2025 Johnson County Fair Results | 6-8
THURSDAY, JULY 31, 2025 • $1.50
Purpose, light, and connection
Solon Sips Shake & Energy Bar provides a positive outlet for Taylor Mattson while giving back to the community Ella Mcentaffer Solon Economist news@soloneconomist.com
Solon Sips Shake & Energy Bar officially opened their doors in March and are serving up a variety of fun drinks and shakes to the local community. “Solon Sips is a community-driven drink stop with a focus on good vibes and great energy—literally,” said owner Taylor Mattson. “Whether you're grabbing your morning shake, popping in after a workout, or bringing the kids in for a treat, we want
you to feel like part of the Solon Sips fam the second you walk in.” For those wanting to try Solon Sips, Mattson said there is something for everyone on the menu, no matter what you are looking for. “Our core crowd includes early risers, gym-goers, students, teachers, and busy parents—but we’ve also got fun drinks just for kids and options for those who are health-conscious or just looking for a better-for-you treat,” Mattson said. Solon Sips is open Monday through Friday, 6:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m., Saturdays 8:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m., and Sundays10:00 a.m.2:00 p.m. “Morning people, we’ve got you covered,” said Mattson. If residents are curious about the average cost of a visit to Solon Sips, it is around the price of a trip to Starbucks or a similar chain coffee shop, between $7-10, depending on if the order includes a tea, shake, or protein coffee. Mattson said that the most popular menu item is a tossup between the protein shakes, some of which are named after iconic local landmarks, such as the Spartan Scotchie, Carver Crunchy Cone, or the Blueberry Lemon Pound Cake. Tea bombs are also a common Solon Sips order, with fan favorites including the Solon Sip, Barbie Girl, and Mermaid Magic. The staff at Solon Sips create a youthful and energetic feel to the business, as the group is Solon Sips contributed photo
Taylor Mattson strikes a pose with one of the classic tea drinks offered at Solon Sips.
JoCo Board of Adjustment approves conditional use permit for Jordan Creek Church Chris Umscheid Solon Economist
Solon city limits. The Board gave their approval following a public hearing on chris.umscheid@soloneconomist.com the church’s request during their regular meeting Wednesday, July 23. IOWA CITY — The Johnson County The church currently meets in the Solon Board of Adjustment approved a condi- Community Center (former middle/high tional use permit allowing Jordan Creek school), owned by the Solon Community Church to move forward with their plans School District (SCSD) and leased to the to build a church just west of the current City of Solon. The SCSD has stated the
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made up by mostly local high school and college students. Mattson says the staff is a powerhouse team who brings amazing ideas to the shop. Besides an extensive drink menu, Mattson also offers coaching for others interested in starting their own business. “I offer coaching for anyone interested in building a wellness-focused business,” Mattson said. “I love helping people bring their vision to life, find their confidence, and create something rooted in community, wellness, and purpose.” Mattson said there is always something happening behind the scenes. “We’ve got plans for seasonal drink drops, community collabs, pop-ups, and possibly even expanding what we offer beyond drinks," Mattson said. “I’m always dreaming—and if you know me, you know I’ve probably got a few Canva mockups and voice memos going already.” Solon Sips is also more than just a business for Mattson. She grew up in Solon and says that the drink shop has been a way for her to give back to the community that raised her and became an outlet for her in her time of need. “After my son was born premature and later diagnosed with a rare disease, life shifted in a big way for me,” Mattson said. “It was overwhelming at times, and I found myself needing an outlet—something filled with purpose, light, and connection.” Solon Sips has done that for Mattson, and she hopes that the shop can impact the community in a positive light, just as it continues to do for her and her family. Solon Sips is located at 101 Windflower Lane, Suite 700 Phone – 319-359-2838 Email – solonsips@gmail.com Website – https://solonsips.com Follow Solon Sips on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok
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Hot funk on a summer night Funk Daddies rock the Main Street stage Chris Umscheid Solon Economist
chris.umscheid@soloneconomist.com
It was hot in downtown Solon last Wednesday evening as the cool sounds of classic R&B from the Funk Daddies filled Mushroom Park for another installment in the Music on Main Street concert series. Anthony Hendricks (lead vocals), Ken Fullard (bass and vocals), Ken Duncan (drums, percussion, and lead vocals), and Dave Shawyer (saxophones) were joined by Dave Rosazza (of the Shade of Blue band) on lead guitar while Solon High School's vocal music director, Emma Gostonczik, was brought on stage to join Hendricks for Stevie Wonder's 'Signed, Sealed, Delivered, I'm Yours.' The 2025 season comes to a close Wednesday, August 6 as Kickin’ Country brings their country and rock mix to the band stand at 7:00 p.m.
building will be demolished (as one of several projects included in the 2023 bond issue) in the spring of 2027. On April 9 of this year the church filed an application for a conditional use permit with the County Planning, Development, and Sustainability (PDS) Department for a parcel of land located south of Hwy. 382 and across from 4164 Hwy. 382 NE, owned by Robert Upmeyer. On May 1 the church closed a real estate transaction purchasing the triangular 11.23-acre plot with Hwy. 382 on the north and the Hoover Trail running
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See page 12 for more Funk Daddies photos
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