Doug Lindner

SOLON– We don’t know them all, but we owe them all.
The heartfelt message from Solon graduate and Vietnam veteran Mike Montgomery was delivered to Solon High School students Tuesday, Nov. 12,
during the district’s annual Veterans Appreciation Program.
Montgomery was a member of the 1963 football team and a 1964 graduate of Solon High School. Three months after graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps and served in Vietnam with numerous commendations and medals.
After his service, he obtained a doctorate in business administration with a minor in management.

SOLON– The City of Solon needs a new recreation activities coordinator.
Ben Flaherty, who joined the city in September of 2018, accepted a new position with the City of Ames. His last day was Thursday, Nov. 7.
Recreation Administrative Assistant McKenzie McIlrath will serve as an interim coordinator until the position is filled.
Flaherty, a native of Van Meter and a 2018 graduate of the University of Iowa, was initially hired on an interim basis but was elevated to a permanent employee in January.

TIFFIN– When Kelsey Swancutt decided the University of Iowa’s Stead Children’s Hospital would be the beneficiary of Corridor Market’s annual fundraiser, there was one name that came to mind.
Carson King.
Swancutt, 31, of rural Solon, has been a primary organizer of the Corridor Market, which provides a shopping venue for local small businesses twice a year in the area.
“Every event, we try to do some sort of charity aspect,” she explained. “We use our market and the ability to get people together as an outlet for whatever charity we choose.”

VAN HORNE– It was too much Abby Brunssen.
The Benton Community senior, a unanimous First Team All-WaMaC Conference selection, carried the Bobcats to a 3-1 win over Solon’s varsity volleyball squad in a Class 3A Region 6 quarterfinal Oct. 23 in Van Horne.
“Abby was definitely the difference in the game,” said Solon Head Coach Sarah Ferin. “She went over us, and converted every free ball– credit to her player of the year title for sure.”
Brunssen powered her team with 37 kills.
Solon countered with defense, recording 15 blocks for the game.

SOLON– The rain went away just in time.
The Solon Recreation Department hosted its first-ever trunk or treat in the parking lot outside the Timber DOME Lodge at the Solon Recreation and Nature Area on Saturday, Oct. 19.
Eleven vehicles representing local businesses and organizations handed out candy to a parade of children wearing costumes.
Solon Recreation Administrative Assistant McKenzie McIlrath said an estimated 170 people attended and she hopes it will become an annual event.