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Midwest Medical Center hosts ‘Staying on a Healthy Eating Track through the Holidays’

Free Workshop | Monday, November 17 at Noon, One Medical Center Drive, Galena

The holidays are a time for celebration, good food, and togetherness — but they can also bring extra stress when it comes to staying healthy. Midwest Medical Center invites community members to join “Staying on a Healthy Eating Track through the Holidays,” a free workshop designed to help you enjoy the season without guilt or deprivation.

Led by Registered Dietitian Lisa Hackney and Diabetes Nurse Educator Darien Knight, this interactive session will share practical tips for making balanced choices through the holidays while still enjoying your favorite festive foods.

Participants will learn:

• How to stay on track with energy and mood during busy weeks
• Smart strategies for navigating holiday gatherings
• Simple stress-management tools to prevent emotional eating
• How to build a balanced plate that’s flexible, not restrictive

🗓️ Date: Monday, November 17, 2025
🕛 Time: Noon – 1 PM
📍 Location: Midwest Medical Center, One Medical Center Drive, Galena | 1 South Conference Room (South Entrance)

Healthy snacks will be served. Lunch is on your own. Please feel free to bring your lunch or enjoy ordering from our neighboring Galena Roasters Bistro and Vista Café at Midwest Medical Center.

This free workshop is open to the public and free to attend. Space may be limited—please RSVP online: MMCGalena.org/Nov17 or call 815-776-7228. Join us and discover how to stay balanced, satisfied, and stress-free this holiday season.

Photo caption:

Registered Dietitian Lisa Hackney and Diabetes Nurse Educator Darien Knight will lead a free workshop on Monday, November 17 to help attendees “Stay on a Healthy Eating Track through the Holidays.”  The workshop is free and open to the public.

About Midwest Medical Center

Midwest Medical Center is a not-for-profit 501(c)3 Illinois Critical Access Hospital serving northwestern Illinois, southwestern Wisconsin, and eastern Iowa. Its comprehensive services include health clinics (in Elizabeth and Galena), hospital and emergency care, fitness and rehabilitation programs, and senior care through assisted living and nursing home facilities. Midwest Medical Center accepts most insurances including Medicaid. www.MidwestMedicalCenter.org

National Take Back Program Prescription Drug Collection

On October 25th, 2025, the Dubuque Drug Task Force, in conjunction with the Asbury Police Department and the Area Substance Abuse Council (ASAC) participated in a nationwide effort sponsored by the DEA to collect old and unused prescription medications.  Items collected included prescription medication, non-prescription medication, vitamins, herbals, supplements, syringes, and other items.

The total weight of prescription and non-prescription medication collected during the event was 188.6 pounds.  The total weight of sharps collected was 139.0 pounds. In addition, between April of 2025 and October of 2025 a total weight of 201.89 pounds of medication was collected at the drop box at the Dubuque Law Enforcement Center.

The items collected will be incinerated at a later date.

A reminder to anyone who may have missed this event, the Dubuque County Sheriff’s Office has a Prescription Drop Box located in the front lobby of the Dubuque Law Enforcement Center located at 770 Iowa St., Dubuque, IA.

Midwest Medical Center Auxiliary Tree of Love Campaign Begins November 1

Sponsor an ornament to honor someone special

The Midwest Medical Center (MMC) Auxiliary invites you to honor someone special this holiday season by sponsoring a holiday tree ornament labeled with their name and hung on the 2025 Tree of Love. The Tree of Love will be on display the second week of November through January 1 in a new location–the South Lobby near Rehabilitation and the Health Clinic at Midwest Medical Center, One Medical Center Drive, Galena, Illinois.

Ornament sponsorships are available in four different donation levels: $10, $20, $30, and $40. Donations of all amounts are welcome. When your donation is received, a member of the Auxiliary will place an ornament with the honoree’s name on the Tree of Love. Donations must be received by December 4 to have an honoree listed on the commemorative poster, which will be on display in the South clinic lobby.

Donations may be made in the following ways: Traditional pre-printed giving envelopes are available at Midwest Medical Center. Online donatins may be made at MMCGalena.org/TOL2025 using PayPal or a credit card.  A printable PDF form may be obtained at MMCGalena.org/TOLForm and either taken to the hospital gift shop or mailed in with payment. Tree of Love donations received for this year will be put toward purchasing anesthesia equipment for the new Midwest Medical Center surgery expansion.

A special tree lighting ceremony celebrating the honorees will be held in the Midwest Medical Center South clinic lobby on Wednesday, December 10 at 6:00 PM; the public is invited to attend.

The Midwest Medical Center Auxiliary Foundation is comprised of more than 120 members who volunteer their time and efforts to organize fundraising events; operate Whispering Willow, the hospital gift shop; and help with other tasks as needed for the hospital and Midwest Senior Care Community. Funds raised by the Auxiliary are to purchase items that will enhance patient and resident care. The Auxiliary always welcomes new members. A membership application form and additional information may be found at: MMCGalena.org/auxiliary.

Midwest Medical Center is a not-for-profit Illinois Critical Access Hospital that has health clinics in Elizabeth and Galena. It serves the communities in northwestern Illinois, southwestern Wisconsin, and eastern Iowa through its inpatient beds, health clinics, hospital and emergency care, fitness and rehabilitation center, and senior care—assisted living and nursing home. For more about this event or Midwest Medical Center, visit MidwestMedicalCenter.org

Dubuque Regional Airport Now Offering Connections to Delta Airlines via Denver Air Connection

Travelers using the Dubuque Regional Airport now have a third major carrier option for their flights beyond Chicago/O’Hare.

Delta Airlines now allows travelers to book flights to and from Dubuque directly through the Delta website. Once at O’Hare, their ticket reservations and bags will seamlessly transfer between Denver Air Connection and Delta, eliminating the potential need for additional baggage or screening checks at O’Hare.

Delta is one of three major carriers, along with American Airlines and United Airlines, that have interline ticketing and baggage agreements with Denver Air Connection, which operates the daily flights between Dubuque and O’Hare International Airport in Chicago. Additional information, including individual links to each airline’s website, can be found at FlyDBQ.com/Flights

Denver Air Connection began offering daily connections between Dubuque and O’Hare in November 2024. The current flight schedule offers an early morning departure and early evening arrival. Since moving to the current schedule in May, Denver Air Connection’s Dubuque flights have a 98.5% completion rate and 87% of the flights have taken off or landed within 15 minutes of their scheduled time.

Additionally, travelers flying through Dubuque still have time to take advantage of a $100 rebate program being offered by Dubuque Initiatives. Flights to or from the Dubuque Regional Airport purchased between Aug. 11 and Dec. 31, 2025, are eligible to receive a $100 rebate per round-trip ticket per passenger. Flights can be used at any time but must be purchased within the designated timeframe.

Additional details about the $100 rebate and additional rewards and incentive programs can be found at FlyDBQ.com/Incentives

Dubuque Fire Department Launches New Health Data Exchange with UnityPoint Health – Finley Hospital

The Dubuque Fire Department recently launched a new advancement within its electronic patient care reporting system, ESO, called the Health Data Exchange (HDE) module.

The HDE securely connects the department’s emergency medical services (EMS) documentation with UnityPoint Health – Finley Hospital’s electronic health record system, allowing emergency department notes and patient disposition details to automatically flow back to the Fire Department once a patient’s hospital care is complete. Paramedics can now view this information directly within their patient records, providing them with timely feedback on the care they delivered in the field.

This advancement represents a major step forward in continuity of care and data-driven improvement. This collaboration between the Dubuque Fire Department and UnityPoint Health – Finley Hospital marks the first time in Iowa a hospital and an EMS agency have established a bi-directional feedback loop that allows field providers to see how their prehospital care impacts patient outcomes.

“This collaboration between UnityPoint Health – Finley Hospital and the Dubuque Fire Department enhances communication, strengthens clinical quality assurance, and ultimately improves patient care across our community,” said Dubuque Fire Department EMS Bureau Chief Sam Janecke.

Access to this data took extensive coordination between both organizations. As with all patient information, these records remain HIPAA-protected and are handled with the highest level of confidentiality and security. EMS providers not currently using ESO can connect through a secure bridge interface, allowing the same real-time data transfer between their reporting systems and the hospital’s emergency medical record (EMR).

“This initiative allows us to collaborate more closely with our local EMS partners, align care standards, share information and streamline patient transitions between field and hospital care,” said Mary Rausch, manager of the Finley Hospital Emergency Department. “It’s a significant investment in improving patient outcomes across our community.”

Through this secure, HIPAA-compliant data exchange:

• Incoming EMS data such as vital signs, medications, procedures and incident details is inserted directly into the patient’s hospital record, enhancing safety and ensuring continuity of care.
• Relevant hospital information including outcomes, diagnoses and treatment summaries is securely and confidentially shared back with the EMS provider to support ongoing quality improvement and patient-care coordination.

“This information benefits both hospital and EMS teams, helping us work together more seamlessly to support the best possible outcomes,” Rausch said. “As additional information becomes available in the hospital setting, it allows both teams to collaborate and identify opportunities to intervene even earlier to improve patient outcomes. Over time, we expect to see measurable improvements in stroke care, cardiac emergencies, cath-lab activation, pediatric care and trauma response.”

“This integration not only benefits our paramedics—by giving them direct feedback on their work in real time—but also reinforces Dubuque’s leadership in leveraging technology to improve public safety and healthcare outcomes,” said Dubuque Fire Chief Amy Scheller.

Work to Resume on Dubuque Flood Gate Replacement and Pump Station Project

Following a review of the hydraulic modeling and water sampling results, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) has determined that they will not need further environmental analysis and approved the permit needed for continuation of construction of the Dubuque Flood Gate Replacement and Pump Station Project at the 16th Street Detention Basin.

The project had been paused approximately three months while additional environmental studies were conducted to determine if contaminants from a nearby fertilizer spill in 2020 would be drawn towards the project site during dewatering operations as part of the construction of the pumping facility.

The IDNR reviewed data recently collected from water sampling and modeling on the flow of water and possible contamination from the spill site toward the detention basin and the dewatering wells that will be used during the project.  Following that review, the IDNR determined additional analysis beyond this review phase is not necessary and the agency approved the project’s application for 10 dewatering wells to facilitate construction. Work on the site is expected to resume soon. Related lane closures/detours on Kerper Blvd. will be reinstated when needed to facilitate work at the site.

The $28.2 million project is the next major phase of the Bee Branch Watershed Flood Mitigation Project. It involves the construction of a new stormwater pumping station on Kerper Blvd. and the decommissioning of the existing pump station system installed as part of the John C. Culver Floodwall/Levee system. The new facility will include a new flood gate, four new 100,000 gallon-per-minute pumps (double the pumping capacity of the existing facility), new electrical service, and the installation of back-up generators. The improvements will greatly enhance the system that conveys stormwater from the Bee Branch Watershed to the Mississippi River and protects over 1,300 properties from flooding during high river levels. The project also adds additional resiliency options as rainstorms increase in both rainfall and intensity. It builds upon the flood protection established through earlier phases of the Bee Branch Project, which currently safeguards against storms as severe as a 500-year event.

 Hospice of Dubuque Celebrates Hospice & Palliative Care Month in November

5-Star Care from Your Hometown Hospice since 1983

Throughout November, Hospice of Dubuque celebrates Hospice and Palliative Care month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the benefits of Hospice of Dubuque’s services. During this month, we thank the dedicated professionals and selfless volunteers who walk alongside patients and their families during a time of uncertainty and vulnerability, and we honor the thousands of tri-state residents who have embraced our care over the past 42 years. Hospice of Dubuque is the tri-state’s only local, nonprofit hospice and palliative care provider.

To celebrate Hospice & Palliative Care month, Hospice of Dubuque is partnering with Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home to host a Holiday Help presentation. This supportive program is designed to provide guidance, encouragement, and a sense of hope for bereaved individuals during the holiday season. Stephanie Shaffer, LCSW, will lead the presentation on Monday, November 24 from 6:15 pm to 7:15 pm at the funeral home located at 2659 JFK Road. This event is open to anyone seeking comfort and support during this challenging time of year.

Hospice of Dubuque will also offer a children’s bereavement workshop on Thursday, November 13, from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm. Families are invited to the Hospice of Dubuque Theisen Education Center, at 1670 JFK Road, to participate in supportive grief conversations and ornament making. Contact Mary Boots, Hospice of Dubuque Bereavement Coordinator at 563.582.1220 for more information and to register for this special event.

Finally, Hospice of Dubuque is excited to offer a Memorial Art Collage Program for adults. On Wednesday, November 19 at 6:15 pm, guest presenter Margi Buhr will guide bereaved individuals in creating a visual narrative in the form of collage that weaves together thoughts, memories and key moments associated with a loved one. Participants are asked to bring photos, images, or any memento to help create their memorial collage. Other supplies will be available, and refreshments will be served. Contact the Community Relations Department at 563.582.1220 for more information.

Since 1983, Hospice of Dubuque has fulfilled a mission of providing compassionate care for the seriously ill and their loved ones. The Hospice of Dubuque care team delivers expert pain and symptom management, along with compassionate, emotional and spiritual support, to residents throughout the tri-state area of Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin. In addition to hospice care, Hospice of Dubuque offers a consultative palliative care program and a variety of bereavement support services.

If you or your family could use support or would like more information about services, please contact Hospice of Dubuque at 563.582.1220 or visit hospiceofdubuque.org.

 DockDogs® Announces Return to Dubuque for 2025 World Championship at the Five Flags Center 

DockDogs® is excited to announce its return to Dubuque, Iowa, for the 2025 DockDogs® World Championship, set to take place at the Five Flags Center from Monday, November 3, 2025, through Sunday, November 9, 2025.

For more than 25 years, DockDogs® has been hosting thrilling events for dogs and their handlers, featuring disciplines like Big Air, Speed Retrieve®, Extreme Vertical®, and Dueling Dogs™. In the Big Air® competition, dogs race down a 36-foot dock and leap into a water pool after an object, with their jump measured for distance. The Extreme Vertical® contest challenges dogs to jump higher and higher to grab a bumper suspended in mid-air, with the height increasing by 2-inch increments until only one dog remains. Speed Retrieve® is a fast-paced event where dogs race against the clock to run down the dock, dive into the pool, swim to the end, and retrieve an object held by an extended arm. The Dueling Dogs™ competition pits two dogs against each other in a head-to-head Speed Retrieve® race.

“We’re excited to return to Dubuque and the Five Flags Center, as the community’s energy, hospitality, and enthusiasm are exceptional, and the venue is the perfect setting for the DockDogs® World Championship. We can’t wait to show Dubuque and the surrounding area these awesome dogs doing awesome things.” said Rob Urbach, CEO of DockDogs.

“We’re thrilled to welcome DockDogs® back to Dubuque for their World Championships. Events like this bring hundreds of visitors to Dubuque who stay in our hotels, dine at our restaurants, and shop at our local businesses. It’s meaningful economic impact that supports our community. We’re proud to welcome DockDogs® and give these competitors and their families a chance to experience everything Dubuque has to offer, ” states Keith Rahe, Travel Dubuque President & CEO. Dogz Events, dba DockDogs® 5690 Wolff Rd., Medina, OH 44256 dockdogs.com

Each year, the DockDogs® World Championship attracts around 450 human competitors and over 600 canine participants. In 2024, competitors traveled from 41 states and five countries outside of the United States. Competition will run from Tuesday, November 4 through Sunday, November 9, from 8:00 a.m. CST to 5:00 p.m. CST each day, with the Dueling Dogs™ Feature Finals taking place on Thursday, November 6 at 7:00 p.m., and the DockDogs® Feature Finals taking place on Saturday, November 8 at 7:00 p.m. and Sunday, November 9 at 1:00 p.m. The week-long, family friendly event is free and open to the public, with attendees encouraged to come and enjoy the excitement. The World Championship will host vendors, concessions, live emcees, and four different pools filled with hundreds of splashing dogs all within the Five Flags Center Arena. Follow the DockDogs® Facebook page and website for updates and more information.

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About DockDogs® DockDogs® is the independent governing and sanctioning body for regional, national and international dock jumping performance sports. DockDogs® establishes the rules and standards of the sport, tracks results and records and supports and promotes the growth of its athletes, events, spectators, and sponsors. DockDogs® events combine the popularity of dogs in general and canine aquatics jumping events specifically, which captivate audiences at approximately 200 events a year across the United States and Canada. To learn more, visit dockdogs.com.

$100 Airfare Rebate at Dubuque Regional Airport Extended Again, Now Available Through End of 2025

An incentive offering $100 rebates on round-trip airfare purchases at the Dubuque Regional Airport has again been extended and is now available through the end of 2025.

Dubuque Initiatives, a non-profit organization which serves as a community catalyst towards community revitalization, launched the rebate program in August. To date, more than 750 passengers have utilized the incentive, which offers $100 off the purchase of round-trip airfare on flights at the Dubuque Regional Airport.

There continue to be no restrictions on the dates that passengers can use the flights they purchase through the rebate program. However, the round-trip tickets must have been purchased between Aug. 11, 2025, and Dec. 31, 2025.

To receive the rebate, travelers must present proof of purchase to Greater Dubuque Development Corporation. Rebates will be issued as $100 checks per passenger for each round-trip ticket. Employers who buy tickets for their employees’ business travel are also eligible to be reimbursed as part of the rebate program.

Denver Air Connections offers a daily morning flight to and evening return flight from Chicago/O’Hare at the Dubuque Regional Airport. The carrier is also adding a special evening departure on Wednesday, Nov. 26…just ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday. Tickets may be purchased through a traveler’s preferred online travel retailer (Kayak, Google Flights, Travelocity, Expedia, etc.) or through American and United if passengers are connecting to a destination is beyond Chicago. For additional booking information, visit FlyDBQ.com

To request the $100 rebate, complete the online request form at https://form.jotform.com/252455114527151, or provide proof of ticket purchase, such as a ticket or invoice, to:
Greater Dubuque Development Corporation
Vice President of Operations Karen Kluesner
Ka****@************ue.org

Learn more about the $100 rebate program and other incentives and rewards by visiting www.FlyDBQ.com/Incentives

UNITYPOINT HEALTH – FINLEY HOSPITAL EXPERT DISPELS COMMON MAMMOGRAM MYTHS

When it comes to breast cancer and breast cancer screening, there are various myths about screening methods, radiation exposure, family history and more. In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, Lacey Foley, RT (R)(M), mammography technologist lead at UnityPoint Health – Finley Hospital, addresses some of the most common misconceptions related to breast cancer screening:

Myth #1: Getting a mammogram is dangerous because of radiation exposure.

FACT: The amount of radiation you get from a mammogram is tiny, much smaller than the amount you would get from an average x-ray or even from your natural surroundings. Our mammogram machines have protective barriers in place, which minimizes your overall exposure. Additionally, these machines are tested annually by a physicist to ensure the exposure remains within standards.

Using compression also means less exposure, as there is less tissue to penetrate. The goal of screening mammography is early detection of a developing cancer, which can have a 99 percent treatment rate if found early. Mammography can find these smaller cancers years in advance when compared to feeling it on the outside (such as finding a lump during a self-exam). The benefits of early detection certainly outweigh any risks.

Myth #2: Compression of the breast during the mammogram is bad for you.

FACT: Though compression can be uncomfortable, it’s a benefit in many ways.  First, compression helps by spreading the tissue so it’s not so condensed in one area, allowing the radiologist to see through the thicker tissue. This allows them to see the smallest structures and increases the chance of finding a cancer earlier. It also allows less exposure time when taking an image.

Myth #3: Breast cancer doesn’t run in my family, so I don’t need a mammogram.

FACT: Your first risk is that you are female. About 75 percent of breast cancers are found in those who have no family history, though having a family history of breast cancer can increase your risk. You should always consult your provider when it comes to what age to start having mammograms and how often.

Myth #4: I should just skip the mammogram and get a breast ultrasound instead.

FACT: Mammography is still the gold standard for detecting breast cancer and should be used first when it comes to screening, as it shows the overall view of the breast tissue, whereas ultrasound shows/highlights a smaller area.

For instance, if you walk into a room and turn on the light, you can see the entire room, much like how a mammogram shows the entire breast. If you walk into a room and turn on a flashlight, you can see the area that you shine the flashlight on, much like a breast ultrasound highlights a certain area. Both mammography and ultrasound complement each other in different ways. Ultrasound is used more for smaller areas that are found on a mammogram and can also be used as a secondary exam for dense breast tissue, which is also initially found on a mammogram.

Myth #5: If I have to come back for more images after my screening mammogram, that means the technologist didn’t get the right images the first time.

FACT: This is false 98 percent of the time. If you get called back from your screening mammogram, that means the radiologist has seen a change in your tissue from your prior imaging, or one breast has different tissue make-up compared to your other side. We consider a change or dense tissue a “finding,” much like when one of your lab results come back out of normal range. When you see a change, that area needs to be further investigated to make sure it’s a normal change, and not a change that may conclude a smaller cancer is starting to develop. For the 2 percent of those that get called back due to other reasons, most of those are due to motion on the image or needing more tissue, in which you will not be charged for.

Get Your Annual Screening Mammogram

It’s recommended women start with a baseline mammogram between the ages of 35-40, then start annual screening mammograms at age 40, or sooner if there’s a family history of breast cancer. Talk to your provider or call (563) 557-2787 to schedule your mammogram at Finley Hospital.

City of Dubuque Offers Leaf Disposal Options

The City of Dubuque offers residents multiple leaf and yard debris disposal options available through the Public Works Department. While the City encourages mulching, mowing, and backyard composting as economical and environmentally beneficial leaf disposal methods, other options are also available.

Leaf Rake-Out Collections 

The Public Works Department offers scheduled leaf rake-out collections. Collection appointments must be scheduled in advance by submitting a request at www.cityofdubuque.org/yardwaste or calling 563.589.4250. Rake-out collections will be offered beginning Monday, Oct. 13, and going through Wednesday, Nov. 26. Appointments must be made before raking leaves into a collection area. Acceptable items in the leaf rake-out include loose leaves, pine needles, and pinecones. Grass, brush, plants, and rocks are not accepted.

Rake-out collection leaf piles should be placed in the street at the curb no sooner than the day before the scheduled appointment. Crews cannot enter private property or alleys to collect a leaf rake-out. Vehicles must not be parked within 10 feet of the leaf pile. Collection piles should also be clear of fire hydrants, utility boxes, storm sewer catch basins, and other utility items. Residents will be charged a minimum of $20 for every 40-bag equivalent of leaves collected. This fee will be added to the resident’s utility bill.

Regular Yard Waste Collection 

As part of the City’s yard waste collection service, leaves and other yard waste may be placed in:

• paper yard waste bags that display a single-use City of Dubuque yard waste sticker,
• a rigid solid waste container marked with a City of Dubuque 2025 annual yard waste decal or single-use yard waste sticker looped on the handle,
• or City-issued yard debris tipper carts.

Bags, containers, and bundles may not exceed 35 gallons in capacity or 40 pounds in weight. Plastic bags containing yard waste will not be collected. Paper yard waste bags, single-use yard waste stickers, and brush ties are available in most grocery, hardware, and discount stores throughout the city. Single-use yard waste stickers are available at area retailers on sheets of five for $7.50. Brush ties cost $1.50 each. For more information, visit www.cityofdubuque.org/yardwaste

Residents are reminded that burning leaves and raking or blowing your leaves into the street is prohibited and subject to fines.

For more information, please contact the City of Dubuque Public Works Department at 563.589.4250 or visit www.cityofdubuque.org/publicworks

Dubuque Regional Airport’s Morning Departure Flight Shifting to 7:15 a.m.

Beginning Nov. 1, Denver Air Connection’s morning flight from Dubuque to O’Hare International Airport in Chicago will depart at 7:15 a.m. The flight will arrive at O’Hare at 8:20 a.m. Currently, the flight leaves Dubuque at 7:50 a.m. and arrives in Chicago at 8:55 a.m.

The change will offer even more available connections for travelers once they arrive at O’Hare. It will increase the number of potential connecting flights within four hours to more than 200, with more flights arriving at many destinations by early afternoon.

“While moving the morning flight up by 35 minutes may seem like a minor change, this is a significant improvement,” said Dubuque Mayor and DBQ Air Board Chairman Brad Cavanagh. “It responds to requests from business travelers, in particular, and it offers all travelers even more connecting flights and earlier arrivals to destinations beyond O’Hare. We’re very pleased Denver Air could make this change.”

“We welcome this change,” said Dubuque Regional Airport Director Todd Dalsing. “From an operations standpoint, an even earlier arrival to O’Hare is preferred. This gives our passengers additional time to make their connections and reach their destination sooner.”

The Denver Air Connection flights between Dubuque and O’Hare began in November 2024. In response to customer feedback, Denver Air shifted its schedule to a morning departure and evening arrival structure in May 2025. Customer reaction to the change has been overwhelmingly positive, with 97% of respondents to a traveler survey rating their experience at the Dubuque Regional Airport as excellent or good.

Denver Air Connection has interline agreements with American and United , which allow travelers to book, check bags and seamlessly connect to those airlines’ networks of destinations on a single booking.

For trips connecting beyond O’Hare/Chicago, bookings can be made directly through American or United, or through a preferred online travel retailer (such as Google Flights, Kayak, Expedia, Priceline, etc.). Passengers not flying beyond Chicago can book directly through Denver Air Connection. Booking links can be found on the Dubuque Regional Airport website: www.FlyDBQ.com

H5 Avian Influenza Detected in Dubuque 

Situational Update

After a quiet spring and summer, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is seeing a steady increase in sick and dead wild birds reported this September. This spike is occurring more than two months earlier than the previous year, with detections so far concentrated in central and north-central Iowa as well as Dubuque. Canada geese remain the most impacted species, but also mallard, red-tailed hawk, and possibly wood duck and American white pelican. Most birds have displayed the classical signs of highly pathogenic avian influenza, including irregular head and neck movements, tremors, or swimming in circles. Others have been lethargic or shown cloudy eyes.

Within the city of Dubuque, H5 avian influenza has been confirmed in Canada geese from two sites, with a number of additional reports coming from the surrounding area and specifically Bergfeld and Heritage Ponds. Please be aware that sick or dead geese may show up anywhere in the city during this period of heightened influenza activity.

The public is encouraged to keep their distance from sick geese or those that are easily approached without obvious sign of injury. Also keep pets from interacting with sick or dead birds or consuming carcass parts. While no human cases of H5 avian influenza have been linked to wild birds in the United States, there have been numerous cases linked to close contact with infected poultry and dairy cattle. Sick birds should not be handled or brought into shared living spaces. Rather, report sightings to Dubuque County Conservation at (563) 556-6745 or co*****************@***********ty.us.

If poultry producers or those with backyard flocks suspect signs of highly pathogenic avian influenza, they should contact their veterinarian immediately. Possible cases must also be reported to the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship at (515) 281-5305.

Background

Avian influenza is a highly transmissible, naturally occurring virus found in certain waterfowl and shorebirds. There are various subtypes and strains, most of which cause limited harm to domestic poultry (low pathogenic) but some of which are lethal (highly pathogenic).

The H5N1 strain that has been circulating since 2022 is the first time HPAI has affected wild birds in North America at a large scale.

HPAI can also affect animals that consume infected carcasses, including other birds like hawks, and mammals, like red fox. The virus can remain viable in a deceased bird or contaminated water for several weeks, depending upon environmental conditions.

Information for Waterfowl Hunters

Waterfowl hunters can use these simple precautions to limit their exposure while field dressing and consuming wild game: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/sites/default/files/fsc_hpai_hunters.pdf. Cooking meat to an internal temperature of 165° F can kill the virus, if present. Additionally, please bag and dispose of offal and carcass parts to prevent exposure to scavengers.

While there is some inherent risk to hunting dogs given the nature of their interaction with carcasses, sick birds often become poor, uncoordinated flyers and so are less likely to be harvested. Hunters should prevent dogs from interacting with unknown carcasses, and avoid feeding them raw meat from harvested birds. More information is available online at https://www.ducks.org/conservation/waterfowl-research-science/waterfowl-hunters-and-the-avian-flu-what-you-need-to-know.

Preliminary Construction Work to Begin on Iowa Department of Transportation Replacement of U.S. Highway 20 Bridge Over Catfish Creek

The Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) has begun preliminary construction work for the replacement of the U.S. Highway 20 bridge over Catfish Creek in Dubuque.

Starting on the evening of Sunday, Sept. 28, DOT crews began construction of median crossovers on U.S. 20. Overnight lane closures will be in place from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. on Sunday through Thursday nights for up to six weeks. Work will be performed in an area roughly bordered by N. Crescent Ridge on the west and Century Dr. on the east.

As a result of the work, the U.S. 20 intersection with Century Drive will be closed, with the exception of all right-turn lanes at the intersection.

Motorists are reminded to drive with caution, obey the posted speed limit and other signs in the work area, and be aware that traffic fines for moving violations are at least double in work zones. As in all work zones, drivers should stay alert, allow ample space between vehicles, and wear seat belts.

The DOT’s Catfish Creek bridge replacement project includes construction of a new bridge, the addition of new bridge approaches with wider shoulders, and installation of new guardrails. Construction of the new bridge is expected to begin in the spring of 2026.

Questions regarding the project can be directed to Resident Construction Engineer Hugh Holak of the Iowa Department of Transportation by emailing hu********@*****ot.us or by calling 563.927.2397.

Dubuque Flood Gate Replacement and Pump Station Project Paused Due to 2020 Gavilon Fertilizer Spill

Construction of the City of Dubuque’s flood gate replacement and pump station project at the 16th Street Detention Basin has been paused by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (IDNR).

As required before beginning the project, the City of Dubuque conducted an environmental review for the project site in 2019. Such reviews are standard and the City knows the importance of this step because, as the oldest city in Iowa, there are several contaminated sites in the community, some of which are very near the 16th Street Detention Basin. This environmental review for the project resulted in a “Finding of No Significant Impact (FNSI)” for the site. This review and approval, along with others received from the U.S. Economic Development Administration and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, were required for the project to proceed.

In 2020, after completion of that environmental review, a fertilizer spill occurred at the Gavilon Grain site near 12th Street and Kerper Boulevard. The IDNR was notified of the spill and monitored Gavilon’s clean-up efforts. The spill created an underground chemical plume (body of contaminated groundwater) containing nitrate and ammonia, according to an IDNR consent decree with Gavilon related to the spill. The City of Dubuque was aware that the IDNR was monitoring the Gavilon clean-up, and the City had no indications from the IDNR that this incident could impact the City’s project.

In October 2021, as the City prepared to proceed with the project, the IDNR issued a Reaffirmation of the 2019 Finding of No Significant Impact, reaffirming the environmental review was successfully completed and allowing the City to proceed with the project. The IDNR also issued a Local Flood Plain Permit in July 2020, another requirement for the work to begin, stating the IDNR reviewed the project and had no objection to the granting of the permit.

Recently, the project contractor applied for a permit for dewatering work on the project. As part of that application process, the IDNR determined the City must conduct further environmental studies before the IDNR issues a permit allowing the discharge of water to the Mississippi River from 10 dewatering wells at the project site necessary for the construction. The IDNR’s concern involves the possibility that the dewatering wells on the project site could draw contaminants from the Gavilon spill site. The IDNR is requiring an environmental study to determine concentration levels of the chemicals and identify treatment options, if necessary, before the water can be discharged to the river.

Work on the construction of the pump station and flood gate replacement will be paused until the necessary permits are secured. The City has hired HDR Engineering and Terracon Consultants to expedite and assist with the environmental study at an estimated cost of $240,000. This funding will come from the project’s contingency budget. The estimated timeline to complete the first phase of the environmental study was three months. Now that phase one is nearing completion, the City will enter the second and third phases of the study, which are estimated to take approximately seven months, followed by an implementation phase of the study results, which could take up to an additional seven months.

The $28.2 million project is the next major phase of the Bee Branch Watershed Flood Mitigation Project. It involves the construction of a new stormwater pumping station on Kerper Blvd. and the decommissioning of the existing pump station system installed as part of the John C. Culver Floodwall/Levee system.?The new facility will include a new flood gate, four new 100,000 gallon per minute pumps (double the pumping capacity of the existing facility), new electrical service, and the installation of back-up generators. The improvements will greatly enhance the system that conveys stormwater from the Bee Branch Watershed to the Mississippi River and protects over 1,300 properties from flooding during high river levels. The project also adds additional resiliency options as rainstorms increase in both rainfall and intensity. It builds upon the flood protection established through earlier phases of the Bee Branch Project, which currently safeguards against storms as severe as a 500-year event.

City Council Completes Annual Goal-Setting Sessions

The Dubuque City Council completed its annual goal-setting sessions on Thursday, Sept. 25, 2025. Over the course of three evening sessions, City Council members affirmed the 15-year vision statement and mission statement and identified eight five-year goals for the city. They also identified top and high priorities for a 2025-2026 policy agenda as well as in-progress projects and capital projects for 2025-2026.

The 2040 Dubuque Vision Statement

Dubuque 2040 is a sustainable and resilient city, an inclusive and equitable community where ALL are welcome. Dubuque 2038 has preserved our Masterpiece on the Mississippi, has a strong, diverse economy and expanding connectivity. Our residents experience healthy living and active lifestyles; have choices of quality, affordable, livable neighborhoods; have an abundance of diverse, fun things to do; and are successfully and actively engaged in the community.

Mission Statement

Dubuque city government is progressive and financially sound with residents receiving value for their tax dollars and achieving goals through partnerships. Dubuque city government’s mission is to deliver excellent municipal services that support urban living; contribute to an equitable, sustainable city; plan for the community’s future; and facilitate access to critical human services.

City of Dubuque Goals 2030

• Healthy and Safe Community
• Financially Responsible, High-Performance City Organization: Sustainable and Effective Service Delivery
• Robust Local Economy: Diverse Businesses and Jobs with Economic Prosperity
• Livable Neighborhoods and Housing: Great Place to Live
• Sustainable Environment: Preserving and Enhancing Natural Resources
• Connected Community: Equitable Transportation, Technology Infrastructure, and Mobility
• Diverse Arts, Culture, Parks, and Recreation Experiences and Activities
• Partnership for a Better Dubuque: Building Our Community that is Viable, Livable, and Equitable

Policy Agenda

Policy agenda items are issues that need direction or a policy decision or a major funding decision by the City Council, or issues that need City Council leadership in the community or with other governmental bodies. The policy agenda is divided into top priorities and high priorities.

2025 – 2027 Top Priorities (in alphabetical order):

• Commercial Air Service Future Strategy and Action Plan to Sustain and Expand
• Comprehensive Fire Station Location and Facilities Study
• Fire Department Staffing Increases
• Police Department: Full Staffing and Hiring
• Stormwater Management Investments and Implementation:
  • 17th and Elm Street Stormwater Project
  • 17th and Locust Street Stormwater Project
  • Bee Branch Gate & Pump Station Project
  • Detention Ponds Maintenance
  • Individual Neighborhood Investments
  • Kaufmann Avenue Storm Sewer Improvements
• Sanitary Sewer Investments and Implementation
  • Catfish Creek Sanitary Sewer Project
  • Cedar Street Lift Station and Force Main
  • Chaplain Schmitt Island Sanitary Sewer
  • Cooper Place/Maiden Lane Project
  • Grove Terrace Project
  • Harvard Street Project
  • Hempstead Street Project
  • Sanitary Sewer Force Main Stabilization Project
  • Sanitary Sewer Consent Decree Compliance
  • Terminal Street Lift Station and Force Main
• Sports Complex Development
• Stormwater Management Investments and Implementation:
  • 17th and Elm Street Stormwater Project
  • 17th and Locust Street Stormwater Project
  • Bee Branch Gate & Pump Station Project
  • Detention Ponds Maintenance
  • Individual Neighborhood Investments
  • Kaufmann Avenue Storm Sewer Improvements
• Street Maintenance/Rehabilitation Program

2025 – 2027 High Priorities (in alphabetical order):

• Continued Implementation of Central Avenue Revitalization Plan
• Downtown Master Plan Update
• Dubuque Law Enforcement Center (DLEC) Short-Term Facility Enhancements and Future Plan
• East-West Corridor/Roundabouts Projects
• Next Phases of Chaplain Schmitt Island Development
• Parks and Recreation Master Plan Adoption and Implementation
• Water Resource and Recovery Center Facility and Process Improvements and Odor Reduction

Honor Flight of Dubuque and the Tri-States Announces Upcoming Flights

Honor Flight of Dubuque and the Tri-States is pleased to announce the schedule of two flights for Monday and Tuesday, May 11 and 12 of 2026. The trip is open to all Veterans who served from 1975 and older with priority given to WWII veterans, followed by those serving in the Korean Conflict, the Cold War, and the Vietnam War. Terminally ill veterans from any war are given top priority. Anyone that wore a uniform and served, whether state side or overseas and who was not dishonorably discharged are invited to apply to participate in Honor Flight.

It is an exciting day for the veterans, and this no-cost, once-in-a-lifetime tour is a “thank you” for the service they rendered and the freedoms they secured for Americans as well as people around the globe, when serving in the U.S. military.

The cost to send a veteran on this trip is approximately $700; however, funds to provide this trip, provided at no cost to qualified veterans, come from a grateful public. There is no funding from federal, state, or local governments. Volunteer guardians who travel with the veterans are asked to contribute $500 to cover a portion of their expenses.

The Honor Flight of Dubuque and the Tri-States is a 501C3 non-profit organization accepting donations by check to:

Honor Flight of Dubuque and the Tri-States
c/o of DuTrac Community Credit Union
PO Box 3250
Dubuque IA 52004-3250

Donations are also accepted in person at all DuTrac Community Credit Union locations.

For additional information or to apply, please visit www.honorflightdbq.org.

UnityPoint Clinic Offers Advice to Prevent Hand, Foot & Mouth Disease

As children have returned to school, area health care providers are seeing an uptick in hand, foot, and mouth disease.

The virus, which causes fever, mouth sores and a skin rash, is spread through contact with droplets after a person sneezes, coughs or talks; objects and surfaces; fluid from blisters; and human waste.

According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), the disease is common in children under 5 years old, but anyone can get it. While not typically serious, hand, foot, and mouth disease very contagious.

“We typically recommend a child stay home until they have no fever for 24 hours, feel well enough to participate in activities, and have no uncontrolled drooling with mouth sores,” said Amanda Robinson, ARNP, of UnityPoint Clinic Family Medicine – Peosta. “If there is a bad outbreak, at times the local health department may place recommendations as well.”

There is typically no medication prescribed for hand, foot and mouth disease, and most people get better on their own in 7 to 10 days.

To avoid spreading the virus, Robinson recommends washing hands often, cleaning and disinfecting surfaces and shared items like toys and doorknobs, avoiding close contact with others, and avoiding touching your face.

“Patients do not necessarily have to see a provider for a diagnosis if they are sure this is what they have or they have been exposed,” Robinson said. “Our recommendations are to relieve pain and fever with over-the-counter medications and to make efforts to prevent dehydration. With the mouth sores it can be painful to swallow so it is important to keep pushing fluids.”