy Fuller 1, Galvan 1 Solo blocks – Guinn 1 Block assists – Walter 2, Galvan 2, Harper Nicholson 1, Guinn 1 Dig – Fuller 5, Timmons 5, Ferin 4, Anabelle Boelkins 2, Hohn 1, Nicholson 1, Bishop 1 Ace – Timmons 1 Union Community 2 Solon 1 (25-15, 19-25, 15-8) Kills – Harper Nicholson 7, Addison Walter 5, Amelia Guinn 5, Charleigh Whitford 4, Zephie Bishop 4, Makinley Galvan 3, Anabelle Boelkins 2 Assists – Scarlett Ferin 14, Ava Hohn 11, Macy Fuller 2, Nicholson 1 Solo blocks – Nicholson 1, Galvan 1 Block assists – Walter 3, Whitford 1, Galvan 1, Guinn 1 Dig – Fuller 10, Boelkins 3, Hohn 3, Kalynn Timmons 2, Ferin 2, Walter 1, Galvan 1, Guinn 1, Bishop 1 Ace – Walter 1

Class 3A District 4 standings

District Mount Pleasant 2-0 Solon 2-0 Fairfield 1-1 Fort Madison 1-1 Washington 0-2 Keokuk 0-2

Overall 6-0 6-0 3-3 3-3 3-3 1-5

WaMaC standings Conf. Solon 4-0 Grinnell 4-0 CCA 3-1 CPU 3-1 Mt. Vernon 2-2 Marion 2-2 Benton 2-2 S. Tama Co. 1-2 W. Delaware 1-3 Williamsburg 1-3 Independence 0-4 Vinton-Shellsburg 0-3

Overall 27-6 16-11 20-6 19-7 21-8 17-11 13-12 21-12 18-8 17-9 17-13 2-25

IGHSAU Class 3A rankings 10-1-26 Record Previous wk 1 Western Christian 2 MOC-Floyd Valley 3 Dike-New Hartford 4 Solon 5 Center Point-Urbana 6 Humboldt 7 Wilton 8 Mount Vernon 9 Cherokee 10 Roland-Story 11 Kuemper Catholic 12 Unity Christian 13 Knoxville 14 Van Meter 15 West Delaware Dropped Out: Treynor (15)

19-3 20-4 17-7 25-4 19-7 27-3 21-4 18-7 15-5 23-5 18-4 10-8 17-5 22-9 18-8

1 6 2 4 5 3 8 9 7 10 12 NR 13 14 11

SOLONECONOMIST.COM

CALENDAR & PUZZLES

SOLON ECONOMIST | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2026 | 9

SOLON SENIORS DINING • • • • • • • • • • • In-House Dining - Wednesdays only at 11:30 at the Solon Methodist Church. Call 319-624-2251 for reservations (required two days in advance) or information Monday, Wednesday, and Friday 10-11 a.m. Home Deliveries (within a five-mile radius and paved roads only) Monday, Wednesday, and Friday Meals cost $5.00 Call 319-624-2251 for reservations (required) two days in advance of meal. Cancellations Since meals are ordered in advance payment is required if a meal is cancelled on the same day it was to be received. No meals Tuesdays and Thursdays

OCTOBER MENU • • • • • • Friday, October 9 Breaded Fish Sandwich French Fries Apple Cider Slaw Lemon Fluff Monday, October 12 Nacho Chicken Shredded Lettuce/Tomatoes Refried Beans

SCHOOL BREAKFAST Prices: Adult/ Guest Breakfast: $2.00 Student Breakfast $1.70, Reduced $.30 Friday, October 9 Long John (LV/SIS) LV G&G – Donut Potatoes & Egg Boat or Long John Fruit, Juice Crackers & Milk Monday, October 12 NO SCHOOL Tuesday, October 13 Pumpkin/Banana Bread (LV/SIS) G&G – Muffin Egg Breakfast Bake, Dutch Waffle, & Bacon Fruit, Juice Crackers & Milk Wednesday, October 14 Egg Breakfast Bake (LV/SIS) G&G – Sliced Bread Breakfast Sandwich Frudel Fruit, Juice Crackers & Milk Thursday, October 15 Egg Scramble w/Hash Brown (LV/SIS) G&G – Oatmeal Bar CC French Toast w/Sausage Links or Energy Bites Fruit, Juice Crackers & Milk Friday, October 16 Muffin Top (LV/SIS) G&G Donut Homemade Breakfast Pizza or Cinnamon Doughnuts Fruit, Juice Crackers & Milk

Edited by Will Shortz No. 0903

Corn Frosted Marble Cake Wednesday, October 14 Sponsored Meal – Rick Jedlicka Pork Chop Supreme Baked Potato Baked Beans Homestyle Peach Cobbler Friday, October 16 Shrimp Scampi Parmesan Orzo Pasta Lemon Broccoli Breadstick Fresh Fruit Monday, October 19 Baked Caesar Chicken Buttered Noodles Carrots Chocolate PB Cake Roll Wednesday, October 21 Pumpkins Dee Entertains Salisbury Steak Parslied Potatoes Orange Glazed Carrots Classic Strawberry Shortcake Friday, October 23 Catch of the Day Baked Potato w/Sour Cream Seasonal Vegetable Banana Split Dessert

SCHOOL LUNCH Prices High School - $3.00 Middle School - $2.90 SIS/Lakeview - $2.85 Reduced - $.40 Adult/Guest lunch $5.25 Friday, October 9 HS Alt: Cook’s Delight MS Alt: Chicken Sandwich Pork Tenderloin Sandwich Ranch Wedges Grape Tomatoes Sunflower Seeds (HS) Mandarin Oranges Monday, October 12 NO SCHOOL – Professional Development Tuesday, October 13 MS/HS Alt: Pizza Crunchers Popcorn Chicken Mashed Potatoes, Gravy Sweet Corn Fruit Salad Yogurt (MS/HS) Dinner Roll (MS/HS) Wednesday, October 14 MS/HS Alt: Max Sticks Saucy Bowties (Rotini LV/SIS) Dinner Roll (SIS/MS/HS) Green Beans & Celery Sticks Peach Cubes Cheddar Chex Snack Mix (HS) Thursday, October 15 MS/HS Alt: Spicy Chicken Sandwich Pepperoni Stuffed Crust Pizza Colorful Mixed Vegetable Pepper Strips Triple Fruit Salad Cheez Its

The Solon Community School District is an equal opportunity provider. Menus will vary to accommodate the Federal Nutrition Guidelines. All grains are whole grain, local apples from Buffalo Ridge. 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 arobinsonvalley@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.

Across

1 Things that have icons 5 She’s possessive 8 Sales spiel 13 She can speak more than 20 languages 14 Lead-in to haw 15 Followed 17 Show with the classic episodes “The Puffy Shirt” and “The Little Kicks” 19 Authorize 20 Noodle 21 On, in French 23 Successes for sluggers, for short 24 Like some pants or haircuts 27 Big laugh 28 What dogs do the most in the spring and fall 32 School unit 34 Reached a payment date 36 “Please give this high priority!” 37 Character with a famous opening line? 38 Like an overtired toddler 42 Twice-told tale? 43 Sweetums or Baby Doll 45 March Madness org. 48 Open, as a bottle 49 One might feature rivers and bluffs 52 Hastens 53 Apple purchase 54 Comedian Jon 56 Its motto is “Industry” 58 Sorta 59 Luxuriates outdoors, in a way 64 Emergency alerts 66 Complete fiasco, slangily 68 Steak option 69 Emmy-winning role for Tina Fey 70 Up the ___ 71 Words that might be seen on a docent’s badge 72 Letters found near some bars 73 It might be paved with good intentions

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 16 18 22 25 26 28 29 30 31 33 35 39 40 41 43 44 46 47 49 50 51 53 55 57 60 61 62 63 65 67

Down

The “A” in L.P.G.A.: Abbr. Slangy “mouth” found in a 20-Across Self-righteous type Confess, say Spotted youngster that might be spotted on the savanna Fish with fused fins One end of the Suez Canal Many a “Bridgerton” lady Alternative to a bed-and-breakfast Slavic title Place for storing belongings in a 32-Across Cause of a squeaky voice, maybe Place to study Factor in a clothing purchase ___ Minor Something a suspect enters Sketches Leave a mark Hearty Islamic “commander” Show to be bogus Tool found in a 32-Across What choreologists study Garment that is typically around six yards long Captain Hook’s right-hand man Evergreen trees with red arils Cat that can purr but can’t roar Invigorate Skilled performer 2, 4, 6 and 8, e.g. Surface of a well-used wok Pocket rockets, e.g., found in a 49-Across “Well, shucks!” Polyhymnia or Clio Group with the 1994 12x platinum album “CrazySexyCool” “Tarnation!” Distantly Underground entrance found in a 73-Across Bread that may have a pocket Skeleton, say ___ Lock (PC key) Orchestra setting

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.

PUZZLE SOLUTIONS ON PAGE 2

PUBLIC NOTICES

10 | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2026 | SOLON ECONOMIST IowaPublicNotices.com THE JOHNSON COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS FORMAL MEETING MINUTES

SEPTEMBER 24, 2026 Proclamations, ordinances and resolutions adopted by the Board of Supervisors are only summarized in the published minutes; the full text may be inspected at the Office of the County Auditor, 913 S. Dubuque Street, Iowa City, Mon. thru Fri., between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. and at www.johnsoncountyiowa.gov. Chairperson Green called the Johnson County Board of Supervisors to order in the Johnson County Health and Human Services Building Boardroom at 9:00 a.m. Members present: V Fixmer-Oraiz, Jon Green, Lisa Green-Douglass, and Mandi Remington. Members absent: Rod Sullivan. Green sought and received unanimous consent for approval of the agenda as presented. Public Comment - No one from the public spoke. Motion by Fixmer-Oraiz, second by Green-Douglass, to approve the following consent agenda items: 1. Payroll authorizations submitted by department heads and elected officials. 2. The claims on the Johnson County Auditor’s Claim Register for September 24, 2026, in the amount of $1,366,835.41: 4Cs Cmty Coord CC................. $4212.00 AAA Mechanical....................... $5651.35 Abbe Cent Cmty Mntl Hlth....... $5464.79 ABC Disposal Sys....................... $904.87 Adams Multimedia IA................. $349.81 Advanced Business Sys................$47.49 Advanced Electrical Svcs............$961.51 Advantage Arch Solut...............$1812.24 Alan Ziskovsky............................. $56.00 Alliant Energy............................. $230.24 Alphagraphics.........................$11863.53 Altorfer ..................................... $2111.00 Amazon Capital Svcs................. $402.85 Amber Gorvin............................... $56.70 Amy Preslicka.............................. $56.70 Aphradite C Hancock Alvarez......$199.80 Arc Of Southeast IA..................$2360.13 Ascendance Truck East IA......... $386.31 AT&T Mobility............................ $1107.84 Austin Jiras................................ $576.00 B&H Photo & Video.....................$134.31 Banacom Signs.......................... $200.00 Ben Schulte.................................... $8.00 Berg Trailer Sales....................$24185.00 Berry, Dunn, Mcneil & Parker .$7295.00 Betty Norbeck............................ $500.00 Billion Iowa City.......................... $155.10 Black Hawk County.....................$100.00 Blue To Gold............................... $225.00 Brandon Richmond...................... $20.20 Bright Eye Bushy Tail Vet..........$1172.32 Cara Delaney................................ $56.70 CCL Supply..................................$818.49 Central IA Distrib........................$751.00 Charlie Isaacs................................$16.00 Charm-Tex ..................................$619.50 Chelsea Owens........................... $278.00 City Of Iowa City-Acc Rec...... $12252.48 City Of North Liberty................. $420.00 Consumers Cooperative.........$11328.20 Coral Ridge ................................ $700.00 Coralville Housing Group........... $850.00 Corridor Radiology...................... $50.00 CR Signs................................... $2998.00 Critical Hire................................ $200.00 Crystal Anne Beaman................... $42.00 Custom Hose & Supplies........... $388.78 Delta Dental IA....................... $19202.04 Diane Schultes............................. $84.00 Do CPR......................................$1979.82 Donna Ruegsegger........................ $8.00 Eckrich Tool.................................. $23.98 Elite Fire Sprinkler Sys............... $430.00 Elizabeth Hora.............................. $28.35 Emily Janssen.............................. $56.70 Emory North Liberty ................. $850.00 Energy Control IA......................$2587.00 EO Johnson Bus Tech..................$117.19 Fareway Stores.......................... $104.23 Fiona Johnson.......................... $1492.29 Galls............................................. $90.95 Gary Swenka................................ $32.00 Grant Wood Area Ed Agcy.........$4153.70 Graphic Print & Embroid.............$510.00 Graybill Electronics...................$1224.00 Greater IC Hous Fellow.............. $750.00 Gregory J Downes..................... $850.00 Guardian Fleet Safety................$7619.49 Hansch....................................... $700.00 Hawk Area Cmty Act Prog..... $56425.46 Hawkeye Title Svcs.................. $1000.00 Hayley Abdo............................. $2971.68 Heartland Shredding...................$231.75 Henry Schein ............................$2171.40 Hidalgo Properties..................... $850.00 Hills Bank & Trust Co................ $1781.11 Hilltop Mobile Home Park...........$510.00 Hospers & Brother Printer......... $276.23 House Of Burke.......................... $850.00 Hy-Vee.......................................... $35.00 IC Housing Group....................... $700.00 Inside Out Reentry..................... $500.00 Insight Public Sector..................$146.62 Interstate All Battery Cent..........$613.00 Iowa City MHP............................ $639.00 Iowa City Press-Citizen.............. $245.02 Iowa City Regency MHP............. $473.00 IA Law Enforce Acad................ $2400.00 IA State County Treas Assn....... $250.00 IA State Prison Industries......... $1517.04 IA State Assn Counties............ $6400.00 Jacob Korbakes.............................. $6.08 Jeanne A Strand.......................... $187.00 Jeffrey Gingerich........................$156.00 Jeremie Hahn................................$16.00 Jeremy Cronk................................$14.00 Jim Instrument Mfg..................... $80.00 Johnson County..........................$912.44 Julie Persons.............................. $253.75 Katja Liimatta............................. $700.00 Kellynne Oxley............................ $148.96 Kelsey Deleon............................. $239.00 Kevin Vondracek............................ $8.00 Ks Properties............................. $850.00 Lake Ridge............................... $1266.00 Larry Hingtgen................................$7.60 Lees Alterations............................$31.90 Linder Tire Svc......................... $3898.38 LL Pelling Co ........................... $4335.30 Lynette Jacoby............................$179.72 M&K Qual Truck Sales................$126.00 M68 Property Mgmt................ $1400.00 Madison Tunning...........................$19.00 Marianna Smith.......................... $700.00 Mcgrath Toyota IC.................. $31058.55 Mediacom....................................$103.40 Melrose Ridge Apts.................... $700.00 Menards - Iowa City....................$550.11 Midamerican Energy.............. $23990.03 Mms Consultants..................... $2452.70

Motorola................................. $20865.00 Mutual Wheel Co.......................... $35.08 Napa Auto Parts......................... $441.99 Nathaniel Rose..............................$18.85 New Image Lawn........................ $203.05 Ottsen Oil Co.............................. $753.63 P&K Midwest...............................$122.29 Pacific Interpreters.......................$12.00 Peak Construction............... $179802.25 Peterson Contractors...............$1212.50 Pfizer...................................... $40762.36 Phelan Tucker Law..................... $468.00 Pitney Bowes Purchase........... $3000.00 Point And Pay............................. $276.32 Portnoy Drive............................. $700.00 PSC Distribution........................ $843.89 Purple Bloom School................. $500.00 Pye Barker Fire & Safety............ $620.95 Qualtrics................................. $57434.00 Qwest Corp....................................$91.24 Rapids Reproductions..............$1130.99 River Products Co.................... $2059.40 Robert Winstead Jr...................... $59.00 Ryan Allen Hahn............................$16.00 Sarah Thompson.......................... $33.75 Servpro IC/Coralv.....................$1315.91 Sharon Telephone Co............... $1585.38 Silver Token Realty.................... $762.50 Smartlite...................................$1313.75 Staples Contract Commer........... $23.85 Star Equipment Ltd...................$2757.27 State Industrial Product...........$2918.75 Steve Swenka................................$16.00 Streichers................................... $698.00 TC Investments.......................... $700.00 Team Svcs................................ $1453.52 Tera Denial......................................$7.60 Terracon Consultants............... $3200.00 The Braun Corp........................ $1064.23 The Lamar Companies............. $3350.00 The Law Shop Iowa.................... $321.20 Titan Machinery......................... $439.83 Tristar..................................... $15472.57 US Postal Svc........................... $1392.69 University Of Iowa..................... $485.44 Van Meter Industrial................... $126.14 Verizon Wireless........................ $273.46 Visa..........................................$26573.16 Wayne Barnes...............................$16.00 Wellmark BCBS IA................ $686133.76 Westwood Pharmacy..................$120.57 William Blanchard.......................... $6.08 3. The minutes of the Formal Meeting for September 17, 2026. 4. Application for alcohol license for Traveling Tapster at the County Celebration Barn. 5. Acknowledge receipt of Minutes of the Planning & Zoning Commission meeting of August 10, 2026 and the Report of the Planning and Zoning Commission meeting of September 14, 2026. 6. GuideLink Center Proof of Payment Certification from Community & Family Resources, Fort Dodge, for July 2026 detox and sobering services in the amount of $7,448.91. 7. Appoint Transportation and Fleet Director Dawn Alam as the Johnson County representative for the Iowa City Community School District Boundary Analysis Community Committee. Approved unanimously. Motion by Fixmer-Oraiz, second by Green-Douglass, to approve the commitment letter to the Silos and Smokestacks National Heritage Area and authorize matching grant funds from the Agricultural Storytelling Program Large Project Award for the Johnson County Historic Poor Farm Interpretive Signage Project. Approved unanimously. RESOLUTION NO. 09-24-26-01 RESOLUTION SETTING PUBLIC HEARING ON VARIOUS DEVELOPMENT APPLICATIONS Summary: The Johnson County Planning and Zoning Commission has filed its report and recommendations for certain actions. Board Action: Set a public hearing for October 8, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. CT in Boardroom 301, Johnson County Health & Human Services Building, 855 South Dubuque Street, Iowa City, Iowa, on each of the following applications: zoning application filed by Luke Mayhew (REZ26-000007) and platting application filed by Mark Slabaugh (PZC-2528747). Authorize the Johnson County Auditor to publish the official notice of the above public hearing. Motion by Remington, second by Fixmer-Oraiz, to approve Resolution No. 09-24-26-01. Approved unanimously. RESOLUTION NO. 09-24-26-02 RESOLUTION APPROVING THE SITE PLAN SUBMITTED BY CAREX PROPERTIES LLC FOR THE PROPERTY ADDRESSED AS 3182 IWV RD SW Summary: Application SP26-000007 was filed for site plan approval to construct two additional structures for an existing business on the parcel addressed as 3182 IWV Rd SW. The site plan has been reviewed by Johnson County Public Health and the Johnson County Planning, Development and Sustainability Department and confirms with the Johnson County Unified Development Ordinance. Board Action: Approve the site plan. Authorize the Zoning Administrator to issue permits for this site in accordance with the standards set forth in the Johnson County Unified Development Ordinance. Motion by Remington, second by Fixmer-Oraiz, to approve Resolution No. 09-24-26-02. Approved unanimously. Motion by Fixmer-Oraiz, second by Remington, to approve Amendment No. 1 to the 28E Project Agreement with the City of Coralville for the Dubuque Street NE and Forevergreen Road Roundabout Project. Approved unanimously. Motion by Remington, second by Green-Douglass, to approve Application Management Services contract with Avaap USA, LLC, Columbus, OH, for support of Workday platform October 2026 through September 2027 in the amount of $110,080. Approved unanimously. Adjourned at 9:10 a.m. /s/ Jon Green, Chair, Johnson County Board of Supervisors Attest: /s/ Julie Persons, Johnson County Auditor

On the 1st day of October, 2026 Recorded by Auditor’s Office: Marly Melsh, Executive Clerk to the Board These minutes were sent for formal approval and publication on October 1, 2026. Published in the Solon Economist October 8, 2026.

CLASSIFIEDS Miscellaneous No more cleaning out gutters. Guaranteed! LeafFilter is backed by a no-clog guarantee and lifetime transferrable warranty. Call today 1-855913-1560 to schedule a FREE inspection and no obligation estimate. Get 15% off your entire order. Plus, Military & Seniors get an additional 10% off. Limited time only. Restrictions apply, see representative for warranty and offer details.

Miscellaneous Audien Hearing. The world’s first hearing aid with touchscreen controls. No tiny buttons, apps or prescriptions. 45-day risk free trial. Free shipping. Lifetime support. More than 1.5 million happy customers. Call Audien 1-855304-1545. 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. Jacuzzi Bath Remodel can install a new, custom bath or shower in as little as one day. For a limited time, waiving ALL installation costs! (Additional terms apply. Subject to change and vary by dealer. (Offer ends 12/31/25.) Call 1-866-456-3917. 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 1-855-9545087 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move.

CLASSIFIEDS 319.624.2233

SOLONECONOMIST.COM

Regular, small savings deposits add up for college Christine Hensley

Iowa Student Loan Liquidity Corporation board member

Many families want to save for their children’s education but are uncertain how to start, especially if budgets are tight. Hensley But college can be within reach, even for those with modest incomes, when saving begins early. Small monthly savings, started when students are young, can benefit from compound interest and earnings. And those regular contributions add up over time. Now is a good time to start saving for your children’s future or examine your savings to date. By putting away as much as possible now, even $25 or $50 a month, you can open up college or other education options for students and reduce their future debt, helping them as they begin their careers and lives after graduation. Savings can be put aside however you prefer. But, investing in a secure way that could earn you extra money is a good start. College savings 529 accounts are specifically designed to pay education expenses. They also offer several benefits that a regular savings account does not. Some benefits of 529 accounts include: • You can choose, and change, your investment strategy, so you can be more or less aggressive over time. • 529 accounts offer tax benefits in many states, including Iowa. • Anyone can start or contribute to a plan, so family members and friends who want to help your child can easily do so. • Minimum investments are small so you can contribute over time, even when money is tight. • Some employers may of f e r m at c h i n g b e ne f it s f or 529 accounts. • Plans are transferable, so if one child

doesn’t need all the money, you can transfer it to another child. • You can always withdraw the money if needed before college, though there will be a tax penalty. All states offer 529 plans. You can enroll in any you choose, but you should always check to see if there is a specific benefit to using your state’s plan. ISave 529 is the Iowa-sponsored 529 plan that lets you save for education expenses and provides certain tax benefits. Iowa taxpayers who are participants can deduct a certain amount of their contributions per beneficiary, including rollovers, in determining their adjusted gross income for Iowa income tax purposes. Visit the ISave 529 website for more details and deduction amounts.

Give Your Savings a Boost Through 529 College Plan Drawings ISL Education Lending helps support Iowa parents who are saving for college with two programs. The ISL Education Lending Scholarship is open to Iowa residents who are the parents of current Iowa high school students or undergraduate college students, as well as to the students themselves. Simple online registration is available at www.IowaStudentLoan.org/Savings between now and December 4, 2026. One parent or guardian may register once on behalf of each qualifying student, and the qualifying student may register themselves once. Eighteen $2,500 deposits into ISave 529 accounts will be awarded through random drawings. Parents of eighth- through 12th-grade students can also sign up for ISL Education Lending’s SP3 service at www. SP3.org for more chances to win money for college. SP3 sends twice-monthly emails with grade-specific college and career-planning tips for your students, and after reading the articles, you can enter for quarterly drawings for college savings account deposits.

EXTRA! EXTRA! SHS Drama Dept. presents Disney’s Newsies! next month

phy, and a powerful story of courage, friendship, and standing up for what’s right. Performances are Saturday, November 7, at 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM, and The Solon High School Drama Sunday, November 8, at 2:00 PM at the Department proudly presents Dis- Solon Center for the Arts. Get your tickney’s Newsies! Join us for an exciting, ets today by visiting the online ticketing high-energy production filled with page, https://sc4a.ludus.com, to reserve incredible music, dynamic choreogra- your seats.

SOLONECONOMIST.COM

NEWS

October Solon Senior Support news Volunteering: Good for others, good for you Want to feel great and help others? Volunteer! Research has shown that volunteering offers significant health benefits, especially for older adults. 1.Improved physical and mental health- Volunteer activities keep people moving and thinking at the same time. Volunteering leads to lower rates of depression and anxiety, especially for people 65 and older. It reduces stress and increases positive, relaxed feelings by releasing dopamine. By spending time in service to others, volunteers report feeling a sense of meaning and appreciation, both given and received, which can have a stress reducing effect. 2.Provides a sense of purpose and teaches valuable skills- The wok that volunteers provide is essential to everyday activities, giving volunteers a sense of purpose, especially when giving their time and talent in the areas they find meaningful. 3.Nuture new and existing relationships- Volunteering increases social interaction and helps build a support system based on common interests. A few months after retiring, Cindy Jensen needed something to do to keep busy. She currently volunteers as the Coordinator for Senior Transportation, the VP for Senior Support, the Board of Senior Advocates, the American Legion, and Honor Flights. Needless to say, she’s keeping busy! She enjoys helping people do things they can no longer do themselves, knowing she’s making their day a little easier. Her favorite project are delivering May baskets and Christmas gift bags. She says, “It’s a fun way to meet more of our Solon seniors; their happiness when receiving these make my day!” Cindy said one thing she really enjoys is the friendships she’s made with the older adults she works with. “I love hearing their stories about their lives, especially the farm lives!” One thing she’s learned is that it seems easy for some to become “hermits.” “It’s important for the community to help them stay connected and independent. Families have busy lives and have difficulties keeping in touch, especially when they live far away. We need more volunteers to bridge that gap.” Regarding those who are considering volunteering, Cindy recommends to start small, “Don’t worry about not having a lot of time or not knowing how you can help. There are people that simply need a ride, a little help with tasks, or someone to talk to. You may be surprised by how much even a small amount of your time can mean to someone.”

Activities

Fridays, 9-11 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, and 9:30-11 Bohlen, Director a.m. Sundays. Walk-in fee is $5. Johnson County Pickleball Club membership is $15/year, and the church’s yearly Health, Wellness, and Safety court fee is $100. October Safe at Home challenge Zumba – Tuesdays and Fridays 8:30-9:30 a.m. at Solon • Remove one tripping hazard Community Center, cost is $1. • Check smoke detectors Steps & Strength Fitness – Tuesdays and Thursdays • Improve one dark area 11:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m. at Solon Community Center. Free to • Put emergency contacts somewhere visible all participants-sponsored by Senior Support and Senior • Attend the Safe at Home program Tuesday, October 13, Advocates. Bring a water bottle. Free weights, bands, and at 1 p.m. at the Solon United Methodist Church Fellowship discs will be provided. Call the Community Center for any Hall questions, 319-624-2499

October Calendar Thursday, October 8 – Advocates bus trip to Breitbach’s/Gay’s Mills Tuesday, October 13 – Safe at Home Program, Senior Support, 1-2 p.m. at Solon United Methodist Church Thursday, October 15 – Solon Senior Advocates Restaurant Run, 12 noon, Baxa’s Sutliff Store and Tavern in Sutliff. Call Sandy at 319-430-8655 to RSVP Saturday, October 17 – Solon Fire Department’s Battery Up program Friday, October 30 – Advocates Meal and a Movie, “Senior Entourage,” 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. at the Solon Public Library. Cost is $5 per meal,

Stay Connected Solon Community Food Pantry Elaine Claude, Manager, 319-321-5232 The Pantry is in need of eggs, pancake mix, sugar, any of the ‘Helpers’ (Hamburger, Tuna, or Chicken), apple juice, canned mandarin oranges, cake mix, vanilla frosting, canned meats (not tuna or chicken), and bottled water. Also, feminine products, toothpaste, Kleenex®, paper towels, toilet paper, bar soap, deodorant, and clean plastic grocery bags. Location – Lower level of the Solon United Methodist Church, 122 N. West St. Hours – Donations 8:30-10 a.m. Mondays (drop box available outside the Pantry door for after-hours donations), clients 2-6 p.m. Mondays Solon Senior Transport Cindy Jensen, Coordinator, 319-360-3279 Let our volunteer drivers transport you to and from medically related appointments. An enrollment form and detailed brochure will be sent upon request. Once enrolled, the client may call for a ride to a specific appointment. All volunteer drivers are self-insured. Call Cindy Jensen @ 319-360-3279. Volunteers are always needed! The Solon Public Library can come to you Solon Senior Support volunteers will deliver Library books/materials to your home and pick them up when you are done using them? Call the Library at 319-624-2678 for more information or to set up a delivery.

Chair Yoga – Mondays 12:30-1:30 p.m. and WednesContact us days 10-11 a.m. at Solon Public Library Senior Support – 319-624-2773, Jill Weetman, PresiCoffee & Conversation – Wednesdays 9-10 a.m. dent, solonseniors@gmail.com (before Chair Yoga) at Solon Public Library Senior Advocates – 319-430-8655, Sandy Hanson, sanEuchre – Fridays 12:30-3 p.m. with snack at 2 p.m. at drahanson@southslope.net Solon Methodist Church Senior Dining – 319-624-2251, Amanda Kleppe, ManPickleball – Daily at Solon Methodist Church Fam- ager, Marcy Olson, President ily Life Center 8:30-11 a.m. Mondays, Wednesdays, and Solon Community Center – 319-624-2499, Brodie

NEWS FROM JOHNSON COUNTY

Johnson County seeks volunteers for boards and commissions The Johnson County Board of Supervisors is seeking volunteers to serve on various County boards and commissions. Board and commission members serve in an advisory role to help direct policy by making suggestions and recommendations to the Board of Supervisors and County staff. Vacancies are available on the following Johnson County boards and commissions: • Board of Health • Compensation Commission • Conservation Board

SOLON ECONOMIST | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2026 | 11

• Historic Preservation Commission • Livable Community for Successful Aging Policy Board • Planning and Zoning Commission • Zoning Board of Adjustment Information about specific boards and commissions, vacancies and application forms are available at www.johnsoncountyiowa.gov/vacancies. Questions can be directed to the Board of Supervisors Office at 319-356-6000 or applications@johnsoncountyiowa.gov.

COLLEGE NEWS Upper Iowa University announces Summer 2026 Dean’s List FAYETTE — Upper Iowa University has announced the Dean’s List for the 2026 Summer Semester, including Kallie McGaffee of Ely and Alexis Sorensen of Solon. To be honored, a student must have earned a minimum 3.50 grade point average and be enrolled as a fulltime student.

Solon Fire Department Battery Up Program Saturday, October 17 - Your Solon Fire Fighters offer a Battery Up program to our senior residents and disabled individuals within our service area. We will come to your residence and change out the batteries in your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. We will be providing this service on Saturday, October 17, starting at 8 a.m. If you are in need of this service please contact the Solon Fire Department via e-mail at john.studt@solonfire. com with your name, address and contact info. If you do not have access to email call 319-624-2386 ext. 2208 and leave us a message with your name, address and a good contact phone number.

NEWS

12 | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2026 | SOLON ECONOMIST

E&J celebrates 50th anniversary Grace Escritt Solon Economist

news@soloneconomist.com

Following over half-a-century of being in business, E&J Electric and Geothermal, Inc., is celebrating its 50 year milestone by reflecting on its history and ongoing evolution. Over 50 years ago, John Schmidt — who currently owns E&J — was a student at Kirkwood Community College studying the trades. Upon graduating, he began working with a man named Elmer Vanomy. Little did he know at the time, but Schmidt would soon become a 50% partner in the business, which soon became indicated by the business’ name: Elmer and John Electric, Inc. After a couple of years of working as 50/50 partners in the business, Vanomy expressed the desire to retire, and Schmidt ended up buying the entire business and running it unilaterally. “In the early days, we were just electrical,” Schmidt said. “Nobody [had] really heard of geothermal…I started doing geothermal probably 48 years ago, did the first sample in my folks’ home. I told them I’d put it in their home for free if they would just pay me for the parts,

and that system is still in my mother’s home today and still functions very well.” As mentioned by Schmidt, when he took over E&J, its focus was entirely electrical. However, geothermal was something he had always been interested in and passionate about. He began testing the effectiveness of geothermal systems when he was 15 years old in an attempt to help his family reduce their utility bills. After seeing that everything he had read about geothermal turned out to be true, Schmidt began studying it further, which would later come in handy upon making the decision to incorporate it into the business. After successfully implementing a geothermal system in his parents’ home, Schmidt said he slowly began to expand his business by doing work for friends and neighbors. Early on, once Vanomy left the business, the business’ staff was composed of Schmidt and only one other employee. However, after years of getting acquainted with members of the community, E&J’s staff now stands at around 25 people, and Schmidt has transitioned from being a hands-on technician to primarily working on the

management side of the business. As explained by Schmidt, with a larger staff and community to serve comes a larger range of services that the business can offer. Whereas E&J was previously limited to only providing services for residential buildings, it can now undertake large commercial projects. Along with this, E&J serves more than just Solon. It has also recently completed many projects in larger surrounding communities, such as Iowa City and Cedar Rapids. “There really isn’t any project now that’s too big for us to challenge, and we have people that do every phase of the project,” Schmidt said. “I don’t have to subcontract anything out. We do everything in-house, and by doing everything in-house, we have control of getting a project done on time and done the way we want to do it.” Along with completing all client services in-house, Schmidt said considering the range of solar and geothermal services E&J offers, it does not use any outside electric energy or gas on its buildings. Today, E&J offers a broader range of services than it ever has before. “We do anything new con-

Top: E&J Electric and Geothermal, Inc.’s office before construction of their new warehouse and shop facility in the field to the right in Solon. Above left: John Schmidt hands out candy during the Solon Beef Days parade, July 23, 2003. Above right: Tom Richey drove E&J’s entry in the 2012 Beef Days parade.

NEWS FROM THE NATIONAL RIFLE ASSOCIATION

Today’s students. Tomorrow’s leaders. NRA Youth Education Summit applications are open

informed citizens who return to their communities as advocates for the Second Amendment.

The Y.E.S. experience

• Compete for scholarships The NR A Youth Education Summit • Engage in debates (Y.E.S.) is a prestigious, all-expense• Explore the nation’s capital paid, six-day leadership and scholarship • Meet with NRA leadership program for rising high school juniors • Practice marksmanship at the NRA and seniors held each summer in Washrange ington, D.C. Each year, exceptional students from across the nation are Applications for the Y.E.S. 2027 selected to take part in this immersive session are open! fellowship in our nation’s capital. 2027 session dates: July 27-August 1 The Mission of Y.E.S. is to inspire Deadline to apply: Sunday, January students to explore the foundations of American government, the Bill of 10, 2027, at 10 p.m. EST. For more information and to apply to Rights, and the U.S. Constitution, while encouraging them to become active, https://yes.nra.org.

struction, repairs, service and electrical,” Schmidt said. “Same thing for HVAC, heating and cooling…we’ll do conventional system, gas, central air conditioners and mini splits, but we specialize in geothermal…and I really like geothermal because it does save energy. It uses about a fourth of energy of gas and electricity. It’s good for the environment. The systems are made right here in the United States, so it creates jobs…and every geothermal system we put in is the same as taking two or three gasoline cars off the road.” Looking ahead, Schmidt said he has no aspirations to retire anytime soon, as his business is his passion. Today, his primary focus is on training the next generation of workers to help E&J continue to expand to meet the needs of the Solon community. “We’re here to stay, and we support Solon in every way we can,” he said. “Our main goal is to implement the newest technologies that are available to us today, not just do the same old thing. To always be in touch with what is new and what is better.” For more information about E&J’s services or to request a service, visit https://www.ejgeothermal. com/.

SOLONECONOMIST.COM E&J Electric and Geothermal, Inc. contributed photos

Left: John Schmidt and electrician Dave Boyles receiving their journeyman license, Sept. 2001. Below: These photos chronical construction of E&J Electric and Geothermal, Inc.’s office and shop at 400 E. Main St. in Solon in 2005. Bottom: Construction of E&J Electric and Geothermal, Inc.’s new shop, next to their office at 400 E. Main St. in Solon, was well underway with roof trusses being set in this photo from Nov. 30, 2022.