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Learn how to install the free software required to view our Groovy Movies

The Dubuque Chamber Ambassadors are using the latest technology to provide you with a lasting memory of your grand opening or celebratory event. In addition to photos, we have movies! You can download and view your event in streaming video from this website. It's best to have high-speed access to the Internet. Details on how to get the most out of this technology are below on this page.

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 Windows Media and RealMedia format, and your browser should be equipped with the software plug-in 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.

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

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August 2006

Office Depot is a national chain that now has a location in Dubuque, IA at Asbury Plaza. Right off the bat, Office Depot used the occasion of their Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting to give checks for school supplies and office supplies to local charitable organizations including the Dubuque Community Schools and the Dubuque School District Foundation. Students were there from Lincoln Elementary to accept the gift. Nice touch.

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August 2006

Angeles Retirement Community, located in Dubuque's growing West End District, is a magnificent complex as you will see by the video. As we were filming, moving vans were arriving quite regularly, and that must mean people are eager to locate there. It is a trend in Dubuque housing that is coming at just the right time.

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August 2006

Aarons is located in Wacker Plaza, and they specialize in furniture, electronic, computers and appliances. According to their management team, they will not be undersold. This chain of retailers has been very successful throughout the country, and now they have a wonderful location in Dubuque in an extraordinarily convenient location with plenty of parking.

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July 2006

What an outstanding local company, a family business success story. What started out as a means to keep his concrete construction crews working throughout the winter has turned into a major family owned business for founder Jim Edwards and his three sons. Cast architectural stone is a huge business, and it requires skilled labor. Needless to say, the Edwards family cares deeply for its employees for it was as you recall, Jim Edwards' desire to keep them working year 'round because he knew how important these skilled employees were to his business. And with this in mind, maintaining a safe working environment is a critical factor in Edwards Cast Stone Company's success formula. They are so conscientious that OSHA awarded the company and its workforce with a prestigious prize, the SHARP Award (left). The Dubuque Chamber Ambassadors were invited to the festivities to help this fine local company celebrate its success.

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July 2006

Habitat for Humanity in Dubuque just built a new house in what's called a "Blitz Build." A Blitz Build is accomplished by a lot of cooperative people getting together to build a house from the foundation up in about seven days. What a monumental coordination of effort! Todd Swift, the chairman of the area Habitat for Humanity that builds homes for qualified families who wouldn't be able to afford a more traditional home, says the Blitz Build calls attention to how a community of tradespeople and contractors can pull together for a great and common cause that really benefits everyone, not just the family who moves in. The neighborhood benefits, and the area agencies and participants, volunteers and the city benefit from this altruistic enterprise. And in this episode we introduce a new talent via the Dubuque Community Schools, Miss Linsay Haverland. She interviews Todd Swift in the video.

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June 2006

The Kristie Fens Agency (Allstate Insurance) opened on Cedar Cross Road in Dubuque to a worthy fanfare and well wishes from the Dubuque Chamber Ambassadors. Ann Michalski, City Council and Mayor Pro-tem, was on hand for the dedication and ribbon cutting, and she is always wonderful in her comments when it comes to entrepreneurial women in our community. Kristie Fens' story is one of hard work, dedication, expertise, and taking advantage of circumstances and creativing a great enterprise to take care of a growing list of dedicated and loyal customers. Dubuque is a relationship town, and Kristie Fens is a great example of how to work that to everyone's mutual advantage, business and customer alike.

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May 2006

Kim Tully takes the microphone and introduces this fantastic new business in the historic Fourth Street shopping District in Dubuque. Among the great businesses belonging to the Dolter family in Dubuque (Basket Expressions just down the street on Bluff), This store brings the excitement and bling on fashion's cutting edge to Dubuque.

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May 2006

Among the thorny problems that accompany economic growth and business success is traffic and congestion around your major intersections. Take the intersection of JFK, US 20 and Cedar Cross Road. A solution to the congestion at that intersection was this project that enabled University Ave., that feeds JFK, to extend directly to US 20 sufficiently east of the former intersection, and allowing traffic that needs to access Theisen's Farm & Home and other businesses to the east on 20 a more direct route. The results so far have been excellent. The engineering that went into the roadway was nothing short of monumental. A deep gully had to be tiled and filled in with enormous loads of fill, and the job took a good part of a year to complete. The Dubuque Ambassadors were on hand the day the barracades were removed and traffic lights turned on. Your tax dollar investment went right to work.

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May 2006

Target Store on Dodge Street does not stand still. It has embarked on some major expansions and reconfigurations of its retail space several times over the years. Under the management of Mike Tosky, the venerable discount store that specializes in brand names and exclusive designer merchandise has added food and a baby section to its aisles, and the Ambassadors were on hand to celebrate the grand opening to the public. Congratulations Mike and staff.

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May 2006

How many ribbon cuttings have the Ambassadors performed that were followed by the actual business motoring off down the Mississippi River? Not many. This new luxury yacht, moored at the Catfish Charlie's American Marine docks in Dubuque across from the Dubuque Greyhound Park, has dinner cruises, catering opportuntities, and reasonable prices that are sure to be a hit with local families looking for a unique venue for small wedding receptions, family reunions, anniversary parties and whatever event you have planned.

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May 2006

Bartini's bar on Historic Main Street is destined to be a hit in this neighborhood, and its proximity Cafe Mana Java has sparked a unique business relationship that is actually linked along a rear corridor between the businesses. Besides a great menu of drinks, Bartini's offers the famous brick oven wood roast pizzas to customers, and the strategy has not only expanded the opportunities for Bartini's but doubled the pizza business for neighbor Cafe Mana Java. Now that's a strategic business partnership!

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May 2006

Higley Chemicals is an old name in Dubuque that has provided supplies and cleaning agents for businsses in the Tri-State Area for generations. What is lovely about this ribbon cutting is that a family, well known to Dubuquers, the Picketts, have returned to Dubuque to purchase and operate the business. Val Pickett and his family invited the Ambassadors to celebrate the grand opening of the newly expanded Higley Chemical that now offers a line of paper products as well as their celebrated line of cleaning materials, solutions, coatings, and grease and grime removers. These cleaning products are original formulas that are extremely popular because of their effectiveness, and they are formulated right here in Dubuque.

Reza James Interiors Grand Opening on Main Street

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May 2006

Reza James Interiors is a interior design and furniture importing business that has a special flare for, textures unique woods, and exotic art. The business seeks out craftsmen from around the world, and nearly everything in the store is one-of-kind. You have to visit this place located in the historic Main Street District.

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May , 2006

In a beautifully converted building on the corner of Asbury and Carter is the new headquarters for the Dubuque Right to Life organization. The facility was expertly designed from an existing building that once housed a water conditioning service and, before that, a service station. Now the building provides an entirely new service, educating the community as to the values and services or this Dubuque Right to Life..

On hand for the ribbon cutting was the Dubuque Chamber Ambassadors and the president of the Chamber, Rusty Knight. Mayor Roy Buol and the County Board of Supervisors' Wayne Demmer.

There's some great footage of pizza crust tossing which is a fine illustration of just how hand-made these Falbo Brother's Pizzas are.

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May 11 , 2006

Falbo Brother's Pizza, in the Premier Bank Plaza on Kennedy Circle, is only the fifth franchise in this fabulous pizza restaurant that originated in Iowa City, IA. That's where owner, Jeremy Noel, worked and learned his trade. Now he owns his own. "I wanted to come home to Dubuque where I grew up, and I didn't want to work for someone else," explained Jeremy to the Ambassador camera. "I wanted to start something of my own." More than half of his business is pickup and delivery. But they also sell pizza by the slice, and they do a very brisk lunch business among the growing variety of businesses and employees in the area.

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May , 2006

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Rusty Knight, our splendid president of the Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce, presides over this Ambassador ribbon cutting at Shapes for Women, located in Dubuque's Center Grove district (next to Warren Plaza) in that new business complex with the palm trees. It's a thoroughly entertaining if not informative event. The world of fitness for women has an able advocate in this franchise operation that puts a number of specially tailored exercise devices and routines in a half hour circuit which is a very popular strategy for the busy woman. But what really makes this video unique is the conversation at the end of the tape between council persons Ann Mikhalski and Joyce Connors. Both women are strong advocates for female entrepreneurism, and it was fascinating to hear them speak candidly on this topic.

The ribbon is clipped on this wonderful retail space on Dubuque's South End.

Dubuque Chamber Ambassador Shannon Gaherty takes us on a whirlwind tour of the new Hy-Vee Store on Locust.

This Hy-Vee has something new, "Hy-Vee Baby," that stocks everything from baby formula to baby gifts (they even have a computerized baby gift registry right in the department. All photos on this page are linked to printable enlargements.

April 18, 2006

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Hy-Vee has truly emerged as a grocery, gas and convenience store powerhouse in our community, and now their new location, long awaited since the departure of Eagles at that same location in Dubuque's South End District, affirms their position. But you know what makes Hy-Vee one of the best food retailers in a neighborhood? They are one of the most generous businesses in the area, supporting everything from local organizations to national ones like Juvenile Diabetes. Then there are these business reasons why they are successful: They continuously innovate, offering more of what people want. A Hy-Vee Health Market, Starbuck's Coffee Shop, floral shop, the best deli around, in-store restaurant, dry cleaning establishment, banking (Dupaco Community Credit Union at this location), and they have a community room that they make available for clubs, classes or occasions like a wedding or baby shower. And since we're on the subject, Hy-Vee has established a new "Hy-Vee Baby" department. From baby food and the expected necessities to baby gifts (in-store computerized registry). So join the Ambassadors and store manager Denny Hartough for the ribbon cutting and grand opening celebration. Also, Ambassador Shannon Gaherty takes you on a whirlwind tour of the new store.

March 31, 2006

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Anyone familiar with Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is totally familiar with the famous Philly cheese steak sandwich. There are many pretenders to the recipe, but an enterprising Dubuque family who has ties to Philly, decided to bring back the authentic sandwich, the "real deal" to their beloved hometown. Their first shop opened this fall at famous Five Points intersection, the gateway to the Eagle Point Neighborhood, the corners of Rhomberg, Elm and Garfield Streets. Meet the owners of this newest of family businesses, and make a date to buy a Philly cheese steak basket with fries and a fabulous dill pickle, or a Vienna (Chicago Style) hotdog, or fish (for the Lenten season). Trust the Dubuque Ambassadors who sampled the sandwiches anf fish at the opening. You'll love it!

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Video by Ambassadors Gary Olsen (Dubuque Community Schools) and Jack Leblond (Net-Smart).

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Mike Portzen, owner of Mike Portzen Construction, speaks before friends, honored guests and the Dubuqe Chamber Ambassador on the occasion of the opening of his new headquarters on Highway 20 West.

March 21, 2006

here's an area adjacent or near Barrington Lakes west of Dubuque (205 Stone Valley Drive) where Portzen Construction Company has developed some parcels for industrial or retail purposes and that's where Mike Portzen decided to locate his dream of 17 years, a new construction company headquarters that befits this incredibly successful company. Portzen began his enterprise as many contractors do, engaged in concrete work, installing sidewalks, and he became a great and reliable supplier of his services to the City of Dubuque which became one of his best customers over the years. Today, Portzen Construction is a major player in area excavation, commercial construction and civil engineering projects with a fleet of trucks, machinery, and a band of extraordinary craftsmen that deliver excellent results on time and on or under budget more often than not. Join the Dubuque Chamber Ambassadors and Mike Portzen's many friends and customers as we inaugurate Portzen Construction's new headquarters.

March 1, 2006

Dr. In Jun Chong has opened his own chiropractic practice at 3219 Asbury Road (just east of Walgreens on JFK and Asbury). Make no mistake... this is a family enterprise. His sister (also a chiropractor and his supportive parents were on hand for our Ambassador ribbon cutting on March 1. We had a great turn out. Meanwhile, Dr. Chong is a columnist in the newspaper, All Iowa Sports and Fitness , and a contributor to vue365 magazine. The location of this business on Asbury Road is ideal for a small chiropractic practice. There's excellent parking, for example, and it's easy to get in and out on Asbury Rd. "Our mission is to get you back to health and to give you the tools to keep you healthy," says Dr. Chong.

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February 23, 2006

here was a hint of spring in the air as we joined the staff of Wells Fargo Home Mortgage at their new Dubuque office in that professional building behind Village Inn on JFK Road. Steward Sandstrom, CEO of the Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce is the master of ceremonies for this ribbon cutting, and he also interviewed the Wells Fargo district manager (above), to learn of his company's desire to locate an office in our Dubuque market. Wells Fargo Home Mortgage offers cutting edge services. You can manage your Wells Fargo mortgage and other accounts quickly and easily online, whenever it's convenient for you. Have your mortgage payment automatically deducted from your checking or savings account each month, and relax knowing that your payment will be on time, every time.

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The turtle above is linked to a non-streaming RealPlayer video that is most suitable for dialups. It doesn't stream, and will play when fully downloaded. The rabbit and rocket are linked to progressively larger RealPlayer streaming media files. The Windows Media button is linked to a Windows Player file. If you want to keep a version on your hard drive or to burn to a CD, you can download the larger movie (non-streaming version) by clicking here. You can also right click on this link and choose "Save Target" and copy the entire movie to your hard drive to burn to CD later. High speed network connection recommended.

Photos on this page are linked to printable enlargements.

February 15, 2006

or those of us with parents who may need a little more protection from the riggors of life, or for those in our audience looking for just the right place to improve our own quality of life and free us from the burdens of maintenance and security worries, this may be the ideal place.

With three locations in the Midwest, including Albert Lea, Minnesota, Madison, Wisconsin, and now Dubuque, Iowa (near Medical Associates West Campus), Oak Park Place retirement communities are extremely popular, clean, beautifully appointed, and chock full of amenities and thoughtful design.

According to their marketing materials, Oak Park Place represents "independence when you want it.  Assistance when you need it. Oak Park Place was designed to meet the current, future and unexpected needs and wants of the senior adult. We will provide constant independence with a little help, when you need it."

We meet the manager of this fine facility, Karen Kloss, and we also get a tour of rooms and common areas with Anna Murry-Francois, a sales representative with Oak Park Place. Come join us on this tour and ribbon cutting conducted by the Dubuque Area Chamber Ambassadors.

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February 8, 2006

or the past seven years, Premier Bank has become one of the largest commercial lenders in the area. In the bank president's office, all Jeff Mozena has to do is look out his window to be reminded of his bank's incredible success. The ever-growing Asbury Plaza has helped move the center of commerce west of Dubuque, but Premier's development projects are not just here... they're everywhere. Continuous growth, excellent and thoughtful hometown service, and a connection to the community that comes from local ownership, Premier Bank is changing the face of Dubuque in some very positive ways. Their signs dot construction sites all over the area, from new home sites to new places to shop, recreate, and transact your business.

It was 1998 when Premier Bank was formed around Jeff Mozen's dining room table. Banks throughout Dubuque were merging with out-of-town institutions, and local and area banks seemed to be changing names almost monthly. Jeff and his family and friends thought the time was right to form a truly locally owned bank.

The architecture of the new bank is evocative of the style of Frank Lloyd Wright and Alfred Caldwell (early 20th Century) and much of the furnishings are in the classic mission style. The bank building is a showcase for local art and craftsmanship. Limestone from Becker Stone, windows from Eagle Window and Door. The finest, most talented craftspeople in the area contributed their best to this project. The interior space is as spectacular as the exterior. "The major influence here," Jeff explains, "Is our own Eagle Point Park." Eagle Point Park and its buildings represent a treasure of this style. The buildings that stand there are a monument to American spirit and vision since they were built during the nation's (and our community's) most difficult economic times.

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February 3, 2006

hey say a good car mechanic is hard to find. Well, we found one on Diesel Drive north of Dubuque off John Deere Road. Chances are this guy has already worked on some car you drive or once drove over the past 20 plus years in Dubuque. That's because Jeff Davis is a well known, reliable, and according to Pam Davis, his spouse, the most "honest" mechanic in these parts. He's also the owner of Jeff Davis Auto Repair. He has become one of those entrepreneurial individuals who started out with the big dealer, but then went off on his own, and he is buidling and maintaining a solid customer base that now is likely to grow with his new and expansive facilities.

Jeff started out downtown when he made his first move, but now he's located in one of Dubuque's growing residential and business areas. "It's a great location," says Pam, his wife, "but we can serve the entire area since we are so easy to get to from the Northwest Arterial." Jeff has two technicians, and he says, "We can work on any aspect of car repair, from driveability issues and mechanics to technology and computer diagnostics." So join Rusty Knight, Gary Olsen and the Dubuque Chamber Ambassadors as we help Jeff Davis Auto Repair cut the ribbon on this wonderful new family-owned business.

January 18, 2006

his was pehaps the first time that the Ambassdors cut the ribbon on a cable television show. Mediacom and the Dubuque Community Schools combined talents and capabilities to mount a new local television production in Dubuque called "Kids in the Kitchen." The program will air on a new channel that Mediacom is launching in February which will be totally devoted to Dubuque Community Schools, Channel 19. Our own Ambassador colleague, Gary Olsen, who works for the district, is the producer behind the program, and Wally Brown (pictured below) is the executive producer. This video is really funny, and includes the cast members of the program, middle and high school students. The executive chef of The Captain Merry Inn and Spa, Jim Terry, is the instructor/chef on the show. Video and mages on this page by Tim Brechlin of TBMedia Concepts.

Wally Brown was honored for his contribution to the development of the show. Maria, a cast member, presented him with a special plaque. Photos on this page are linked to enlargements. Just click on them.

January 14, 2006

here are cities in America several times bigger than Peosta, IA, and they don't have a community center this nice. It is, in a word, magnificent. Not only is is a community center/meeting place, but it has a huge gymnasium floor for basketball, volleyball, there's a tennis court, two racquetball courts, a game room, batting cage, an auditorium and stage, meeting rooms, and outside, ball diamonds are being built. Oh, and did we mention the fish pond? Yup, a fish pond... stocked! The Peosta Community Center was made possible largely through the vision and generosity of one man, and that's the CEO of Mi-T-M, A.J. Spiegel. He's thoroughly involved in commercial and residential development throughout the Dubuque area, and in an interview with Ambassador, Gary Olsen, he tells us his philosophy behind his enterprises and ideas. Mary Catherine Mullen, the director of the center, takes us on a personal tour of the facility, and there are a few other surprises, too, in this video.

January 12, 2006

he place is ab fab to say the least. exercise is the best way to loose weight and feel good, and the music, routines, trained certified instructors all combine to make this a wonderful place. By moving to this new location on Kerper, the membership has grown to almost double, and with twice the floor space as the previous place, owner Brenda Lampo and her team can more than handle the success.

Jazzercize is located at 2095 Kerper Blvd. (across from Georgia Pacific).

You can learn more at jazzercize.com, or call them for class availability at 582- 1540.

Join Chamber President Rusty Knight, Ambassadors Gary Olsen and Shannon Gaherty (below) and the rest of the Dubuque Chamber Ambassadors as we clip the red ribbon.

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The turtle above is linked to a non-streaming RealPlayer video that is most suitable for dialups. It doesn't stream, and will play when fully downloaded. The rabbit and rocket are linked to progressively larger RealPlayer streaming media files. The Windows Media button is linked to a Windows Player file. If you want to keep a version on your hard drive or to burn to a CD, you can download the larger movie (non-streaming version) by clicking here. You can also right click on this link and choose "Save Target" and copy the entire movie to your hard drive to burn to CD later. High speed network connection recommended.

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December 2005

hanks to ESPN, billiards, or "pool" to the rest of us, as become highly competitive and glamorous, particularly with women competing in the sport. It's fun to watch, and even more fun to play, and really classy pool joints are popping up all over. A unique venue in a former printing plant on North Central Avenue is Bulldog Billiards, and its very very nice. Bar food and bread bowls of home made soup are on the menu, and when the Ambassadors were there, there were tables of women as well as men playing on the felt.

As you view the video clip, you will see an interesting interview with one of the owners. Actually the interview is Shannon Gaherty's as she talks to the female half of the partnership, and it's pretty revealing just whose idea it was to open a high class pool hall near Dubuque's North End.

Rusty Knight is the host on this one, and Dan Lobianco, Dubuque Main Street LTD, says a few nice words. As a bonus, see Ambassador Gary Olsen run a table.. well, almost.

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December 2005

he Dubuque Ambassadors were in fine form at Walgreen's Grand Opening Celebration in December. The new 24 hour/7 days-a-week operation is located at the intersection of Kennedy Road and Dodge Street, and the building practically matches its other location at the corner of Kennedy and Asbury. It's bright, conveniently laid out, and manager Chris Williams (pictured below talking with master of ceremonies Kevin Lynch) tells us his staff is ready to serve the needs of Dubuquers with everything from full-time 24/7 pharmacy (even on holidays), to anything and everything would find in a modern 21st Century Walgreens. While you're waiting for your prescription to be filled, you can shop for seasonal items, sundries, personal products, snacks, beverages, photo processing, and the other necessities of life like bread and milk.

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Andrea Ternes, Clarke Communication Student, interviews animal control officer Barnes and her dog Tanner.

November 2005

his video is the funniest one we've ever done... you will howl with laughter. Even the dogs are smiling for the camera. This is the first ever Pet Park in the City of Dubuque, and it's pawsitively exciting. The Dubuque Ambassadors were there in force as well as pet owners. The park is divided into two sections, one for small dogs and the other for larger dogs. Two more pet parks are in the works.

But here's the best part. There are disposal facilities, bags, and owners don't even have to bring their own baggies (thank goodness). This spring there will be more improvements like a dog obstacle course. The facilities are also going to be used for obedience classes by the City Parks and Recreation Department.

So join Gary Olsen, Andrea Ternes, and Shannon Gaherty along with the Mayor and the rest of the Ambassadors as we cut the ribbon on Dubuque's first ever Pet Park.

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November 2005

his is an oustanding property that just opened in the city next to the Dubuque Greyhound Park, and it consists of a Hilton Garden Inn and Houlihan's Restaurant. Wayne Briggs, local developer and perhaps Dubuque's answer to Donald Trump, is featured at a ribbon cutting or ground breaking about every six months. The great thing about this enterprise is the fact that so many people never imagined they would be saying "Dubuque" and "Hilton" in the same sentence. If this doesn't make one realize that Dubuque has finally arrived as a major tourist destination in this part of the country, then there is no hope for those eternally pesimistic.

What is extra cool about this video besides the ceremony is Shannon Gaherty, a force of nature, and one of the best interviewers on our broadcasts. Well, that's because she doesn't take anything too seriously, and that's what we love about her. She takes us on a tour of the suites in the Hilton Garden Inn, and also behind the scenes at the restaurant, Houlihan's It's extremely funny.

And master of ceremonies, and a funny and clever interviewer in his own right, Kevin Lynch is featured, too. Enjoy the show. It's about 25 minutes with no additional commercials.

This is Wayne Briggs, developer of Hilton Garden Inn and Houlihan's Restaurant, both of which recently opened in Dubuque to an Ambassador fanfare and celebration unequaled in the city in a long time.

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October 2005

his video covers the ribbon cutting on the new facilities of Stetson Building Products on Cedar Cross Ridge. The spacious distribution center has excellent capacity for this growing concern. The business has a long history (50 years), and this move to this new Dubuque headquarters is a significant milestone. The grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony highlights the role this company plays among Dubuque contractors and builders from commercial to residential, many of of whom were in attendance as were representatives of manufactures and suppliers who provide materials and tools for Stetson. In celebration of this event, Stetson amnnounced the presentation of a $1,000 to NICC's scholarship program..

Our own Chamber of Commerce CEO Steward Sandstrom did the master of ceremonies duties for this event, and it's something we wish he did more often. He's very good, and even his miscues are entertaining. What can we say... the camera loves him.

Below is one of Stetson's suppliers, a firm that does stamped concrete and concrete overlays which are extremely popular these days, and he's describing the many custom textures and colors available in his product line. There were several suppliers at this ribbon cutting event which gave it a trade show flavor.

Speaking of flavor, the food, (pulled pork and barbecue sandwiches) was spectacular.

November 2005

his is interesting... a furniture store that reduces it operating overhead by opening four days a week rather than the entire week. Hmmmm... we may be seeing these people lecturing at Harvard Business School sometime soon. Fashion forward furniture at discount prices is the mantra of Keith Hagge and his crew at the location in Sageville that once housed Owl Furniture (for 50 years) so it's a proven location. But it's not the old warehouse of row upon row of chairs, sofas, love seats beds and coffee tables. The groupings are color coordinated, there are leathers, accessories, and, well, you'll just have to see the video. Join the Ambassadors with Kevin Lynch, Shannon Gaherty and Gary Olsen as we find out more about Four Day Furniture, Sageville, IA, on the Great River Road across from Eichamann's.

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November 2005

his was a first for the Dubuque Ambassadors. We cut the ribbon on a billboard! But this was not an ordinary billboard but an extraordinary outdoor media device. It was the first completely electronic digital display outdoor sign in the City of Dubuque, and it's at the corner of Asbury and University Avenues. Lamar Advertising in Dubuque is one of 25 locations nationwide in the Lamar network that has one, and the Regional Vice President of Lamar flew in for the occasion. Mark Sherwood joined the Manager of Lamar in Dubuque Jim Schumacher and his employees in the dedication of this exciting new installation. Jim is also a Dubuque Ambassador, so of course his fellow ambassadors turned out in force. It was a wall of red coats below the sign as speakers approached the lectern to make their remarks.

The significance of this event may be a watershed for Lamar's Dubuque operations whose former company was Frank Hardie Advertising that was in business in Dubuque for half a century. The outdoor business is evolving into a more immediately responsive media form like radio or television. In the words of Lamar sales rep, Greg Burgmeier, "If it snows today, and someone wants to sell snow blowers, we can have them up on the board today." It truly is an innovation in marketplace advertising, and it expands the creative possibilities among advertisers in Dubuque.

November 2005

he most popular West End District hardware store is Steve's Ace Hardware, and their Kennedy Road and Pennsylvania Ave. Store has undergone an expansion. They have grown into small engine equipment such as chain saws (Stihl), leaf blowers, garden trimmers, Lawnboy and Toro lawn mowers, and a host of accessories and service to back up sales. As is customary at grand openings of stores that carry Stihl products, the ribbon cutting is replaced with a ceremonial log cutting. The noise and sawdust are fabulous, and Steve's nine-year-old Stiehl saw started on the first pull (as always).

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November 2005

he fabulous new Red Robin Restaurant had a series of "soft openings" in late October/early November, designed to train employees and test food, and, of course, the Dubuque Chamber Ambassadors were invited. We turned the experience into a great short film, and it's as if you were sitting at the table ordering from the menu. The food was fantastic, by the way. This is a corporate restaurant (not a franchise), explained local management who we managed to interview. Incidentally, this show is entirely hosted by Ambassador Shannon Gaherty (Dubuque Racing Association), and she does a wonderful job. She is absolutely hysterical. And get this. It was her birthday as well as Tom Reilly's birthday, and the Red Robin staff celebrated it with free sundaes and a whacko chorus complete with balloons. Good time. Refill on my bottomless french fries please? Thanks!

November 2005

he Clarke College campus is a picture postcard in terms of beauty and architectural continuity, and now a suitable addition to this lovely educational tableau has been unveiled... Gantz Plaza. Ostensibly, it's a newly renovated, expanded Clarke Drive that bisects the campus, and it was designed for not only beauty but safety. With the large number of commuting students, parking along Clarke Drive has always been a challenge, not just for drivers but for pedestrians. But how to solve the problems esthetically? Along came the Gantz family (Pepsi Cola Bottling among their enterprises), benefactors to the project. The attention to detail, ensured by the Gantz's involvement and financing, is extraordinary. Molded and tinted concrete, graceful and historically appropriate street light fixtures, and banner standards complete the look. Curb cuts allow drivers to get out of traffic to drop off or pick up someone, and virtually eliminated is the dangerous double parking that regularly took place. Speed limits will be strictly enforced, and the absence of parking in front of the most iconic campus structures that includes the Clarke Atrium, will have a much broader vista unobstructed by parked cars. Please join the Dubuque Ambassadors on this wonderful occasion as we dedicate Clarke College's Gantz Plaza.

Above, Sister Catherine Dunn, and left, Jim Gantz.

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The organic popcorn guy was at the dedication ceremony. He grows corn that pops with no hulls... perfect for people with lower GI problems. Apparently, if you have diverticulitis and eat regular popcorn, it's like eating a hand grenade with a long fuse.

October 2005

he Hy-Vee in Asbury Plaza has got something in this "Health Market" concept. When you consider how many people have dietary restrictions these days, but ostensibly want to avoid artificial preservatives, improve nutritional content, and increasingly demand "organic" and all that this term implies, it was time for Hy-Vee to cater to this important emerging market. "Heck, this market has already emerged," according to Hy-Vee manager, Chuck Donnelly. "I drink soy milk and eat my organic bananas every morning. I'm into this beig time. I want to be on this earth a little while longer," he confided in Kevin Lynch during an interview on this clip.

Hy-Vee was perhaps the first and only food store in Dubuque to hire a full-time store-based nutritionist. Megan Dalsing is that person, and she stressed that healthy doesn't have to mean tasteless. "In fact," added Megan, "organic means better tasting if you want to know the truth." Natural growing conditions, no artificial preservatives, and food prepared like it was prepared generations ago before we had all these chemicals in our environment is what the Hy-Vee Health Market is all about. The part of the store designated as a Health Market is now about a forth of the store's total retail space. It has grown and continues to grow. Not only prepared foods, but everything from chips to organic beef and poultry are available. It's one of the most complete health markets outside of Iowa City. Quick, get that old Martin guitar out of the closet, and let's help Hy-Vee celebrate. Kum-Bai Ah, everybody! You in the back... you know the words! Here, take a pull off this bottle of soy.

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October 2005

he Mercy Medical Center continues to be on the cutting edge (no pun intended) when it comes to heart health, and the new Heart Unit just completed at Mercy is a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to saving lives. When you consider that when a heart "event" occurs in one's life, experts in the field of medicine will tell you that time is of the essence. Now, Mercy can effectively close that time gap between event and treatment.

We took the opportunity on this video to tour the facility, and Kevin Rockwell, the director of the center, provided us with highlights of this the center's life-saving capabilities. Rusty Knight was master of ceremonies during the ribbon cutting, and he served two roles. He's the president of the Chamber of Commerce this year, but he's also the CEO of Mercy Medical Center.

The attention to detail in this facility is quite notable. The hardwood floors, the excellent lighting and interior design make the facility more homey than sterile (but it is sterile as surgical suites maintain high pressure air handling. The surgery practiced here, for the most part, is very non-invasive. Heart catheters, stents, high resolution imaging devices ensure that the paient recovers quickly and in many cases be can be sent home a short time after a procedure.

Join the Dubuque Chamber Ambassadors as we dedicate and tour this exciting new facility.

October 2005

he Dubuque Five Flags Civic Center sits next to the crown jewel of Dubuque area landmarks, the Five Flags Theater. The old Vaudeville palace was slated for the wrecking ball back in the '70s, when a group of enterprising community people gathered voter support and private money to save and restore the theater. The City pitched in and attached a civic center to it complete with ice rink, and the Five Flags Civic Center became the cultural centerpiece of a restored community pride. The theater and the civic center just completed remodeling at a cost, the mayor pointed out in his remarks, almost surpassed the money it took to build it in the first place. But that's okay, because our community earns millions of dollars every year from our total tourism package that pulls in people largely from a radius of 100 to 175 miles. With hockey, concerts, a resident theater group, and the symphony, and a busy arena schedule, the facility does an admirable job of maintaining its value to the community. Join Gary Olsen and the Dubuque Chamber Ambassadors for a whirlwind tour of the Civic Center complete with food sampling from the great new concession facilities. Mmmmmm pizza, popcorn and Dip'nDots! Corn dogs, too!

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