Good morning, Dubuque.

Iowa ranks 7th nationally in college graduation rates—69.44% of students earn their diplomas—showing that strong public universities and supportive campus communities boost success.

The study compares this rate to the 60.92% national average and to lower rates in states like Alaska, Nevada and New Mexico.

Fossils of Archaeotherium—called the hell pig—show that this ancient beast once roamed Iowa and used strong teeth to crush bones.

Researchers say larger animals ate hard bone while smaller ones ate softer food, which gives clues about Iowa’s natural past.

Yesterday, the Iowa Economic Development Authority announced that the Rider Lacy Block project in downtown Dubuque received nearly $684-thousand in Historic Preservation Tax Credits to convert the building at 17-06 Central Avenue into first-floor commercial space and 11 upstairs apartments. The award was part of over $23-million in credits given to 11 historic properties across the state.

Former Dubuque Metro high school standouts will play in college games on Saturday, Nov.22 for teams that include the Minnesota State Mankato Mavericks, Iowa State Cyclones, West Florida Argonauts, Coe Kohawks, Drake Bulldogs and Black Hills State Yellow Jackets.

Players such as Cayden Lovett, Jim Bonifas, Kendrick Watkins-Hogue, Kyle Cole, Kyle Konrardy, Owen Pettlon, Padraig Gallagher, Tommy Williams and Walker Tart will face opponents including the Findlay Oilers, Kansas Jayhawks, North Greenville Crusaders, Concordia Wisconsin Falcons, Morehead State Eagles and Augustana Vikings—games are scheduled between 12 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.

Major League Baseball will return to the Field of Dreams movie site in 2026 when the Twins host the Phillies on August 13 — a new 8,000-seat ballpark, largely funded by the state, will host the game and offer work for local residents.

TRU REV MMA Debut in Dubuque

7-11 p.m. — Grand River Convention Center — $ — TRU REV MMA makes its highly anticipated debut in Dubuque, Iowa!

PopROCKS! Concert

7-11 p.m. — Diamond Jo Casino Dubuque — Reservations recommended — Experience an electrifying concert at the vibrant Mississippi Moon Bar.

A Very Electric Christmas

3:00 – 4:30 PM — Five Flags Center — Enjoy a heartwarming tale of adventure as a young bird named Max embarks on a journey at the North Pole.

Winter Soup Cooking Class

6-8 p.m. — Convivium Urban Farmstead — Sliding scale pricing — Warm up with a hands-on soup-making experience featuring African Peanut Stew and Ham & Split Pea Soup.

Cookies and Cocoa with Santa and the Goats

10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. — Crazy Goat Soap Farm — Free entry — Celebrate the season with Santa and playful goats while enjoying cookies and warm cocoa.

Dubuque Symphony Orchestra Holiday Concert

2:00 – 3:30 PM — Five Flags Center — Celebrate the season with holiday favorites alongside the Dubuque Chorale and Heartland Ballet.

Ceramic Christmas Tree Painting

6-8 p.m. — Captured on Canvas — Cost varies by payment method — Enjoy an evening of creativity by painting your own light-up ceramic Christmas tree.

The Nutcracker

2-5 p.m. — The Grand Opera House — Ticket prices vary — Experience the magical holiday classic featuring stunning choreography and captivating music.

The Nutcracker

7:30-9 p.m. — The Grand Opera House — Ticket prices vary — Experience the timeless holiday classic with enchanting music and dance.