Ambassadors are on Mediacom Cable Mediacom Connections Channel 22

Thanks to the fine folks at Mediacom, our little vignettes of ribbon cuttings, grand openings and special occasions that Ambassadors attend are now on Mediacom Dubuque Cable Television

And Videos are Available on Demand. Click on your "On Demand Button."

Correspond: Let us know what you can or cannot attend by clicking here, or contact Mary at (563) 557-9200.

If you have any questions about upcoming events that the Ambassadors attend, contact Carole Lawson at the Chamber of Commerce:

sweber@dubuquechamber.com

or call (563)690-9201

Click here to visit Net-Smart's Support Your Troops Website that enables you to transmit videos of yourself and your loved ones online and overseas via the World Wide Web!

he Dubuque Ambassadors are proud to present a new feature on the World Wide Web. Movie clips of grand opening ceremonies, ribbon cuttings, and virtually any and all celebratory events attended by members of this Chamber of Commerce organization.

At right you will see the latest ceremony we attended.

The movie clips are in RealMedia format, and your browser should be equipped with the software plug-in (RealPlayer) to enable you to view and hear video content on this Web site. If you have difficulties, click here.

Videos produced by Gary Olsen in cooperation with the Dubuque Community School District.

Dubuque365.com has a treasure trove of photos and information about this project. Click here to go there.

History of the Dubuque Chamber Ambassadors

he Dubuque Area Chamber Ambassadors organized in 1963 as an extension of the Dubuque Industrial Bureau. The Ambassadors had two major functions: to attract business from other cities to come to Dubuque; and to assist Dubuque businesses to promote their products and encourage expansion-thus increasing employment.

In 1975, the Dubuque Industrial Bureau merged with the Dubuque Industrial Development Corporation. The Corporation joined with the Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce in 1978. The Chamber added a full-time staff working in the area of economic development and consequently, the goals and objectives of the Ambassadors have changed over the years.

Today, the Chamber Ambassadors' objective is to assist the Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce and the City of Dubuque in business recognition and public relations. Objectives are completed by ribbon cuttings, ground breaking ceremonies, grand openings and certificate presentations.

The Chamber Ambassadors are dedicated to the economic growth and development of the Tri-State area. This group of 40 high spirited people has made a commitment to recognizing businesses for their accomplishments and contributions to the Tri-State area community.

Chamber Ambassadors and the Years They Were Inducted

#FirstName# #LastName# #DateFormat(ElectionDate, "yyyy")#

New Graphics and Document Download Library (Members Only)

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he new Alliant Energy Customer Service Center on Chavenelle Road in Dubuque's Westend Industrial Park celebrated it's grand opening with an Ambassador-style ribbon cutting ceremony hosted by Chamber of Commerce President Rusty Knight. Above, Ambassador Gary Olsen interviews the regional director of the center, Cedric Everett. The Chicago native took Gary and the Ambassadors on a tour of the facility which includes offices, data processing, and a large garage and shop for the maintenance and deployment of service vehicles.

The building is two stories and represents a major relocation of facilities that used to be on 7th Street in the Downtown District. According to Cedric, this location will improve dispatching logistics and response time with better accesses and more room to grow to meet future demands.

The tour and interviews are interesting and informative. We get to see the "situation room" where engineers go when there are storms and power outages in the market they serve. It puts a face on the otherwise ubiquitous power company whose service is so good we often take it for granted.

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Master of ceremonies for the event was Rusty Knight, president of the Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce.

June 2005

hose always windy, cold, or incredibly hot days when you deplaned in Dubuque are now just fond memories. Walking across the tarmac in this summer's heat would make you feel like you were bacon sizzling on a griddle. A major transportation innovation has just been unveiled at the Dubuque Regional Airport under the management of Andy Perry. Introducing the "Jet Bridge!" Larger airports have them. You know them and you love them. They're an advantage, too, from a safety aspect. As a pedestrian making your way to or from the jet, didn't you feel a little vulnerable? The deafening sound from the engines was enough to raise your stress level. Besides making the proverbial pail full of golf umbrellas obsolete, the jet bridge signifies an important technological event in airport history. It is truly state-of-the-art beyond the mere convenience of providing access to everyone including those with special needs. And for those of us who have had to board a plane with young children in tow, this innovation is almost a Godsend. "Mom! You're squeezing my hand too tight!" "I do it because I love you. Or would you prefer we check you through to Portland as luggage?" Watch the video and see how significant a jet bridge can be to so many people in our community.

Top left photo, City Council's Joyce Connors gets a personal tour of the Jet Bridge by Any Perry. Top photo, a large turnout of guests showed up for the event, so many, in fact, it impeded passenger traffic to a waiting plane and the lecturn had to be moved. Above, the ribbon is snipped.

Ambassador and composer, Paul Hemmer, entertains prior the ribbon cutting ceremony at Kepart's Music Center at their new location on Dodge Street. He's featured on the film clip.

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June 2005

his is the most charming if not most entertaining ribbon cutting show we've ever done on this website. It features the musical styling of our own Dubuque Ambassador of Music, Paul Hemmer. This video clip will certainly be eligible for the short film sound track category at the next Academy Awards. Rusty Kephart's business was recently relocated to the Dodge Street location from its original site downtown, but because of construction of the new downtown elementary school, Kephart had to find a new location. Now we all can enjoy 11,000 square feet of retail, instrument repair and instructional space that makes Kephart's one of the largest music stores in Eastern Iowa. Learn more about this wonderful family business, meet the owners, and enjoy the music on this particularly entertaining video clip.

Above, Gary Olsen interviews Rusty Kephart while Paul Hemmer (just out of camera range) accompanies them on drums. It's a riot.

June 2005

his was an interesting if not historic event from an educational institution perspective. A large contributor to our area's quality of life not to mention employment and community cash flow is our colleges. They are among the oldest and longest running businesses in our community, most exceeding a century. So when Loras College announces a major expenditure to revamp its outdoor sports facility, affectionately referred to as the "Rock Bowl," a lot of people in the community pay attention. Perhaps it's because so many of our citizens have attended Loras and harbor fond memories of their education at America's oldest Catholic college west of the Mississippi. Loras College President, Jim Collins was interviewed for this video clip, and he spells out the scope of the newly designed facility. New parking, seating, and press box are among the amenities. And there was an interesting announcement made at these festivities. Dubuque's Wahlert High School will be playing all of its home football games at Loras College when the field is complete... an excellent way for Loras to share the college campus experience with one of the top resources for new students in the area.

Shannon Gaherty, DRA Community Affairs and Dubuque Ambassador, played a dual role as host and Ambassador at the recent ribbon cutting festivities at Dubuque Greyhound Park & Casino

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he advantages of being one of the first communities in Iowa to establish a legal gaming business has paid off in so many ways, it's almost incalculable. Perhaps Donna Smith, County Board of Supervisors, explained it best in her remarks. She thanked the city and county planners, politicians and visionaries at the time the park was first proposed, for their vision and tenacity to get it built at a time when "the economy was sinking... it was in the tank." Now, when you look at the economic opportunities that have radiated from this hub of enterprise on our newly revitalized Mississippi River Front, the results have far exceeded most everyone's expectations.

Bruce Wentworth, the manager of Dubuque Greyhound Park & Casino, said to Gary Olsen in an interview prior the ceremony (it's on the video clip here). "I wake up every morning, and as I drive to work, I see the impact our operation has had on the community. Everyone experiences that impact every day in some way or another." In appreciation of what the DRA has done for education in the community, Olsen presented Wentworth with a special plaque thanking him and the DRA for their support of the Dubuque Community Schools.

And now as a period of economic prosperity continues in our community, we are on the eve of a new community-wide planning initiative that will set some goals for the next 10 years. This kind of exercise would never have happened if it were not for that first exercise in community planning that occurred several years ago, now, when a group of business people discussed the possibilities of Iowa's first dog track.

At left, the Dubuque Ambassadors, members of the Chamber of Commerce, the mayor, Terry Duggan, and his City Council colleagues help the manager of Bruce Wentworth cut the ribbon on the new Dubuque Greyhound Park & Casino remodeling project. Below is one of the giant hand painted frogs promoting a National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium exhibit this summer, welcoming guests to the Casino.

he store is called Pixie Stix, and it is an innovative toy store at 433 Bluff Street in the historic 4th St. shopping district. It's recent expansion to almost three times the retail space was reason to celebrate with the Dubuque Ambassadors and Chamber president Rusty Knight as master of ceremonies. Owners Kathy Hubbard and Kim Kunkle showed us around, and it's quite possible this is one of the most exciting toy retailers in the area. It's more of a toy, game, doll, and clothing and shoes collection than a traditional toy store. "You just don't get this kind of creativity from the big box retailers," said one of the family members in attendance. He should know something about the toy business (it was Fred Ertl who is the father of Kim Kunkle... you know... Ertl Toys?).

Photos on this page are linked to larger more printable versions.

he retail space next to Hy-Vee on Dodge Street was available, and Denny Hartaugh and his colleagues set their sites on it as the home of Hy-Vee Wine and Spirits. It's a space separate of the rest of Hy-Vee and it's managed by Steve Wallace. The facility is lovely. For wine lovers, it has a library feel with row after row of some of the best if not more popular wines from around the nation and the word.

Once again, Hy-Vee proves it can be an innovative retailer. It's all about convenience, explains Steve Wallace. "If you don't see what you want, tell us about it, and we'll stock it."

As the song says, "There's a helpful smile in every aisle."

inley Hospital is one of Dubuque, Iowa's great health care institutions, whose illustrious history is Dubuque's history. Under the direction of John Knox, the hospital is undergoing some incredible changes, and it all starts with the newly remodeled entrance. Now emergency care and general admitting are better separated to afford better patient confidentiality, more efficient patient admitting and information processing.

Taking the helm as master of ceremonies is Carole Reed who does a wonderful job on this video. Vicki Bechen handles the certificate presentation. Join us by clicking one of the buttons on the left, and you are at the ribbon cutting event.

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Left, Kevin Lynch interviews Dr. Mary Lynn Neumeister of the Neumeister Animal Hospital in Dubuque. The facility specializes in pets, primarily cats and dogs, and they have a comprehensive pet dental specialty. They also board pets. You should see the kitty condos. Join us on this latest adventure with the Dubuque Ambassadors.

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Dubuque Ambassador Gary Olsen interviews Jody and kitty in residence Domino on this segment that is a virtual tour of the Animal Hospital. We have puppies, too, on this clip! More photos below.

n Dubuque we have among the best animal health care of any community this size. One of the venerable names in Dubuque veterinary medicine is Neumeister and the Neumeister Animal Hospital, a family owned business that began in the 1950s and continues today with the daughter of the founder, a graduate of Iowa State University, Dr. Mary Lynn Neumeister loves to tell of her travels with her dad as a young girl helping him with all manner of four legged patients. Neumeister Animal Hospital is located next to (East of) the Lowes/Walmart shopping plaza on Hwy 20. You can't miss the sign and the lovely building.

Gary (above) interviews an extremely friendly kitty, and gets an exclusive interview with showdog and shelty Leah (below) in her suite at Neumeister Animal Hospital.

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At right are some of our Ambassadors trying on a few things. Maryann is nuts over the prices.

n business, timing is everything, and being able to quickly capitalize on a trend, a piece of prime property, and (here's something rare), completely shift business gears to relocate two blocks north from your original location on Historic Main Street, is perhaps a gift of vision. Now Honest John's (newly named HJ's Fashion Emporium) the business has more retail space, more eclectic inventory, and bargain prices on some hot merchandise. And the location, in the same block as the Bricktown Complex and Cafe Mana Java, couldn't be better from the owners' viewpoint. Terry Meadows is the manager of this family owned business, and her bubbly charm is evident in the interview we have with Ambassador Gary Olsen.

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Ambassador Gary Olsen schmoozes with Harley the Dog who is getting a bath while his master's car is being washed at Miracle Car Wash. That makes this a win win situation, unless, of course, you're the dog.

eing a Dubuquer means understanding certain icons or landmarks that have come to symbolize this little slice of heaven we call Dubuque. For example, when we say "Betty Jane's," you say "Gremlins." When we say "Miracle," you have to say, "Car Wash!" One of the greatest car care institutions in the history of our area, Miracle Car Wash that began in Dubuque in 1960, has created a 21st Century car wash experience on Dubuque's West End District. Located within view of the Northwest Arterial and Asbury Road, the facility has state-of-the art car wash technology, but even though it's high tech, they haven't lost the high touch car care quality you have come to expect from Miracle. This video segment undoubtedly represents everything you ever wanted to know about Miracle Car Wash, and it was shot and produced by Tim Brechlin, one of Dubuque's new generation media production professionals and owner of Brechlin Media.

What is so cool about Miracle Car Wash are the value-added amenities. For example, while you are getting your car washed, you can wash your dog in the special "Dog Wash Room" that has everything you need to wash Poochie. We demonstrate this first-hand in the film as we wash canine customer Harley. It's a riot. And have you ever really gotten to go through the car wash without a car? We do! And we don't get wet... much. That's because of the water conservation technology employed that puts water where it needs to and nowhere else. Did you know that car washes save more water than the average homeowner does when he or she washes the car in the driveway? True!

So join the Dubuque Ambassadors on this extended version (25 minutes) of our traditional Ribbon Cutting Show as we tour the car wash from the first squirt to the last hand buff. Kevin Lynch and Gary Olsen take you through the car wash... now quick cue the hit from that '70's movie, please. "Goin' to the Car Wash... Goin' to the Car Washer...."

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Join Ambassador Rose LoBianco (right) as she proves once again that a rose is a rose, especially when you're holding a rose, and you're so sweet. Rusty Knight takes his turn as the MC for this event. He was terrific..

or you old Dubuquers, here's a quiz question: What was the name of that North End Jackson Street greenhouse? Yes, Hopper's! Before that, what was it called? If you remember, email us. We can't remember. The point is, there's been a greenhouse at this location for over 100 years! True! But for several years since it was Hopper's, it was empty. Now, like a a spring tulip, life begins again in the warm soil that has become the groundwork for River Valley Landscaping and Nursery, and the Ambassadors were on hand to celebrate the grand opening. . Business partners, Doug Schmitt and Wayne Klostermann (pictured above), have totally remodeled, rehabilitated, and revived the business at this location, and neighbors and North End residents couldn't be happier. North End City Councilwoman, Joyce Connors, got to speak on behalf of the mayor, and she beamed as bright as the sun shining through the greenhouse roof.

Shooting this video and post production were performed by Tim Brechlin of TB Media Concepts and a frequent contributor to Dubuque Ambassadors videos.

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efore you read this, go get those vintage glasses from your dresser drawer, slick your hair back, and if you own a poodle skirt put it on, except for you mister... oh what the heck. This is the ribbon cutting for Hudson's Classic Grill at Asbury Plaza, and it is so cool it's hot.

Owned by the Harle-Heim sisters... wait a minute... they're mother and daughter? You're kidding! They look like the Tony sisters, or perhaps the Doublemint twins... remember the commercials from the fifties? Anyhow, these two girls got it goin' on! Now opening this fab franchise based in Texas, this is their first restaurant in Iowa.

Hudson's Classic Grill also has a bar, and it's a beauty! TVs strategically located throughout the restaurant give you a sports bar opportunity while still preserving the juke box joint of the fifties. You should see the tile floor. It's a gas.

And the food is wonderful. Hamburgers, French fries and rock and roll only cover part of the menu. The tower of onion rings is to die for, but there are a lot of other items on the menu including salads, desserts, and it's all good. Check out Hudson's at your earliest opportunity. We predict it will be so popular, you may have to wait for a table. But it will be worth it.

or those of you unfamiliar with Dubuque folklore, Potosa was the legendary daughter of Chief Kettle of the Fox Indian tribe that inhabited the area of Dubuque west of the Mississippi. Julien Dubuque, the French Canadian who explored the area for mineral wealth, made a deal with the Indians to mine the lead, and he took Potosa for his bride.

Pam Linden knew of the legend, and since she was locating her new gift shop in the historic Main Street District and in the town's namesake Julien Hotel, no less, Potosa's Cache (French for secret), was a natural. Pam's business caters not only to the tourist but to the wedding planner, the fashionable female looking for unique accessories, and those among us looking for unique Dubuque giftables.

The Dubuque Ambassadors were on hand for the ribbon cutting, as was members of the Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce, Dubuque Main Street LTD., and representatives of area businesses and the Julien Hotel.

Photos on ths page are linked to larger more printable versions.

Rod Bakke presents the Ambassador Plaque to Wayne Briggs, developer of the Hilton Gardens.

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Right, Kevin Lynch of Net-Smart and boardmember of the Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce, interviews developer Wayne Briggs at the ground breaking for the Hilton Gardens adjacent the Dubuque Greyhound Park and Casino inDubuque.

e honest (this is for Dubuque readers of this website only, please). Did you ever in your life imagine yourself uttering the words "Hilton" and "Dubuque" in the same sentence? Could this be the moment we thought would never happen? Dubuque is going upscale. It actually started earlier than this with the opening of some fine dining establishments. Developer Wayne Briggs summarized his belief in Dubuque best of all in his interview with Kevin Lynch on this video segment. "We are operating a business in this town, and we needed better business-class hotel rooms for our own clients and business partners." So Mr. Briggs and his cadre of local investors is building one... a Hilton Gardens, complete with restaurant and adjacent to the Dubuque Greyhound Park and Casino. Now the former landfill has become a goldmine of sorts, a resort complex that would have been beyond our city fathers' and grandfathers' wildest dreams. Wayne is a Dubuque native who used to play along the shores of the island on which he is building his new hotel. It's another great story about a young, energetic entrepreneur with a vision. Soon, his vision will extend to the property occupied by the old Dubuque Packing Company. It will be fun looking forward to that ground breaking, too.

The mattressmaker shows us the manufacturing space at Dubuque Mattress on DodgeStreet. These photos are linked to printable versions. Just click on them.

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amily businesses? We Ambassadors love 'em. The Dolter family acquired one of the most trusted name in mattress manufacturing in Dubuque, Dubuque Mattress Company. They moved to a new location at 3220 Dodge. The owner is Doug Dolter. The company has been a fixture in Dubuque for decades, but the Dolter's are well known in the business community themselves that began many years ago with Dolter's restaurants in Dubuque, Basket Expressions in the Fourth Street District, and now this enterprise. The Dubuque Ambassadors were on hand for the grand opening and ribbon cutting. It was wonderful as Ambassadors tried out the various mattresses in the ample showroom that occupies a new strip mall that is adjacent The Bike Shack property. Watch the funny video we produced of the occasion. Below is Carol Townsend, the owner of Sedona Staffing and President of the Chamber of Commerce. The camera loves here.

The Dolter's with Carol and City Councilman Roy Buol.

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rom Pennsylvania Avenue in front of Hempstead High School you can see the construction site, and it's impressive. It's called Oak Park Place, Dubuque's newest condominium and assisted living apartment project for senior adults. Developers held their ground breaking ceremonies well after the dozers and excavators broke ground last fall. Perhaps not everyone was in town at that time. Despite the cold weather, muddy road, lingering snow, and ground that was still frozen, Dubuque Ambassadors were on hand for one of the more interesting if not unusual and most challenging ceremonies on March 17th. The complex is on property adjoining the Medical Associates West Campus, and it's an extraordinarily ambitious project. Developers, which include Bob Hartig, local physicians, and financial partners American Trust and Savings Bank, determined this was the opportune time for a ceremony. Perhaps the Dubuque Ambassadors should invest in trademark red parkas. Tom Barton is the host on this video, and he's a crackup as usual.

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n February, we inaugurate a new child care facility in Dubuque... a strategic partnership between Finley Hospital and the Dubuque Community Y. Since the latter was already involved in a very successful pre-K child care enterprise, it was considered an opportune time to expand to meet the increasing need for child care facilities in Dubuque, and fulfill Finley Hospital's objective of offering comprehensive child care on the Finley campus. The new facility occupies some former doctor's offices at the corner of West 3rd and Grandview, the nearly geographic center of the community, and that makes it convenient for parents. There's ample parking in the adjoining ramp and a perfect drop off area in front of the main entrance off the main thoroughfare. "It's perfect," says John Knox, Finley's executive officer who presided over the ribbon cutting. On hand to share the celebration was the Dubuque Community Y's Toby Wisecup. "We needed to expand, and Finley became an excellent and logical partner," explains Wisecup. Learn more details about the facility by watching the 10 minute video that tours the center and interviews some of the caregivers and a child or two. Below is Carole Reed who was master of ceremonies for this event. Carole is the Membership Director for the Dubuque Chamber of Commerce.

Host for the first half of this show is Tom Barton (A.G. Edwards) who is just hilarious at Flowers on Main. The second half of the movie is hosted by Carol Townsend (Sedona Staffing Services) and she's at M. Spa and Salon.

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n February, we had several grand openings and ribbon cuttings, and on one particular day in February we had two. So we combined these two on one show. The opening of Flowers on Main is actually a return to business after a fire devastated the store some months ago. But now the business has reopened, and it's better than ever. So many people in Dubuque like to "say it with flowers," and this business, owned and operated by Rinda Wolff, continues the tradition of a florist shop at this address on Main Street for over three decades.

M. Spa and Salon located that convenient mall on Kennedy Circle behind Premier Bank on Kennedy Road, is owned and operated by Jill Majarus and her family. It's a beautiful full service salon, and they have an interesting specialty... children! You should see their kids' only salon. It's a pip. They even do birthdays. Wouldn't that be fun for your daughter? Heck, it would be fun for mom and dad, too. They have full service massage, foot care, manicures and pedicures, and they have wonderful hair stylists up on all the latest hair care trends and designs.

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(Left) host for the festivities, Kevin Lynch, interviewed owner, Dean Millius just prior the ribbon cutting ceremonies.

or generations, 605 West Locust was home to a succession of used car dealers. However, the property became abandoned, and a good deal of time passed before a local developer would rescue the land and make it into something that, hopefully, would enhance the commercial value of the neighborhood. Now there's a mini-mall featuring a popular Dollar General store, and a restaurant. Mr. Goodcents Subs and Pasta opened on a unusually warm day for a February. With the temperature near 50 degrees outside, the sun shining brightly, the Dubuque Ambassadors helped Dean and Patti Millius open their new restaurant. The menu is smart in this day and age with pastas and sub sandwiches made fresh on freshly baked bread every day (Patti is the baker in the family). "The Neighborhood Association wanted a restaurant in this development," explained Dean, "and we were more than happy to step up." The Mr. Goodcents brand is a franchise out of Kansas City. This is apparently their first restaurant in this part of the country, and the corporate marketers would like to build more. Its unique menu combining subs, pastas and salads hit the nutritional targets of families wanting an alternative to burgers and fries. The location is excellent for this operation, with its proximity to the colleges and high school, and West Locust being a busy thoroughfare linking downtown businesses with West End District residents.

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Sugar Ray's Barbecue Grand Opening January 26, 2005

f this looks like we we were having too much fun, you would be correct in your assumption. Sugar Ray's Barbecue at 1106 University Avenue in what is becoming known as the "University Avenue Food Court" is in a neighborhood famous for homegrown food. There's Jack's Chicken Palace, a Happy Joe's (started in Iowa), and, of course, now Sugar Ray's all in a circle in was was once referred to as "Dog Town." For the ribbon cutting Ray brought out his most famous recipe ribs and chicken wings. Ambassadors feasted heartily. Ray and Cynthia were gracious hosts, and this exciting new restaurant, take-out, and catering business is destined to become a landmark. Winner of several local and regional food prizes including Best Fest, Ray is not only famous for his nibs but his pulled pork sandwhiches are among the best you've ever tasted. Make sure you bring home sides like his beans and homemade cole slaw.

The Ambassadors and Carol Townsend, President of the Chamber of Commerce, cut the ribbon on Sugar Ray's Barbecue 1106 University Ave. Left is the legendary Sugar Ray, himself. "Make sure you try the beans."

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Drs. Dennis O'Donnell and Vicki Souder.

January 25, 2005 (click on the photo above to download printable enlargements.)

The Tri-States Clinic of Chiropractic is located in the newly remodeled sanctuary behind the former Grandview United Methodist Church at 419 N. Grandview. Located in the exact geographic center of Dubuque, it features ample free parking, convenient no-steps entrance, and here's the best part: partners Dr. Dennis O'Donnell and Dr. Vicki Souder, who practice a holistic approach to chiropractic care that combines rehabilitative therapies for such things as injury recovery, the relief of chronic pain, and general overall health. Join the Ambassadors for this insightful look into the newest chiropractic clinic in Dubuque. Ambassador Gary Olsen interviews the doctors, and in the final portion of the video undergoes some form of therapy himself. Didn't we all know he needed therapy? It's about time!

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Jim Waller's last day as a Dubuque County Supervisor was marked by the presence of his many friends, members of the Dubuque Area Chamber Ambassadors. Rod Bakke, on behalf of the Ambassadors, thanked Jim formally for his years of service and his participation in the many ribbon cuttings, ground breakings and other ceremonies he attended right along with the Ambassadors. Knowing Jim these many years, you realize that his presence at these events was not really political. He was genuinely interested in new businesses, expanding businesses, and meeting people." It was a learning experience," he said. "It was always interesting to be there," remarked Jim. Rod Bakke, who spoke on behalf of the Ambassadors, said he hoped the new supervisor, Wayne Demmer, and other board members realize how valuable their involvement and cooperation are as we welcome new and expanding businesses in our area. "This may happen to you someday," said Rod.

Jim Waller, a great friend to the Dubuque Chamber Ambassadors, was honored at our annual holiday party at Bricktown for his participation and support of ribbon cutting and ground breaking events on behalf of the County Board of Supervisors. For more photos of this event, click here!

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Right, Gary Olsen interviews the publisher of vue365, Brice Johnson. Photos on this page are linked to printable enlargements.

Download the video. It's filled with wonderful outtakes a bloopers.

A Website idea that started with a group of friends sitting around a pizza at Mario's in Dubuque, has grown from Bryce Park's apartment attic start-up to its own totally groovy digs in a beautifully rehabilitated building in the Historic Main Street District. It's been five years and lots of pizzas later. Now the company has franchises statewide, and has expanded into a biweekly publication called vue365 under the creative direction of Brice Johnson. On the Website side, Bryce Parks (don't get too confused... thankfully they spell their first names differently) is still running the online show so to speak. Bryce and his brother Brad have now formed a staff to handle advertising sales, Website content, and, well, the whole joint is jumpin'! What other office would you find two electric guitars and amplifiers always plugged in and at the ready (Bryce plays with a band called, Rocket Surgeons)? Dubuque365.com has become the cultural communication hub for the Tri-State Area, and it is clearly the best at what it does. It not only announces what's going to happen in our city, but it keeps a chronological archive of photos and videos of what just happened in the form of online albums. According to Bryce Parks, his organization has reached out to the community and embraced all of the groups and organizations who needed help promoting their events, and therefore they filled an important need. Now they are replicating this formula in towns throughout Iowa. There are now 17 don365 communities in the state and the list is destined to grow.

Decmeber 15, 2004

Right next door in the same building as dubuque365.com and vue365 is a new menswear store in the Historic Main Street District. It's called Hardin-Phelps. It's an edgy, European-influenced clothing store for the man of extraordinary tastes. We are talking fashion, here, my friends. Most of the clothing is European imports and look like they just leaped from the pages of GQ. But before you think you have to be a member of the tattoo and miscelaneous pearcings crowd, check it out because you're sure to find something that you've been looking for. But take your wife or girlfriend with you to just bounce some ideas off of her. The fabrics and knits are fabulous.

Carol Townsend, host of the ribbon cutting at Hardin-Phelps, introduces the store's owners.

December 10 , 2004

You can tell alot about a community's quality of life by how it takes care of everyone. In this apartment environment designed and built for Area Residential Care clients, you can see the thoughtfulness and attention to details that make this facility one of the finest of its kind in the country. Under the direction of John Romaine, Executive Director of ARC, the two-story apartment building has 16 units (8 upstairs and 8 downstairs). They range in size from 640 to 822 square feet and are actually suites complete with separate bedrooms kitchen and dining areas. The concept allows roommate living that further enhances the quality of life for clients. Engineered and built by Conlon Construction, the facility is located just off Kennedy Circle, walking distance to stores and convenient mass transit stops (mini-busses stop right outside the door). Many of the clients are employed throughout the area, and the location of this apartment complex couldn't be better.

A resident shows us his bedroom. "It's great to be living on my own."

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Ann Onufrack, formerly of Walden's now at Border's, demonstrates the CD barcode player device. The employees at Walden's were given positions with Borders upon the smaller book store's closing at Kennedy Mall.

Borders Bookstore is one of the nation's largest retailers of books, periodicals, music and videos, and now they have a store at Kennedy Mall in Dubuque. It is quite special as book stores go. It has a coffee bar, lots of nice comfy chairs, and it's all very cozy. Here's something interesting, however. Since so much of what Borders sells is media other than books, they've got these bar code readers attached to headphones or LCD monitors throughout the store. Let's say you want to listen to some music on a CD you are considering. Just scan the bar code beneath the device, and the music plays in the headphones. If you want to see a bit of a video, take the DVD, scan it under the device, and voila! You're watching a movie clip. Extremely cool technology that makes shopping truly fun. The Dubuque Ambassadors were on hand to witness the grand opening celebration and ribbon cutting.

Below, Tom Reilly is "gettin' down" baby, groovin' to the tunes on the magic headset in the CD aisle.

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November 18, 2004

Clarke College communications student and soon to be famous film maker, Tim Brechlin, produced this video of the ribbon cutting for Outside the Lines Gallery at 377 Bluff Street in Dubuque. The gallery, under the ownership of Connie Twining and Stormy Mochal, is an eclectic mix of art both decorative and functional. There's even wearable art in the form of jewelry designed and crafted by area artisans. From the paintings on the wall to pottery on the shelf, from stained glass in the windows to utterly lovely jewelry in the display cases, this store is a veritable showcase for local and area artists. Connie and Stormy both have long careers in the arts in our community, and bring to the business a loyal and knowledgeable clientele. The location for the store, in the historic section of Bluff Street near the Fourth Street Elevator, ensures lots of out of town and tourist traffic. But as every store owner knows, you need to appeal to the local customers, too, and this knowledgeable duo knows just how to appeal to those critical customers. By the way, you can visit their website at www.otlag.com

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November 16, 2004

Our own Dubuque Chamber Ambassador, Chuck Donnelly, is the Store Director for HyVee Asbury, and we helped him and his staff celebrate the grand opening of the new HyVee Gas at Asbury Plaza, just across the parking lot from the highly successful HyVee food store. HyVee Gas represents a serious growth strategy for the food retailer, one of the top privately held corporations in the US. The HyVee organization is somewhat of a pioneer in their fields of endeavor, retail grocery, prepared foods, catering, multi-convenience services, and now HyVee Gas. The marketing concept is very innovative. Offer fill-ups and car washes as incentives to shop the nearby HyVee food store. The complimentary marketing represents a big opportunity for the company, especially at their location in the bustling and seemingly ever-growing Asbury Plaza Shopping Plaza. Join the Ambassadors and host Kevin Lynch, representing the Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce, as we cut a ribbon at HyVee Gas.

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November 9, 2004

Chamber president, Carol Townsend, said it best as she performed her usual splendid master of ceremonies duty for this grand opening and ribbon cutting. "We hope you'll make a lot of dough." The absolutely spectacular Panera Bread, the chain's 14th store in the State of Iowa, erupted in applause and laughter. The Ambassadors were not only on hand to lend support to the launch of this enterprise, but to sample breakfast fare as we were all part of a test customer group designed to help train all of the new employees. Each guest was given script worth $5 to spend any way we chose. There was gourmet coffee drinks, Danish, bagels and coffee cake flying in all directions, and with what money there may have been left over, baguettes of French and Asiago cheese bread went home in a bag.

In the photo above, local boy, Brian McGrath, is the manager for the Dubuque store (local boy makes good, comes home to Dubuque and is running a successful business? Looks like a Chamber of Commerce ad campaign in the making! Quick get a nice photo!). Gary Olsen interviews Panera officials. At left, Michelle Berridge Scoville breaks bread (and helps cut the red ribbon) during the ceremony. You may remember Michelle from KGAN Channel 2 News. The former anchor is now manager of Public Affairs for Panera in Iowa, the fastest growing restaurant chain/bakery in the nation with stores throughout the midwest.

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This is not just a story about a neighborhood group who got together to petition the city to install new (in this case antique reproduction) street lighting. It's a story about how a neighborhood got it's character and life back.

Long considered one of the architectural treasures of our city, the Loras Blvd. area below its namesake college fell into disrepair and, frankly, there were problems with youth and some crime. But over time, an art gallery opened, a new park was installed (Rocco Budda) a playground, a great coffee shop opened (Boulevard Joe's); so the installation of the street lights really is a metaphor for a much larger glowing success that has helped the neighborhood get back on its feet.

Local law enforcement did its part by creating bike patrols, and made police so much more accessible to neighbors in the area. Even the kids had to respect the cops' abilities on those Trek mountain bikes. All in all, the beautiful street lights illuminate much more than just the night streets in the Loras neighborhood. As Mayor Terry Duggan so aptly put it as master of ceremonies of the official switching on of the street lights, "This is a great day. It shows that Dubuque is not just a city of neighborhoods, but everyone can come together to make things happen."

A nice group of Dubuque Ambassadors in their red coats, neighbors, city officials, and children playing nearby applauded as the street lights began to glow on this crisp autumn afternoon as the daylight waned.

As you walk into the old Grandview Methodist Church just off five corners in Dubuque's College Grandview District, you can't help be surprised by the absence of pews and the racks of fine suits, shirts, ties and slacks. What is really wonderful about this retail space is the lighting. Everything is bathed in the glow of of light streaming through the antique stained glass windows.

It's a spectacular space with its polished hard maple floors, and vaulted ceiling. Phil Keating, a longtime retailer of men's fashions in Dubuque, just loves it. He's in a grand location with excellent parking, and he's in a landmark building that is easy to find. It's also located near one of the busiest thoroughfares in the city. Phil's expertise in high quality men's clothing is really what has built his customer base over the years, and he has a loyal following. Such lines as Hart, Shaffner & Marks and Ralph Loren allows Phil to span generations of shoppers looking for quality and fashion.

Needless to say, there were plenty of excellent jokes told at Phil's Ambassador ribbon cutting. The best one was told by master of ceremonies and president of the Board of the Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce, Carol Townsend. She began the program by saying, "And they said you didn't have a prayer..."

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Engraved Gift Collection

October15, 2004

Net-Smart's Kevin Lynch interviews Dan, Dennis and Brian Frank at their Grand Opening Celebration of Engraved Gift Collection located on Main Street in Dubuque. This is an interesting family business because it actually has two addresses: 962 Main Street in downtown Dubuque, and engravedgiftcollection.com on the Internet. The business is expanding in physical space as well as cyberspace. It all started with Dan Frank and his penchant for making beautiful things out of hardwoods, photo album covers primarily. Now, the woodworking project that started more than 20 years ago when he made the first wood covered photo album for his wife, has evolved into laser engraving, dye sublimation transfers, metal engraving, and all sorts of gift products that include advertising specialty items, corporate gifts, wedding, baby, graduation, birthday and anniversary gifts. With the new Main Street location, they have a growing number of walk-in customers. Combine this with business-to-business contracts for corporate and promotional gifts, awards and other incentive merchandise that can be personalized or engraved, and you have a steadily growing business. The Frank Family have successfully combined new technology with craftsmanship and creativity. The Internet has provided a worldwide marketplace. The wood covered photo albums are a hit with professional photographers and consumers such as scrap bookers.

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Above, the ribbon cutting. Right, the line extended all the way out the parking lot for the Grand Opening of Kohl's in Dubuque.

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Kohl's Dubuque Grand Opening

October 2004

Kohl's Department Store, Asbury Plaze, opened on a crisp autumn day to one of the largest crowds the Ambassadors have ever seen at 7:45 AM! Kohl's ran several ads on all media that attracted a line of people that extended from the front door to the back of the parking lot near the access lane. "I've never seen anything like this at this early in the day," confessed Ambassador Del Johnson who represented the team during the ceremony. Bill Kaesbauer was late because a grain truck overturned on his route to the event blocking traffic. How about that for a corny excuse?

Ambassador, Gary Olsen, interviews the manager of Kohl's, Todd Raber.

Movies and still images by Tim Brechlin, the Clarke College Media Lab.

Tri-State Millworks & Finishing

October 2004

Here's a home-grown family business that started out in a parents' basement when the founder of this firm was not even 10 years old. The company has now grown into this facility that does custom millwork for contractors and home owners. The technology employed is computer aided, and the variety of moldings and furniture

Above is Paul Hunstad and his crew including his father-in-law above right. Paul's sales manager, Jim Krug, is on the left here. "We can make practically anything out of wood," says Jim, "molding of any size, shape or configuration including finish work that will save the home owner countless hours in preparing their interior rooms."

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The Ice Harbor Galley at Port of Dubuque

October 2004

What a delightful floating restaurant on the banks of Dubuque's famed Ice Harbor! An expansion of the Spirit of Dubuque enterprise under the ownership of Walt and Nancy Webster, this floating galley can cater meals for approximately 150 people. The two-story barge has a restaurant on the top deck, and a fully functional catering kitchen on the first deck. This is a wonderful addition to the Ice Harbor and the Webster's business as they grow their target market to include more special events like wedding parties, anniversaries, gatherings and celebrations of all flavors. Below you can see the gang plank that takes guests to the restaurant on the second deck.

STARBUCKS in Asbury HyVee

September, 2004

Our own Dubuque Chamber Ambassador, Chuck Donnelly, is the Store Director for HyVee Asbury, and we helped him and his staff celebrate the grand opening of the new located just inside the highly successful HyVee food store. Join the Ambassadors and host Kevin Lynch, representing the Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce, as we cut a ribbon at HyVee STARBUCKS.

Dedication and Ribbon Cutting at Fountain Park's Atrium and Mansion

September, 2004

Tom Kane, the developer on this project, is interviewed on this movie, and the shots of the interiors as well as the exteriors of the fantastic development at the corner of Asbury and Chaney, are wonderful thanks to the fine work of the Clarke College Media Lab. This is a unique office and professional park as such properties go in that it made good use of existing structures, a 19th Century mansion that is exquisite in its restored details, and an old Catholic monastery. The Church and monastery were changed into a restaurant, Rafters, and a theater for live stage performances under the direction of the celebrated Sue Reidel. The Rafter's Restaurant is nothing short of spectacular under the direction of Bart Kintzinger.

Our movie was shot and produced by the Clarke College Media Lab under the instruction of Ambassador, Gary Olsen, who usually shoots these videos, but turned the duties over to his students. They did a wonderful job, and you'll be seeing more of their work on this website in the coming weeks.

Below is Tom Kane speaking to the crowd during the ribbon cutting ceremony. Upper left is the moment we all were waiting for, the cutting of the ribbon.

The Dubuque Chamber of Commerce Welcomes Newcomers at Embrace Dubuque

September, 2004

We did something a little different for this event attended by the Ambassadors. We brought in a crew from Clarke College who, themselves, are newcomers to the area, and we wanted to see their impressions. The crew is from the Clarke College Media Lab under the direction of our own Dubuque Ambassador, Gary Olsen, who is also featured on this video. In the photo on the left is Chris Kleitsch (Cascade), Torry Sipp (Chicago), Brianne Malloy (Milwaukee), Amanda Martin (we don't know, but she's from somewhere other than here), and Mishereen Ellis (Jamaica).

The event is organized twice a year by the Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce, and the project is managed by Bob Berglin, Workforce Development Director for the Chamber. This event was held at the Dubuque Inn Best Western, and it featured over 20 informational booths hosted by businesses and organizations in the Tri-State area. Included was the Dubuque Community Y, Bricktown, Sedona Staffing, Dubuque Schools, The Telegraph Herald, The Lions Club, The Floor Show, among other businesses, clubs and organizations.

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City of Dubuque Flood Control Project on Dubuque's Northend District

September 20, 2004

A large earthen dam now spans the glen along Carter Road where two creeks drained into one. Steady growth of housing, commercial development and additional streets northwest of the city have reduced the ground's ability to absorb occasional heavy rains. Flooding of basements on Dubuque's Northend neighborhoods along the Couler Valley was a frequent occurrence. Engineering studies pointed to a three phase plan to help solve the torrent of flood waters that couldn't be properly handled by existing storm sewers and the 32nd Street Retention Basin. The dam and hydraulic gate will enable engineers to hold back flood water, releasing it slowly into the main creek below. It only took one year to design, engineer and build this intermediate flood water control mechanism along Carter Road. Join Mayor Terry Duggan, city staff, and engineers on the project along with the Dubuque Ambassadors as we cut the ribbon on this important civil engineering project.

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