Solitary Man A Tribute to Neil Diamond

Featuring Will Chalmers

Get ready to sing along with Will Chambers in a tribute to Neil Diamond and all of his hits! From ‘Sweet Caroline’ to ‘Forever in Blue Jeans,’ there’s sure to be something to get you singing along!

WILL CHALMERS has been performing his tribute to Neil Diamond since 2002. His show appeals to all ages and he loves to get the audience involved by encouraging them to clap and sing along. Will’s natural resemblance to Neil Diamond, his flawless replication of Neil’s singing voice, combined with his outstanding stage presence has been captivating audiences wherever he goes. The response from Neil fans has been an unbelievable experience. Will is both friendly and personable and people approach him with ease; he is always available to speak to people after the performance and welcomes their comments.

Will has traveled extensively with his band from the East Coast to Western Canada with many stops in the United States, Cayman Islands, Mexico, Europe as well as many venues in Ontario performing in Theaters, Casinos, Convention Centers, Arenas, Corporate Events and Resorts including many outdoor Festivals and Fairs.

Neil Diamond is a living legend and it is with much respect and admiration for the singer songwriter that Will Chalmers tribute is performed. People leave the show with a smile on their face and a song in their hearts.

Tickets – In Advance: Adults $25 Students $15
At door: Adults $28 Students $18

Tickets can also be purchased at The Ohnward Fine Arts Center 563-652-9815 (from 9:00 am – 1:00 pm Monday – Friday), Osterhaus Pharmacy, both Maquoketa State Banks in Maquoketa, Hartig Drug in Preston and Bellevue.

Tickets are also available on line at www.ohnwardfineartscenter.com.

Concession, Beer and Wine will be available!  The show runs approximately 2 hours.   

More Information –

It’s been 20 years since Will created his award-winning “Solitary Man” tribute to Neil Diamond. The show was an immediate hit and remains so today. Will insists the reason for the show’s continued success is the enduring quality of Neil Diamond’s music rather than Will’s hauntingly accurate performance of it.                                                                          

Fan’s say that Will simply brings the songs alive and makes them want to join in on the fun and sing along. A fact confirmed by his legions of fans who love to sing along with Diamond’s hit song “Sweet Caroline” every time Will performs it.

The long success of the talented and dedicated entertainer’s career is due in no small part to the fact that he loves to get a crowd singing along and being part of the show. His natural resemblance to Diamond in his prime, his flawless “Neil Diamond” voice, and his relaxed stage presence have captivated audiences across Canada, The USA, and Mexico.

City of Dubuque’s 2025 Asphalt Overlay Program Now Underway

The City of Dubuque’s annual asphalt overlay program is now underway and will improve just less than 10 centerline miles on 42 city streets or street sections during the 2025 construction season.

The program targets streets that would benefit from an asphalt overlay to extend the life of the existing pavement. The streets involved in the 2025 program will receive their first repaving in at least twelve years. The City of Dubuque Public Works Department manages the program which includes milling and/or grinding the existing pavement surface, recycling the old asphalt, and repaving streets for a safer and smoother ride.

Unlike street reconstruction projects, property owners are not assessed for costs associated with the asphalt overlay program. Instead, the program is funded with money collected from Iowa’s Road Use Tax Fund (gas and diesel fuel tax). The asphalt overlay program is part of the City’s yearly street maintenance activity, which is budgeted as $1.16 million for fiscal year 2026 and includes approximately $750,000 to bring curb ramps up to ADA compliance along the overlaid streets.

The following is a schedule outlining when individual streets are expected to receive a partial or complete asphalt overlay this construction season:

Phase One: May

• W. 32^nd St. (from Wildwood Dr. to 3155 W. 32nd St.)
• Kerry Ct.
• Killarney Ct.
• Breven Dr.

Phase Two: June

• Kehl Ct.
• Tomahawk Dr.
• Laurel St. (from S. Grandview Ave. to 815 Laurel St.)
• Cannon St.
• Mount Carmel Rd.
• Arrowhead Dr.
• Wallis Pl.
• Indian Ridge

Phase Three: June-July

• N. Grandview Ave. (from Delhi St. to Loras Blvd.)
• N. Grandview Ave. (from Atlantic St. to Clarke Dr.)
• N. Grandview Ave. (from Clarke Dr. to Kaufmann Ave.
• Rosedale Ave. (from N. Grandview Ave. to Asbury Rd.)
• St. Ambrose St. (from Clarke Dr. to Asbury Rd.)

Phase Four: July

• Cornell St. (from Loras Blvd. to W. 16^th St.)
• Montrose Ter. (from Loras Blvd. to W. 16^th St.)
• Fairview Pl. (from W. 16^th St. to W. 15^th St.)
• W. 15^th St. (from Fairview Pl. to Cornell St.)
• W. 16^th St. (from Montrose Ter. to dead end)

Phase Five: August-September

• Southgate Dr.
• Jenni St.
• Theisen St.
• Stetmore St.
• St. Joseph St. (from Stetmore St. to S. Algona St.)
• Cardiff St. (from W. 3^rd St. to Mazzuchelli St.)
• Mazzuchelli St. (from Cardiff St. to James St.)
• Langworthy St. (from James St. to Hill St.)
• James St. (from Langworthy St. to W. 3^rd St.)
• Wooten St. (from Hill St. to Medical Associates entrance)
• Clara Ct.

Phase Six: August-September

• Asbury Rd. (from John F. Kennedy Rd. to Carter Rd.)
• Woodland St.
• Chippewa Dr.
• Karen St. (from Evergreen Dr. to Carter Rd.)
• Lindale St. (from Evergreen Dr. to Carter Rd.)
• Kevindale St. (from Karen St. to Lindale St.)

Phase Seven: September

• S. Grandview Ave. (from U.S. 61/151 overpass to Carmel Dr.)
• Carmel Dr. (from S. Grandview Ave. to 1025 Carmel Dr.)
• Julien Dubuque Dr. (north from S. Grandview Ave. to dead end)
• Julien Dubuque Dr. (from S. Grandview Ave. to Inland Ln.)
• Twin Valley Dr. (from Rockdale Rd. to U.S. 61/151)
• Southpark Ct.
• Pinard St. (from E. 24^th St. to dead end)

The schedule of projects is available online at www.cityofdubuque.org/asphaltoverlay and will be updated as details are available.

Residents will be notified by mail prior to the start of the project with contact information and parking instructions. Normally, projects can be completed in one week and streets can be driven on soon after paving takes place and as soon as traffic control devices have been removed.

For more information, contact the public works department at 563-589-4250 or visit www.cityofdubuque.org/publicworks

Skin Cancer: What’s sun got to do with it? Thinking ahead to warmer days…

By Dr. Michael Wells, Midwest Medical Center

Summer is about spending time outdoors and enjoying the sunshine.

The sun’s warmth makes us feel good and many believe tanned skin gives us a “healthy glow.” The truth is that sun exposure carries risks. The non-life threatening skin changes include early wrinkling skin, sun spots (solar lentigos), and sagging. Most people receive 80% of their lifetime sun exposure by the end of the teenage years. A single serious sunburn can increase your risk for skin cancer by up to 50%, which may take up to 20 years to be recognized as skin cancer. Skin cancer is the most common of all cancers and it is estimated that 1 out of 7 people in the U.S will develop skin cancer. More than 1 million cases of non-melanoma skin cancer (basal and squamous cell) diagnosed yearly are sun-related. Most non-melanoma skin cancers develop on sun-exposed areas of the body; like the face, ears, nose, neck, backs of hands. These types of skin cancer are curable if detected and treated early. They can be fast or slow growing, but rarely spread to other parts of the body. Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer. It accounts for less than 5% of total skin cancers, but causes 75% of all skin cancer deaths. However, it is very curable if detected and treated in its early stages.

A number of factors may put you at risk to develop skin cancer. The most obvious is significant sunburn(s) and chronic sun exposure. Avoiding sunburn in your teenage years can help reduce your risk by as much as 70%.  Heredity also plays an important role. You are probably at higher risk if there is a history in your family. Having light colored eyes, fair skin, and/or red or blond hair also places you at higher risk. Another risk factor is having multiple nevi or atypical moles, freckles, or birthmarks. Other factors such as altitude, latitude, and cloud cover play apart. Remember, you can get as much sun, if not more, on a cloudy day.

Monitoring for skin cancer is as easy as “A, B, C, D, E” = ASYMMETRY – If you draw a line through the middle of a skin lesion and the sides do not match; B O R D E R – the borders are irregular or jagged ; COLOR – the color is uneven shades of brown, black, red, white, or blue; DIAMETER (size) – it has changed in size significantly (greater than 6mm); and ELEVATION – it is raised above the skin and has an uneven surface. Other concerning signs are bleeding, fast growing, crusted skin, slow healing, and itching. The body does need some sun exposure to function properly; however, you need to practice sun safety. Most importantly, avoid significant sun exposure. Avoid peak sun hours, mainly 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.; don’t use tanning booths or sunlamps. Also, wear protective clothing/hats/sunglasses, seek shade whenever possible, and wear sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher. Reapply sunscreen often when swimming or perspiring, even if the label states sweat or water-proof. Self-examinations are very important as well. Use a hand-held and full-length mirror to check every inch of your body. 

Become familiar with the appearance of your birthmarks, moles, and freckles. Checking yourself regularly helps you to get familiar with what is normal for you. Also, make a yearly skin check appointment with your doctor and if you notice any changes or find anything unusual, see your doctor right away. The earlier skin cancer is found, the better.

About Midwest Medical Center

Midwest Medical Center is a not-for-profit Illinois Critical Access Hospital serving northwestern Illinois, southwestern Wisconsin, and eastern Iowa. Its comprehensive services includehealth clinics, hospital and emergency care, fitness and rehabilitation programs, and senior care through assisted living and nursing home facilities. To schedule an appointment at Midwest Health Clinic, call 815-776-7381. www.MidwestMedicalCenter.org

May 23 is “Don’t Fry Day”—Be Aware of the Risks of the Sun

The National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention designated the Friday before Memorial Day as Don’t Fry Day. The Council’s goal is to encourage sun safety awareness by reminding everyone to protect their skin while enjoying the outdoors on Don’t Fry Day and every day.

Remember to Slip! Slop! Slap! and Wrap! when you’re outdoors. Slip on a shirt, slop on sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher, slap on a hat, and wrap on sunglasses.
Shared from https://www.epa.gov/sunsafety/dont-fry-day

About Midwest Medical Center

Midwest Medical Center is a not-for-profit Illinois Critical Access Hospital serving northwestern Illinois, southwestern Wisconsin, and eastern Iowa. Its comprehensive services includehealth clinics, hospital and emergency care, fitness and rehabilitation programs, and senior care through assisted living and nursing home facilities. To schedule an appointment at Midwest Health Clinic, call 815-776-7381. www.MidwestMedicalCenter.org

OPPORTUNITY TO SERVE ON COUNTY BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS

Dubuque County relies on numerous boards and commissions for important work. In June, 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://www.dubuquecountyiowa.gov/293/Boards-Commissions

The boards and commissions with expiring and vacant positions include:

• Board of Health
• Disabilities Council
• Eastern Iowa Regional Housing Authority
• Eminent Domain Compensation Commission
• Fire Department Loan Fund Committee
• Investmet Policy Committee
• Library District Board of Trustees
• Veterans Affairs Commission
• Zoning Board of Adjustment
• Zoning Commission

Individuals wishing to be considered for an appointment in June should submit a completed application by June 6, 2025 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.

Interesting Facts Related to Memorial Day

Memorial Day is celebrated annually on the last Monday of May across the United States. The proximity of Memorial Day to the summer solstice has led many to view the weekend preceding the holiday as the unofficial kickoff to summer. However, Memorial Day is about more than backyard barbecues and weekend getaways.

Memorial Day honors service members who died while serving in the United States military. Though Memorial Day traces its origins to the years following the American Civil War in the mid-nineteenth century, it did not become an official federal holiday until 1971. That’s one of just many interesting facts about Memorial Day that are worth noting as the United States prepares to commemorate the sacrifices of military personnel who died in service of the country.

· Memorial Day began as something of a grass roots movement. According to History.com, by the late 1860s individuals in towns across the war-ravaged United States began holding springtime tributes to soldiers who lost their lives during the American Civil War.

· Among the more notable postwar commemorations was one organized by former slaves in Charleston, South Carolina. That commemoration occurred less than a month after the Confederate forces surrendered in 1865. Despite that, History.com notes that in 1966 the federal government declared Waterloo, New York, the birthplace of Memorial Day.

· Postwar commemorations also were organized by northern veterans of the Civil War. General John A. Logan, who led an organization of Union veterans, called for a nationwide day of remembrance in May 1868. General Logan referred to the holiday as Declaration Day and chose May 30 because it was not the anniversary of any specific battle and therefore unlikely to be viewed by some as controversial.

· Early commemorations of Decoration Day, which gradually came to be known as Memorial Day, initially honored only those soldiers who died during the American Civil War. However, that changed over time as American servicemen fought in various wars, including both World Wars, the Vietnam War, the Korean War, and other conflicts.

· The red poppy has become a symbol of Memorial Day. That red poppy can be traced to a poem by Canadian John McCrae, who served as a Lieutenant Colonel in World War I. “In Flanders Field” notes the red poppies that grew in fields where countless soldiers had been buried in modern-day Belgium. The poem was published in 1915, three years before the war ended. Sadly, McCrae himself was a casualty of the war, succumbing to pneumonia in France in 1918 while still in the service.

Memorial Day honors service personnel who lost their lives while serving in the U.S. military. The holiday’s inspiration and lengthy history merits consideration as the nation prepares to commemorate countless soldiers’ sacrifices once more.

Kerper Blvd. Lane Shift between East 16th St. and East 11th St.

Due to Dubuque Gate and Pump Station Mitigation Project, the southbound lanes of Kerper Blvd. will be shifted between E. 16th St. and E. 11th St. starting at 7 a.m. on Monday, May 12, until 5 p.m. on Friday, August 15.

Due to Dubuque Gate and Pump Station Mitigation Project, the southbound lanes of Kerper Blvd. will be shifted between E. 16th St. and E. 11th St. starting at 7 a.m. on Monday, May 12, until 5 p.m. on Friday, August 15.

Southbound traffic will be redirected into one of the typically northbound lanes, and traffic in each direction will be reduced to a single 11.5-foot wide lane.

Motorists will need to follow the posted detour and/or use a different route during this time. View a map of current closures/detours.

If you have questions regarding the closure/detour, please contact the City of Dubuque Engineering Department at 563-589-4270. Please note, closure dates and times are estimates and subject to change without notice based on weather and contractor schedules.

Dubuque County FY2026 Purchase of Service program available

The Dubuque County Board of Supervisors is pleased to offer the Purchase of Service (POS) Program for Fiscal Year 2026. The POS Program is designed to support projects and public services that are provided by community organizations on behalf of Dubuque County for the benefit of our citizens.

The Board of Supervisors has set aside $133,630 for the competitive application portion of the Purchase of Service program. Non-profit organizations may request up to $10,000 from this POS program.

The FY2026 Purchase of Service program totals $600,000, including the competitive POS program, the Tom Hancock Memorial Fire & EMS grant program, and economic development set asides.

The POS application is available at: https://www.dubuquecountyiowa.gov/DocumentCenter/View/7725/Dubuque-County-FY26-POS-Application-DOCX

The Board of Supervisors will review applications and make funding determinations. Funding is awarded on a year-by-year basis and organizations should not rely on these funds for ongoing operational expenses. Award recipients will be notified by email.

Applications and supporting documents must be submitted no later than 4:00 PM on Friday, May 30, 2025, to be considered for funding.  Questions and completed applications should be directed to:

Ami Johnson, Deputy Auditor
Dubuque County Courthouse
720 Central Ave., PO Box 5001
Dubuque, IA 52004-5001

Am*********@***************wa.gov

563-589-4493

Finley Nursing Scholarships Awarded

UnityPoint Health – Finley Health Foundation is pleased to announce a total of $25,300 is being awarded to area students who are pursuing a nursing degree in higher education for the 2025-2026 academic school year.

Recipients are:

“We are proud to continue our tradition of providing scholarship opportunities that support the educational goals of tomorrow’s nursing leaders in our community,” stated Karil Walther, Chief Nursing Officer of UnityPoint Health – Finley Hospital.

Scholarship funding is provided by the Finley Hospital School of Nursing Alumni Association, the Edith Kritz Scholarship Endowment, the Dr. Peter J. Kearney Scholarship Endowment, the Colonel Fred and Ellen Phelps Scholarship Endowment, the Carole A. Smith-Miller Memorial Scholarship, the Dr. Edward Roy Bartels Legacy Scholarship, the Judi Butler Memorial Scholarship, the Vance Nursing Scholarship and the Linda Abitz Nursing Scholarship. Since 2006, $340,850 has been granted in nursing scholarships to area students.

For scholarship information, contact the Finley Health Foundation at 563-589-2358.

Local Trig-Star Winners Announced

Hempstead High School student Maxwell Hoden and Dubuque Senior High School student Nora Nieto were declared Trig-Stars for their respective high schools for the 2024-2025 academic year during a recent competition organized by the City of Dubuque Engineering Department. Each will receive a $200 award from the Society of Land Surveyors of Iowa (SLSI), donated by local contractors and land surveying firms. Hoden will also be awarded an additional $150 from local sponsors for placing first among all Dubuque Schools.

Second-place winners at each high school were Bruce Coakley at Hempstead and Seattle Bontemps at Senior. They also will receive monetary awards of $150 from local sponsors. Third-place winners at each high school were Mazin Imran at Hempstead and Jackson Kieffer at Senior. They also will receive monetary awards of $100 from local sponsors.

A “Trig-Star” is a mathematics student who demonstrates skill in the practical application of trigonometry. The competition is a timed exercise, involving solving trigonometry problems by incorporating the use of right triangle formulas, the law of sines, and the law of cosines. Hundreds of students from dozens of high schools participate in Trig-Star competitions across Iowa each year. State winners qualify to take the national test, a chance to win up to $2000 in additional prize money, and a trip to the national convention for professional surveyors.  This year, 20 students competed in the competitions sponsored by the City of Dubuque.

The Trig-Star competition is sponsored by the National Society of Professional Surveyors, the Society of Land Surveyors of Iowa, local licensed land surveyors, and area contractors. Local sponsors of the competition included:

• Buesing and Associates, Inc.
• Craig Geiser, Land Surveyor
• Portzen Construction, Inc.
• Origin Design
• Ron Turner, Lot Lines Etc.
• Strand Associates, Inc.
• Top Grade Excavating, Inc.

Prior to the competition, the City of Dubuque Engineering Department staff presented land surveying topics and procedures to interested math and calculus students. These presentations introduce students to the land surveying profession.

Grand River Medical Group Transitions to UnityPoint Clinic May 4

The integration of Grand River Medical Group (GRMG) a nd UnityPoint Clinic will be finalized on Sunday, May 4. At that time, GRMG’s physicians, advanced practice providers and team members will become part of UnityPoint Clinic.

“This is a new day for Dubuque – we’re bringing together two organizations with a rich history of quality care, streamlining primary, specialty and urgent care for the tri-state community,” said Dr. Trish Newland, President, UnityPoint Clinic. “We are excited to welcome the physicians, advanced practice providers and staff onto our team, and to continue providing exceptional care to our patients.”

As GRMG becomes a part of UnityPoint Clinic, patients will benefit from:

• Expertise of a nationally recognized health system that serves Iowa, Illinois and Wisconsin.
• Close affiliation with UnityPoint Health – Finley Hospital and the Dubuque Visiting Nurse Association.
• Access to UnityPoint Clinic’s MyUnityPoint patient portal, for easy scheduling, prescription renewal and communicating with providers. This access will begin later this year.

Patients will notice new signage, clinic names and logos on buildings, appointment reminders and billing. Clinic locations, hours and phone numbers will stay the same. Existing appointments will be honored and transitioned to UnityPoint Clinic.

The locations that will be owned and operated by UnityPoint Clinic include:

• UnityPoint Clinic Nephrology & Hypertension, 1500 Delhi St., Suite 2100, Dubuque, IA
• UnityPoint Clinic Multi-Specialty, 1515 Delhi St., Suite 100, Dubuque, IA, which is composed of:
  • • Allergy & Immunology
    • Endocrinology
    • Gastroenterology
    • Internal Medicine
    • Sleep Medicine
    • Nursing Home Services.
• UnityPoint Clinic Family Medicine, 4025 Westmark Dr., Dubuque, IA
• UnityPoint Clinic Family Medicine, 8456 Commercial Ct, Suite 100, Peosta, IA
• UnityPoint Clinic Pediatrics, 1500 Delhi St, Suite 3500, Dubuque, IA
• UnityPoint Clinic Urgent Care – Southeast, 245 Railroad Ave, Suite F1,  Dubuque, IA
• UnityPoint Clinic Urgent Care – Warren Plaza, 3500 Dodge St, Suite 135, Dubuque, IA
• UnityPoint Health – Wendt Regional Cancer Center Infusion Center, 350 N. Grandview Ave., Suite 2200, Dubuque, IA.

UnityPoint Clinic accepts insurance from several insurance providers and is in discussion with the following groups regarding participation in their networks:

• Dean Health Plan
• Quartz Health Benefit Plans Corporation
• Cottingham and Butler Health Plan
• The Alliance

Patients are encouraged to contact their insurance provider for coverage information.

UNITYPOINT HEALTH – DUBUQUE APPOINTS ANDREW VANDERHEYDEN, MD, AS CHIEF MEDICAL OFFICER

UnityPoint Health – Dubuque has appointed Andrew Vanderheyden, MD, as Chief Medical Officer. His first day will be May 12, 2025.

Serving as the hospital’s Anatomic and Clinical Pathologist since 2009, Dr. Vanderheyden brings a wealth of experience and expertise to this role. He is immersed in the local medical community as the Laboratory Medical Director for Finley Hospital, Grant Regional Health Center, and Midwest Medical Center, and actively serves on several medical staff committees. Vanderheyden will continue to serve his responsibilities in the lab in addition to the CMO work.

Dr. Vanderheyden is well respected for his leadership, professionalism and expertise and in 2023, he was recognized with the Dr. John Finley Award for Excellence in Medicine.

Vanderheyden completed his undergraduate studies at Colorado State University and University of Wisconsin – Madison and his Doctor of Medicine at University of Wisconsin- Madison. He is a fellow with the College of American Pathologists and a member of the Rodger C. Haggitt Gastrointestinal Pathology Society.

 Tree of Life Memorial Service

We will come together, as travelers, on our journey through grief.

Hospice of Dubuque will host the Annual Tree of Life Memorial Service and Lighting Ceremony on Tuesday, May 20. The service will be at the Grand Opera House, 135 W. 8th due to rain), at 7:30 pm. The evening will include prayer, music, readings, a guest speaker and lighting of the tree display.

Each light on the display will represent a person remembered or honored. To remember a loved one with a light on the Tree of Life, send a tax-deductible gift of any amount, along with their name, to 1670 JFK Road, Dubuque, IA 52002, or visit hospiceofdubuque.org. All memorials, not only those served by Hospice of Dubuque, are welcome. To ensure your loved one is included in the printed program, donations must reach the Hospice of Dubuque office by Friday, May 16. Lights will remain illuminated through Memorial Day.

Your gift supports the Hospice of Dubuque mission of providing compassionate care for the seriously ill and their loved ones, and helps fund the services that make a difference in the lives of your tri-state neighbors.

In case of rain, the ceremony will be held at The Grand Opera House, 135 West 8th Street. For more information, please email **@**************ue.org or call 563-582-1220.

Joe Hott & The Short Mountain Boys

The Ohnward Fine Arts Center, 1215 E. Platt Street, Maquoketa, IA Presents:

Joe Hott & The Short Mountain Boys

Saturday May 17, 2025 At 7 PM

 Striding confidently onto the Nashville music scene, Joe Hott is poised to become a “must see/must hear” new face and voice for a broad scope of new listeners ready to discover that “all things old become new again.” Joe is a unique blend of retro-bluegrass, traditional country, gospel music and Appalachian Mountain music. This mixture makes the West Virginian Joe Hott a rare treasure on today’s music scene with his 6-foot, frame and handsome boyish resemblance to Hank Williams, Sr. They have shared the stage with artists such as Rhonda Vincent and Vince Gill, connecting with new fans at each concert.

Joe Hott and The Short Mountain Boys are a unique blend of Bluegrass, traditional Country and Gospel. They are keeping the Appalachian sound alive by playing the songs of old. You’ll be taken back in time by songs from Ralph Stanley to Hank Williams Sr and new original songs written by Joe Hott that have that same traditional feel!

Tickets – In Advance: Adults $25 Students $15
At door: Adults $28 Students $18

 Tickets can also be purchased at The Ohnward Fine Arts Center 563-652-9815 (from 9:00 am – 1:00 pm Monday – Friday), Osterhaus Pharmacy, both Maquoketa State Banks in Maquoketa, Hartig Drug in Preston and Bellevue.

Tickets are also available on line at www.ohnwardfineartscenter.com.

 Concession, Beer and Wine will be available!  The show runs approximately 2 hours.   

 More Information –

 Striding confidently onto the 2017 Nashville music scene, Joe Hott is poised to become the next new “must see/must hear” artist in Music City. A unique blend of retro-bluegrass, traditional country, gospel and original Appalachian Mountain music provides the mixture needed to make the Virginia native a rare treasure on today’s music scene.

Recently named a 2017 National Brand Ambassador for top boot retailer Durango Boots, the 22-year-old artist is, in a word: authentic. His 6-foot-4-inch, lanky frame and handsome boyish resemblance to Hank Williams, Sr. were God’s gift to Joe Hott. Joe’s gift to God is his music. “I really cherish the family and spiritual values I grew up with,” notes the minister’s son whom, at an early age, found a fascination with the tradition-steeped sounds native to his birthplace in Winchester, Virginia. When Joe was a child he moved to West Virginia and readily picked up a love for music from both his father and two uncles who played and sang traditional music. Joe’s youthful fascination with the blended soundtracks of Dr. Ralph Stanley, Bill Monroe, Flatt & Scruggs, and Hank Williams, Sr. spun the fabric of his creative inspiration, formed his vocal and musical interpretations and set the foundation for his songwriting.

In 2012, Joe formed the “Short Mountain Brothers” trio—the group’s name a tribute to Short Mountain that sits just behind Joe’s boyhood home. The house itself is, in fact, the same home that his great-grandfather lived in when he moved to West Virginia back in the 1920’s. Joe’s childhood surroundings richly contributed to his love of history, deep family heritage and the sounds that built American culture.

With the addition of a fourth musician, Joe now tours with his renamed “Short Mountain Boys,” featuring guitar, banjo, bass and mandolin. They have shared the stage with artists such as Rhonda Vincent and Vince Gill, connecting with new fans at each concert.

Aware of today’s music and the maze of radio programmers and charts needed to reach an audience, Joe and his creative team are confident he has the originality and authenticity to reach both old and young with his presentation of the traditional.

With support from WSM Radio, Durango Boots and a nationwide fanbase, Joe is gearing up to hit the road and share is music with the world. His latest release, The Last Thing On My Mind, leaves little doubt that all things old are new again. Featuring 11 songs, a selection of both self-penned tracks and traditional favorites, the album showcases Joe’s genuine authenticity and commitment to being true to both himself and his influences. “People like what’s real—and that defines my music,” he notes

Review of City of Dubuque’s Fiscal Year 2024 Financial Statements Returns “Clean” Audit

Independent auditors recently awarded the highest available level of assurance on the City of Dubuque’s financial statements.

As required by state law, independent certified public accountants not affiliated with the City of Dubuque recently conducted an audit of the City’s Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 financial statements. They then submitted the audit with an “Unmodified Opinion,” which is commonly referred to as a “clean” audit.

The State of Iowa’s Municipal Oversight Law requires cities to have a financial audit performed each year. The audit can be conducted by independent certified public accountants (CPAs) or the State Auditor’s Office. The audit includes a full examination of the City’s financial records and is conducted in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards.

After reviewing the financial statements, auditors respond with one of four types of opinion:

• Unmodified opinion: A so-called “clean” opinion indicating the statements fairly present the City’s financial position.
• Modified opinion: Similar to an unmodified opinion, but with certain exceptions.
• Adverse opinion: States that financial statements do not accurately reflect the City’s financial position.
• Disclaimer of opinion: The auditor cannot form an opinion because financial records are incomplete or the scope of the audit is too restrictive.

The results of the 2024 audit were presented to the Dubuque City Council at its meeting on Monday, April 21. The audit report is available on the City website at www.cityofdubuque.org/2024acfr The April 21 presentation to the city council can be viewed at https://youtu.be/4-79SK-bY2M?t=9360

Dubuque Community School District launches E-Sports team

The Dubuque Community School District recently launched an E-Sports team in partnership with the Dubuque E-Sports league (DEL). Teams consist of students from both Hempstead and Senior. The teams play games such as Overwatch 2, Rocket League, Mario Cart, Valorant and many more. Practices take place at the DEL arena located at 3220 Dodge Street, Suite 109.

In their first year the joint Overwatch 2 team was able to secure a playoff spot and travel to Marshalltown, IA to compete in the Iowa High School E-Sports Association playoffs. As the number 12 seed the team was able to secure fifth place.

“You guys were our Cinderella Story.” said Susie Quinn, DEL, Co-Founder. The team was not expected to do very well considering the fact it was their first year.

 “This proved there was a big need for E-Sports.” Quinn said.

Quinn Co-Founded DEL after her son who was not into “traditional” sports expressed interest in E-Sports.

“DEL is a place meant for kids to come together and be able to make new friends.” Quinn said.

DEL consists of 22 PC’s (Personal Computers) and Two Nintendo Switches..

“Forming an E-Sports was not easy.” Said Ryan Spires, who serves as the Districts Liaison to the team.

Part of Spires’ responsibilities include monitoring grades for the team, keeping track of Athletes’ attendance, as well as keeping the public informed.

“The team definitely surpassed expectations.” Spires said.

Mazin Imran, who is in Grade 12 at Hempstead has been involved with DEL for a few years. Imran was the Overwatch 2 team Captain.

 “The season had a rocky start” Imran said.

Mazin said he enjoyed the season; however, he also had some concerns. One of his Concerns was the schools.

“The schools need to be more committed to showing people this is something you can actually do.” Imran said.

He continued to express the fact that the schools need to do a better job at exposing the team to the student body. Mazin hopes that this season will pave the way for the future of Dubuque E-Sports.

The team had two coaches; the head coach was Joel Averkamp. The assistant volunteer coach was Cole Licht, a 2024 Hempstead Graduate.

“I’ve played video games my whole life.” Averkamp said.

Averkamp originally interviewed to be a Director for DEL. During his interview with Susie the topic of coaching came up, after this he shifted his focus to coaching. Licht found out about the opportunity through his younger brother who was a member of the team.

Not everyone knows what E-Sports is, which leads to E-Sports getting a bad reputation.

 “People think E-Sports is lazy” Quinn said.

However, as many people have told me this is not the case.

“E-Sports is sort of like other sports, knowing what you need to do and what your team is doing at all times.” Averkamp said.

E-Sports also test S.T.E.M. skills, problem solving skills and even critical thinking skills.

“It’s a lack of understanding.” Imran said. People may judge E-Sports before they know the full story.

Bringing more exposure to E-Sports is also key.

“DEL does a great job.” Imran said.

DEL host many nights a week, including a High School Club, a middle school club and even host Elementary aged students.

The DEL teams are currently in their Spring season, playing the games Valorant and Mario Kart. The Fall season will include the games Super Smash Bros and Rainbow Six Siege. For more information you can go to DEL Facebook and/or Instagram. From there you can find their discord and be on the lookout for announcements.

Article written by Reed Licht – a Freshman on our OW2 team that placed at the IA State Winter Season Esports Season. Pictured above is our Varsity OW2 team.

Pregler Named Dubuque’s Next Chief Information Officer

Following a national search, Dubuque City Manager Mike Van Milligen has appointed Joe Pregler as the City of Dubuque’s next chief information officer (CIO).

In addition to his current role as chief information technology security officer, Pregler was named interim CIO for the City in early March. He replaces Chris Kohlmann, who is retiring after serving the City as an information technology (IT) professional for over 42 years.

“Joe Pregler brings with him to this position a wealth of experience and knowledge and a history of organizational leadership and innovation most recently specializing in cyber security keeping our complex systems safe,” said Van Milligen. “Joe is the leader we need in this rapidly changing environment.”

As CIO, Pregler will manage the City’s IT department, which supports the IT efforts and needs of other City departments. He will provide technology vision and leadership in the strategic planning and implementation of IT infrastructure and services throughout the City organization.

Pregler has been a member of the City’s IT staff since 2001. In April 2023, he was named the City’s first chief information technology security officer. That role included reviewing contracts for security risks, establishing mandatory cybersecurity training, coordinating risk evaluations, and implementing a phishing simulation program, vulnerability scanning, and a password manager program.

From July 2019 to April 2023, Pregler was the City’s senior network/systems administrator. He was responsible for managing the City’s server infrastructure, maintaining server and network security, and overseeing future network expansion and storage infrastructure planning. He also served as the steering team lead for the City’s enterprise resource planning (ERP) software implementation project.

Pregler served as lead applications/network analyst from 2007-2019. His responsibilities included managing software applications like financial, human resources, budget, utility billing, purchasing, and GIS. utilizing data for integrations, upgrades, automation, and public presentations, and project management for software upgrades and new software installations. He consulted with departments for their technology needs, was a core team member for City’s high-performance government, data governance, and open data initiatives. Prior to that role, Pregler served as information technology specialist from 2001-2007.

Pregler earned a bachelor’s degree in computer information systems from Clarke University and a computer analyst degree from Northeast Iowa Community College.

Ten Area Students Receive Education and Skilled Trade Scholarships

Ten local students preparing for careers in the Dubuque area have been awarded “Education and Skilled Trade Scholarships” by the Dubuque Area Labor-Management Council. The initiative aims to demonstrate opportunities for individuals in the tri-state region. It aligns with the Council’s objective to retain a higher portion of local graduates in the workforce and foster a highly skilled labor pool. The program spotlights occupations in Dubuque where there’s a demand for well-trained workers. Recipients will each receive $1,500 towards their further education. Employers and unions can support the program or join the Council, making their employees’ families eligible for assistance.

Kelly Cooper, Executive Director of the Labor-Management Council, highlighted the program’s distinct feature: scholarships are merit-based rather than reliant on GPA or financial need. Applicants must display dedication to their education, awareness of growth opportunities in the tri-states, and a commitment to pursuing high-skill, high-wage jobs in Dubuque. They’re required to demonstrate research into their desired career path.

2025 Education Scholarship Recipients

Brice Buxton – University of Wisconsin Platteville – Engineering Technology Management

Callie Dolphin – Loras College – Elementary Education

Emilie Quinones – University of Iowa – Pre-Optometry

Madeline Rupp – University of Missouri – Mechanical Engineer

Nathan Schiesl – Ferris State University – Weld Engineer

Alana Splinter – Northeast Iowa Community College – Business Administration

Josiah Sullivan – Iowa State University – Architect

Kaitlyn Thole – University of Iowa – Pre-Pharmacy

2025 Skilled Trade Scholarship Recipient

Westin Ballantine – Northeast Iowa Community College – Welding

Megan Eckelberg – Carpenters Training Institute – Carpenter

For more information, or to schedule a presentation about the program for a group, contact Cooper at the Labor-Management Council, at 582-8804.

D.E.A. National Take Back Program: Prescription Drug Collection Event

On April 26th, 2025, the Dubuque Drug Task Force, in conjunction with the Asbury Police Department, the Peosta Police Department, the Farley Police Department and the Dyersville Police Department participated in a nationwide effort sponsored by the DEA to collect old and unused medications. Items collected included prescription medications, non-prescription medications, vitamins, herbals, supplements, syringes, and other items.

The total weight of prescription and non-prescription medication collected the day of the event was 207.0 pounds.  The total weight of sharps collected was 175.6 pounds.

In addition, between October of 2024 and April of 2025 a total weight of 554.26 pounds of prescription medication and non-prescription medication was collected at the drop box located at the Dubuque Law Enforcement Center and drop boxes located at the Dyersville Police Department, Farley Police Department, Peosta Police Department and Asbury City Hall.

The combined total weight collected during the event was 761.26 pounds.

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. Drop boxes can also be located at the Dyersville Police Department, Farley Police Department, Peosta Police Department and Asbury City Hall.

Sgt. Adam Williams
Project Director, Dubuque Drug Task Force

Let’s Go! Summer Activities Guide

Plan your best summer yet!

The City of Dubuque Parks and Recreation Let’s Go! Summer Activities Guide is now available online! Plan your best summer yet with programs for youth, teens, and adults offered by:

• City of Dubuque Parks & Recreation
• Flora & Sutton Pools
• Multicultural Family Center
• Bunker Hill Golf Course
• Carnegie-Stout Public Library

From arts and crafts to yoga, cooking, bread making, mini golf, treasure hunts, learning about dinosaurs, ceramics, West Coast swing and ballroom dance, karate, swim lessons, book clubs, junior golf, tennis, baseball and softball, soccer, and more—there’s something for everyone!

Registration for City recreation programs, including swim lessons, opens at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, May 7. 

View the guide online now and start planning!

How To Register

RecTrac is the Parks and Recreation online registration system for:

• Adult and youth programs, classes, and activities
• Facility reservations including parks and pavilions
• Aquatics including swim lessons, pool passes, and pool rentals
• Pet park passes, and more!

Creating a RecTrac account in advance will save you time when you register for classes, programs, activities, swim lessons, or reserve a park or pavilion.

Get started and create your account today!

$150 Family Scholarship

The Parks and Recreation Family Scholarship is a $150 household credit for income-qualified families (two or more related people from the same address) residing within the Dubuque city limits. Scholarship credits can be used for:

• Full-price recreation classes
• Swim lessons
• Pavilion rental or swimming pool rental
• Eagle Point Park season pass
• Pet Park season pass

Scholarship and Program Sign-Up on May 5–6

Qualifying low-income families can apply for a Family Scholarship and register for summer recreation programs in-person at the Parks and Recreation office on Monday, May 5, and Tuesday, May 6, from 9 a.m. – 8 p.m. For questions, call 563-589-4263.

Applications for the Family Scholarship Program may also be submitted online anytime throughout the year.

Dubuque Regional Airport Flights Changing to Morning/Evening Schedule

In a significant change to the daily flight schedule, the Dubuque Regional Airport, Denver Air Connection, and DBQ Air are thrilled to announce that Denver Air Connection will shift to an early morning departure and evening return between Dubuque and O’Hare International Airport in Chicago.

From May 16 forward, the outbound Denver Air flight will now depart at 7:00 a.m. from Dubuque, arriving at O’Hare at 7:55 a.m. The return flight will depart O’Hare at 5:00 p.m., and arrive back in Dubuque at 5:55 p.m. This schedule offers over 200 connections both outbound and inbound with the United Airlines and American Airlines networks, as well as a full day to do business in the Chicago area. The Denver Air Connection flights have jet bridge service to Gate L27 within Terminal 3 at O’Hare.

“A daily morning departure is great news for tri-state area travelers, especially business travelers,” said Dubuque Mayor and DBQ Air board chair Brad Cavanagh. “We’re grateful to Denver Air for offering this service and we continue to work with them on the possibility of a direct connection to Denver.”

Through its partnership with Denver Air Connection, the Dubuque Regional Airport began offering regular, daily commercial flights to O’Hare in November, more than two years after the service had been discontinued by American Airlines. Initially, the inbound flight arrived at Dubuque at 3:25 p.m., with the outbound flight to O’Hare arriving in Chicago at 4:50 p.m.

“A schedule with a morning departure and evening return was always our goal — and was reinforced by the feedback we received from our customers,” said Dubuque Regional Airport Director Todd Dalsing. “The schedule change will allow passengers more time in Chicago, if that’s their primary destination. For those connecting beyond O’Hare, this new schedule offers even more same-day connections to hundreds of destinations.”

Passengers who previously reserved arrival flights on or after May 15 will be contacted about the schedule change by the airline or retailer through which they purchased their tickets. The airline or retailer will provide options for adjusting their itinerary. Passengers with questions about their tickets can also contact Denver Air Connection customer service by calling 866-373-8513.

Denver Air Connection has interline ticketing and baggage agreements with both American and United Airlines. Passengers flying from Dubuque can book directly through Denver Air Connection, American, United, or their preferred online travel retailer, and connect to American and United’s worldwide network of destinations without an additional ticket or security check at O’Hare.

City of Dubuque Announces Youth Climate Action Fund Microgrant Recipients

In celebration of Earth Day, the City of Dubuque is announcing the eight projects receiving microgrants through Dubuque’s participation in Round 2 of the Bloomberg Philanthropies Youth Climate Action Fund (YCAF).

Dubuque is one of 90 cities selected to participate in Round 2 of the YCAF program, which provides funding and technical assistance for young people ages 15-24 to design, produce, and govern urgent climate solutions. This program was designed to enable local youth to organize and execute new projects to help the City achieve its Climate Action Plan goals, which aim to reduce Dubuque’s greenhouse gas emissions by 50% of 2003 levels by 2030.

The microgrants were open to applicants ages 15-25 and youth-serving organizations where the project lead was in the designated age group. In Round 2, the City received $100,000 from Bloomberg Philanthropies. Each microgrant recipient will receive between $1,000 and $5,000 to achieve their project proposal goal.

“The creativity and passion of our young leaders continue to impress us,” said Dubuque Mayor Brad Cavanagh. “This round of projects explores everything from greenspace development and E.coli research to local food systems, renewable energy, and artistic expressions of climate awareness. It’s exciting to see how youth-led initiatives are shaping a more sustainable and vibrant future for the Dubuque community.”

The recipients and their projects are:

• Morgan Dalsing, Isabella David, Marissa Iverson: Bringing Pollinator-Friendly Gardens to Dubuque’s Residents
• Maxwell Stoll, Matthew Tuft, David Witthoeft: A Literary Expression of Climate Awareness
• Jay Moore: The ReLeaf Project
• Jaylynn Lambert (in collaboration with Alta Vista Campus Earth Science class): Alta Vista Prairie Signage
• Angel Hardia, Kameron Redmond, Lilliana Smith, Lamaris Whitehead (in collaboration with Boys and Girls Club of Greater Dubuque): Boys and Girls Club Farmers Market
• Joey Wohlers (in collaboration with the University of Dubuque): E. Coli in Dubuque’s Waters
• Andrew Szczesniak (in collaboration with Loras College): Sustainable 3D Printing Solution
• Maria Fernandez, Ian Lucas, Matthew Marcum, Bernadette Mercurio (in collaboration with Loras College): Outdoor Gathering Spaces

The City looks forward to seeing the results of these projects and their impacts on the community as a whole. A small amount of funding is still available, and additional applications are welcome. More information can be found at?SustainableDubuque.org/YCAF?

Old Highway Rd Paving

Project – Road open / travel restricted during the day
On Old Highway Rd from – Sundown Rd to Seippel Rd

04/16/25 UPDATE:

Starting on 04/21/2025: Contractor River City Paving plans to start milling then paving Old Highway Rd from the west side bridge on Old Highway Rd to Sundown Rd. Traffic will be restricted to one lane with flaggers and pilot cars for approx. 4-6 weeks, depending on weather.

2025 DuTrac Diaper Drive

A small gift today, a big change tomorrow!

Diaper Need Affects 1 in 2 Families – Let’s Make a Difference Together!

This May, DuTrac Community Credit Union is coming together to support families in need. We invite you to help by donating diapers of any size at any DuTrac branch.

All donations will be collected by the DuTrac Mobile Branch and delivered to United Way and Hiney Heroes for distribution. Your generous contribution will directly benefit families in our communities, providing them with essential support.

Join us in making a positive impact today!

For more information, please visit dutrac.org.

Dubuque YMCA Hosts Healthy Kids Day on April 26: Free Event Promotes Wellness and Fun for Local Families

The Dubuque YMCA invites families to join in on the fun at Healthy Kids Day — a free community event celebrating health, wellness, and the joy of childhood. The event will take place on Saturday, April 26, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the YMCA Early Learning Center, located at 7788 Chavenelle Road, Dubuque, IA.

This annual event is designed to inspire kids to stay active, healthy, and engaged as they head into the summer months. The morning will be packed with hands-on activities, engaging demonstrations, and family-friendly fun:

• A bounce house for nonstop jumping joy
• Interactive visits from the Dubuque Fire Department, ambulance crew, and a special K-9 demonstration by the Police Department
• Face painting, coloring stations, and guided group walks around the ELC pond led by YMCA staff
• Access to the Early Learning Center playground
• Informational booths and giveaways from the Visiting Nurse Association (VNA) and other health-focused vendors

Snacks will be available, and all activities are free and open to the public. No registration is required.

If you have any questions, please contact Director of School Age Programs, Kellee Peil-Roussel at kr******@******ey.org.

Over 400 Students to Explore Hands-On Career Paths at Skilled Trades Fair

More than 400 high school students from across the tri-state area will have the chance to operate heavy equipment, wire circuits, and even experience welding through virtual simulators at the upcoming Skilled Trades Fair. Hosted by the Dubuque Area Labor-Management Council in partnership with the Alliance for Construction Excellence, the two-day event will take place on Thursday, April 24 from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., and Friday, April 25 from 8:30 a.m. to 12:20 p.m. at Portzen Construction Company.

The Skilled Trades Fair offers students a unique opportunity to explore careers in the skilled trades through over 18 interactive demonstration stations. Participants will rotate through hands-on activities that replicate tasks performed in real-world settings such as construction sites, manufacturing plants, utility work, and auto technician shops.

Trades represented at the expo include ironworking, electrical, labor, glazing, painting, heavy equipment operation, sheet metal work, plumbing and pipefitting, carpentry, gas utilities, line work, auto mechanics, welding, and machining.

“This is an opportunity for students to explore careers they likely see every day—on their way to school or within the buildings of their own communities,” said Kelly Cooper, Executive Director of the Dubuque Area Labor-Management Council. “We’ve seen a growing interest in skilled trades among students. They’re beginning to understand that a four-year college degree isn’t the only path to a successful and fulfilling career.”

With strong community and industry support, the Skilled Trades Fair continues to connect students with high-demand, high-skill career opportunities, helping to shape the future workforce. This year’s event is sponsored by the Dubuque Racing Association, Portzen Construction, Van Meter Inc. J&R Supply, Crescent Electric, Millwrights Local 2158, McDonald Supply, Ironworkers Local 89, CED/Universal Electrical Supply and Graybar.

City of Dubuque Launches New Service Request Platform

The City of Dubuque has launched Report2DBQ, a new online tool for residents and stakeholders to request services and report concerns. The platform can be accessed from the City website at www.cityofdubuque.org/Report2DBQ and the Report2DBQ app, which is available in the App Store and on Google Play.

Report2DBQ allows residents to quickly access information and report issues directly from their mobile device or computer. The new platform features a simple interface with access to dozens of common service requests organized by department. Requests and issues reported through Report2DBQ are routed directly to designated staff responsible for each topic. Residents can track the progress of their request and receive notifications of status changes via text, email, or phone. Photos and attachments can be submitted with requests and the app can automatically recognize the location for the request.

Report2DBQ also offers a “Knowledge Base” with articles addressing frequently asked questions, program and policy descriptions, and other information helpful to residents and stakeholders.

“This application is designed to meet residents where they are and enables them to engage with their local government how they choose — including phone, web portal, and mobile app,” said Chris Kohlmann, information technology special projects manager for the City of Dubuque. “This accessibility ensures residents can easily connect with City staff, as well as receive status updates through phone, email, or text.”

Residents who used the City’s previous citizen response management system (MyDBQ/Citizen Support Center) will need to create a new account/profile in Report2DBQ if they wish.

The platform, provided by Catalis, is ADA compliant and also offers language translation through Google Translate. Report2DBQ can be accessed via the app, through the “Report a Concern” link on the City of Dubuque website, or directly at www.cityofdubuque.org/Report2DBQ

Dubuque County Auditor’s Office Recognized for Excellence in Election Administration with National Clearinghouse Award 

One of 53 Programs Honored by the U.S. Election Assistance Commission for Innovation, Sustainability, and Replicability

The Dubuque County Auditor’s Office was recognized for excellence in election administration with a national Clearinghouse Award for Communications with their Voting Artwork idea. Also known as the “Clearies,” the U.S. Election Assistance Commission (EAC) presents the awards program annually to celebrate the hard work of election offices across the country. Now in its ninth year, this year’s Clearie Awards honored programs that took place during the 2024 presidential election year.

The Dubuque County Election’s was one of 53 programs that were recognized with a Clearie Award. Their voting artwork idea came about when Dubuque County Election’s moved to a new building at 880 Central Ave, which has ground level access, as opposed to just hallways on the 4th floor of the Courthouse. There was a need to decorate the windows and inside wall of the election’s office. Dubuque County Election’s reached out to schools to see if they would be willing to have their students create artwork about voting, which would be displayed at the Election’s office. All grade schools in Dubuque County were sent an email.

“Our office is honored to be among the winners of this year’s Clearie award. We are very grateful for the teachers at Resurrection and St. Columbkille elementary schools who responded to our email about displaying children’s artwork. It was great to have the artwork on our windows and star banners hanging on the wall by our early voting tables. We had a vision and they helped us create this vision by supplying us with voting artwork from their students.” said Jenny Hillary, Deputy Commissioner of Elections for Dubuque County.

The Clearies play an essential role in fulfilling the EAC’s mission to serve as a clearinghouse for election administration information under the Help America Vote Act. The EAC is an independent, bipartisan federal agency solely focused on election administration. Submissions were judged on

Dubuque County Election’s, 880 Central Ave, Dubuque IA 52001 563-589-4457 el*******@***************wa.gov

innovation, sustainability, outreach, cost-effectiveness, replicability, and the generation of positive results.

“This year’s Clearinghouse Award-winning programs truly shined amid the high voter turnout in 2024. They are examples of the outstanding work election officials did to support tens of millions of voters during the presidential election. After nearly a decade, the Clearinghouse Awards continue to grow with a record number of entries received this year. These programs show how state and local election offices are the incubators of innovation. We are pleased to lift their ideas up and celebrate them on a national stage.” said EAC Chairman Donald Palmer along with Vice Chair Thomas Hicks, Commissioner Christy McCormick and Commissioner Ben Hovland in a joint statement.

This year’s awards categories include:

• Communications: Distinguished Voter Education and Communications Initiatives – Small/Medium Jurisdictions, Large Jurisdictions, State Level

• Security: Innovation and New Tools in Election Security and Technology

• Contingency Planning: Exemplary Contingency Planning and Emergency Response Efforts – Small/Medium Jurisdictions and Large Jurisdictions

• Election Administration: Innovations or New Practices in Election Administration – Small/Medium Jurisdictions, Large Jurisdictions, State Level

• Help America Vote Act (HAVA) Grants: Outstanding Use of HAVA Grants in Election Modernization

• Accessibility: Best Practices for Improving Accessibility for Voters with Disabilities

• Poll Workers: Best Practices in Recruiting, Retaining, and Training Poll Workers – Small/Medium Jurisdictions and Large Jurisdictions

• “I Voted” Stickers: Creative and Original “I Voted” Stickers – Small/Medium Jurisdictions and Large Jurisdictions

More information on the Clearies and each awardee is available on eac.gov.

Miller Riverview Park and Campground Opened April 21

Dubuque’s Miller Riverview Park and Campground opened for the 2025 season on Monday, April 21. This year’s opening was slightly delayed due to relocation of the campground’s fresh water fill and dump station and coordination with the nearby amphitheater construction.

Iowa DOT Bridge Deck Overlay Project Forces Lane Closures, Detours on U.S. Highways 61/151 in Dubuque

The second phase of the Iowa Department of Transportation’s US 61/151 Peosta Channel Bridge Deck Overlay Project will begin on Monday, April 21. Crews will be improving the surface of the U.S. 61/151 bridge over the Peosta Channel north of 16th St.

The project will require the closure of the southbound lanes of U.S. 61/151 from the Wisconsin Bridge exit to the 9th St./11th St. interchange. Drivers going through the area can expect the following closures and detours:

• Beginning April 21: U.S. 61/151 Lane Closures
  • The inside lanes of U.S. 61/151 will close in both directions for the removal of median barriers.
• Beginning April 23: U.S. 61/151 Southbound Lanes Closed
  • Both southbound lanes of U.S. 61/151 will be closed. During the closure of the southbound lanes, northbound and southbound traffic will be merged into a two-way traffic pattern in the northbound lanes of the highway. The southbound entrance ramp from Kerper Blvd. to U.S. 61/151 will be closed, as will the southbound exit ramp at the 9th St./11th St. interchange. The southbound exit ramp for Kerper Boulevard and Chaplain Schmitt Island will be accessible during the project.

The Iowa DOT expects the bridge replacement project to be finished in August 2025.

If you have questions regarding U.S. 61/151 closures/detours, please contact the Iowa DOT at 563-927-2397. Please note, closure dates and times are estimates and subject to change without notice based on weather and contractor schedules.

N Pleasant Grove Rd Travel Restriction

Project – Road open / travel restricted

On N Pleasant Grove Rd (1st St SE, Farley) under the Highway 20 overpass

UPDATE: Starting Monday, April 21st, the IDOT Contractor will be repairing the overpass bridge on Hwy 52/Route 52 that will require N Pleasant Grove Rd under the overpass to be restricted to one lane traffic with traffic signals.

The road will be restricted to one lane traffic with traffic signals for approx. 3-4 weeks, depending on weather. There will be a few intermittent full road closures also.

Comment: Manchester RCE (800-262-5146) – Dubuque County – Doug Hefel 563-920-9825
https://511ia.org/

Ohnward Fine Arts Center Announces Auditions for Disney’s Little Mermaid

The Ohnward Fne Arts Center – Maquoketa, IA Presents

Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Jr.
Saturday, August 2 at 7:00 PM
And Sunday, August 3 at 2:00 PM

Auditions:
Thursday June 26 at 10 AM until noon and 1 PM until 2 PM.                                    

Rehearsal dates – June 30 – Aug. 1
(No rehearsal on July 4 and never on weekends)

 Performance Dates
August 2 at 7:00 PM
And August 3 at 2:00 PM

The Ohnward Fine Arts Center is will be holding auditions for The Little Mermaid Jr on Thursday, June 26 from 10 AM until noon, and again from 1 PM until 2 PM at the Ohnward Fine Arts Center.  Students from ages 8 (or going into 2^nd grade) through 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.  Please contact the Ohnward Fine Arts Center for more information on the scholarship program. All performers are allowed to keep all rehearsal materials.

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

Rehearsals are Monday through Friday from 10 AM until noon.  We will not rehearse on any weekends. Rehearsals will start for everyone on Monday, June 30 and run through F Friday, August 2.  If your child is in the show you will need to check the Ohnward Fine Arts Center Facebook page DAILY so you are aware of rehearsal changes.

Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Jr
Saturday, August 2 at 7:00 PM And Sunday, August 3 at 2:00 PM

Auditions are Thursday June 26 from 10:00 AM Until Noon and again from 1:00 PM until 2:00 PM

Journey “under the sea” with Ariel and her aquatic friends in Disney’s The Little Mermaid JR., adapted from Disney’s Broadway production and the motion picture (featuring the enormously popular Academy Award-winning music and delightfully charming book and lyrics). Based on one of Hans Christian Andersen’s most beloved stories, Disney’s The Little Mermaid JR. is an enchanting look at the sacrifices we all make for love and acceptance.

In a magical underwater kingdom, the beautiful young mermaid, Ariel, longs to leave her ocean home — and her fins — behind and live in the world above. But first, she’ll have to defy her father, King Triton, make a deal with the evil sea witch, Ursula, and convince the handsome Prince Eric that she’s the girl whose enchanting voice he’s been seeking.

Written to flow seamlessly between land and sea, Disney’s The Little Mermaid JR. provides plenty of opportunities to bring these locations to life through creative movement and configurations. The fantasy of being underwater means your entire cast and crew can let their imaginations run wild.

Tickets – In Advance: Adults $12 Students $8
At the Door – Adults $15 Students $10

Cast Character Breakdown:
Ariel
Prince Eric
Sebastian
Flounder
King Triton
(Mersisters)
Aquata
Andrina
Arista
Atina
Adella
Allana
Ursula
Tentacles
Flotsam
Jetsam
Scuttle
Gulls
Grimsby
Chef Louise
Chefs
Carlotta
Princesses
Pilot
Sailors
Seahorse
Sea Chorus
Sea Creatures
Merfolk
Lagoon Animals

 Adult Volunteers Are Needed for these Areas:
Help with set painting
Help out with costumes
Help with set construction
Willing to make or construct prop items
Help backstage for both rehearsals and shows

For questions, please call the Ohnward Fine Arts Center at 566-652-9815 or email Richard Hall at Di******@*******************er.com.

 To schedule an early audition date if you are unable to make the June 26 time slot, please contact Richard Hall at 563-652-9815.

The shows approximate runtime is one hour.

 Women’s Leadership Network Announces 18th Annual Women of Achievement Awards Recipients

The 18th Annual Women of Achievement Awards banquet was another huge success. This year we recognized 46 nominees from the local community. A special thank you to the 290 attendees who joined us and supported women throughout our community. The award recipients included:

● Achievements in Her Field: Andrea McDermott, A.Y. McDonald

● Achievements in Her Field: Kaytlan Moeller, Dubuque County Conservation

● Growth & Accomplishments in Personal Life: Brandi Herring, Dubuque County Veterans Affairs

● Growth & Accomplishments in Personal Life: Rachel Callahan, NAMI Dubuque

● Organizational Impact: Randi Rusk, Tucker Freight Lines

● Organizational Impact: Jane Buse-Miller, Sisters of the Presentation

● Service & Support of Non-Profit Work: Beth Gilbreath, Century 21 Real Estate & Red Basket Project

● Service & Support of Non-Profit Work: Britni Farber, NAMI Dubuque

● Unsung Champion: Sue Timmerman, Cottingham & Butler

● Unsung Champion: Marcie Robbins, MercyOne Dubuque Medical Center

● Up & Coming Leader: LaMetra Murdock, City of Dubuque

● Up & Coming Leader: Danielle Willis, St. Mark Youth Enrichment

The Women of Achievement Awards ceremony was designed to recognize and honor women who have already, or aspire to, provide significant contributions in their professional, personal and volunteer roles in the community as evidenced by contributions to addressing significant issues, being a positive influence in the community, applying creativity or innovation in solving problems, overcoming challenges, mentoring colleagues or other, and sustaining a record of accomplishments in and contributions to her field.

More information as well as a listing of previous winners are online at https://www.dubuquewln.org/women-of-achievement-awards.

HAPPY EASTER!

May your Easter Sunday be filled with faith, family, and new beginnings.

Sending you Easter blessings – may your heart be filled with love and light. Let this Easter remind you that hope always finds a way. Wishing you a beautiful Easter filled with kindness, gratitude, and joy.

Broken Pipe Causes Sanitary Sewer Overflow

A break in a sanitary sewer line caused an undetermined amount of untreated wastewater to overflow near 455 Moore Heights and reach the middle fork of Catfish Creek.

The City of Dubuque Public Works Department was notified of the overflow at approximately 11 a.m. on Monday, April 14, and the issue was resolved by approximately 5:30 p.m. that day.

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources cautions people to keep their children and pets away from the noted area, which is posted, for 48 hours.

For more information, contact the Iowa Department of Natural Resources’ Manchester Field Office at 563-927-2640 or City of Dubuque Public Works Director Arielle Swift at 563-589-4250.

Call for Applications from Visual Artists, Performers, Food Trucks, and Community Organizations for 46th annual DBQFest, August 2-3, 2025

The 46th annual DBQFest will take place on Saturday, August 2 and Sunday, August 3, 2025, in the heart of Dubuque’s historic downtown in Washington Park. This free, 2-day arts festival welcomes all to experience the arts, music, and culture through a juried art fair, live performances, food trucks, and other family-friendly activities.

DBQFest (Dubuquefest) is Iowa’s longest running art fair and festival, celebrating art, music, and culture since 1979. From 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 2, and 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 6, 2025, DBQFest’s juried art fair will occur in Washington Park. Artists and makers working in all media and materials — jewelers, glassworkers, painters, textile artists, photographers, sculptors, potters, mixed media artists, and more – are encouraged to apply by midnight Monday, March 31, 2025. There is no application fee to apply at dbqfest.com/apply.

If accepted, visual artists are provided with a 10’x10’ outdoor booth location and are responsible for paying a $150 booth fee. Artists who are new to exhibiting and selling their work at professional art fairs can elect to apply for an emerging artist scholarship, waiving booth fees and providing an art fair tent free of charge. All juried artists are expected to be present both days of the festival.

DBQFest is also seeking applications from musical acts as well as individual or groups offering interactive or performative arts activities to perform during the festival. Selected applicants will be compensated for their time based on festival budget and applicant proposed fees. Stage performer and park activity applications are due by June 1, 2025 at dbqfest.com/apply. There is no fee to apply.

Applications are also sought from mobile food trucks to be set up throughout the festival on 6th Street between Bluff and Locust Streets. One or two-day options are available for food truck participation; one-day vendors are responsible for a $150 vendor fee with two-day vendors paying just $100 for a spot. Apply at dbqfest.com/apply by June 26, 2025 to be considered. There is no fee to apply.

DBQFest offers spaces for community booths to outreach and engage with DBQFest audiences. Community booths are reserved for non-profit organizations or community-focused groups that do not sell products but use their booth to provide information and interactive activities. Community booths are available on a first come, first-serve basis on a sliding scale of no cost up to $50 to be determined by the applicant organization. Applicant organizations are responsible for their own tent, table, chairs, etc. An application can be completed at dbqfest.com/apply.

DBQFest is a program of the Dubuque County Fine Arts Society. Volunteer and sponsorship opportunities are available. To get involved, visit dbqfest.com or contact the Festival Director at di******@*********st.org.

About the Dubuque County Fine Arts Society:

The Dubuque County Fine Arts Society (DCFAS) is a volunteer-driven 501c3 non-profit organization whose mission is to support artists and creatives by serving as a fiscal sponsor for collaborative, community-based arts experiences in Dubuque and its surrounding areas. For more information, visit www.dcfas.org.

Art on the River Selections Announced, Reception Planned for Aug. 1

Eleven new sculptures have been selected for the City of Dubuque’s 19th annual temporary public art exhibit “Art on the River.” The 2025 – 2026 exhibit theme “Flow of Wellness” invites visitors to explore how art can transform personal and community well-being, with a focus on health, healing, and wellness.

The featured works reflect how art nurtures the body, mind, and spirit; celebrates nature’s restorative forces; the healing power of movement; and the soothing effects of light, sound, and color. The exhibit seeks to create a ripple effect, inspiring visitors to consider wellness as both an individual journey and a collective experience, rooted in the city’s riverfront landscape.

Spanning the length of the Mississippi Riverwalk in the Port of Dubuque, the sculptures will be installed in late July 2025 and be on display thorugh July 2026. All Art on the River sculptures are available for purchase with a portion of artwork sales retained to sustain the Art on the River program, which is currently funded through the City’s general operating budget.

The following sculptures, listed in alphabetical order by artwork title, will be featured in this year’s exhibit:

• “Findicator Species” by Will Turnbull, Madison, WI
• “The Polinator” by Kirk Seese, Lutherville-Timonium, MD
• “Sounds of the Seeds” by Molly Spain, Des Moines, IA?
• “Lupine” by Tim Adams, Webster City, IA
• “Oscill8” by Nicole Beck, Chicago, IL
• “Social Fabric” by Matt Miller, Cape Girardeau, MO?
• “Verdi’s Path” by James Cole, East Dubuque, IL
• “Stainless River” by Skip Willits, Camanche, IA
• “Homage to L’Homme Qui Marche” by John Merigan, Newton, KS
• “Wind in the Waves” by Chris Plaisted, New Milford, CT
• “Flow of Wellness III” by Gail Chavenelle, Dubuque, IA?

A community jury panel selected the sculptures from a pool of 61 applications from 40 artists representing 11 states in the U.S., Germany, and India. The panel, chosen for their expertise and involvement in the arts and community development efforts, included:

• Jessica Modica – Executive Director, Freeport Art Museum, Freeport, IL
• Tamsie Ringler, Visual Artist, Dubuque, IA
• Sarah Cassella, PhD, Associate Professor of Neuroscience, Loras College, Dubuque, IA

A reception celebrating the selected works and their creators will be held on Friday, Aug. 1, from 5 – 7 p.m. at the Grand River Center, 500 Bell St. The reception is free to attend, family-friendly, and open to the public.

Art on the River is part of the Dubuque City Council’s ongoing efforts to foster diverse arts and culture experiences that will improve the social and cultural vibrancy of the community.

For more information, visit?www.cityofdubuque.org/artontheriver?or contact City of Dubuque Arts & Cultural Affairs Manager Bonnie Spurling at?bs******@***********ue.org?or 563-513-5636.

Flora & Sutton Pools To Open on May 27, Pool Passes on Sale Now

The City of Dubuque Parks and Recreation Department announced today that Flora and Sutton pools are scheduled to open for the summer on Tuesday, May 27, depending on weather.

Annual pool passes are currently on sale for the 2025 pool season. The fee for Dubuque residents is $42 for youth (4 -17), $74 for adults (18 and older), and $53 for seniors (55 and older). Children ages 3 and under are free. Pool passes may be purchased online at www.cityofdubuque.org/pools or in person at the Parks and Recreation office, located at 1157 Central Ave.

First-time buyers who purchase an annual pool pass online will be required to visit the Parks and Recreation office to have their photo taken and pick up the pass. Online pool pass renewals do not require a visit to the office. The renewal will be applied directly to the existing pass. Pool passes will not be sold at the pools this summer.

Parks and Recreation Family Scholarship funds may be used to purchase annual pool passes. The Family Scholarship is a $150 household credit for income-qualified families (two or more related people from the same address). In addition to pool passes, scholarship credits can be used for swim lessons, program registration, pavilion rentals, and other services. Scholarship credits may not be used for pool daily admissions. To learn more and apply, visit www.cityofdubuque.org/recreation or visit the Parks and Recreation office. Annual pool passes are half-price for low-income individuals who do not have scholarship credits available.

Swim lessons information, including the schedule and registration options, will be published online in the Parks and Recreation Let’s Go! Summer Activities Guide on Friday, April 25. Registration will open at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, May 7. RecTrac is the Parks and Recreation online registration system. Residents are encouraged to create an account in advance to save time when registering for swim lessons and other recreation programs. To create a RecTrac account, visit www.cityofdubuque.org/letsgo.

Reservations to rent Flora and Sutton pools will open at 9 a.m. on Monday, April 28. The pools are available for rental on Saturdays and Sundays from 5 – 7 p.m. for up to 300 people. The rental fee for Flora Pool is $495 and the rental fee for Sutton Pool is $367. Reservations can made online at www.cityofdubuque.org/pools, over the phone by calling 563-589-4263, or in person at the Parks and Recreation office.

The pre-season schedule for both pools will run from Tuesday, May 27, through Friday, June 6, and will be as follows:

Monday – Friday (May 27 – June 6)
7 – 9 a.m. Adult Swim
12 – 1 p.m. Adult Swim & Water Playground (ages 5 and under)
1 – 4:30 p.m. Open Swim
5 – 6 p.m. Adult Swim
6 – 8 p.m. Open Swim

Saturday & Sunday (May 31 – June 2)
11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Adult Swim & Water Playground (ages 5 and under)
1 – 4:30 p.m. Open Swim

Regular season hours will begin on Saturday, June 7. Regular season hours will be as follows:

Monday – Friday
7 – 9 a.m. Adult Swim
12 – 1 p.m. Adult Swim & Water Playground (ages 5 and under)
1 – 4:30 p.m. Open Swim
5 – 6 p.m. Adult Swim

Friday Evening Open Swim
6 – 8 p.m. on June 13 & 20, July 11, 18, & 25, and Aug. 1

Saturday & Sunday 
11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Adult Swim & Water Playground (ages 5 and under)
1 – 4:30 p.m. Open Swim
5 – 7 p.m. Rentals

For additional information or questions regarding the pools or Family Scholarship Program, visit www.cityofdubuque.org/pools or contact the Parks and Recreation office at 563-589-4263.

City of Dubuque Introduces Plan to Address Growth-Induced Sanitary Sewer Capacity Constraints

Recommended budget includes funds for accelerated infrastructure investment

As part of the City of Dubuque’s commitment to fostering economic growth and facilitating private investment, City officials are addressing sanitary sewer capacity constraints in several areas of the community. Infrastructure investments are under way and more are planned to enable continued development. Initial infrastructure investments are beginning within the Catfish Creek sewershed in western and southern portions of Dubuque.

Dubuque has experienced significant economic growth in recent years, leading to job creation, business expansion, and new developments. To prepare for and support this growth, the City has invested hundreds of millions of dollars over the years in industrial parks, transportation networks, business incentives, and public utilities. However, the pace of development has exceeded the capacity of the sanitary sewer collection system.

Recognizing the age of Dubuque’s sewer infrastructure—much of which was installed 60-100 years ago—the City has launched a Sanitary Sewer Asset Management Program (SSAMP) to evaluate and plan for necessary system improvements and future growth. Through this initiative, the City has been using advanced modeling and monitoring techniques to assess capacity limitations and develop solutions.

Recent analysis has identified conveyance constraints in several areas within the sanitary sewer collection system. In response, the City plans to invest approximately $130 million over five years to expand sanitary sewer capacity, particularly within the Catfish Creek sewershed. A key project within this effort is the $41 million Old Mill Road Lift Station, which is already under construction and expected to be completed by December 2026. Catfish Creek sewershed collector system capacity improvements are planned to begin immediately following completion of the Old Mill Road Lift Station project.

These improvement projects will support other recent investments in Dubuque’s sanitary sewer system. Since 2013, when the City completed a more than $70 million rebuild of the wastewater treatment facility (Water and Resource Recovery Center), the City has invested over $67 million in sanitary sewer capital improvement projects.

While the upcoming improvement projects are under way, the City will work closely with property owners and developers in the affected areas to explore phased development approaches that minimize additional strain on the system. Interim, project-specific solutions may also be identified to facilitate projects until permanent system improvements are completed. City staff are available to assist property owners and developers with this process and coordination with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) on permitting. For more information, call the City of Dubuque Engineering Department at 563.589.4270.

The Dubuque City Council will discuss the proposed sanitary sewer improvements and funding as part of its public budget meeting on Thursday, April 24, at 6:30 p.m. in the City Council Chambers at the Historic Federal Building. Residents and stakeholders are invited to participate in person or virtually. Details are available at www.cityofdubuque.org/FY2026budget

A map of the affected Catfish Creek sanitary sewershed is available at https://cityofdubuque.org/DocumentCenter/View/60574/Catfish-Creek-Sewershed-Map

Grand River Medical Group Transitions to UnityPoint Clinic May 4

The integration of Grand River Medical Group (GRMG) and UnityPoint Clinic is expected to be finalized on Sunday, May 4. At that time, GRMG’s physicians, advanced practice providers and team members will become part of UnityPoint Clinic and clinic locations will be owned and operated by UnityPoint Clinic.

“The transition process has proceeded as expected and very smoothly.  We are fortunate UnityPoint Health – Dubuque and Grand River Medical Group have worked closely for many years, making the transition easier,” said Dr. Trish Newland, President, UnityPoint Clinic. “We are excited to have Grand River Medical Group join UnityPoint Clinic and are looking forward to improving the health of the communities we serve within the Tri-State area.”

Patients will continue to receive the same exceptional care, from the same providers and care team members, they know and trust. As GRMG becomes a part of UnityPoint Clinic, patients will benefit from:

• Expertise of a nationally recognized health system that serves Iowa, Illinois and Wisconsin.
• Close affiliation with UnityPoint Health – Finley Hospital and the Dubuque Visiting Nurse Association.
• Access to UnityPoint Clinic’s MyUnityPoint patient portal, for easy scheduling, prescription renewal and communicating with providers. This access will begin later this year.

Patients will notice new signage, clinic names and logos on buildings, appointment reminders and billing. Clinic locations, hours and phone numbers will stay the same.

“Both organizations have a rich history of serving their communities, driven by the belief that healthcare is best when it’s local and we look forward to continuing that legacy together,” said Dr. Ron Iverson, President and Medical Director, Grand River Medical Group.

# # #

About UnityPoint Health – Finley Hospital

UnityPoint Health – Finley Hospital is a private, not-for-profit; community owned and controlled regional health care facility. Finley Hospital is a member of UnityPoint Health, one of the nation’s most integrated health systems in the Midwest and 13th largest nonprofit health care system in the United States. UnityPoint Health – Finley Hospital is committed to providing programs and services to improve the health of individuals throughout the Dubuque and Tri-States communities and works to deliver the Best Outcome for Every Patient Every Time. Centers of excellence include cancer care, heart care, birth care, emergency care, surgery services, and wound and hyperbaric services.

About UnityPoint Clinic

UnityPoint Clinic is an integrated network of primary care and specialty physicians, advanced practitioners and clinics providing quality health care services to patients and communities in Iowa, western Illinois and southern Wisconsin. With more than 1,100 providers at more than 400 clinic locations, UnityPoint Clinic provides services in family medicine, internal medicine, pediatrics, OB/GYN, surgery, cardiology and a wide variety of other specialty services. Part ofUnityPoint Health, one of the nation’s most integrated health systems, UnityPoint Clinic works with hospitals and home health agencies to provide patient-centered, coordinated care.

About Grand River Medical Group

Grand River Medical Group was founded in 2016 when three clinics, formerly known as, Dubuque Family Practice, Dubuque Internal Medicine, and Dubuque Pediatrics merged to continue providing you and your family with high-quality healthcare. As well as improve the coordination of healthcare in the community. Grand River Medical Group consists of more than 330 team members, including over 50 physicians and advanced practicing professionals (nurse practitioners and physician assistants). The clinic has ten locations throughout Dubuque county, and four dialysis units located within Dubuque and Manchester, IA and Platteville and Richland Center, WI.

Get Ready to Party at Party for the Planet at the River Museum!

The National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium will host the annual Party for the Planet on April 26 from 10 AM – 2 PM. General admission grants access to the day’s activities and visitors who bring canned food items will receive $5 off admission (one discount per transaction, unlimited number of canned items) All donations will benefit the Dubuque Food Pantry.

UnityPoint Health – Finley Hospital Debuts Intracept Procedure

Finley Hospital is now offering patients a new, minimally invasive outpatient option to treat lower back pain.

The same-day procedure called Intracept, or basivertebral nerve ablation, uses radiofrequency energy to heat a narrow point on the basivertebral nerve, which disrupts pain signals that travel from the spine to the brain, offering relief. Finley is the only hospital in Dubuque to offer this procedure.

“It is the only procedure specifically designed to target this distinct type of pain – vertebrogenic pain – which is a chronic low back pain caused by damage to vertebral endplates from disc degeneration or simply wear and tear,” said Dr. Timothy Miller, of Finley Hospital’s Pain Clinic.

The procedure is recommended only after other treatment options, such as injections and therapies, have been exhausted. It may be an alternative to open-spine surgery, which some patients are unable or unwilling to have done.

One of Finley Hospital’s first Intracept procedure patients, Melissa Culbertson, of East Dubuque, Ill., has seen an 80 percent improvement in her pain after the procedure.

“I’m getting more active again and just feeling happier in life. Not living with chronic pain all the time is huge – it really wears you down after a while. I have a pretty active lifestyle, or I used to, so I’d like to get back into that again too.”

 Election Advisory 

Dubuque County Auditor encourages voters to update voter registration status, respond to no activity and change of address notices

Dubuque County Auditor, Keith Lucy and Iowa Secretary of State Paul Pate are alerting voters they may be receiving important mailers in the coming weeks as part of annual voter registration list maintenance and ongoing audit processes. Voters in Dubuque County may receive notices from the Iowa Secretary of State’s office as part of the National Change of Address (NCOA) process as well as ‘No Activity” notices. Both mailers are expected to reach affected Iowa voters in April.

As part of the annual NCOA process, voters who have filed a change of address with the U.S. Postal Service will receive notices to update their voter registration. Iowa’s election officials encourage voters to respond to these mail cards quickly, confirm their correct address, and return them to the county auditor’s office.

This mailing establishes compliance with the National Voter Registration Act, which requires periodic contact with voters to confirm the most accurate information is on file.

A separate mailer regarding voter activity may also be sent to voters in Dubuque County. Registered Iowa voters who did not participate in the 2024 General Election have been transferred to an “inactive” status and will receive a notice in the mail to confirm their current residential address. Voters can reactivate their activity status by simply responding to this notice—voters who do not respond will remain in “inactive” status.

Registered voters who are “inactive” can also return to “active” status by requesting an absentee ballot, voting in an election, submitting a new registration, or updating their voter registration. This procedure is part of the Secretary of State’s ongoing voter registration list audits and maintenance processes and is required under a state law passed in 2021.

“Ongoing voter registration list audits and maintenance processes are critical to keeping Iowa voter rolls clean and accurate,” said Secretary Pate. “While we encourage Iowans to

Dubuque County Election’s, 880 Central Ave, Dubuque IA 52001 563-589-4457 el*******@***************wa.gov

keep their voter registrations up-to-date, Iowa’s Same-Day Voter Registration safeguard ensures Iowans can register and vote on Election Day—ensuring every eligible voter has the opportunity to cast a ballot.”

Iowa voters can check or update their voter registration status at any time at VoterReady.Iowa.Gov.

Call for Applications from Visual Artists, Performers, Food Trucks, and Community Organizations for 46th annual DBQFest, August 2-3, 2025

The 46th annual DBQFest will take place on Saturday, August 2 and Sunday, August 3, 2025, in the heart of Dubuque’s historic downtown in Washington Park. This free, 2-day arts festival welcomes all to experience the arts, music, and culture through a juried art fair, live performances, food trucks, and other family-friendly activities.

DBQFest (Dubuquefest) is Iowa’s longest running art fair and festival, celebrating art, music, and culture since 1979. From 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 2, and 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 6, 2025, DBQFest’s juried art fair will occur in Washington Park. Artists and makers working in all media and materials — jewelers, glassworkers, painters, textile artists, photographers, sculptors, potters, mixed media artists, and more – are encouraged to apply by midnight Monday, March 31, 2025. There is no application fee to apply at dbqfest.com/apply.

If accepted, visual artists are provided with a 10’x10’ outdoor booth location and are responsible for paying a $150 booth fee. Artists who are new to exhibiting and selling their work at professional art fairs can elect to apply for an emerging artist scholarship, waiving booth fees and providing an art fair tent free of charge. All juried artists are expected to be present both days of the festival.

DBQFest is also seeking applications from musical acts as well as individual or groups offering interactive or performative arts activities to perform during the festival. Selected applicants will be compensated for their time based on festival budget and applicant proposed fees. Stage performer and park activity applications are due by June 1, 2025 at dbqfest.com/apply. There is no fee to apply.

Applications are also sought from mobile food trucks to be set up throughout the festival on 6th Street between Bluff and Locust Streets. One or two-day options are available for food truck participation; one-day vendors are responsible for a $150 vendor fee with two-day vendors paying just $100 for a spot. Apply at dbqfest.com/apply by June 26, 2025 to be considered. There is no fee to apply.

DBQFest offers spaces for community booths to outreach and engage with DBQFest audiences. Community booths are reserved for non-profit organizations or community-focused groups that do not sell products but use their booth to provide information and interactive activities. Community booths are available on a first come, first-serve basis on a sliding scale of no cost up to $50 to be determined by the applicant organization. Applicant organizations are responsible for their own tent, table, chairs, etc. An application can be completed at dbqfest.com/apply.

DBQFest is a program of the Dubuque County Fine Arts Society. Volunteer and sponsorship opportunities are available. To get involved, visit dbqfest.com or contact the Festival Director at di******@*********st.org.

About the Dubuque County Fine Arts Society:

The Dubuque County Fine Arts Society (DCFAS) is a volunteer-driven 501c3 non-profit organization whose mission is to support artists and creatives by serving as a fiscal sponsor for collaborative, community-based arts experiences in Dubuque and its surrounding areas. For more information, visit www.dcfas.org.

# # #

USGS deploys equipment to measure waves in Upper Mississippi River’s Pool 13

The research will inform conservation planning for aquatic plants and mussels

The U.S. Geological Survey, in collaboration with Iowa Department of Natural Resources and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, will place monitoring equipment this week at several locations in Pool 13 of the Upper Mississippi River between Bulger’s Hollow Recreation Area and Lock and Dam 13 in Clinton, Iowa. The equipment will be placed below the water surface to monitor waves and water clarity from early April through mid-September.

Orange buoys will mark locations where monitoring instruments have been placed. The equipment is sensitive, and the public is asked to avoid these locations so as not to disturb the research project. Hunting, fishing and recreational activities are not restricted near monitoring locations, but the public should not tamper with or disturb monitoring equipment and should be careful navigating around buoys. Public assistance to report unexpected events, damaged property or suspicious activity around the monitoring equipment is greatly appreciated. Local, state and federal officials have been informed about the placement of this equipment.

Scientists will use the data collected in Pool 13 to better understand how waves affect water clarity and the river’s ecosystem, including native freshwater mussels and aquatic plants like wild celery. The results can inform rehabilitation efforts in Pool 13 and elsewhere on the Mississippi River.

 Dubuque to Host Three Major Conferences Attracting Over 1,100 Attendees in Early April 

The Grand River Center will be the htravub of activity as Dubuque welcomes conferences with over 1,100 combined attendees from March 31 to April 8, 2025, from across the Midwest and beyond.

The early April conferences kick off with the U.S. Green Buildings Council hosting a local government leadership summit session on Monday, March 31. This event will be the kickoff of the annual Growing Sustainable Communities Conference, which will conclude on April 2. Over 300 professionals dedicated to urban and environmental sustainability will come together to explore innovative strategies for community development and ecological preservation.

Following this conference will be the Iowa Knights of Columbus 2025 Convention, running April 3-6, which will draw more than 600 participants from across Iowa. The convention will feature discussions on community service, leadership, and charitable initiatives.

Rounding out the conference lineup is the Circle Wisconsin Midwest Marketplace from April 5-8, attracting over 200 regional and national destination marketing organizations and group tour / motor coach operators. This event will provide opportunities for attendees to explore Dubuque as a destination for future travel opportunities.

“These conferences highlight Dubuque’s reputation as a premier destination for meetings and conventions,” said President & CEO Keith Rahe. “We’re excited to welcome these groups and showcase our city’s hospitality and conference facilities.”

Regular Yard Waste Collections Resume Monday, March 31

The City of Dubuque will resume its regular weekly curbside collection of yard waste and food scraps on Monday, March 31. Collections will be made on customers’ regular curbside collection days.

Yard waste and food scraps collection options include:

• Brown paper yard waste bags that display a City of Dubuque single-use yard waste sticker.
• 35-gallon rigid solid waste containers with either a single-use yard waste sticker looped on the handle or the City’s 2025 annual yard waste decal displayed.
• City-issued yard waste and food scraps tipper carts (13 or 64 gallons).
• Brush and limbs may also be bundled with City of Dubuque brush ties that have a single-use sticker attached. Limbs should be no more than 3″ in diameter and 5′ in length.

Single-use stickers can be purchased at City Hall, 50 W. 13th St., and many local grocery and hardware stores.

Residents interested in obtaining a City-issued yard waste and food scrap tipper cart or purchasing a 2025 annual yard waste decal may do so by visiting City Hall, going online to www.cityofdubuque.org/yardwaste, or by calling 563-589-4144.

Yard waste and food scraps should not be placed in plastic bags and must be kept separate from other trash. Collections must be set out by 6 a.m. and not weigh over 40 pounds per container or bundle.

The City offers a free tool, “ReThink Waste Dubuque,” to make it easier for City curbside collection customers to remember to set out trash, recycling, and organics, to stay informed on collection schedule changes, and to learn what can and cannot be recycled. To access the ReThink Waste Dubuque tool, visit www.cityofdubuque.org/rethinkwaste. Links to download a ReThink Waste mobile app through the iTunes App Store and Android Play Store are provided on the page. For additional information, call the City of Dubuque Public Works Department at 563-589-4250.

City of Dubuque Seeks Public Input on Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan

The City of Dubuque has launched the “Y(O)ur Story” campaign to develop a new Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan. The six-month process will include numerous opportunities for residents to share their ideas and vision for the future, including two community workshops next week:

• Tuesday, April 1, from 5 – 8 p.m. at the Multicultural Family Center, 1157 Central Ave.
• Thursday, April 3, from 5 – 8 p.m. at the Veterans Memorial Park Building, 2790 Miracle League Dr.

The workshops will be an open house format. The public is invited to stop by any time to provide input on current and future parks and community recreation needs and priorities.

The purpose of the Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan is to define opportunities, challenges, and recommendations for the next 10 years and beyond. The theme of the plan, Y(O)ur Story, is based on the idea that a well-crafted master plan tells the story of a city—where it was, where it is, and where it is going. The City of Dubuque is looking to its residents to help write the story, as community participation is critical to the success of the plan.

A host of workshops and community events will be offered, including community workshops, pop-up events, and numerous stakeholder meetings with user groups and community leaders. Residents can participate immediately by visiting the Y(O)ur Story website at YOurStoryDubuque.com. The website provides information and opportunities to share ideas, including:

• an online survey,
• interactive mapping tool,
• a “Share Your Big Idea” public forum,
• an interactive budgeting tool to help determine priorities,
• and an opportunity to submit general comments.

For more information, visit YOurStoryDubuque.com or contact the City of Dubuque Parks and Recreation Department at 563-589-4263.

Dubuque City Council Members Travel to Washington, DC 

Three members of the Dubuque City Council recently spent two days in Washington, DC, attending a national conference and creating and maintaining relationships with federal legislators and their staff, agencies, and other partners as new federal policies, priorities, and initiatives are announced.

Dubuque Mayor Brad Cavanagh, Ward One Representative Susan Farber, and Ward Four Representative Katy Wethal attended the National League of Cities’ Annual Congressional City Conference in Washington from March 10-12. They were among more than 2,800 conference attendees gathered to engage in policy discussions, make connections, and connect with members of Congress to explore issues that matter to local governments. Featured speakers at the conference included Vice President JD Vance and US EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin. Conference panel discussion topics included housing, DOGE, municipal tax exemption, and executive actions and local governments.

In addition to attending conference sessions while in DC, the city council members also had individual meetings with staff from the White House Office of Intergovernmental Affairs, Department of Transportation, Department of Energy, and Environmental Protection Agency. Teri Goodmann, the City’s consultant for federal government relations, also participated in those meetings.

Farber, who serves as vice chair of the NLC Information Technology and Communications Federal Advocacy Committee, met with NLC’s technology committee and led a session on cybersecurity and data centers. She also met with staff from Google and staff from the Federal Communications Commission.

“There is a tremendous amount of change underway in our federal government and it’s critical that Dubuque’s local government stays connected so we can advocate for our local needs and interests,” said Cavanagh. “Dubuque has millions of dollars in federal grants that are in different stages. Some are being implemented, some that were awarded are now under review, and we continue to seek more opportunities for federal support of important projects and initiatives. These in-person meeting opportunities and personal relationships are more important now than ever.”

Shindig! A Tribute to the 60’s!

Saturday April 26, 2025 at 7 PM

SHiNDiG! A Tribute to the ’60s always delivers an entertaining trip back to the greatest and most diverse decade of rock and roll music. Covering over 90 different bands from that period in time where music told the story of an entire generation  –  Early ’60s, British Invasion, Psychedelic, Pop, Girl Groups, Woodstock…are all part of the show! The unique, period costumes of the band mirrors each set of music it delivers, bringing to the audience that feeling of being immersed in the 1960s music scene.

Featuring songs by The Beatles, The Beach Boys, The Monkees, The Rolling Stones, The Supremes,  Herman’s Hermits,  Cryan’ Shames,  The Mamas and the Papas, Sonny and Cher and the best ‘girl groups’, SHiNDiG! recreates “true to the originals” renditions of the 45’s played on AM radio during this decade of great music.  And the unique, period look of the band mirrors each set of music that they deliver adding to that feeling of being immersed in the ’60s music scene!

SHiNDiG! was formed over 10 years ago with a simple goal of taking their audiences back to the highly diverse and fun music scene of the 1960s. Their song selection, dress and even instrumentation are all geared to help immerse everyone in that time period. The band chooses songs that are familiar from top artists as well as some not so well know bands that may have been ‘one hit wonders’.  The band uses its five different vocalists to help keep the show even more diverse and entertaining.  All the band members are also avid ‘60s music fans and have been involved in the Chicago music scene for decades. Although the band’s home base is Chicago, SHiNDiG! has performed at events including theaters and outdoor festivals in Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin, Indiana and Iowa including performing with artists from Herman’s Hermits, Jay and the Americans, The Shadows of Night and recently opening for Chicagoland’s most successful ‘60s band, The Buckinghams!

“You all put on a terrific show and loved all the songs. We sure hope you return to Kewanee. It was so much fun singing all those 60’s songs.” Donna (Kewanee)

“Great band! You can sing along with every song and the memories are great! Good time every time we have seen them” Mark (Crest Hill)

Tickets – In Advance: Adults $25 Students $15

At door: Adults $28 Students $18

Ohnward Fine Arts Center

1215 E Platt Street
Maquoketa, IA  52060
Phone: 563-652-9815
www.Ohnwardfineartscenter.com

Concession, Beer and Wine will be available!.

The show runs approximately 2 hours.                                                                                 

 Kevin Mulcahy Announced as Keynote Speaker for Riverview Center’s 2025 Evening of Light Gala 

Riverview Center has announced that Kevin Mulcahy, a former federal prosecutor and survivor of child sexual abuse, will serve as the keynote speaker for its annual Evening of Light Gala taking place on April 10, 2025 at the Grand River Center in Dubuque. This year’s event celebrates the resiliency of survivors of sexual and domestic violence.

Mulcahy has had a distinguished career as a federal prosecutor handling a broad range of criminal cases including those involving firearms, drugs, terrorism, and bank robberies. However, his primary focus was on prosecuting cases related to child exploitation, including the production of child pornography, trafficking, and other significant crimes against children.

“We are honored to have Kevin as our keynote speaker,” said Riverview Center Executive Director, Gwen Bramlet-Hecker. “His personal and professional journey exemplifies the strength and determination of survivors, and we look forward to hearing his powerful message of hope and resilience.”

New this year, in addition to his keynote address at the gala, Mulcahy will offer specialized training the day after for law enforcement professionals, sexual assault nurse examiners, sexual and domestic assault advocates, mental health professionals, military victim advocates, child protection center staff and others who work across Riverview Center’s 16-county service area in Iowa and Illinois. Kevin’s training, “Blindsided: 7 Sneaky Challenges Facing Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse”, provides professionals with a deeper understanding of the complex challenges faced by child sexual abuse survivors, including fear, shame, guilt, depression, trust issues, and substance abuse. It also sheds light on often-overlooked struggles, equipping professionals with the tools to offer more effective support. The training will provide vital resources and knowledge to those who work on the frontlines of supporting survivors of sexual and domestic violence. The training will be free for participants.

“Becoming a sponsor of the Evening of Light, purchasing a ticket to attend, or making a donation will not only support the critical services Riverview Center provides,” Bramlet-Hecker said, “but will also support the training of first responders and others who assist survivors of violence right in your own community.”

The Evening of Light Gala will include a formal dinner, a silent auction featuring exclusive items donated by local businesses, a raffle, and inspiring stories from and about survivors whose lives have been transformed through the organization’s services. As space is limited, attendees are encouraged to register early for the event and will receive timely updates about the evening’s highlights. Tickets are available for purchase online at www.riverviewcenter.org/events. Those wanting information about sponsorship opportunities are asked to contact Heidi Zull, Director of Development & Public Relations, at he****@*************er.org or by phone at 563-557-0310.

About Riverview Center: Riverview Center is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive services to survivors of sexual and domestic violence. Through advocacy, counseling, and legal support, Riverview Center works to empower individuals and communities to live free from violence and abuse.

Riverview Center provides sexual assault services for 14 counties in Northeast Iowa, as well as sexual and domestic violence services in Jo Daviess and Carroll Counties in Illinois. Our services are free, regardless of biological sex, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, immigration status, English proficiency, race and/or ethnicity, incarceration status, disability or background. Riverview Center is a safe space. Services include 24-hour crisis hotlines, legal, medical and social service advocacy, long- and short-term counseling, trauma-informed therapy, transition and basic needs assistance, and more. Care is specialized and client-centered based on an individual’s unique needs and circumstances.

Iowa Sexual Assault Hotline: 888-557-0310

Jo Daviess County Sexual Assault Hotline: 815-777-8155

Jo Daviess County Domestic Violence Hotline: 815-777-3680

Carroll County Sexual Assault Hotline: 815-244-7772

Carroll County Domestic Violence Hotline: 815-244-1320

New Chaplain at Stonehill Communities

Stonehill Communities is pleased to announce they have received a new priest assignment from the Archdiocese of Dubuque. Fr. Gabriel Mensah, formerly associate pastor of the Basilica of St. Francis Xavier, Dyersville; St. Joseph Parish, Earlville; St. Boniface Parish, New Vienna; SS. Peter & Paul Parish, Petersburg; and St. Paul Parish, Worthington, will begin his role as Chaplain at Stonehill Communities on July 8. He will be offering Masses, Anointing of the Sick, Reconciliation, supporting the Pastoral Services team and participating in other faith-based activities at the Stonehill Health Center, Assisi Village, and Windsor Park.

Peggy Stockel, President and CEO, expressed her excitement over the assignment, “We are thrilled to have a priest on staff once again to provide robust spiritual services for the residents and families we serve. On-site Mass and celebration of the sacraments is important to so many people in our community. As a faith-based organization, spiritual care is an essential part of our person-centered care.”

Fr. Gabriel is originally from the Archdiocese of Cape Coast, Ghana in West Africa. He was ordained as a priest on September 29, 2001 and is 57 years old. While in Ghana he served in various ministries including as an Associate Pastor, Rector, and Pastor. His priestly ministry in Ghana included working in both remote villages and larger cities. He has lived in the United States since June 2022.

Fr. Gabriel is very eager to serve the people of Stonehill Communities.

“I am looking forward to meeting the residents, patients, employees, and families of Stonehill Communities and MercyOne. I very much enjoy having one-on-one conversations with people and offering them the opportunity to feel God’s grace through the sacraments,” said Fr. Gabriel.

Fr. Gabriel will be splitting his time between Stonehill Communities and MercyOne.

The mission of Stonehill is to, in the spirit of St. Francis of Assisi, provide a continuum of quality lifetime care services in a dignified atmosphere. Stonehill offers a full continuum of health and wellness services for older adults including independent and assisted living, affordable senior apartments, memory care, post-acute rehab, long term care, inpatient and outpatient therapy, non-medical home care services, the Caregiver Resource Center, a state-of-the-art wellness center open to the public, and a new membership program. More information is available at www.stonehilldbq.com.

Concerned about the “spring flush” of nitrate into Iowa’s drinking water supply

It’s hard to predict how much nitrate pollution we will find in rivers and groundwater that supply drinking water. But concentrations tend to increase in the “spring flush” when precipitation washes fertilizer and nutrients off of agricultural land and into waterways.

Volunteers with the Izaak Walton League who test pollution levels with a program called Nitrate Watch are prepared to monitor this year’s spring flush. They dip test strips into water and report results to the Clean Water Hub website, which is available to the public as well as researchers and government agencies. By testing water all year long, the League establishes local baseline data to detect spikes.

Nitrate pollution is acute in Iowa, among other states, and the League is offering K-12 teachers in testing kits for Nitrate Watch and Salt Watch, which monitors chloride pollution from excess deicers used to treat icy pavement.

Last spring, nitrate concentrations in some places exceeded the 10 mg/L standard established by the EPA. That’s the standard for drinking water; there is no national standard for nitrate in surface waters. That’s a problem because approximately 70 percent of America’s drinking water comes from surface water sources.

Chart from last year’s spring flush:

When raw water used as a supply of drinking water contains nitrate in excess of 10 mg/L, it must be mixed with a secondary source of raw water or treated with expensive nitrate removal technology to deliver drinking water that contains nitrate concentrations beneath the EPA’s standard of 10 mg/L.

It would be better to prevent nitrate pollution from getting into source water in the first place – which is what Nitrate Watch aims to do. It is also worth noting that this 10 mg/L standard hasn’t been updated since it was created in 1990, and research suggests that it may not be sufficiently protective of human health. Nitrate Watch, which has an advocacy facet, is working on getting the EPA standard updated.

Farley Rd Bridge Deck Repair Closure

Project – Road closed / For length of Work Zone

Farley Rd will be closed from Johns Creek Rd to E Worthington Rd

Contractor Boulder Contracting plans to start this project on Monday, March 24, 2025.

The old bridge deck will be removed and replaced. The road will be completely closed at the location of the bridge while this work is completed. The estimated duration of the bridge deck project is 2-4 weeks depending on weather.

Applications Now Open for City of Dubuque Special Projects Grant Program

The City of Dubuque and the Arts and Cultural Affairs Advisory Commission are now accepting applications for the biennial Arts and Culture Special Projects grant program for fiscal year (FY) 2026, which runs July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026.

Applications must be submitted online by 11:59 p.m. on Friday, April 25, 2025. Full program guidelines, scoring criteria, and access to the application portal are available at www.cityofdubuque.org/artsgrants.

The Special Projects grant program provides support to cultivate unique and innovative creative arts and cultural experiences that prioritize community engagement and active partnership. Arts and culture nonprofits, other nonprofits, and established nonprofit-like groups are eligible.

Projects may include the creation, performance, exhibition, publication, or presentation of arts and cultural experiences or learning opportunities related to:

• Cultural and historic resources
• Folk and traditional Arts
• Theater and performing arts
• Spoken word
• Literature
• Dance
• Film
• Visual art: 2D or 3D, digital, new media, installation art, murals or public art
• Other arts and cultural learning opportunities

The maximum request amount is $8,000 and a 50% cash match is required. For more information, visit www.cityofdubuque.org/artsgrants or contact Bonnie Spurling, Arts & Cultural Affairs Manager, at bs******@***********ue.org or 563-690-6059.

UnityPoint Health – Finley Health Foundation Receives Two Grants from Variety – the Children’s Charity

The first grant, in the amount of $27,556, will be used to purchase a camera and monitor system for Finley’s Family Birthing Suites, as part of a capital campaign to renovate the hospital’s C-Section Suite.

Through the use of a camera and monitor system during a C-Section, parents are provided with the opportunity to see their infant the moment they enter the world; ensuring a more personal experience during a time that can be incredibly stressful. In an emergent situation where the baby needs additional care, the camera and monitor system allow the mother to continue watching her infant and provide a sense of calmness. Providing a camera and monitor system to our C-Section Suite integrates technology to ensure our infants and families receive the great start in life that they deserve.

A second grant awarded in the amount of $8,273, will be used to purchase Pack N Plays and provide educational materials for the Maternal Health Program at UnityPoint Health – Visiting Nurse Association (VNA). The VNA Maternal Health program, in conjunction with the VNA’s Marshallese Community Connector, strives to educate community members on the best practice to provide safe environments for children. A Pack N Play can be put up or taken down easily at any time depending on the needs of the families, and transportable as families move from location to location, or travel to visit other family members. Educational materials translated to the Marshallese language will assist Maternal Health staff in demonstrating safe sleep practices and provide illustrations for those struggling with the language barrier.

“We are grateful to have Variety as a generous partner and thank them for their continued support,” said Barbara Potts, Executive Director of the Finley Health Foundation. “The camera and monitor system will allow us to provide improved patient care in our Family Birthing Suites, and the gift for the VNA’s maternal health program will allow them to educate community members on safe sleeping environments for children.”

UNITYPOINT HEALTH – FINLEY HOSPITAL NAMES NURSING DIRECTORS

UnityPoint Health – Dubuque Chief Nursing Officer Karil Walther has appointed Jeff Baker, BSN, RN, and Sharon Hartman, MSN, CNRN, to nursing director roles in support of several hospital departments.

Baker has been named the Director of Critical Care, with oversight to the Emergency Department, Respiratory Therapy, Intensive Care Unit, Family Birthing Suites and Geropsych. He will begin his new role on Monday, March 17.

Jeff has worked at Finley Hospital for 11 years, most recently serving as the Manager of the Emergency Department.

Hartman has been named the Director of Med/Surg, with oversight to 5 North, 5 Med/Surg, Acute Rehabilitation, and Resource. Her first day will be Monday, March 31.

She has more than 25 years of nursing experience, both at the bedside and in leadership roles. Most recently she was the Medical Surgical Director for HCA Healthcare in Fredericksburg, Va.

FINLEY HEALTH FOUNDATION WELCOMES NEW BOARD MEMBERS

The Finley Health Foundation is pleased to announce the following additions and leadership changes to its board of directors:

Poppy Conlon of Conlon Construction has been elected Board Chair. Creed Waelchli of Cottingham and Butler has been named Vice Chair. Katie Moran of Steele Capital Management, Inc. will serve as Secretary/Treasurer.

New Board members include:

– Corey Kaiser, Owner, WCC Brands and Wisconsin Clothing Company

– Jared Levy, Realtor, EXIT Realty Unlimited

– Pat Turpin, Owner, Turpin Dodge Chrysler Jeep

Learn more about the Finley Health Foundation by visiting https://www.unitypoint.org/giving/finley-health-foundation-dubuque.

Voices Studios Announces the Opening of Two New Exhibits

Delusion of Choice – Fatherless Print Posse

Fresh Steele – Priscilla Steele

First Fridays April 4, 2025  –  Opening Reception 5:30pm
Exhibit will continue through May 31, 2024

Voices Studios is thrilled to present the simultaneous opening of two powerful art exhibits: Fresh Steele by Iowa artist Priscilla Steele and Delusion of Choice by the Fatherless Print Posse. Both exhibitions will share an opening reception on Friday, April 4, 2025, inviting visitors to experience a spectrum of artistic expression — from Steele’s intimate explorations of the human condition through drawing and printmaking to Fatherless’s bold, provocative critiques of societal structures through collaborative, resistance-driven prints. Together, these exhibits promise a compelling evening of art that bridges personal introspection with collective consciousness.

Founded in 2010, Fatherless brings together the dynamic creative minds of Javier Jimenez, Greg Lang, Dave Menard, and Londoner Ben Rider. Their collaboration has grown over the years from a lighthearted meeting of artists to a provocative collective committed to creating art as an act of resistance against an increasingly commodified world. Drawing from the bold, democratic nature of printmaking, the collective’s works consistently showcase their anti-establishment ethos and DIY aesthetic, fostering dialogue on issues of social justice, identity, and collective power.

Delusion of Choice invites viewers to engage with thought-provoking pieces that reflect the collective’s ongoing dialogue with political and societal structures. The exhibition will feature a range of printmaking techniques, installations, and mixed media works designed to question the true nature of choice in a world where freedoms are often controlled or illusionary. The artwork provides a platform for critical reflection on the tension between the individual and the state, urging viewers to examine their roles in shaping or resisting the systems that govern their lives..

Priscilla Steele’s latest collection of drawings and prints delves deep into the fundamental aspects of the human experience. With a passionate exploration of the personal and the universal, Steele uses her work as a way to express both beauty and complexity. As she notes in her artist statement, “Drawing and printmaking are my chosen tools for exploring the most basic aspects of being human.” Steele’s work is a reflection on the continuous pursuit of meaning, deeply influenced by the words of poet Wendell Berry, and her pieces invite viewers to ponder the balance between personal expression and universal connection.

Fresh Steele offers a compelling look at Steele’s evolving artistic journey, where she continuously strives for “wholeness” and resonates with the intricacies of life. This exhibition presents a unique opportunity for viewers to witness the beauty and complexity of the world through the eyes of a dedicated artist specializing in drawing and printmaking. Her works have been displayed in numerous galleries and have garnered recognition for their depth, thoughtfulness, and ability to connect personal expression with universal themes.

Voices Studios is pleased to have the artists present for the Opening Reception on Friday, April 4, 2025, beginning at 5:30pm. All are invited and welcome to attend this exhibition, and to participate in the expanding art scene in the Central Corridor. There is no charge and refreshments will be served.

Voices Studios is located at 1585 Central Avenue, Dubuque, IA. Be a part of the gallery’s evolving exhibitions that create dialog, engage the community, and enrich the experience of the arts in Dubuque.

Voices Studios is a contemporary art gallery specializing in innovative art by emerging and established artists from around the globe.

Dubuque Fire Department Seeks Public Input as Part of Strategic Plan Development 

The Dubuque Fire Department is asking residents to participate in an online survey as the department develops its latest strategic plan. Links to the survey can be found on the department website at www.cityofdubuque.org/DFDSurvey, as well as on the department’s Facebook page.

The survey asks respondents to answer a total of ten questions on topics ranging from response time to service importance and effectiveness. Most questions are multiple choice or ask respondents to rank various options, while some provide the opportunity for open-ended feedback.

The survey will be active through May 31. Fire Department leadership will then analyze the responses and incorporate findings into its new strategic plan. The department previously conducted in-person input sessions with various community groups and stakeholders. The strategic plan is expected to be completed by late summer.

The Dubuque Fire Department is a progressive ISO class 2 fire/emergency medical services department with a core mission to protect, assist, and educate the community and visitors with pride, skill, and compassion. Through prevention and response, the department protects approximately 60,000 residents over roughly 32 square miles of residential, commercial, and river areas.

City of Dubuque’s FY2026 Budget Process Begins

The Dubuque City Council will hold a series of public meetings as part of the process to create the City of Dubuque’s budget for the fiscal year (FY) 2026, which runs from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026. Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to participate in this process and provide input.

The budget process will begin on Tuesday, March 25, when the city council holds a public hearing to establish the maximum FY2026 property tax levy. At this public hearing, the only options available to the council are to approve the amount of proposed property tax dollars, or decrease it. The public hearing also allows any resident or taxpayer to present objections to or arguments in favor of the proposed tax amount. Input can be given to council members at any time by contacting them directly. Contact information and a link to email all council members are available at www.cityofdubuque.org/councilcontacts

On Monday, March 31, City Manager Mike Van Milligen will present his recommended FY2026 budget to the council. More details are available at www.cityofdubuque.org/FY2026budget.

The process continues with public meetings to review City department/division budget proposals before concluding with a final public hearing on Monday, April 28, to adopt the FY2026 Operating and Capital Budgets.

Budget Public Meeting Schedule: 

• Monday, March 3, 5:15 p.m.
  • Special Session to Set the Public Hearing to Establish Maximum FY2026 Property Tax Levy
• Tuesday, March 25
  • Public Hearing to Establish Maximum FY2026 Property Tax Levy
• Monday, March 31
  • Recommended Budget Presentation
• Wednesday, April 2
  • City Manager’s Office
  • City Council
  • City Attorney’s Office
  • City Clerk’s Office
  • Communications Office
  • Human Resources
• Thursday, April 3
  • Health Services
  • Library
  • Housing and Community Development
  • Office of Shared Prosperity and Neighborhood Support
  • Office of Equity and Human Rights
• Tuesday, April 8
  • Airport
  • Purchase of Services
  • Planning Services
  • Economic Development
  • Finance
• Wednesday, April 9
  • Parks
  • Recreation
  • Grand River Center
  • ImOn Arena
  • Five Flags Civic Center
• Thursday, April 10
  • Emergency Management
  • Emergency Communications
  • Police
  • Fire
• Tuesday, April 22
  • Information Technology
  • Water
  • Water and Resource Recovery Center
  • Public Works
• Thursday, April 24 
  • Multicultural Family Center
  • Community Impact
  • Transportation Services
  • Engineering
• Monday, April 28
  • Public Hearing to Adopt the Fiscal Year 2026 Budget

The public is invited to attend the public hearings and meetings in which staff from each department and division will present FY2026 budget information. All meetings begin at 6:30 p.m. (unless otherwise noted) in the City Council Chambers on the second floor of the Historic Federal Building at 350 W. Sixth St. and will be aired live on CityChannel Dubuque (Mediacom cable channels 8 and 117.2 and ImOn channel 5), streamed and archived on the City’s website at www.cityofdubuque.org/media, and streamed on the City’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/cityofdubuque

The public can provide input in person or virtually through the GoToMeeting platform. Instructions can be found within the meeting agenda at www.cityofdubuque.org/agendas. Public input on the FY2026 budget may also be submitted online through the budget public comments form at www.cityofdubuque.org/FY2026budget. Residents may also contact City Council members at www.cityofdubuque.org/councilcontacts.

The recommended budget materials are expected to be available on the City of Dubuque website at www.cityofdubuque.org/FY2026budget and printed copies will be made available for checkout from the Carnegie-Stout Public Library Reference Desk on March 26. For more information, contact Chief Financial Officer Jennifer Larson at 563-589-4398 or jl*****@***********ue.org.

City of Dubuque Explains Upcoming Taxpayer Statement Mailer

The City of Dubuque is informing residents and property owners that a taxpayer statement regarding next year’s City of Dubuque property taxes will be delivered in the coming weeks.

Dubuque property owners will soon receive notifications, which are required and prepared by the State of Iowa, showing a more than 14% increase in the City portion of residential property taxes next year when the proposed increase is actually 3.90% to residential property. The taxpayer statement will also indicate a 15.57% increase in the City portion of taxes for commercial property, when the proposed increase is actually 1.9% for commercial property.

The Dubuque City Council has set a public hearing date for March 25, 2025, on a maximum proposed property tax rate for fiscal year (FY) 2026 (July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026) of $10.0637 per thousand dollars of assessed value. This proposed rate would represent:

• a 3.9% increase in city taxes for residential property,
• a 1.9% increase in city taxes for commercial property, and
• a 1.73% increase in city taxes for industrial property.

The mailing is required by state legislation passed in 2023. The document, which must be mailed in March, is created by the Iowa Department of Management.

The calculation used in the taxpayer statement by the Iowa Department of Management assumes a 10% increase in the valuation of both residential and commercial properties from 2025 to 2026. City of Dubuque properties were not assessed for revaluations last year so there is no basis for a 10% increase in valuations. Generally, only property owners who took out building permits to make property improvements might have increased assessments.

The 3.9% increase to the average Dubuque residential property owner includes a 2.35% increase in Iowa’s property tax rollback rate, which makes more of a property’s value subject to property taxes.

For information on Dubuque property tax rates and other City fees, property owners, residents, and stakeholders are encouraged to stay informed throughout the City’s budget adoption process throughout March and April.

The Dubuque City Council’s March 25 public hearing to set the maximum property tax rate will be held at 6:30 p.m. At that meeting, the city council will set the maximum property tax rate for FY2026. The new rate will not be finalized until the city council votes to adopt the new rate on April 28. The council may choose to reduce the final rate, but it cannot be higher than the maximum rate set on March 25.

Dubuque City Manager Mike Van Milligen will present the recommended FY2026 budget to the city council at the March 31 meeting. City departments will then give budget presentations at seven subsequent public meetings at 6:30 p.m. on April 2, 3, 8, 9, 10, 22, and 24.

All meetings will air live on CityChannel Dubuque (Mediacom cable channels 8 and 117.2 and ImOn channel 5). They will be streamed and archived on the City’s website at www.cityofdubuque.org/media, and streamed on the City’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/cityofdubuque. The public is invited to provide input in person at the meeting or virtually through the GoToMeeting platform. Instructions can be found within the meeting agenda at www.cityofdubuque.org/agendas.

Public input on the FY2026 budget may also be submitted online at any time through the budget public comments form at www.cityofdubuque.org/FY2026budget. Residents may also contact City Council members at www.cityofdubuque.org/councilcontacts.

For the proposed FY2026 budget, Dubuque would have the lowest city property tax rate as compared to the 11 largest cities in the state of Iowa with a population greater than 50,000 population.

In July 2023, Moody’s Investor Service upgraded the City’s outstanding general obligation bonds from Aa3 to Aa2, the third-highest available. In January, 2025, Moody’s Investor Services affirmed the Aa2 credit rating on general obligation bonds. The higher credit rating means the City can borrow money at lower costs and is outside affirmation of the fiscally responsible decision making of the Mayor and City Council.

Equitable Community Grant Recipients Announced 

The City of Dubuque’s Office of Equity and Human Rights is please to announce the latest winners of its Equitable Community Grants. The grant program was established in 2023 and provides funding to support programs, activities, or services that help promote equity in the Dubuque community.

The 2025 winners of the grants are Afriwell Hub, Inc. and the Visiting Nurse Association of Dubuque. The two organizations were chosen from a pool of twenty applicants, a new record for the program. The recipients will each receive $5,000.

Afriwell Hub, Inc. is a Dubuque-based non-profit organization founded by Ugandan-born performing artist Sarah Ndagire. The group will use its grant to launch African Vibes, a community engagement opportunity to celebrate African culture through music, dance, cuisine, storytelling, and art. The inaugural event is intended to foster inclusivity, strengthen community cohesion, and empower skilled African immigrants while enriching the Dubuque community through an immersive and engaging cultural experience.

The Visiting Nurse Association of Dubuque will use its grant funding to support its Maternal Health Program, specifically the effort to provide free educational materials, portable cribs, and sleep sacks to Marshallese and Hispanic families in the Dubuque region. These items will allow families to improve infant safety during sleep and play, with the overall intention of reducing the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome).

The application period for the next round of Equitable Community Grant awards will open in September. For more information about the Equitable Community Grant, visit www.cityofdubuque.org/EquityGrant or contact the Equity and Human Rights Department by calling 563.589.4190.

River Museum Awarded Inspire Iowa Grant for Summer 2025 Exhibit, Ice Dinosaurs

The National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium was recently awarded an Inspire Iowa Cultural Tourism Grant award of $50,000 in support of the summer 2025 traveling exhibit, Ice Dinosaurs: The Lost World of the Alaskan Arctic. Funding will support this new traveling exhibit, produced by Imagine, in addition to educational programming and a correlated regional marketing campaign designed to attract significant tourism to the River Museum and the region.

Dubuque Rescue Mission Welcomes New Executive Director

The Dubuque Rescue Mission is pleased to announce the appointment of Reverend Samuel Felderman who will assume the position of Executive Director later next month. With a deep commitment to social justice, community outreach, and spiritual care, Reverend Samuel brings a wealth of experience to the Mission as it continues its work serving those in need.

Rev. Samuel has an extensive background in community outreach, leadership, and spiritual care—making him an ideal fit for this leadership role. His passion for social justice is evident through his active involvement in various community initiatives.

“As we move forward in our mission to provide shelter, meals, and care to those experiencing homelessness and poverty in the Dubuque community, we are confident that Rev. Samuel’s leadership, vision, and dedication will help us continue to grow and serve with compassion and grace” said Beth Gilbreath, Board President of the Dubuque Rescue Mission.

Rev. Samuel expressed his enthusiasm for the role, stating, “It is an honor to join the Dubuque Rescue Mission and to work alongside such a dedicated team. I look forward to building upon the incredible foundation of service and advocacy that has been established, ensuring that we continue to meet the needs of our community with dignity and care.”

The Dubuque Rescue Mission has been a cornerstone of support for individuals experiencing homelessness and hardship for over 90 years. Offering hot meals, shelter, job training, and spiritual guidance, the Mission remains committed to fostering hope and transformation in the Dubuque community.

For more information about the Dubuque Rescue Mission and its programs, visit www.dubuquerescuemission.org.

About the Dubuque Rescue Mission

The Dubuque Rescue Mission is a faith-based nonprofit organization dedicated to providing food, shelter, and support services to individuals experiencing homelessness and poverty in the Dubuque community. Through compassionate care, advocacy, and community partnerships, the Mission works to restore hope and dignity to those in need.

City of Dubuque Now Accepting Applications for FY 2026 Arts & Culture Operating Support Grants

The City of Dubuque and the Arts and Cultural Affairs Advisory Commission are now accepting applications for the Arts & Culture Operating Support grant program for fiscal year (FY) 2026, which runs from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026.

Applications must be submitted online by 11:59 p.m. on Friday, April 11, 2025. Full program guidelines, scoring criteria, and access to the application portal are available at www.cityofdubuque.org/artsgrants.

The Operating Support grant is designed to assist established, Dubuque-based nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status whose primary mission is to create, produce, present, or provide arts and cultural experiences for public audiences.

Applicants must demonstrate:

• A commitment to integrating diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in their programs and operations.
• Alignment with the goals and priorities of the City of Dubuque’s 2016 Arts & Culture Master Plan.

Since the program’s inception in 2005, the City of Dubuque has invested over $4.9 million in local organizations and initiatives, expanding access to diverse arts and cultural experiences. These investments drive economic activity, strengthen community engagement, and support Dubuque as an equitable and vibrant place to live, work, and visit.

“Through the most recent round of Operating Support grants, the City awarded funding to 16 nonprofit organizations, with individual awards ranging from $1,033 to $28,471, supporting budgets between $26,000 and $7.1 million annually,” said Bonnie Spurling, Arts & Cultural Affairs Manager. “These investments support nearly 1,500 full- and part-time arts and culture workers and contribute to an estimated $70.4 million in annual economic impact through tourism, hospitality, and retail activity—all while enhancing quality of life and community development.”

For more information, visit www.cityofdubuque.org/artsgrants or contact Bonnie Spurling, Arts & Cultural Affairs Manager, at bs******@***********ue.org or 563-690-6059.

Smart Devices for Everyone in the Family

Technology is constantly evolving, so it’s not always easy to keep up with the latest gadgets and gizmos. From PCs and smart wearables to earbuds, smartphones, mixed reality devices and beyond, updated devices provide solutions for practical purposes and entertainment alike.

This season’s latest and greatest devices bring new opportunities to explore and engage for everyone – students, parents and everyone in between. With cutting-edge technology and top-tier performance, these innovative devices transform entertainment, empower more connections and help you work together with ease.

Learn more about what’s powering your favorite tech devices at qualcomm.com/snapdragon.

Your Partner in Time

If you’re looking for a smartwatch that simultaneously supports your daily activity while motivating you, too, the OnePlus Watch 2 is packed with flagship features, including exceptional battery and charging performance for unrivaled reliability and longevity. It features Dual-Engine Architecture powered by two different flagship chipsets, the Snapdragon W5 performance chipset and the BES 2700 MCU Efficiency chipset, so it’s well-equipped to handle background activity and simple tasks simultaneously with more demanding tasks, like running favorite apps.

Listen and Learn

If you’re looking for a better balance between connecting and disconnecting, Bose Ultra Open Earbuds feature an innovative cuff-shaped design that provides top-level comfort for all-day wear without making you choose between immersive audio and awareness. In addition, because they attach to the side of your ear, you can wear them with glasses, a hat or jewelry and they won’t interfere, and thanks to their integrated Snapdragon Sound Technology Suite, you can count on seamless, robust connectivity.

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock (family using tablet)

Save Time with the Skillet

Skillet Lasagna Recipe courtesy of “Cookin’ Savvy” Servings: 4-6

Finley Hospital Celebrates 135th Anniversary

UnityPoint Health – Finley Hospital, once the home of Dr. John W. Finley and his wife, Helen, has grown into one of the main healthcare facilities in Dubuque.

Dr. Finley was Dubuque’s first general physician, and he would travel by horseback to attend to patients in surrounding areas. He always wanted to establish a medical school and a hospital but his efforts to do so were unsuccessful and he eventually passed away before he could see his dreams come to fruition. In Helen’s will and testament, she specified that her estate be used to establish a hospital in Dubuque named after her husband.

The articles of incorporation for The Finley Hospital Company were adopted February 21, 1890, and the Finley residence transformed into a 27-room hospital with 40 beds. Today, UnityPoint Health – Finley Hospital houses 126 beds and serves over 4,800 patients annually.

Gretchen Wilson & Montgomery Gentry featuring Eddie Montgomery Concert Announcement

July 26, 2025 at the Jackson County Fairgrounds in Maquoketa, Iowa

 Reserved Grandstand and Party Pit Pass Tickets on Sale FEBRUARY 7th starting at 10am!

The Jackson County Iowa Fair is proud to announce an extraordinary night of live music that will make this year’s fair a can’t-miss event for country music fans. On July 26, 2025, the fairgrounds will come alive with the dynamic performances of Grammy Award-winning artist Gretchen Wilson and the legendary Montgomery Gentry, featuring the iconic Eddie Montgomery.

Prepare for an unforgettable evening as these two powerhouse acts take the stage to deliver a mix of heartfelt ballads, high-energy anthems, and fan-favorite hits.

Gretchen Wilson is celebrated for her bold, no-holds-barred approach to country music. With chart-topping tracks like “Redneck Woman,” “Here for the Party,” and “When I Think About Cheatin’,” Wilson has become a trailblazer for modern country music. Her raw talent, authenticity, and commanding stage presence have earned her accolades and a loyal fan base worldwide.

Joining her on stage, Montgomery Gentry featuring Eddie Montgomery will bring his signature southern rock-infused sound that has defined the duo’s success for over two decades. Hits like “My Town,” “Something to Be Proud Of,” and “Gone” showcase Montgomery Gentry’s ability to strike a chord with listeners through relatable lyrics and electrifying performances.

Don’t miss your chance to see these two iconic bands share the stage! Grab your tickets now and get ready for a night full of classic hits, high energy, and unforgettable memories.

Tickets on sale starting tomorrow at 10am through Eventbrite.  Check out our Website at Jacksoncountyiowafair.com for more information and a ticket link to Eventbrite.

72nd Annual Dubuque County Fair July 22-27, 2025

The 2025 72nd Annual Dubuque County Fair is almost here, and it’s going to be a blast!
July 22-27, 2025 – mark your calendars and get ready to make unforgettable memories with us! 

All of this FREE entertainment during these days are included with the purchase of your gate admission into the fair.

For More Information about the Dubuque County Fair go to www.dbqfair.com

City of Dubuque Utility Billing Office to Close on Mornings of October 16, 23 & 30

The City of Dubuque’s Utility Billing office will be closed for staff training on three Wednesday mornings in October. The closures will all last from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. on October 16, 23 & 30.

Utility bill payment options during these closures include:

• Online at www.cityofdubuque.org/payment,
• By phone 24/7 by calling 563-589-4144 and then selecting option #1,
• At the drop box outside the 13th Street entrance at City Hall (please do not put cash in the drop box, checks or money order payments only),
• Checks or money order payments can be mailed to: Utility Billing, City Hall, 50 W. 13th St., Dubuque, IA 52001,
• Automatic payments scheduled at www.cityofdubuque.org/utilitybilling.

For more information, contact ut******@***********ue.org or call 563-589-4144.

FALL CEMETERY CLEAN-UP

FALL CLEAN-UP for MT. CALVARY and MT. OLIVET CEMETERIES

The annual Fall Clean-up will begin on Monday, October 14, 2024 and run through Friday, October 18, 2024. Please remove all items and decorations you wish to save no later than Sunday, October 13, 2024. All items not removed will be discarded.

Cemetery Management requests that no decorations or plantings be placed on grave sites or in the mausoleum until Saturday, October 19, 2024.

Check Cemetery Regulations before placing decorations to avoid losing items that do not conform.

Thank you

City of Dubuque Utility Billing Office to Close on Mornings of September 11 & 23

The City of Dubuque’s Utility Billing office will be closed for staff training on two upcoming mornings. On Wednesday, September 11, and Monday, September 23, the office will be close from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m.

Utility bill payment options during these closures include:

• Online at www.cityofdubuque.org/payment,
• By phone 24/7 by calling 563-589-4144 and then selecting option #1,
• At the drop box outside the 13th Street entrance at City Hall (please do not put cash in the drop box, checks or money order payments only),
• Checks or money order payments can be mailed to: Utility Billing, City Hall, 50 W. 13th St., Dubuque, IA 52001,
• Automatic payments scheduled at www.cityofdubuque.org/utilitybilling.

For more information, contact ut******@***********ue.org or call 563-589-4144.

Daily Jet Service to Chicago/O’Hare Returns to Dubuque Regional Airport November 4

The Dubuque Regional Airport announced today the return of daily commercial air service to the Tri-State area offering flight to and from Chicago/O’Hare International Airport on a 50-seat regional jet beginning on Nov. 4, 2024. Tickets can be purchased now.

Denver Air Connection will operate a daily flight between Dubuque (DBQ) and O’Hare International Airport (ORD). Denver Air has interline ticketing and baggage transfer agreements with American Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta Air Lines. These agreements, offer passengers the ability to book, connect, and check bags through to those airlines’ destinations worldwide. With a single reservation, passengers will be able to travel, connect, and check their baggage through to their final destination.

Tickets can be purchased now directly through American, United, Delta, and Denver Air, as well as preferred travel reservation websites and agencies. Links to all these options are available at www.flydbq.com.

“The return of daily flights to and from a major hub is cause for celebration,” said Dubuque Mayor Brad Cavanagh. “We are excited to welcome Denver Air Connection to the Dubuque Regional Airport, and I encourage all travelers, whether for leisure or business, to take advantage of the convenient connections across the country and around the world that this service will provide.”

The flight will originate at O’Hare each day. The first leg will depart O’Hare around midday, and the flight from Dubuque to O’Hare will depart mid-afternoon. Denver Air Connection will operate fast, comfortable ERJ145 aircrafts departing from and arriving to Concourse L at O’Hare.

Denver Air currently serves communities across a nine-state region. Introduction of the Dubuque/O’Hare flight represents Denver Air’s first service in Iowa. The company was initially based in the Rocky Mountain region and has become known for exceptional customer service and operational reliability, boasting a 98% flight completion rate.

“Denver Air Connection is excited to partner with the City of Dubuque to bring back safe, reliable jet service to the region,” said Denver Air Connection Senior Vice President for Corporate Strategy Jon Coleman. “Our flight schedule is designed to facilitate easy connections with our airline partners in Chicago.”

“Dubuque area travelers can once again fly from Dubuque to O’Hare and then anywhere,” said Dubuque Regional Airport Manager Todd Dalsing. “We are excited to offer this service, but we will continue to pursue additional options to grow service for Dubuque and the larger tri-state region.”

“We are thrilled to welcome Denver Air as our commercial air service carrier,” said Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce President & CEO Molly Grover. “Connectivity to O’Hare means our business community has access to the global marketplace-which is simply imperative to our future growth and prosperity. This is an important and significant step in the right direction as we work toward our ultimate goal of long-term sustainable air service for our community. Now more than ever, we urge the community to fully embrace this service and fly DBQ for all your air travel needs.”

Today’s announcement of the O’Hare connection follows months of conversations with legacy and regional carriers, and a community air service survey which drew responses from over 8,000 area residents and more than Dubuque area 200 businesses. Among survey respondents, O’Hare was, by far, the preferred hub connection. Survey results were shared during an air service forum in February, when it was also announced that DBQ Air, a new non-profit organization had been formed to bolster air service, in collaboration with local government and business leaders. DBQ Air’s board includes representatives from the City of Dubuque, Dubuque County, the Dubuque Regional Airport Commission, the Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce, Greater Dubuque Development Corporation, the Dubuque Racing Association, and Travel Dubuque.

“The return of daily flights to a major hub is great, but our work to expand air service is not done,” said Cavanagh. “The DBQ Air group continues to meet weekly to pursue that goal and to explore related partnerships and opportunities.” Cavanagh said high utilization of the new daily flight to and from O’Hare will demonstrate the need for additional air service options at the Dubuque Regional Airport.

Funds from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Small Community Air Service Development (SCASD) Program, a grant program designed to help small communities address air service and airfare issues, will be utilized to help initiate the service, including a local match from public and private partners.  U.S. Senators Grassley and Ernst and U.S. Congresswoman Hinson worked with Dubuque Regional Airport staff and partners to acquire the SCASD grant.

The Dubuque Regional Airport continues to offer free parking and free Wi-Fi internet service. Food and drink service is available within the terminal’s secure waiting area. Sun Country Airlines regularly offers charter flights to leisure destinations from the airport. Avis and Budget rental car agency counters are also located inside the terminal building.

Permit Parking Only in Central Ave. Parking Ramp Started Nov. 1, Free Parking Evenings and Weekends

Starting on Wednesday, Nov. 1, the Central Ave. Parking Ramp will be permit parking only Monday – Friday, 6 a.m. – 6 p.m. During these hours, parking permit hang tags must be displayed on the rearview mirror of the vehicle for parking enforcement officers to validate parking. All vehicles without a visible hang tag will be ticketed.

Free public parking will be available in the Central Ave. Parking Ramp in the evenings from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m., Monday – Friday, and all day on Saturdays and Sundays. Non-permitted vehicles must be moved out of the parking ramp before 6 a.m. on weekdays. Violators will be ticketed.

The Central Ave. Parking Ramp is bordered by Central Ave., Iowa St. 9th St., and 10th St. and can be accessed from Central Ave. and Iowa St. Free daily bicycle storage is available on the ground floor on the Iowa St. side of the ramp.

As a reminder, the 5th St. Parking Ramp is monthly reserved parking only. A parking permit hang tag must be displayed on the rearview mirror at all times. Vehicles in the 5th St. Parking Ramp without a visible hang tag will be ticketed.

Parking permits are available for the Central Ave. and 5th St. parking ramps for $57 per month. For additional information, visit www.cityofdubuque.org/parking or call the Parking Division at 563-589-4586.

The Grand Opera House presents a Fresh Retelling of a Holiday Classic

The Grand Opera House is excited to present Patrick Barlow’s thrilling adaptation of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. Performances begin November 24th, running Fridays, and Saturdays at 7:30pm and Sundays at 2:00pm through December 3rd.

Barlow’s adaptation uses only five actors to bring some of Dickens’ most beloved characters to life. From Scrooge and Tiny Tim to Bob Cratchit and Mr. Fezziwig, Barlow’s A Christmas Carol uses nothing more than some simple props, fresh physicality, and the power of imagination to convey this timeless story of redemption.

In this morality tale, Scrooge (Shawn Steinhoff) is visited by the ghost of his former business partner Jacob Marley (Stuart Hoover) and the spirits of Christmas Past (Ann Cameron Williams), Present (Lydia Sigwarth), and Yet to Come (Zac Winkler). Witness Ebenezer Scrooge’s transformation from a stingy miser to a man who generously celebrates the spirit of the season all year long, in this highly theatrical adaptation.

A Christmas Carol is directed by Nick Halder. The cast features 5 local performers playing various roles throughout the production.

Tickets for A Christmas Carol are $25 for adults and $17 for children under 18 and can be purchased in person at the Box Office located at 135 W. 8^th Street in Dubuque, or by calling (563) 588-1305. Box Office hours are Monday through Friday from Noon until 4:00pm. Tickets can also be purchased on our website at www.thegrandoperahouse.com.

For press tickets or to schedule an interview with the director, actors, or staff, please contact Nick Halder at (563) 588-4356 or di******@****************se.com

A Christmas Carol

A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens

A New Adaptation by Patrick Barlow

Directed by Nick Halder

Dates and Times:

Friday, November 24^th – 7:30pm

Saturday, November 25^th – 7:30pm

Sunday, November 26^th – 2:00pm

Friday, December 1^st – 7:30pm

Saturday, December 2^nd – 7:30pm

Sunday, December 3^rd – 2:00pm

Ticket Prices:

Adults – $25

Under 18 – $17

Group Pricing is available for Groups over 12 people.

Turn lane project underway near Midwest Medical Center.Hospital expansion continues on time and budget.

GALENA, IL—Midwest Medical Center (MMC) announces that the center entrance and US 20 turn lane improvements on Highway 20 in front of the hospital are underway. According to consulting engineer MSA Professional Services, Inc., project completion impacting traffic along US 20 is estimated to be the middle of November, weather permitting. The final seeding and punch list for project completion will be Spring 2024.

A notice of construction with the following tentative schedule was provided to hospital officials on Friday, September 1.

The notice of construction also notes, “US 20/IL 84 will be reduced to one lane of traffic, with daytime flaggers, during some phase of construction activities. Motorists should expect minor delays. IDOT has been notified and wide loads are restricted during construction and advance warning signs are in place. Access to Golf View Drive and W. Norris Lane will be temporary gravel surfacing at times. Lane closures, lane shifts, and traffic control will be monitored throughout construction.

Traffic control devices will be installed for your safety, and we ask that all drivers be courteous and obey all traffic control and work zone speed limits. We also ask that drivers be aware of construction equipment and activities, and please exercise safety in and around construction zones.”

Turn lane construction had been planned to begin in July but was continually postponed due to delays in utility relocation by three of the four utilities. Midwest Medical Center would like to thank Jo Carroll Energy for their timely response and quick turnaround.

“This project has been a priority for Midwest Medical Center since 2006, and we are very pleased to see it happening. We will be even more excited when it is complete,” noted Tracy Bauer, President and CEO.

The turn lane project is estimated at $3 million dollars, paid by Midwest Medical Center.

Facility expansion continues

On the hospital campus at One Medical Center Drive in Galena, construction continues on the facility expansion, which is primarily focused on outpatient services. Current progress includes completing and waterproofing the foundation walls. Masonry started this past week on the new stair towers.

Market & Johnson, project managers, report that the project is currently on schedule and on budget. The 46,669-square-foot expansion will include an expanded rehabilitation and wellness center, indoor walking/running track, new rehab and wellness gym, 24/7 access fitness center, a new cardiac rehab department, an expanded behavioral health suite, and four new infusion bays. The new expansion is expected to have phased completion by May 2025.

Midwest Medical Center is a not-for-profit Illinois Critical Access Hospital. It serves the communities in northwestern Illinois, southwestern Wisconsin, and eastern Iowa through its 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.

Multi-Platinum Country Star Lauren Alaina to Headline Dubuque County Fair, Thursday, July 27

The Dubuque County Fair Association is pleased to announce that Multi-Platinum-selling singer/songwriter LAUREN ALAINA will headline country night at the Dubuque County Fair on Thursday, July 27. The performance is sponsored locally by Dubuque Bank and Trust.

The show will also feature special guest David J, an up-and-coming country artist, viral hit maker and TikTok sensation. Opening will be Natascha Myers, a Nashville recording artist with ties to Dubuque as a graduate of Clarke University.

Doors will open at 7 p.m., with the show beginning at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets are $40 for the festival area in front of the stage (featuring a dedicated bar area) and $25 for all grandstand seats (which are general admission). Hillside seats for the show are free thanks to hillside sponsor Maquoketa Valley Electric Cooperative.

Tickets are on sale now at www.dbqfair.com, by calling the fair box office at 563-588-1999 or in-person at the fair office.

Grand Ole Opry member and multi-Platinum-selling singer/songwriter Lauren Alaina has earned three Number 1 hit singles in just under three years with her smash “Road Less Traveled,” the now 7-times-Platinum “What Ifs” with her childhood friend and superstar Kane Brown (his first career number 1), and “One Beer” with friend and rising star HARDY (also his first career number 1).

Her number 1 debuting album “Sitting Pretty On Top of The World,” which includes hit single “Getting Over Him” featuring Jon Pardi, as well as her RIAA-certified Gold-selling “Getting Good.”

The rising superstar and Big Loud recording artist, who American Songwriter calls “a vibrant force of positivity in the world,” just came off her second career headlining tour, “On Top Of The World Tour Presented By Maurices” with multiple sell-outs and rave reviews. The Georgia native has shared the stage with superstars including Alan Jackson, Blake Shelton, Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan, Martina McBride, Jason Aldean and also sold out her own, first-ever headlining, That Girl Was Me Tour.

Alaina has performed on some of the highest-profile stages in the world including national television performances on PBS’s A Capitol Fourth, Dancing with the Stars, American Idol, TODAY, ABC’s Good Morning America, The Ellen Degeneres Show, Tonight Show starring Jimmy Fallon, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, ABC’s CMA Fest specials, CMA and ACM Awards, Dallas Cowboys Thanksgiving Day halftime performance, MLB’s World Series national anthem (Game 5, 2021) and more including a performance at the White House for President Obama for a PBS special.

David J is an up-and-coming country artist with a fresh and cutting-edge approach to country pop that has already made him into a viral hit maker, and TikTok sensation. His singles “Stay,” “Before You,” and “Lost My Heartbreak” have been spinning on Sirius XM’s “The Highway” since they were added in early 2022, and “Before You” scored over 1 million streams on all platforms combined in its first week of release.

For more information, contact the Dubuque County Fair Association at 563-588-1406.

A Matter of Balance Workshop

A Matter of Balance Workshop Begins June 12 in Dubuque
Registration Deadline – June 8

Would you like to improve your balance? Do you want to feel more comfortable participating in your favorite activities? Northeast Iowa Area Agency on Aging (NEI3A) is offering A Matter of Balance: Managing Concerns About Falls, an award-winning workshop designed to increase the activity levels of older adults with concerns about falling. During 8 two-hour sessions, participants learn to:

• Promote exercise to increase strength and balance
• Set realistic goals for increasing activity
• Improve environment to reduce fall risk factors
• View falls and fear of falling as controllable

The Centers for Disease Control report that falling is the most common cause of injury in people over 60. More than one-third of adults aged 65 years and older fall each year. Don’t become a statistic! Take active steps to reduce the risk of falls; register today for A Matter of Balance. Classes will be held at the The Lifetime Center (3505 Stoneman Road – Dubuque) from 12:30 to 3:00 p.m. each Monday and Thursday from June 12 through July 13.

Preregistration is required by contacting Colleen Lawler at 563-380-3239 or email cl*****@***3a.org or Elise Bovy at 319-231-6798 or email eb***@***3a.org by June 8. Space is limited. Each participant will receive a detailed training manual. There is a suggested contribution of $20 to cover the cost of materials fees for each participant.

The Grand Opera House and Rising Star Theatre Company Announces 

Auditions for Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and Into the Woods

The Grand Opera House and Rising Star Theatre Company are excited to announce the auditions for the 2023 summer productions of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and Into the Woods.

Auditions for Youth Actors (ages 6-15) interested in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat: 

Sunday, April 23^rd: 3-6pm

Auditions for Adult Actors (ages 15+) interested in either Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and/or Into the Woods

Monday, April 24^th: 6 – 9pm

Tuesday, April 25^th: 6 – 9pm 

Youth Performers can attend auditions anytime during the window of time. They can leave once they have completed their vocal audition.

Adult Performers should plan to arrive at the start of the audition time. Auditions will begin with a short movement/dance call and a vocal audition to follow. Adults can leave once their vocal audition is complete.

Actors will be notified if they are needed for callbacks. If you are not called back, it does not mean you are not being considered for a role. 

Location: Auditions will be held at the Grand’s Rehearsal space in the Arcade Building, 880 Locust St., Suites 222 and 228.  Please enter through the Locust Street entrance.  When you enter, take the stairs on the right to the second floor. The rooms are right at the top of the stairs. 

What to prepare:

All actors should complete an audition form, which can be done prior to auditions via either organization’s website. Those auditioning should be prepared to list all conflicts or potential conflicts that overlap with a production’s rehearsal and performance schedule.

Youth Actors for Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (Age 6-15): Prepare a 1 min cut (approximately 32 bars) of a musical theater song or any song you feel confident and comfortable singing. Feel free to bring sheet music in the correct key if you would like an accompanist to play along with you, although not required.

Adult Actors for either or both productions (Age 15-Above): Come dressed to move. Prepare a 1 min cut (approximately 32 bars) of a musical theater song in the style of either show. Please bring sheet music in the correct key; an accompanist will be provided.

Actors unable to attend auditions may submit an audition video to ca*****@****************se.com. Video submissions should contain 32 bars of a musical theater song in the style of the show showcasing range and a 1-minute comedic or dramatic monologue. Adding a dance section to your audition tape is optional. Video submissions must be received no later than 6pm Monday, April 24. 

Additional information about the auditions, performances, character details, and the audition form can be found on The Grand Opera House website here: https://thegrandoperahouse.com/joseph-into-the-woods/

UnityPoint Health Named ‘Top Place to Work in Healthcare’ for Second Consecutive Year

For the second consecutive year, UnityPoint Health^® has been recognized as one of the top places to work in healthcare in the country by a national industry publication.

This week, Becker’s Healthcare included UnityPoint Health on their 2023 list of “150 Top Places to Work in Healthcare”. The list highlights hospitals, health systems and healthcare companies that are committed to advocating for diversity in the workplace, promoting work-life balance, and boosting employee engagement.

UnityPoint Health, which provides care across Iowa, western Illinois and southern Wisconsin, is the only health system in Iowa and Wisconsin to be named to this year’s list and is one of only a handful of health systems in Illinois to be included.

“It’s an honor to be recognized as a top place to work for the second consecutive year,” said UnityPoint Health Chief Human Resources Officer Aaron Gillingham. “We have spent the last several years really focused on building a strong, values-oriented culture for our entire enterprise. This work was led by our amazing team members and has become a part of everything we do at UnityPoint Health.”

In naming UnityPoint Health to this year’s list, Becker’s Healthcare said, “Over the past several years, UnityPoint Health has made a concentrated effort to invest in its team members, not only through traditional benefits, but also through opportunities for personal growth and development, recognition and well-being resources.”

Being named to the 2023 Becker’s Healthcare list is the latest in a series of top workplace recognitions UnityPoint Health has received over the last two years.

For individuals interested in joining the UnityPoint Health team, search for open career opportunities at unitypoint.org/joinourteam.

Schmitt Island Amphitheater Project Awarded $3 Million Grant from Destination Iowa Funding

Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds announced late last week that the City of Dubuque was awarded a $3 million Destination Iowa Grant for the Iowa Amphitheater on Schmitt Island project. Funding for this program has been made available through the federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).

The Iowa Amphitheater on Schmitt Island project will be a significant investment in an outdoor amphitheater. This project is the centerpiece of ongoing efforts coordinated by the DRA (Dubuque Racing Association) to create a recreational landmark and gateway into Iowa – with the goal being to enhance outdoor recreational amenities and activities on the island and increase tourism in Dubuque and the tri-state region.

“This grant is great news for this exciting project and will help take Schmitt Island to a whole new level,” said Dubuque Mayor Brad Cavanagh. “We’re grateful to Governor Reynolds and the Iowa Economic Development Authority and the Biden Administration for providing these ARPA funds.”

Schmitt Island is owned by the City of Dubuque, which leases portions of the island to various entities, including the DRA. The City will manage the grant, including bidding and all construction aspects. Upon completion, the DRA, through a management agreement, will manage the completed project.

“We are pleased with the state’s decision to award this grant to the City of Dubuque and look forward to helping drive this project forward to completion,” said Alex Dixon, CEO of DRA and Q Casino. “There are a lot of exciting things being planned for Schmitt Island, so this infusion of resources will help move us closer to revitalizing and enhancing and area that is already a visible landmark in our community.”

The Iowa Amphitheater at Schmitt Island will be a performance amphitheater, designed to attract national acts. It will also serve as a venue for the local symphony, college and university performing groups, nonprofit events and other regional performances. The amphitheater is planned as a versatile space to host varied audiences and will be sized for regional acts with 2,000 to 3,000 patrons and for national acts of 5,000 to 7,000 people.

The project vision is to enhance Schmitt Island as “Dubuque’s Gateway to Entertainment and the Mississippi River,” as was set forth in the Schmitt Island Master Plan, developed in 2014 and updated in 2017, and the Schmitt Island Placemaking & Implementation Plan, adopted in June 2017. The mission adopted for the project is to create “a connected island that welcomes visitors and the community to recreation, entertainment and the outdoors.” For more information on plans for Schmitt Island, visit schmittisland.com.

Projects funded though Destination Iowa must be completed by June 30, 2026.

UNITYPOINT HEALTH AND PRESBYTERIAN HEALTHCARE SERVICES ANNOUNCE INTENT TO FORM NEW HEALTHCARE ORGANIZATION

New Mexico-based Presbyterian Healthcare Services and Midwest-based health system UnityPoint Health have signed a letter of intent to explore the formation of a new healthcare organization. The proposed healthcare company would see both systems preserve their trusted brand and continue delivering care locally while collectively achieving administrative efficiencies under a parent organization.

“As a not-for-profit health system, we must pave a sustainable path forward to continue serving our communities with care and coverage. While we’ve done that successfully independently, we know that partnering with like-minded health systems will allow us to accelerate our efforts,” says Dale Maxwell, president and CEO, Presbyterian Healthcare Services. “UnityPoint Health shares in our commitment to keeping healthcare delivery local and creating a culture where the workforce thrives which will serve as foundational elements as we embark on this journey.”

Combined, UnityPoint Health and Presbyterian impact the lives of four million patients and members through more than 40 hospital facilities, hundreds of clinics and significant health plan operations. The two organizations collectively represent a 40,000-strong workforce including nearly 3,000 physicians and advanced practice clinicians working alongside independent clinicians, educational partners and colleges.

Goals for exploring the creation of a new healthcare organization, which would function as a parent company for not-for-profit health systems, include making greater investments in clinical excellence, digital innovation, workforce development and value-based care while lowering overall administrative costs.

“UnityPoint Health and Presbyterian are two organizations rooted in similar values,” says Clay Holderman, president and CEO, UnityPoint Health. “By lowering administrative costs, building new capabilities and increasing investments in innovation and clinical excellence, our intent is to help improve affordability and accessibility of care. We’re excited about the unique possibilities ahead.”

Both systems will now pursue a period of greater evaluation and exploration of next steps towards a definitive agreement and regulatory approvals.

MUSIC ON MAIN

Formerly Dubuque and all that Jazz

It was a long winter. Time to get out and kick your summer off with Dubuque Main Street’s FREE summer concert series under the Town Clock.

Friday, June 10 from 5-9pm

The musical act to kick off series on Friday, June 10, will be the Avey Grouws Band. This Billboard-charting group fuses blues, classic rock, country, R&B, funk and introspective balladry. The concert also will include a performance by the Eleanor Roosevelt Middle School band at 5 p.m., under the direction of Dan Norman.

Apply Now for Upcoming Openings on City of Dubuque’s Arts & Cultural Affairs Advisory Commission

The City of Dubuque is seeking applications from interested residents to serve on the seven-member Arts & Cultural Affairs Advisory Commission due to expiring terms of four of its current commissioners.

The four anticipated openings seek applicants who live within Dubuque city limits that have significant knowledge and demonstrated interest in one or more areas of the arts including music, dance, literature, visual arts, theater, folk arts, media arts, design, and / or arts education.

Submit an application online by May 23, 2022 to be considered for anticipated July openings. Applications received after the deadline will remain active for one-year and will be revisited to fill vacancies that may arise.

Eligible applicants will be invited to introduce themselves to City Council as part of the June 6, 2022 Council meeting agenda; appointments to open Commission seats by the City Council will be made during the Council’s June 20, 2022 public meeting. Newly appointed Commissioners would commence service of their 3-year term starting July 2022.

The Arts and Cultural Affairs Advisory Commission was established in 2004 to build the resiliency and vibrancy of the Dubuque community by developing visibility, funding, audiences, communications, and partnerships related to the local arts and culture sector.

The Arts & Cultural Affairs Advisory Commission is staffed by the City’s Arts & Cultural Affairs Coordinator and meets monthly, typically the 4th Tuesday of the month from 3:30-5 p.m at the Multicultural Family Center. The Commission recently developed and adopted a 5-year strategic plan to priotize their efforts through end of 2026; seated Commissioners should expect to contribute outside of monthly meetings to action steps and objectives identified in the plan.

The City strongly encourages applicants with diverse backgrounds, life experiences, and perspectives to apply, especially those from minority populations underrepresented in the arts and culture community. All qualified applications will receive consideration for appointment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, familial status, sexual orientation, national origin, ability, age, or veteran status.

For additional information on the City of Dubuque’s arts and culture efforts visit https://www.cityofdubuque.org/artsandculture or contact Jenni Petersen-Brant, Arts & Cultural Affairs Coordinator at 563.690.6059 or jb****@***********ue.org.

For questions specific to the application process for Commission vacancies, or to learn more about Commission service, contact the City Clerk’s Office at 563.589.4120 or email Trish Gleason, Assistant City Clerk at tg******@***********ue.org.

Dubuque Earns Hawkeye Decarbonization Awards for Climate Action

The University of Iowa’s Public Policy Center has awarded the City of Dubuque two Hawkeye Decarbonization Awards for its work in reducing carbon emissions within the city.

The City of Dubuque on behalf of the Dubuque Metropolitan Area Solid Waste Agency (DMASWA) was awarded a Decarbonization Community Project Award, for the renewable natural gas (RNG) project at the DMASWA landfill. The project, which was completed in October of 2021, collects methane gas that is produced by landfill waste and purifies it into RNG. Project partner Dubuque Gas Producers then distributes the RNG via the Black Hills Energy pipeline. The volume of gas produced can heat approximately 2,700 homes in the community each year. The project is one of only two landfill RNG projects in the Midwest and has already reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 65%.

Additionally, Gina Bell the City of Dubuque’s Sustainability Coordinator, was awarded a Green Energy Champion Award. Bell works to implement the City’s Climate Action and Resiliency Plan identifying opportunities and initiating efforts to reduce the city’s greenhouse gas emission by 50% by the year 2030. The University of Iowa’s Public Policy Center specifically praised Bell’s leadership of “Renew DBQ”, a program to help families with low-to-moderate-incomes access solar technology.

The Hawkeye Decarbonization Awards aim to recognize Iowa’s most innovative climate policies, projects, and people working to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

For more information on the City of Dubuque’s sustainability efforts, visit www.CityOfDubuque.org/Sustainability.

DuTrac Community Credit Union announces scholarship winners

Seven area high school graduates received a $1,000 scholarship from DuTrac Community Credit Union’s Academic Scholarship Program.

• Maylee Callahan, daughter of Renee and Jim Callahan, is a graduate of Bettendorf High School. Callahan plans to study biology at Bradley, Augustana, or St. Ambrose University.
• Andrew Crocker, son of Peter and Deborah Crocker, is a graduate of Bettendorf High School. Crocker plans to study mechanical engineering at University of Iowa.
• Danika Dodson, daughter of Doug and Deb Dodson, is a graduate of Camanche High School. Dodson plans to study event management and marketing/sports and recreation at Iowa State University.
• Sullivan Flynn, son of Jill and Timothy Flynn, is a graduate of Monticello High School. Flynn plans to study chemical engineering at Iowa State University.
• Piper Hansen, daughter of Kevin Hansen, is a graduate of Monticello High School.  Hansen plans to study special and elementary education at Luther College, Decorah,
• Ellie Rickertsen, daughter of Neil Rickertsen and Mary Luett, is a graduate of Northeast Community High School, Goose Lake. Rickertsen plans to study nursing at University of Iowa.
• Jake Steines, son of Rick and Abby Steines, is a graduate of Hempstead High School, Dubuque. Steines plans to study mechanical engineering at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville (Wisconsin).

In addition, Callahan will receive one of eight $2,000 scholarships from the Iowa Credit Union Foundation’s Warren A. Morrow Memorial Scholarship. A total of 250 students statewide applied for the Memorial Scholarship.

Taste of Summer Series is Returning to the River Museum

Taste of Summer received a new look at the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium last year. The annual event changed to a series instead of a stand-alone event in 2021. Due to a positive reception from attendees, the format is returning for 2022 with events scheduled on the first Thursday of the month—June 2, July 7, and August 4. Food and beverages are available beginning at 5 p.m. with live music starting at 6 p.m. The event will run until 9 p.m.

Guests are invited to attend this after-hours event in outdoor spaces on the River Museum campus. Live music, food trucks, and a beer/seltzer/pop stand will have items for sale. Visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets to use, and a limited number of picnic tables will be available.

Taste of Summer is open to all ages and is free to attend. Both beverage sales and freewill donations will support the River Museum’s conservation efforts to save endangered species. Food vendors will compete for the prize of “Crowd Favorite” at each of the three events.

Ample free parking is available in the public lots outside the River Museum.

Taste of Summer is presented by Townsquare Media. Contributing sponsor is GreenState Credit Union. Associate sponsor is KWWL. Supporting sponsors include Colony Brands & SC Contact Center, IBEV, and Lime Rock Springs. Tasty sponsors include Origin Design and Conlon Construction, and 7G is a Banner sponsor for the event.

To stay up-to-date on event vendors and bands, follow the River Museum’s Facebook page or visit rivermusem.com. 

June 2nd 

Artists:
Adam Beck (6:00pm to 7:15pm)
Simple Company (7:45pm to 9:00pm)

Vendors:
Caroline’s Restaurant
Adobos Mexican Grill
Sugar Ray’s BBQ
Koppes Kreations

July 7th

Artist:
Eric Chesser (6:00pm to 9:00pm)

Vendors:
Lawrence Brothers BBQ
Birds Chicken Food Truck
Versus
Hot Diggity Dogz
Elle & Becks

August 4th

Artists:
Boys of Lloyd (6:00pm to 7:15pm)
Boogie Monster (7:45pm to 9:00pm)

Vendors:
The Crepe Iron
Magoo’s Pizza
Happi Hibachi
Vesperman Farms Ice Cream Truck

Balde Named Multicultural Family Center Director 

City of Dubuque Leisure Services Manager Marie Ware has named Umaru Balde as the City of Dubuque’s new Multicultural Family Center Director.  He will begin June 1.

As the Multicultural Family Center director, Balde will work with the Multicultural Family Center board of directors to continue to further their mission of empowering all families of Dubuque to reach their potential and building unity through diversity, equity, and inclusion.  Balde, as the lead of the staff of the center, will continue to build upon the programming of the center and expansion of partnerships that have made it so successful.

Multicultural Family Center Board President Chris Johnson said, “Umaru brings a broad background and international experience to the center.  He exemplifies multiculturalism. He will be a great mentor for our youth.”

“Umaru has lived in eight countries across the globe and, through those experiences, brings a broad set of multicultural and advocacy skills to the position.  He has extensive experience working with diverse populations in a variety of settings and has been involved with youth and marginalized communities in many of his roles,” said Ware. “Umaru is fluent in more than 10 languages and dialects including English, Arabic, Portuguese, Spanish, French, and Hebrew.  I am excited for our community to meet and welcome Umaru.”

“As Margaret Mead said, ‘If we are to achieve a richer culture, rich in contrasting values, we must recognize the whole gamut of human potentials, and so weave a less arbitrary social fabric, one in which each diverse individual human gift finds a fitting place,’” shared Balde. “It is an honor to be part of this team and I look forward to serving the community of Dubuque to the fullest of my capacity.”

Balde comes to Dubuque after most recently serving as an investigator for the City of Cedar Rapids Civil Rights Commission. Previously, he was the assistant director of the Latino and Multicultural Services Department with the YWCA of Black Hawk County in Waterloo.  Other experience includes serving as admissions representative for diverse populations for Hawkeye Community College as well as an educational counselor for the TRIO Educational Opportunity Center at the University of Northern Iowa.

Balde is a member of the board of directors of the American Civil Liberties Union of Iowa and is vice president of the board of directors of the Iowa United Nations Association. He is a United Nations-certified diplomatic negotiator and is the cofounder of the Cedar Valley Advocates for Immigration and Refugee Rights (CV-AIRR).  Balde is also a civil mediator and has taught English as a second language as a volunteer for the last eight years.

Balde holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Northern Iowa in political science (social and behavioral science) and a master’s degree in higher education leadership.  He also attended the Hebrew University in Jerusalem, Israel, for Hebrew language studies and Al-Azhar University in Cairo, Egypt, where he received a bachelor’s degree in languages and translation and master’s degree in philosophy (comparative religions). In addition, Balde is currently a doctoral candidate at the University of Northern Iowa.

Balde replaces Jacqueline Hunter who moved to be closer to family.

Dubuque County Businesses Win Awards at Iowa Tourism Conference

Four Dubuque County businesses were awarded honors at the 2022 Iowa Tourism

Conference on Wednesday, April 20 in downtown Des Moines. Travel Dubuque, National Mississippi River

Museum & Aquarium, the City of Balltown, and Beyond the Game received awards from Travel Iowa and

the Iowa Economic Development Authority.

“As a region we’ve had a great year after what was a tough time for our industry due to the pandemic. To

come back swinging with recognition at the state level is a great boost for our county,” shared Keith Rahe,

President & CEO for Travel Dubuque. “The best thing about this is that all of these awards represent

partnerships across businesses, city governments, and more. Things are just better when you work

together.”

Travel Dubuque received the award for Outstanding Promotional Material in the Metro category for the

2022 Travel Guide. The award-winning edition was designed, published, and managed in-house. This

annual publication is a crucial component for the marketing efforts of the Dubuque area and one of the

main resources for travelers and citizens for all the things to experience #WhereIowaStarted. Accepting the

award is Taylor Kellogg, Vice President of Marketing for Travel Dubuque.

Outstanding Attraction of the Year for the Metro category was awarded to the National Mississippi River

Museum & Aquarium. This Smithsonian affiliated museum created new offerings to help continue to drive

business during the pandemic. Additions like behind-the-scenes tours and new programming added to an

already vibrant attraction of Dubuque. In attendance to accept the award was Kurt Strand, Wendy

Scardino, Nate Breitsprecker, and Tommy Lange.

The City of Balltown received the award for Outstanding Community in the Rural category. Balltown is

known for its famous hospitality and most notably for Iowa’s Oldest Bar and Restaurant, Breitbach’s Country

Dining. Located in northern Dubuque County, Balltown sits along the Great River Road and offers

breathtaking views of the mighty Mississippi River. In attendance to accept the award was Mike and Cindy

Breitbach, Herb Sigwarth, and Mayor Sherri Sigwarth.

Outstanding Event of the Year in the Rural category was awarded to Beyond the Game. This new event was

created as an Iowa baseball experience surrounding the inaugural MLB at Field of Dreams presented by

GEICO in Dyersville, Iowa. Guests immersed themselves in events to celebrate the highly anticipated game

and discover Midwestern hospitality right here in Iowa’s slice of heaven. In attendance to accept the award

was Keith Rahe, Tricia Maiers, Roman Weinberg, and Karla Thompson.

Tourism continues to be a vital driver of economic growth for Dubuque County providing $281.02 million

in direct spending and employing 2,400 individuals in 2020. (Data provided by Tourism Economics and

the Iowa Economic Development Authority.)

The Grand Opera House and Rising Star Theatre Company Announce Youth Production Collaboration 

Two local theatre companies, The Grand Opera House and Rising Star Theatre Company, today announced the collaboration on an upcoming youth production to take place in August 2022. This collaboration will build upon both companies current summer youth programming and create a unique theatrical experience in Dubuque. 

Disney’s The Little Mermaid will replace the previously announced production titles from each respected company. All students, currently in 2nd – 12th grades, are eligible to audition and will be cast in this production. Rehearsals will begin in early July with performances taking place August 11-14, 2022, at the Grand Opera House. 

This collaboration will be led by the Grand’s executive and artistic director Nick Halder and Rising Star Theatre Company’s education director Megan Schumacher. Schumacher will also serve as the director for Disney’s The Little Mermaid and work alongside theatre teaching artists and professionals from both organizations. 

“Collaboration is at the core of theatre,” said Halder, “and is something that I have embraced throughout my career. We look forward to working together with Rising Star Theatre Company to provide exceptional theatre opportunities for students in the tri-states.” 

RSTC Co-Founder Megan Schumacher said, “We at Rising Star Theatre Company are excited to combine our resources and skills with those of the Grand Opera House to provide an even richer experience for students in our community.” 

Auditions for Disney’s The Little Mermaid will take place Saturday, June 4, 9am – Noon and 1 – 4 PM and Sunday, June 5, 6 – 9 PM. More details about this production will be announced shortly. 

The Grand Opera House and Rising Star Theatre Company Presents 

Disney’s The Little Mermaid 

Directed by 

Megan Schumacher 

Dates and Times: 

Thursday, August 11 @ 1pm 

Friday, August 12 @ 1pm 

Friday, August 12 @ 7:30pm 

Saturday, August 13 @ 2:00pm 

Saturday, August 13 @ 7:30pm 

Sunday, August 14 @ 2:00pm 

Ticket Prices: 

Adults – $15 | Under 18 – $10 

Group Pricing is available for Groups over 12 people 

Dubuque Caregiver Resource Center to offer social opportunity for caregivers and loved ones with dementia

Are you struggling to find safe social activities that you and your loved one with dementia can participate in?  Being a caregiver of someone with Dementia can challenging and overwhelming. Feelings of isolation may have increased since Covid entered our world and social opportunities have dissipated.

The Caregiver Resource Center is pleased to announced that in partnership with Northeast Iowa School of Music and the Shalom Spirituality Center, we have created the Music, Movement and Memory workshop just for you.

Music, Movement and Memory is a free workshop that will begin Monday, February 7 (1-2pm) and run weekly for 5 weeks. Sessions are held at the Shalom Spirituality Center at 1001 Davis Street in Dubuque.

Universally, music has the ability to connect humans, energy, and memories. Research shows that music is one of the most powerful activities for dementia, because it has the potential to increase physical and social activity, reignite past memories, improve sleep, mood, cognition, communication, and overall quality of life.

The Music, Movement, and Memory workshop curriculum is designed to engage the mind and body in a safe and flexible environment. The sessions will be led by Tracey Rush, Creative Aging Specialist at Northeast Iowa School of Music. Tracey has extensive experience leading group activities, specifically with the aging population.

RSVP by February 4^th to jk*******@**********bq.com or 563.690.9679.

For more information about the Caregiver Resource Center and its services to support family caregivers, visit www.stonehilldbq.com/caregiverresourcecenter/

Breakfast with Santa

The Dubuque County Fairgrounds & Event Center presents Breakfast with Santa on Sunday, December 19th from 8am until noon. The breakfast will include pancakes, sausage, eggs, tater tots, apple sauce, orange juice, milk and coffee. Cost is $8 for adults, $4 kids 5-12 and 4 & under are FREE!

Santa will be there from 9:30am until noon to meet with the kids and get pictures taken.

It’s all happening in the Grand Ballroom at the Dubuque County Fairgrounds, 14569 Old Highway Road, Dubuque, IA. For more information go to www.dbqfair.com or call 563-588-1406.

Winter Arts Snow Sculpting Event to Return

Call for Snow Sculpting Teams Announced

The Dubuque Museum of Art in partnership with the City of Dubuque Office of Arts & Cultural Affairs announces a call for entries for the Winter Arts 2022 Snow Sculpting Competition, sanctioned by Winter Fun Inc., to be held February 10–13, 2022 in Washington Park in downtown Dubuque, IA.
 
Professional, amateur, and collegiate teams from across the state of Iowa are invited to apply to participate. Teams may elect to compete for the State of Iowa title resulting in an invitation to the 2023 U.S. National Snow Sculpting Competition in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin.
 
Entries must be received by 5 p.m. on Friday, January 7, 2022 via email or mailed to the Dubuque Museum of Art. Application details are available below or at www.cityofdubuque.org/winterarts.
 
The general public is encouraged to save the following dates for additional Winter Arts activities in Washington Park:

• Tuesday, February 8, 8 a.m.-12 p.m. or 12-4 p.m.: Volunteer to Build Snow Blocks
• Thurs, Feb 10, 8 a.m. through Sun, Feb 13 at 12 p.m.: View Snow Sculpting In-Progress
• Sun, Feb 13, 12-4p.m.: Winter Arts Community Activities, People’s Choice Voting

For more information on Winter Arts, visit http://www.cityofdubuque.org/artsandculture or contact City of Dubuque Arts & Cultural Affairs Coordinator Jenni Petersen-Brant at jb****@***********ue.org or Danielle Stowell, Winter Arts Coordinator for the Dubuque Museum of Art at ds******@****rt.org or 563.581.6988.

Weekly Yard Waste and Food Scraps Collections Ending for the 2021 Season

The City of Dubuque’s weekly, curbside collection of yard debris and food scraps will end for the 2021 season on Saturday, Nov. 27. The city will begin its winter collection schedule for those materials on Thursday, Dec. 2.

The winter yard debris and food scrap schedule will run on Thursdays only starting on Dec. 2 until regular, weekly yard waste and food scraps collection resumes on Monday, April 4, 2022.

Current food scraps collection subscribers will automatically have their collections made every Thursday and will be charged $1 per month for this winter service. All other curbside collection customers who would like to have yard debris and/or food scraps collected must schedule an appointment for a Thursday collection by either calling the City of Dubuque Public Works Department at 563-589-4250 or submitting a request through the City’s website at www.cityofdubuque.org/yardwaste. Yellow yard waste stickers and/or annual yard waste decals are required for winter collections.

To receive automatic reminders about curbside collection schedule changes, recycling reminders, and other alerts, customers are encouraged to visit the ReThink Waste Dubuque site at www.cityofdubuque.org/rethinkwaste to download the app or register their contact information to:

• sign up for curbside collection reminders by email, automated telephone call, and
• text message;
• download their collection schedule into iCal, Google calendar, or Microsoft Outlook calendar; and
• print their collection schedule.

The ReThink Waste Dubuque tool also offers a “Waste Search” feature, which allows users to type in any keywords and get disposal and recycling tips specific to Dubuque. For more information, call the City of Dubuque Public Works Department at 563-589-4250.

City Receives Iowa DNR Grant to Purchase Four Mounds Farm

The City of Dubuque has been awarded a $200,000 grant from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to purchase Four Mounds Farm.

The grant is a part of the Resource Enhancement and Preservation (REAP) program by the Iowa DNR to preserve and increase city parks and open spaces across the state. Funds will allow the City to acquire the 40.47 acres of Four Mounds Farm to extend and enhance the Four Mounds Park area through community gardens, site accessibility, and other amenities. Additional grant funding will be sought to complete the purchase.

Four Mounds Farm, currently owned by the Four Mounds Foundation, is located at 4392 Peru Road within a half-mile of the City’s Four Mounds Park. The land is currently home to 14 community garden plots part of the Dubuque Community Gardens initiative, and approximately 37 acres of undeveloped prairieland.

“The City of Dubuque is pleased to continue to enhance our successful partnership with Four Mounds Foundation,” said City of Dubuque Leisure Services Manager Marie Ware. “This addition to the City’s park system is a unique open space, adding opportunities for connection to natural wildlife, birds, and prairie areas.”

UPCOMING VACCINATION CLINICS

Tuesday, Nov. 16, 2:30 – 6 p.m.
MercyOne Mobile Medical Unit at Kennedy Mall, Northeast Parking Lot across from Burger King
Pediatric Pfizer clinic for CHILDREN AGES 5-11. Appointments required. See details.

Wednesday, Nov. 17, 3:40 – 6:30 p.m.
MercyOne at Marshall Elementary School, 1450 Rhomberg Ave.
Pediatric Pfizer clinic for CHILDREN AGES 5-11. Appointments required. See details.

Friday, Nov. 19, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Dubuque Visiting Nurses Association, 660 Iowa St., Dubuque
Walk-in vaccinations and boosters of Pfizer, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson for ADULTS and pediatric Pfizer for CHILDREN AGES 5-11.

Friday, Nov. 19, 3:40 – 6:30 p.m.
MercyOne at Prescott Elementary School, 1151 White St.
Pediatric Pfizer clinic for CHILDREN AGES 5-11. Appointments required. See details.

Monday, Nov. 22, 3:40 – 6:30 p.m.
MercyOne at Audubon Elementary School, 605 Lincoln Ave.
Pediatric Pfizer clinic for CHILDREN AGES 5-11. Appointments required. See details.

Tuesday, Nov. 23, 3:40 – 6:30 p.m.
MercyOne at Fulton Elementary School, 2540 Central Ave.
Pediatric Pfizer clinic for CHILDREN AGES 5-11. Appointments required. See details.

There are multiple locations/providers in Dubuque County offering free COVID-19 vaccinations, to see the complete list with contact information for each, visit www.dubuquecounty.org/sleevesup or call the SleevesUp Call Center at 563.690.6253.

For COVID-19 testing options, visit www.dubuquecounty.org/COVID19.

Most local vaccination providers have Pfizer and Moderna.  Supplies of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine are currently limited so residents seeking that vaccine/booster are encouraged to first check with their provider or the Dubuque Visiting Nurses Association.

New Treats And Traditions For Your Little Goblins

Apple crisp is a healthy and delicious alternative to Halloween candy.

(NAPSI)—With in-person trick-or-treating in question these days, many Washington parents are re-thinking ways for their children to celebrate Halloween.

If going door-to-door is not an option, consider these ideas by lifestyle expert Ashley Todd (@ashleyjtodd), who has teamed up with Delta Dental of Washington to offer parents some fun candy and activity alternatives to help make the day special for their little ghosts and goblins.

Instead of having kids gorge on candy, Todd recommends starting a new tradition by making one of these tooth-friendly sweet treats:

Pumpkin Pancakes

Recipe from Sugar-Free Mom 

Mix together 4 eggs, ½ cup pumpkin puree, 1 cup milk of your choice, 2 tsp vanilla extract, 1 tsp pumpkin liquid Stevia, 4 tbsp coconut oil. In a separate bowl, mix together ½ cup flour, ½ tsp cinnamon, 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice, 1 tsp baking soda. Combine all ingredients then cook on a medium griddle. 

Three-Ingredient, Sugar-Free Peanut Butter Cookies 

Recipe from All Recipes 

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix together 2 cups smooth peanut butter, 2 eggs, and 2 cups granular sucralose sweetener. Place spoonfuls of dough on a cookie sheet and bake for 8 minutes. 

Sugar-Free Apple Crisp 

Recipe from My Planted Plate 

Preheat oven to 350 degrees and grease an 8×8 baking dish. Peel, core and thinly slice 5 Granny Smith apples and place into a bowl. Add 1tsp lemon juice, 2 tsp vanilla extract, 2 tsp cinnamon, and ½ tsp nutmeg and combine. Pour apple mixture into the baking dish and set aside. In a separate bowl, combine ½ cup gluten-free rolled oats, ½ cup almond flour, ½ cup chopped pecans, ¼ cup melted coconut oil, ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce, 1 tsp vanilla and 1 tsp cinnamon. Stir well and pour the crumble topping over the apple mixture. Bake for 25 minutes. 

When traditional trick-or-treating is not an option, parents can save the day by putting together a Halloween basket full of fun treats—if candy is on the menu, be sure to choose options that contain chocolate, which washes off young teeth far easier than gummy and sticky candies. Todd also suggests these fun, kid-friendly trick-or-treating alternatives:

•Boo Baskets—Pick up your kids’ favorite healthful snacks along with some sugar-free candy, some fun card games and a Halloween craft kit and bring them to your children’s friends.

•Pumpkin Volcano—Clean out the inside of a pumpkin and add equal parts dish soap, baking soda and white vinegar—and watch it foam!

•Reverse Trick-or-Treating—Put sugar-free candy, chocolate and some healthful snacks into a goodie-bag and drop them off on your neighbors’ porches.

Delta Dental reminds parents that teeth need time to rest and repair between sweets. Pause snacking to sip on water so teeth can recover from sugar overload. It’s also important to remember: Brushing with fluoride toothpaste and flossing will do the most to protect your child’s teeth. Have them brush for two minutes, at least twice a day, and floss before bed. Stay up to date on dental visits—even during holidays, pandemics and other distractions—so hidden problems such as the start of a cavity won’t ruin those special holiday smiles.

For these and other fun treat recipes and trick-or-treating alternatives, visit https://www.TheToothFairyExperience.com/parents.

Midwestern Doctor Cares For Rural Community Amid Rise In COVID Cases

(NAPSI)—In rural Kansas, Dr. Kristina Darnauer is one of only four doctors practicing in Rice County. She is also the only family medicine doctor practicing in Sterling, where she lives with her husband and three children. Dr. Darnauer delivers local babies, visits nursing homes, maintains a clinical practice and covers the ER.

This year, her duties have expanded to talking to her fellow community members about the COVID-19 vaccines and answering their questions. Roughly 60% of local residents remain unvaccinated and Dr. Darnauer and her hospital staff have been seeing the effects firsthand.

“This is the hardest it’s been for us. Our health system is totally overwhelmed,” said Dr. Darnauer, reflecting on the difficult months since the Delta variant first took hold in the United States this past summer. She characterized the local health community as “drowning” as they strive to provide the best possible care for their patients.

Due to overburdened intensive care units in surrounding area hospitals, there have been times when Dr. Darnauer hasn’t been able to transfer patients to a larger hospital for more specialized care.

“I’ve had two COVID-19 patients die in my hospital in the last week,” she observed in late September. “My last ER weekend, I saw more COVID patients coming in sick than I have before.”

A Health Issue

COVID-19 remains a serious threat across the U.S. as we head into the pandemic’s second winter. The Delta variant, which now makes up virtually all cases in the country, spreads more easily than the common cold and has led to a dramatic increase in hospitalizations nationwide. This has been deeply felt in rural America, where case rates in September were roughly 54% higher than elsewhere, and mortality rates are now more than double that of urban areas.

What The CDC Says

According to the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention, people who have not yet been vaccinated are 29 times more likely to be hospitalized and 11 times more likely to die from COVID-19 complications, compared to those who have already received their vaccine.

Other CDC data reveals people ages 18 to 49 are the largest demographic hospitalized for COVID-19 as of September 25. Studies also show that even for individuals who have a mild case of COVID-19 and avoid hospitalization, they remain at risk of post-COVID symptoms, often called long COVID, that may last for weeks, months or longer. Symptoms of long COVID appear to affect as many as one in three people infected with the virus.

Doctor’s Advice

Many in her close-knit community come to Dr. Darnauer with questions and concerns about being vaccinated against COVID-19 and whether it’s the right choice for their family. Dr. Darnauer’s response to her patients is clear and to the point: “I’ve recommended the vaccine for anyone I love. Period.”

COVID-19 vaccines are safe, effective, widely available and free to everyone in the U.S. age twelve and older. Additionally, the FDA has formally approved Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine in the U.S. for those sixteen and older.

“We are not out of the woods,” says Dr. Darnauer, “but we have a really powerful tool to fight this and that’s the vaccine.”

Learn More

If you have questions about the COVID-19 vaccines, talk to a doctor or pharmacist and visit www.GetVaccineAnswers.org for the latest information.

COVID-19 remains a serious threat across the U.S. as we head into the pandemic’s second winter. The Delta variant, which now makes up virtually all cases in the country, spreads more easily than the common cold and has led to a dramatic increase in hospitalizations nationwide. This has been deeply felt in rural America, where case rates in September were roughly 54% higher than elsewhere, and mortality rates are now more than double that of urban areas.

Last Live Race of This Season is Sun., Oct. 31

Current Post Times: 5:30pm Wednesday, Thursday & Saturday; 1:00pm Sunday Matinee

The Twin Super and Twin Tri Carryover is a mandatory payout on the last day – Sunday, October 31st.

Don’t miss your chance to see the greyhounds in live racing action this week!

Watch for more information about the 2022 Live Racing Season.

Iowa Greyhound Park.

www.igaracing.com

Gambling a problem? 1-800-BETS-OFF

UnityPoint Health – Finley Health Foundation and Visiting Nurse Association Awarded DRA Grants

UnityPoint Health – Finley Health Foundation is the recipient of two grants from the Dubuque Racing Association (DRA). One grant, in the amount of $10,000, is to provide anti-ligature risk fixtures and furniture for the Behavioral Health Department. The Foundation was also awarded a $5,000 grant for the purchase of educational materials and supplies for the Visiting Nurse Association (VNA) Maternal Health Program.

The anti-ligature risk fixtures and furniture allows for the treatment of patients with behavioral health challenges in a safer environment. This inpatient unit provides a secure place for families to leave their loved ones during a behavioral health episode, or during a newly diagnosed condition, such as dementia.

The VNA will use their DRA grant to share educational materials and supplies with more than 400 mothers and 400 babies in the Maternal Health program. Educational materials and videos in Spanish and English, breast pumps, and other supplies will support mothers who would like to breastfeed their babies.

“We are grateful to have the DRA as a generous partner and thank them for their continued support,” said Chad Wolbers, President and CEO of UnityPoint Health – Dubuque. “The Geropsychiatric Unit renovation project will enable Finley to provide a safer environment to care for inpatients with behavioral health conditions, and the Maternal Health Program grant will help mothers embrace breastfeeding with the knowledge and supplies they need to be successful.”

Public Invited to Share Input on Next City Budget

Dubuque residents and stakeholders are invited to share their input on the next City budget as City of Dubuque staff prepare the City’s budget for fiscal year (FY) 2023, which runs July 1, 2022 – June 30, 2023.

The public is invited to attend a public input meeting at 6 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 8, in the City Council Chambers at the Historic Federal Building, 350 W. Sixth St. City Manager Mike Van Milligen and Finance and Budget Department staff will provide general information on the budget process at this meeting and then meeting attendees will be asked to share their thoughts on what they would like to see funded in their neighborhoods and the community at-large.

Those unable to attend in person or who would prefer to participate remotely are encouraged to connect by computer, tablet, or smart phone at:
https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/235685597  This option includes audio input and written “chat” input. The virtual meeting will be facilitated by City staff and additional information will be provided at the start of the meeting.

Residents can also participate by phone by calling 866-899-4679 (toll free) or 571-317-3116. After connecting, use this access code: 235-685-597

Residents and stakeholders are also encouraged to explore two online tools, available at www.cityofdubuque.org/budget, that provide an opportunity to visually interact with the City’s budget:

• The “Open Budget” tool provides unprecedented access to City budget information and is designed to help make sense of the dollars and cents of city government budgeting.
• The “Balancing Act” simulation tool allows users to learn how property tax is budgeted and tax revenues are spent and illustrates how the City’s FY2023 budget will be developed. The simulator challenges residents and stakeholders to actively balance their own version of the City’s budget, subject to the same constraints City Council members face annually when considering the City’s recommended operating and capital budgets. In addition, residents and stakeholders can provide comments in the simulator.

Dubuque Fire Department Awarded International Accredited Status

The Dubuque Fire Department has received Accredited Agency status with the Commission on Fire Accreditation International (CFAI) for meeting the criteria established through the CFAI’s voluntary self-assessment and accreditation program. The announcement follows a thorough, five-year process including document review and onsite assessment.

The Dubuque Fire Department is now one of fewer than 300 fire departments in the world and just five other departments in Iowa to be accredited. This accreditation is a voluntary process and provides an agency/department with an improvement model to assess their service delivery and performance internally and then works with a team of peers from other agencies to evaluate their completed self-assessment. It shows the community that the Dubuque Fire Department continually self-assesses, looks for opportunities for improvement, and is transparent and accountable through third-party verification and validation.

“This achievement of Accredited Agency status demonstrates the commitment of the department and city organization to provide the highest quality of service to our community,” said Dubuque Fire Chief Rick Steines. “It’s not what you get, it’s what you become. You don’t get accredited, you become accredited, and as an accredited agency you build a culture of improvement.”

Steines said the department has been able to use the accreditation process as a proactive way to plan for the future of the department and identify areas where the department can improve on the quality of the services provided. He said the creation of a strategic plan, standards of cover, and updates to procedures have enhanced the department’s ability to better protect, assist, and educate the community and with pride, skill, and compassion.

“This is the culmination of over five years of work in preparation for this day.  I want to especially recognize the work of Fire Chief Rick Steines, Lead Accreditation Manager Assistant Chief Kevin Esser, and former Accreditation Manager and current Assistant Accreditation Manager Assistant Chief Josh Knepper,” said City Manager Mike Van Milligen.  “We are very proud of our fire department and the people who work in the department protecting property and lives every day.”

“This was never more apparent and appreciated than during the COVID-19 pandemic.  There is no working from home for our brave firefighters and medical officers,” added Van Milligen.  “As people were isolating, social distancing, and masking up, these were the people who were there when tragedy struck.  At the same time, many of them were dealing with the traumas of this pandemic in their personal lives.  We owe all of them a deep debt of gratitude that they chose public service as a career and that they do their work so well and with such compassion.”

CFAI is dedicated to assisting the fire and emergency service agencies throughout the world in achieving excellence through self-assessment and accreditation in order to provide continuous quality improvement and the enhancement of service delivery to their communities.  For more information, visit https://www.cpse.org/accreditation/.

DUBUQUE COMMUNITY SCHOOL INITIATIVE CONNECTS STUDENTS TO MEANINGFUL WORKPLACE EXPERIENCES

The Dubuque Community School District is nearing the completion of their first year of their career and college readiness initiative, VERTEX.  The initiative represents the district’s strategic and intentional work to help students discover where their interests and future possibilities intersect.  VERTEX is designed around a core principle that career and college readiness is about more than one experience. In the Dubuque Community Schools, the process begins in middle school and continues through high school while providing experiences that get progressively deeper over time, moving through three key areas of awareness, exploration, and application.

Students are provided with meaningful workplace awareness, exploration and hands-on work experiences as they prepare to make informed decisions about their future. Experiences will include job shadowing, mentorship programs, services learning, and internship/work experience programs. These experiences are supported by strong academic opportunities across the curriculum including everything from career technical education and Advanced Placement courses to concurrent enrollment courses at area higher education institutions, that help prepare students for life after high school.

VERTEX also supports and aligns a variety of current programs that connect students with employers in real-world work experiences including: Work-Based Learning Program, School-to-Work Program, Summit Program, Transition Alliance Program (TAP), Housing Education and Rehabilitation Training (HEART) Program, and Iowa Jobs for America’s Graduates (iJAG). The initiative is uniting various offerings across the district while boosting the regional workforce pipeline with well-prepared, enthusiastic leaders of tomorrow.

FOR EMPLOYER INFORMATION: Contact David Moeller, Educational Support Leader, at dm******@********ls.org or 563-552-3082

CITY OF DUBUQUE’S NEW LANDFILL GAS CONVERSION FACILITY NOW ONLINE

On Thursday, October 14, the City of Dubuque and the Dubuque Metropolitan Solid Waste Agency (DMASWA) welcomed project partners and community members to a ribbon cutting for the Dubuque Power Producers LLC Renewable Natural Gas Project at the city landfill. Methane that was previously flared off is now collected  by approximately 60 gas wells  and then transferred to a processing facility where it is cleaned, processed, and inserted into the Black Hills Energy natural gas pipelines for consumer usage.

In regards to environmental impact, according to the DMASWA the project will annually, through direct and avoided emissions, reduce emissions equivalent to: Carbon sequestered by 104,534 acres of U.S. forests in one year; CO2 emissions from 257,687 barrels of oil consumed; CO2 emissions from 12,468,281 gallons of gasoline consumed; and Heating 2,763 homes.

In addition to reducing the environmental impact at the landfill, the project also generates revenue, where 3.5% of gas sale revenues—approximately $80,000 annually—earned through the gas processing goes to the DMASWA. Dubuque Gas Producers also pays an annual $10,000 license fee to use the site.

Dave Lyons, Sustainable Innovations Consultant for Greater Dubuque Development, has been a valuable asset on the project, helping bring public and private partners together and highlighting the value for both. This is the second methane conversion project in the city that Lyons has helped facilitate, the first being the biogas project at the Water Resource and Recovery Center completed in 2018.

GREATER DUBUQUE DEVELOPMENT RECOGNIZED BY INTERNATIONAL GROUP AS ONE OF THE TOP ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ORGANIZATIONS OF THE YEAR

On Tuesday, October 5, Greater Dubuque Development Corporation received a Bronze Award in the category of Economic Development Organization of the Year of the International Economic Development Council (IEDC).  The honor was presented at an awards ceremony during the IEDC Annual Conference.
IEDC’s Excellence in Economic Development Awards recognize the world’s best economic development programs and partnerships, marketing materials, and the year’s most influential leaders. Twenty-five award categories honor organizations and individuals for their efforts in creating positive change in urban, suburban, and rural communities. Awards are judged by a diverse panel of economic and community developers, following a nomination process held earlier this year.

Brain Health Awareness Month Creates More Connections in Eastern Iowa

In order to raise awareness for brain health and brain illnesses, the local and statewide observance in October for Brain Health Awareness is active in eastern Iowa. Organizations and their leaders hope to gain traction to create more awareness for and access to brain health services and to reduce the stigma long associated with mental illnesses.

A grassroots organization in eastern Iowa, with statewide reach, is called Brain Health Now. Led by Debi Butler of Dubuque, this statewide initiative uses personal outreach, marketing, advertising and social media outreach to change the mindsets present in so many Iowans. She notes, “Words are powerful, words matter. The stigma surrounding mental illness can be as detrimental to someone’s life as the disease itself. Society has to understand that the brain is an organ and can get sick too. The stigma follows words such as mental illness and mental health which prohibit people to seek the help they need. We need to reframe the conversation from mental illness to brain health and treat it as it should be.”

Butler’s background is in psychology, and the brain health topic is near to her heart. “My passion for starting Brain Health Now is due to my brother Steve who was diagnosed with schizophrenia in 1985. The stigma impacted my brother in a very negative way and I watched him hide from society because he did not feel like he belonged.

It’s very important to treat brain health issues just like we treat other organs in our body that can be compromised. It’s not a choice or a character flaw to have a brain health issue. We need to normalize the lives of the one out of five people who experience a brain health issue,” she says.

Since 2014, there have been 14 mental health regions in Iowa, who receive and disperse local and state funding to provider organizations who support mental health and disability services for Iowans. Organizations like Brain Health Now seek to connect individuals and families in need with the resources in those regions that are geographically closest to them.

Mental Health/Disability Services of the East Central Region (ECR for short) is one of those 14 regions. ECR serves people in the following counties in eastern Iowa: Benton, Bremer, Buchanan, Delaware, Dubuque, Iowa, Johnson, Jones and Linn.

Mae Hingtgen, CEO of the ECR, notes that the purpose of the ECR and its 13 companion regions across the state is to collaborate with disability service providers, healthcare providers, school districts, law enforcement, the judicial system, legislators, and countless direct care providers to strengthen the network of support services for adults and children with disabilities of all kinds.

“ECR and the other 13 regions in the state don’t provide the direct services to individuals and families in need, but we, as regions, provide the funding to the organizations who do provide those services. Our goal is to build an awareness that it’s okay to need help for brain health concerns and that help is available in our area. Organizations like Brain Health Now and insightful leaders like Debi Butler are an excellent example of how a grassroots group of people can step up to make a difference, become part of a larger network, and raise awareness for the needs and solutions available for brain and disability support services,” she says.

Hingtgen also notes that, “As we have all worked our way through COVID and the stressors it has brought to the world, the state of Iowa and to our communities in the ECR, we know that brain health issues and the need for services is at an all-time high. It is critical for us to get the word out even more frequently to let people know that there is help available … compassionate, immediate, and free or low-cost help for both short-term crises and long-term issues that people and families experience.”

For more information about Brain Health Now, the ECR, and resources in the nine counties of the ECR, visit these websites for more information:

www.brainhealth-now.org  and www.ecriowa.org

Brain Health Now is a grassroots organization dedicated to ending the stigma surrounding the term mental illness. Over 50 million Americans have diagnosable brain health disorders each year. These disorders remain shrouded in misunderstand and stigma, which is one reason why Brain Health Now wants to reframe the conversation away from mental illness and toward brain health.

 The East Central Region (ECR) is a partnership between nine counties in eastern Iowa to provide comprehensive mental health and disability services to individuals in eastern Iowa. Iowans have a regional base of services which meet statewide standards to address their needs. Counties pool their resources and offer an array of services to improve the health of Iowans.

Public Works Department Offers Leaf Disposal Options

• paper yard waste bags that display a single-use yard waste sticker;
• a rigid solid waste container with either a single-use yard waste sticker looped on the handle or a City 2021 annual yard waste decal; or
• in City yard debris tipper carts. Brush and limbs can be bundled with a City of Dubuque brush tie or twine and an attached single-use yard waste sticker.

HOTEL JULIEN DUBUQUE IS NAMED BEST LUXURY RESORT FOR THE STATE OF IOWA

Hotel Julien Dubuque was recently recognized by Shermans Travel in a published piece called “Best Luxury Resorts in Every U.S. State.” Hotel Julien Dubuque was named best for the state of Iowa, along with other world-wide respected hotels around the country such as the Ritz Carlton, Four Seasons, and Fairmont Hotels.

 “We are proud and humbled to be named with such magnificent hotels such as the Fairmont, Four Seasons, and Ritz Carlton Hotels from all parts of the U.S. These brands are recognized all over the world for being world class hotels,” ­­­­­said Dwight Hopfauf, General Manager at Hotel Julien Dubuque.

Shermans Travel Media is a leading publisher of top travel deals and vacation destination advice. In their recent piece “Best Luxury Resorts in Every U.S. State” published by Megan DuBois, you can find Hotel Julien Dubuque on photo slide #15  for the state of Iowa along with a short description regarding the hotel’s elegant amenities and services. Click here to read more.

 This past year has been a tough one on the hospitality industry. With travel restrictions and state mandates, hotels were among one of the hardest industries hit.  Nevertheless, Hotel Julien Dubuque and their hardworking staff have made some great achievements even during these unprecedented times.

“The staff at the hotel work tirelessly hard to fulfill our #1 Vision, ‘Create the feeling for the guests that they are in the right place, at the right time, all the time’,” said Dwight Hopfauf, General Manager at Hotel Julien Dubuque.

In addition to this recent acknowledgment from Shermans Travel as the best luxury resort for the state of Iowa,  Hotel Julien Dubuque has celebrated two other wonderful recognitions throughout the pandemic, being named Trip Advisor’s 2020 and 2021 Travelers’ Choice Award-Winner.

“I cannot emphasize the pride that I have for Team Hotel Julien Dubuque. For this level of recognition during a pandemic that has crushed the hospitality and tourism industry, our team never lost their focus despite some of the most challenging times that COVID-19 has presented. This recognition of their efforts is truly deserved,” said Dwight Hopfauf, General Manager at Hotel Julien Dubuque, “I often say to myself, ‘Just stay out of the team’s way and follow them.’ They are always on the path of creating memorable and welcoming experiences! My deepest, Thanks for coming to work today, Team Hotel Julien Dubuque!” 

National Service Recognition Day Award Winners Announced

Mayor Roy D. Buol joined local leaders across the country in a nationwide, bipartisan initiative to highlight the impact of volunteerism and national service in tackling local problems.

The Dubuque National Service Partnership honored local volunteers, AmeriCorps Members, and AmeriCorps Senior volunteers at the National Service Recognition Day Award Ceremony that took place on Tuesday, Oct. 5, at 1 p.m. at the Multicultural Family Center. The following individuals were nominated for their service to the community:

• The Volunteer Service Award recognizes individuals who serve as volunteers whose service have made a significant impact on the organization(s) for which they serve/served.
  • Nominees:
    • Jack Frick, Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Gardens
    • Laura Feipel, Dubuque Regional Humane Society
    • Mary Ann Conzett, Multicultural Family Center
  • Award Recipient: Laura Feipel

• The National Service Impact Award recognizes individuals who are alumni or current National Service members whose service made a significant impact on the site for which they have served.
  • Nominees:
    • Alexis Farrall, Green Iowa AmeriCorps
    • Janet Grass, City of Dubuque AmeriCorps Program: Partners in Learning
    • Linda Sorensen, City of Dubuque AmeriCorps Program: Partners in Learning
    • Mary Kay Patters, City of Dubuque AmeriCorps Program: Partners in Learning
    • Tessie Strohm, City of Dubuque AmeriCorps Program: Creating Opportunities
  • Award Recipient: Tessie Strohm

• The Champion of Service Award recognizes individuals or agencies that have demonstrated ongoing and sustained involvement and/or advocacy with National Service Programs.
  • Award Recipients:
    • 2021 – Mayor Roy D. Buol, City of Dubuque
    • 2020 – Kim Stickney, City of Dubuque AmeriCorps Program Assistant

The Ceremony and nominations can be viewed at www.cityofdubuque.org/DNSP.

The United Way of Dubuque Area Tri-States Board Members reviewed all submitted nominations and select the winners of the National Service Impact Award and the Volunteer Service Impact Award. The Dubuque National Service Partnership committee selects the recipient of the Champion of Service Award each year.