Good morning, Dubuque.

Alexander Carmen, 21, pleaded guilty to burglary and an armed break-in on University Avenue last September and will serve 10 years in prison—his accomplice, 20-year-old Byron Manning, also received a 10-year sentence after threatening residents with a gun and stealing an iPhone and X-Box Gaming System.

According to the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission, Dubuque casinos saw revenue rise in August as Diamond Jo increased by 7.6% and Q Casino by 12.8%—overall, Iowa casinos made $151 million and sports wagering revenue climbed 40% with wagers growing 8.7%.

The Dubuque Community School Board voted last night to let voters decide on a bond referendum that will use $70 million in general obligation bonds and nearly $52 million from the one cent sales tax fund to build a new middle school combining Washington and Jefferson—this measure will appear on the November 4 ballot and must get 60 percent approval.

Local children aged 5 to 11 will join Explore Your Park Day at the Proving Grounds Recreation Area on October 30 from 10 a.m. to noon for hands-on activities led by a Dubuque County naturalist for a $5 fee—parents may drop off their children for the session.

Dubuque's City Manager Mike Van Milligen said after nearly dying in March when a car hit him he will retire in June 2027, starting the search for a new manager after 32 years—police charged Christopher Higgins with OWI and his trial is set for next month.

Finley Hospital will renovate its Family Birthing Suites’ dedicated C-section suite with completion expected by February 2026—while C-sections will be performed in general surgical suites during the renovation.

Dubuque Oktoberfest

11 a.m. to 5 p.m. — Back Waters Stage — Free entry — Celebrate the 16th year of Oktoberfest with music, food, games, and even Wiener Dog Races.

Owning Your Awesome — She Unites

6:30-8:30 p.m. — The Innovation Lab — Donation-based — Empower women to embrace their strengths and boost confidence through an engaging workshop.

Josh Meloy Live

8–9:30 p.m. — Mississippi Moon Bar at Diamond Jo Dubuque — Ticket prices vary — Experience an evening of soulful tunes from Oklahoma's own Josh Meloy as he showcases his latest album.

St. Vincent DePaul Run/Walk/Bike for the Poor

9-11 a.m. — Heritage Pond / Heritage Trail — Support a great cause while enjoying a 5km or 5 mile run or bike ride.

2025 Distinguished Alumni Celebration

6 PM — Loras College Library — Free entry — Celebrate distinguished alumni recipients with cocktails and awards.

UTL – Fall Fun Show

10 AM – 3 PM — Dubuque County Fairgrounds & Event Center — Doubled fees apply — Enjoy a makeup show featuring double judged series in pleasure, ranch, and speed events.

American Musical Celebration

2:00 – 3:30 PM — Five Flags Center — Ticketed event — Celebrate the brilliance of American music with the Dubuque Symphony Orchestra featuring Bernstein's lively Overture to Candide.