Area Tidbits

Dubuque County Fair Announces the County Concert!!

TICKETS ON SALE NOW at www.dbqfair.com

Spring Garden Seminar

The annual Spring Garden Seminar is open to the public and sponsored by the Dubuque County Master Gardeners.  This educational event is occurring 7:15 am to 12 noon Saturday, March 28 at the NICC Town Clock Business Center.  This event features nine session topics attendees can choose from including flower bulbs, landscape design, tree care, growing strawberries, bees, planting flowerpots, pressing flowers, vegetable garden success, and landscape ponds.  Early registration is available until March 25 for $20.  Late registration is available on site for $25 by cash or check only.  Light morning refreshments will be provided.  More information can be found by visiting https://bit.ly/dbqspring or calling Dubuque County Extension Office at (563) 583-6496.

For questions concerning the details of this programs release, please contact: Ray Kruse at ra*****@*****te.edu

 Hospice of Dubuque Earns 5-Star Medicare Rating for 2026

Hospice of Dubuque is proud to announce that it has once again earned a 5-star rating from Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) as part of Medicare’s Hospice Care Compare program. With the recent star rating update on February 18, 2026, Hospice of Dubuque continues its long-standing tradition of excellence, having maintained a 5-star rating since the program’s inception in August of 2022.

The CMS Hospice Star Rating is based on results from the Family Caregiver Survey, which asks family members about the patient’s hospice care experience, including communication, symptom management, emotional support, and overall quality of care. The survey also asks whether they would recommend the hospice to someone else. Responses are compiled and translated into a 5-star scale that allows families to evaluate hospices on the Care Compare website. A 5-star rating represents the highest level of performance.

“This outstanding achievement reflects the compassion, professionalism, and unwavering dedication our team brings to patients and their families every day,” said Lavonne Noel, Hospice of Dubuque’s Executive Director. “We are incredibly proud of our staff and deeply grateful for their continued commitment to excellence.”

Hospice of Dubuque’s consistent 5-star rating underscores its mission to provide compassionate care for persons with serious illness and their loved ones. Hospice of Dubuque is the only local non-profit hospice, and the organization’s staff and volunteers have served the tri-state area for 43 years.

For more information about Hospice of Dubuque and its services, visit hospiceofdubuque.org or call 563.582.1220.

OPPORTUNITY TO SERVE ON COUNTY BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS

Dubuque County relies on numerous boards and commissions for important work. In March, the Board of Supervisors will consider applications for expiring and vacant positions on several boards and commissions.

If you are interested in serving on a Dubuque County board or commission, please visit our website to complete an online application or download the 2-page fillable PDF form. For more information or to access the application, visit https://dubuquecountyiowa.form.transform.civicplus.com/58842

The boards and commissions with expiring and vacant positions include:

• Airport Zoning Board of Adjustment
• Eminent Domain Compensation Commission
• Historic Preservation Commission
• Sunnycrest Manor Advisory Board

Individuals wishing to be considered for an appointment in December should submit a completed application by March 6, 2026 either online, by email toAmi.Johnson@dubuquecountyiowa.gov, by fax at (563) 587-4478, or by mail to Board of Supervisors, Attn: Ami Johnson, 720 Central Ave., Dubuque IA 52001.

Unclaimed Property Day Recap

Cupid called – your perfect match could be waiting in Great Iowa Treasure Hunt, and all it takes is a free search for yourself, a business or someone you know. Currently, my office is safekeeping over $648 million in unclaimed money waiting to be reunited with its rightful owner, such as forgotten checking and savings accounts, uncashed checks, utility refunds and more.

Love doesn’t have to be complicated. Say yes to your forgotten funds at GreatIowaTreasureHunt.gov, and keep reading to explore how easy it can be to reunite yourself (or your favorite library) with lost funds.

Sincerely,

Roby Smith
Iowa State Treasurer

Over 7,600 past and present Iowans started the process of reuniting with their lost funds during our Unclaimed Property Day campaign, which revolves around February 1. The value of those claims was over $2.6 million!

Each year, we celebrate by encouraging past and present Iowans to see if their lost funds have been turned over to our office. This happens when financial institutions and businesses lose contact with the owner of the funds, and it is our mission to return them to you.

Did you miss out on Unclaimed Property Day? Don’t worry! Great Iowa Treasure Hunt works on this mission every single day, not just February 1. Search anytime, anywhere at GreatIowaTreasureHunt.gov – you never know what you will find!

UnityPoint Health – Finley Hospital Unveils Renovated C-Section Suite

UnityPoint Health – Finley Hospital and the Finley Health Foundation are excited to announce renovation work has been completed on the Family Birthing Suites’ dedicated C-Section Suite.

The $1.4 million renovation, funded by area donors and the Finley Health Foundation, expanded the operating room, stream-lined the suite’s layout, enhanced functionality, and upgraded the equipment within a dedicated operating room for mother and baby. The space will begin being used by patients on Monday, Feb. 23.

“Generous support of area individuals, families, grants and corporate gifts enabled us to secure the funding to ensure we can be ready to serve families in the tri-state area well into the future,” says Barbara Potts, Executive Director of the Foundation, “Both Finley Hospital and the Finley Health Foundation would like to express our gratitude to everyone who made the renovation possible.”

Backed by Finley’s highly specialized NICU, the hospital is a leader in maternity care with 578 babies delivered in 2025.

“Providing an exceptional birthing experience is our goal for mother and baby,” said Jennifer Scott, manager of the Family Birthing Suites. “Innovative technology can play a significant role in that experience. A baby monitoring system now provides line of sight to the baby warmer in the suite. If the baby is not on the mother’s chest, she will have a monitor right above her head for a full view, to assist in the crucial bonding experience at birth.”

Learn more about maternity care at Finley Hospital by visiting uph.link/Finley_BirthCenter.

Fun art classes for youth and adults at the Galena ARC!

There is a lot happening in the Art Department at the Galena ARC. Try something new or refresh your skills. Take an oil painting, pen and ink drawing, pottery, jewelry art, power wood carving, cooking, sewing class or start private music lessons at the Galena ARC Community Center (11084 W US HWY 20, Galena). Many classes fill up fast so grab some friends or family members and sign up together for a fun and rewarding experience.

Our Spring schedule is full of options to choose from all taught by a variety of local artists. Some classes are for youth, some are for adults and some are family classes that welcome youth and adult students alike. Family classes and workshops are fun to enjoy with your loved ones and create special memories together.

We also offer some monthly free classes for youth. These classes are paid for in part by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council, you must pre-register online to participate as class size is limited. The free Squiggle Academy is for 2-4 year olds along with their caregiver. Students will experience art activities that engage their sense of touch, sight, and sound, and will help develop their fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. Free homeschool art classes are held once a month on Mondays. Classes build your student’s creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking through visual arts education.

Looking for a fun and unique party idea? Bring your special people together to celebrate and create special memories at the Galena ARC. Contact Liz Larson at Ar*********@*******rc.org to discuss art project options. Great for kids birthdays, bachelorette parties and family reunions. You can bring drinks and food for your party, and we will supply the art fun!

Every Thursday morning there is an adult Artist’s Open Studio from 10:30am -12:30pm. This is a self-guided open studio where artists of all abilities and styles are welcome to come and share ideas, techniques, ask questions and just enjoy creating in the company of other artists. You can work at your own pace and gain knowledge from others experiences and success. You must bring your own supplies. No advance registration is required just drop in on Thursdays from 10:30am-12:30pm. Fee is $10 per Open Studio, pay at class time, punch cards are also available.

The Galena ARC also offers private music lessons in flute, piano and guitar. Please visit online for more information and how to schedule your first lesson. Looking for a place to teach private lessons? Contact Liz Larson at Ar*********@*******rc.org to discuss.

We are currently working on our Summer classes and workshops so check back often or sign up for our eNewsletter on our homepage and you will be the first to know when a new class is posted.

Visit us online to learn more about our workshops and classes and how to register: www.GalenaARC.org

 Candidate Filing for June 2nd Primary Election 

Individuals wanting to run for office in the June 2nd Primary election as a member of a political party can start filing papers Monday, March 2nd. The filing deadline ends at 5:00 pm on Friday, March 20th. All filings will be done at the Election’s Office located at 880 Central Ave, Dubuque, IA.

In Iowa, currently, there are two political parties: the Democrat Party, and the Republican Party.

Filing of the nomination papers must include nomination petitions and an affidavit of candidacy for each candidate. The number of signatures required on the nomination petitions is 100 signatures for all candidates who file for the Primary Election. Forms can be found online at the Iowa Secretary of State’s website at: www.sos.iowa.gov

County Offices up:

• County Board of Supervisor (2)
• County Attorney
• County Treasurer
• County Recorder

A candidate must be an Iowa resident at the time of the election and be a registered voter of Dubuque County when sworn in.

The Primary Election is a nomination process for the Democrat and Republican parties. To claim a nomination outright, a candidate must receive a minimum 35% plurality of the votes cast in his/her race. If, in a multi-candidate election, no candidate is able to capture 35%, the nominee is selected by a party convention.

If there is no candidate seeking a party’s nomination in the primary, the party may be nominated by special convention. This must be done by Wednesday, August 26, 2026.

Further information regarding the elections, candidates and deadlines is available at our website: elections.dubuquecountyiowa.gov This information can also be obtained by contacting the County Election Office at 563-589-4457 or el*******@***************wa.gov .

BestFest Winners Announced!!

 BestFest 2026 

Benefit for Hospice of Dubuque

BestFest 2026, the annual celebration recognizing “the best” of more than 50 area businesses, will take place Thursday, March 26, from 5:00–7:30 p.m. at the Dubuque County Fairgrounds.

During the month of January, tri-state patrons voted for their favorite local businesses in a wide variety of categories. Winners will be recognized at BestFest and will showcase samples of their products throughout the evening.

Tickets are $40 and are available at the Hospice of Dubuque office and online at hospiceofdubuque.org . Tickets are limited and early purchase is encouraged.

All proceeds benefit Hospice of Dubuque, supporting care for seriously ill patients and their families throughout the tri-state area.

Hospice of Dubuque extends a special thank you to the BestFest 2026 sponsors:

Gold Sponsors: Bud Light/7G Distributing, Coca-Cola, Dupaco Credit Union, Diamond Jo Casino, Dubuque County Fairgrounds, AY McDonald, Home+Floor Show, Kendall Hunt, Kuhlman Financial, Assured Partners, Radio Dubuque, OnMedia, and The Dubuque Advertiser.

Silver Sponsors: Conlon Construction, Giese Companies, Hammer Law, Honkamp & Co., and Theisen’s

Bronze Sponsors: Beichler Electric, American Realty, Tri-State Shred, Flexsteel, Straka Johnson Architects and Access Systems

Karla K. Reinhardt

Karla K. Reinhardt, born on May 25, 1963, passed away peacefully on January 27, 2026, in Dubuque, IA. She embraced life with an exuberant spirit, always ready to share a laugh and enjoy good times with friends and family. Her outgoing and fun-loving nature will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

Karla is survived by her son, Scott Rusch and his wife Danielle; daughter, Nicole Hines and her husband Aaron; granddaughters, Olivia and Sophia; sisters, Kimberly Schuster and Karen Orcutt; Brother Randy Reinhardt and many loving nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Rosemary and Ferdinand Reinhardt Sr., and brothers, Ferdinand Reinhardt Jr. and Richard Reinhardt.

Karla’s vibrant personality left a lasting impact on her family and friends, making every gathering memorable. Her laughter and energy will be forever cherished in the hearts of those she leaves behind.

The family would like to express sincere appreciation to Donna Selle and Dennis Houselog for their compassion, support, and friendship to Karla throughout her illness. The family would also like to thank the Finley Hospital ICU nursing staff and  Stonehill Health Center for their exceptional care and kindness.

A celebration of Karla’s life will be held on February 10, 2026 from 5:00 to 8:00 PM at Denny’s Lux Club.

Raymond Steichen

Raymond Steichen of Dubuque passed away January 23rd, 2026, surrounded by loving family. Raymond was born in Dubuque on April 14, 1933, to Nicholas Steichen and Margaret (Kirkpatrick) Steichen. He was the fourth of ten children. He grew up fishing, hunting and gardening. He was an avid story teller and loved to talk about fishing, outer space, and his grandkids. He was an Army veteran of the Korean Conflict.

Raymond met the love of his life, Patricia McGuire at a dance at Turner Hall in Galena, Illinois.

They married in 1958 in Galena and were married for sixty-five years.  Patricia passed away in 2023. They had four children: Karl (Kassandra Powell), Karen (Brian) Huskins, Paul (Bich Tran), and Kathy (Christopher Urias). Raymond is also survived by four grandchildren.

Raymond spent free time traveling, fishing the Mississippi River and spring fed streams in the driftless areas of Iowa, Wisconsin and Illinois.  All the children have fond memories of fishing and swimming in the Mississippi.

Raymond was a patrolman for the Dubuque Police Department for forty years. He retired in the mid 90’s and enjoyed a long and healthy retirement. He continued fishing on the Mississippi, gardening, road trips in northeast Iowa and float trips on the Turkey River.

Ray would like everyone to know that Patricia was the most wonderful wife, mother and caregiver. They spent much of their time staying active by dancing, enjoying music, and growing fruit and vegetables together. They spent evenings holding hands watching Lawrence Welk re-runs.

As Raymond’s physical abilities declined, Raymond and son Karl developed various contraptions to allow for his continued access to the boat. The family would like to thank Keith Boever for helping on fishing trips.

Raymond was preceded in death by siblings Kenneth, Robert, William, Rosemary (Severson), John, and Glenn. He is survived by sisters Rita, Mary Lou Konrardy and Joann Malec.

The family thanks Stonehill Nursing Home and Hospice of Dubuque for the excellent care he received for the last four months of his life.

A memorial service will be held in June and will be announced.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street is assisting Ray’s family.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.behrfuneralhome.com

Richard Kaszuk

Richard “Rich” Kaszuk, 80, of Galena, IL, passed away on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at his home. A private service was held. The Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena is assisting the family.

Rich served in the United States Army from 1968 to 1969, stationed in Long Bien, Vietnam, with the 402nd Transportation Company. He was honorably discharged as Spec 4. Rich worked as a plant manager for 37 years at Major Armature and Ampere Automotive.

He and Darlene moved to Galena eight years ago to be closer to family and fell in love with the local community. Rich enjoyed attending VFW and American Legion events and sharing stories from his time in the army. He also enjoyed his daily drives through downtown to take in the beautiful buildings and the many shops.

Rich was probably having his most fun while working on projects for their HOA. He loved woodworking, and recently LEGO became an interest. Rich was the go-to person for handyman work; he could fix almost anything around the house. He loved to fish and followed the Bears, Blackhawks, and Cubs. He was a member of American Legion Post #193 for 37 years and of VFW Post #2665.

He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Darlene, two sons, Richard (Blanca), Ronald, two daughters, Tammy (Don) Pena, and Teresa (Fred) Reichhardt, two stepsons, Thomas (Jamie) Turner and Todd (Alana) Turner, his grandchildren, and a sister, Carolyn Kaszuk.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to Dr. Matt Gullone and Hospice of Dubuque for your care during this difficult time.

Online condolences may be left for the family at  www.furlongfuneralchapel.com

Kelly A. Liddle

Kelly Alissa (Bruse) Liddle, 53, of Dubuque passed away peacefully on Monday, Jan. 26, 2026. She spent her final day on earth surrounded by loved ones and entered eternal rest with her husband at her side.

Kelly was born to Steven Bruse and Susan (Knockle) Bruse on September 3, 1972, in Dubuque, Iowa. Kelly graduated from Dubuque Senior High School and attended Northeast Iowa Community College to become a licensed practical nurse.

Kelly lived in this world as a vessel of compassion: a devoted wife, mother, sister, daughter, friend, and nurse whose care knew no bounds. She was a strong-willed and brilliant woman who was never afraid to stand up for her beliefs. She was also the life of the party anywhere she went, bringing an unmistakable energy to every encounter.

Kelly is survived by her husband, Robert Liddle; her children, Alissa Bruse-Harrington, Thomas Liddle, and Emily Liddle; and her grandchildren, Charlee Bakey and Nolan Howell. Kelly is also survived by her parents, Steven Bruse and Susan Bruse; her siblings, Cherie (Don) Regan and Shannon (Kristy) Bruse; and her nieces and nephews, Alex Regan, Lindsey Regan, Nathan Regan, and Amanda Bruse.

Kelly was preceded in death by her younger brother Patrick Klauer.

Services will be held Saturday, January 31st, 2026, at Summit Congregational United Church of Christ (2885 John F. Kennedy Rd., Dubuque). Visitation begins at 12:00 PM, followed by the funeral service at 3:00 PM and a dinner afterward.

Online condolences for Kelly’s family may be left at www.tristatecremationcenter.com

Kitten M. Clewley

Kitten M. Clewley, age 50, of Potosi, passed away on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital in Madison.  To celebrate Kitten’s life a spring ride will be held at a later date.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street is assisting Kitten’s family.

Kitten was born on May 31, 1975, in Colorado Springs, Colorado, daughter of Thomas Vander and Gail Irene Clewley.

Kitten graduated from high school and went to work.  In her 20’s she worked as a carpenter, but her main focus was always on being an awesome mom and grandma.  She loved to travel, and has visited almost every state in the US.  Kitten was a free spirit and a very loving person.  She enjoyed the great outdoors.  Motorcycle rides and family camping trips were some of her favorite activities.  She was known as, “Miss Fix It”, and was always able to come up with a solution of any problem that came her way.  Kitten was greatly loved and we will all miss her tremendously.  We all want to thank Kitten for making us feel special, and making the world around her a better place.  Rest in peace.

Those left to cherish Kitten’s memory include

5 children,
Katelynn Salisbury, Texas,
Cody (Marina) Fritz, Ocean City, NJ,
Jazmin Salisbury, Hazel Green, WI,
Tevin Salisbury, Dubuque, IA
and Ciana (Anthony) McIntyre, Potosi, WI;

3 grandchildren,
Dakota Ward, Arian Badertscher and Lincoln Winfrey;

her mother;
Gail Aumiller, Dubuque, IA;

4 siblings,
Barbara Smith,
Anna Iverson,
Evan Aumiller
and Tia Mesecher;

2 aunts,
Tina Walton, Dyersville, IA
and Charlene McGrath, Monroe, WI.

Kitten was preceded in death by her father, Thomas Vander; her maternal grandmother, Darlene McNillie; an aunt, Julie Salyars; and a cousin, Sabrina Foley.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Kitten’s daughter, Ciana, for being a fantastic caregiver.  We appreciate everything you have done for Kitten more than words can convey.

Cards and memorials in Kitten’s memory may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Kitten Clewley Family.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.behrfuneralhome.com

Midwest Medical CenterMedical Education Financial Assistance Program

Loan/Scholarship Deadline: NOON on March 27, 2026
MMCGalena.org/2026ScholarshipApp

Five loan/scholarship programs are available through Midwest Medical Center to provide financial assistance to persons pursuing an education in a medical field at an accredited school of the student’s choice.

These programs have been made available to area students by seven benefactors:         

Clifford Stauss, C. Palmer and Eunice Eustice, Josephine Harvey, Richard and Marilyn Eastman, and Melvin E. Young.

Persons planning to enter careers in nursing, physical therapy, medicine, and dentistry, as well as careers in related technical fields, such as radiology, laboratory, or some other qualifying medical professions, are eligible to apply.

All loan/scholarship applications must be submitted to Midwest Medical Center by noon on March 27, 2026.

 If the student, upon graduation from their health career program, is employed at Midwest Medical Center for a period of time equivalent to the number of years financial assistance was received, the money becomes a scholarship and does not have to be repaid. If the graduate either chooses to work elsewhere or if no position is available at Midwest Medical Center in their field, the money becomes a loan; however, the annual interest rate is only 3%.

The education monies are administered in accordance with the wishes of the donors of the funds.

Money is awarded to successful applicants who meet the criteria established for each fund/donor. 

Additional information and applications may be found at MMCGalena.org/scholarships. Questions about the program should be directed to Kelli Jackson, CFO at Midwest Medical Center, One Medical Center Drive, Galena, IL 61036, (815) 776-7277.

Auditions for the 2026 Summer Kids Show – The Wizard of Oz Youth Edition

The Ohnward Fine Arts Center, Maquoketa, IA Presents Auditions for the 2026 Summer Kids Show The Wizard of Oz Youth Edition

Auditions: Thursday June 18 at 10 AM and 1 PM.                                     

Rehearsal dates – June 22

Performance Dates – July 25 at 7:00 PM and July 26 at 2:00 PM

The Ohnward Fine Arts Center is will be holding auditions for The Wizard of Oz Youth Edition, Thursday June 18 at 10 AM and again at 1 PM, at the Ohnward Fine Arts Center.  Students from ages 8 (or going into 2^nd grade) – 18 can audition for this show.  Both male and females are invited to audition.  The cost for kids to participate is $50.  For families with more than one child the cost will be $50 for first child, $25 for second and $15 for child number 3 and more. A limited number of no cost scholarships are available. No one will be turned away.  Everyone that auditions will be in the show. Please contact the Ohnward Fine Arts Center for more information on the scholarship program.  Backstage and tech help is also needed!  This covers all Scripts, scenery, props, and a Wizard of Oz T-shirt.  All performers are allowed t keep all rehearsal materials.

The Wizard of Oz

Youth Edition

L. Frank Baum’s beloved story of a young girl’s adventure in a magical land has been entertaining audiences for over a century. Join Dorothy and her loyal companion Toto as they “Follow the Yellow Brick Road” through the Land of Oz, determined to reach the Emerald City, where the great and powerful Wizard of Oz will help them get home. Of course, along the way, Dorothy encounters witches (both good and bad), Munchkins, talking trees and winged monkeys. But most importantly, she befriends three unique characters: a Scarecrow with no brain, a Tin Man with no heart, and a Lion with no “nerve.” Their journey to happiness – and self-awareness – is a glowing testament to friendship, understanding and hope in a world filled with both beauty and ugliness.

Click your heels three times and follow the yellow brick road to the Ohnward Fine Arts Center!

Parts include:                                                                                             Dorothy
Aunt Em
Uncle Henry
Farmhand
Hickory (Tin Man)
Zeke (Lion)
Hunk (Scarecrow)
Miss Gulch
Professor Marvel
Rowboat Man #1
Rowboat Man #2
Toto (Dog)
Glinda
Munchkins
Mayor
Barrister
Coroner
Wicked Witch
Apple Trees
Jitterbugs
Emerald City Chorus
Nikko, leader of the winged monkeys
Winkie Guards
Oz People

*Auditions will also be held for Toto the Dog during the audition times.

Rehearsals will begin on Monday June 22 at 10 AM.  The rehearsal times will be from 10:00 AM through Noon Monday through Fridays.

This show will be directed by Ohnward Fine Arts Centers executive director Richard Hall.  Music direction by Linda Polk, Julie Weirup and Shannon Soenksen.  Piano accompanist will be Jenna Williams and choreography by Shannon Soenksen.

For questions, please call the Ohnward Fine Arts Center at 563-652-9815 or email Richard Hall at Di******@*******************er.com.

The Wizard of Oz Youth Edition will have two public performances on Saturday July 25 at 7 PM and Sunday July 26 at 2 PM. Tickets for the public performances will be $15.00 for adults and $10.00 for students.  If purchased at the door on the day of the performance tickets will be $18 for adults and $13.00 for students. Tickets can also be purchased at The Ohnward Fine Arts Center (from 9:00 am – 1:00 pm call 563-652-9815)

Tickets can also be purchased at Osterhaus Pharmacy, both Maquoketa State Banks in Maquoketa, Hartig Drug in Preston and Bellevue.

Tickets are also available online at www.ohnwardfineartscenter.com

The shows approximate runtime is one hour.

Applications Open for Dubuque’s Community PEG Access Equipment Grant

The City of Dubuque invites local creators to take advantage of a unique opportunity to enhance community storytelling. The City’s Communications Office is accepting applications for the Community PEG Access Equipment Grant.

The grant program supports the creation of video programming for the City of Dubuque’s public, educational, and governmental (PEG) access channels on local cable television systems. The deadline for applications is Sunday, Feb. 22, 2026.

PEG access channels provide a platform for public expression, educational content, and local government transparency, ensuring residents stay informed, engaged, and connected. Examples of programs can include narrative fiction, documentaries, local features, and more.

Through this opportunity, equipment will be funded to up to five individuals and/or organizations with an interest in producing content for one of Dubuque’s PEG channels. The total requested amount may not exceed $5,000 per application for individuals or $10,000 per application for organization.

Applications must include:

• a programming proposal,
• a requested equipment list,
• a plan for use of requested equipment, and
• a quote for pricing confirmation.

Equipment must support the creation of proposed programming and is to be used solely for non-commercial purposes. Awarded applicants must submit the required amount of programming and a final grant report within 18 months of receiving equipment.

Applications are due Sunday, Feb. 22, 2026, and will be reviewed by the City’s Cable TV Commission. Award notifications will follow this review.

The PEG Equipment Grant Programs are supported by funds contributed by Mediacom to support the production of local public, educational, and governmental programming, as required under the City’s previous cable television franchise agreement.

For additional information, including eligibility and application requirements, and to apply, visit www.cityofdubuque.org/CommunityPEGGrant or call 563-690-6288.

Jerome Kieffer

Jerome “Jerry” Kieffer, 81, of Galena, IL, passed away on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at Midwest Medical Center in Galena. A funeral Mass will be held at 11 AM on Monday, December 15, 2025, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Galena, where friends may call after 9:30 AM until the time of the Mass. The burial will take place in the church cemetery. The Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena is assisting the family.

He was born May 10, 1944, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Nicholas and Helen (Splinter) Kieffer. Jerry graduated from Galena High School with the class of 1962. He married Mary Ann Schumacher on May 14, 1966. Jerry owned and operated the Galena Laundry for 52 years, first with his brother Jim, but after his brother’s passing in 1988, he became the sole owner. In 2017, he sold the laundry to The Workshop in Galena, where he planned to help for a couple of weeks. Eight years later, he was still working there.

Jerry was passionate about his work and never wanted to retire. He was active in the community, most recently on the Galena City Council, for 12 years. He also served on numerous boards, including the Galena-Stauss Hospital Board of Directors, the West Galena Township Board of Trustees, the Galena Golf Club Board of Directors, and the St. Mary’s Parish Council.

Besides his passion for his work and government, Jerry loved golf, flea markets and auctions, betting on football games with his brothers, watching Bears football, Cubs baseball, and Duke basketball, and spending time with his grandsons.

He is survived by his children, Paul (Heather) Kieffer of Montgomery, IL, his daughter Amy (Tim) Hiller of Northbrook, IL, and by three grandsons, Colin, Ben, and Andrew. He is also survived by two sisters, Carol Spurr of Rochester, MN, and Madonna Hillard of Pocatello, ID; a brother, Robert Kieffer of Tupelo, MS; a brother-in-law, Richard Baumgartner; sister in law, Judith Kieffer of Galena, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Mary Ann; three brothers, James, Nicholas, and Russell; two sisters, Barbara and Mary; a brother-in-law, James Schumacher; a sister-in-law, Jan Kutsch; and many in-laws.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Greg Vandigo and the staff at Midwest Medical Center.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to The Workshop in Galena in memory of Jerry.

Online condolences may be left at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com

Robert J. Vandermeulen Jr.

Robert J. “Bob” Vandermeulen, Jr., age 81, of Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey suddenly on November 26, 2025, at home.  To honor Bob’s life, a memorial mass will be held at a later date.  Burial will be in the Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Bob’s family.

Bob was born on January 6, 1944, in Dubuque, IA, a son to Robert J. and Mary (Albert) Vandermeulen, Sr.  He lived a good life while being able to work and play hard all while being surrounded by family and friends the entire time.  Bob invested his working years with John Deere Dubuque Works, spending 30 years there while still being able to retire at the age of 50 in 1994.  He was united in marriage to Ellen (Finn) Cheever in 1976 and the couple was blessed with almost 50 years together.  Bob took great pride in his accomplishments in life and enjoyed each day to the fullest whenever possible.

In his free-time, Bob found many ways to turn his interests and talents into hobbies and activities.  He was truly a gifted mechanic and whether he was working on his drag car, his latest demo derby entry, or perfecting his tug-of-war skills with the St. Donatus Team, Bob always enjoyed the experiences and comradery that came along with them.  He was also an avid hunter and fisherman and never spent a day in the woods, or on the water that wasn’t considered to be time well spent.  Bob was a great bowler in his younger years as well and spent countless hours working on a perfect game.

Our hearts break with the sudden passing of Bob and we can now only seek peace in time while we lean into the legacy and memories he leaves behind for us.  Thank you, Bob, for simply being you, always leaving your determination and loyalty on the table for all to see, and never leaving any doubt in anyone’s mind where you stood.  May the Lord bless and keep you safe in His grace-filled arms until we meet again.

Those left to cherish the memory of Bob include,

his loving wife of 49 years,
Ellen Vandermeulen, Dubuque, IA;

his eight children,
Bill (Donna) Cheever, Big Lake, MN,
Robin (Al) Kennicker, Sherrill, IA,
Brent Cheever, Dubuque, IA,
Renee (Dan) Galle, Dubuque, IA,
Robert “Bob” (Laura) Vandermeulen, Palm Beach, FL,
Brian Cheever, South Boston, VA,
Rhonda (Kelly) Ellison, Calera, AL,
and Bobbie Jo (Mike) Zeller, Des Moines, IA;

his 25 grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren;

his two brothers,
Bill (Elaine) Vandermeulen, Dubuque, IA,
and Rich Vandermeulen, Dubuque, IA;

his best friend and hunting partner,
Danny Nicks, Dubuque, IA;

along with numerous extended family, friends and neighbors.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents.

Online condolences may be shared with Bob’s family at www.tristatecremationcenter.com