Grand River Center Presentation of Fiscal Year 2025 Annual ReportCity of Dubuque
City Council
UT91I IC'II1021Ly -'E'SI
Copyrighted
October 20, 2025
ITEM TITLE:
Grand River Center Presentation of Fiscal Year 2025 Annual
Report
SUMMARY:
Grand River Center and Five Flags Civic Center General
Manager Ryan Bonifas will present the Grand River Center's
Fiscal Year 2025 Annual Report.
SUGGUESTED
Receive and File; Presentation
DISPOSITION:
ATTACHMENTS:
1. MVM Memo
2. Staff Memo
3. Grand River Center FY 2025 Annual Report
4. Grand River Center General Manager Request for Presentation
Page 754 of 817
THE C
DUj!BQTE
Masterpiece on the Mississippi
TO: The Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
FROM: Michael C. Van Milligen, City Manager
SUBJECT: Grand River Center Presentation of FY 2025 Annual Report
DATE: October 15, 2025
Dubuque
AIFAWca Ciq
ni
I
2007-2012.2013
2017*2019
Parks and Recreation Director Matthew Kalcevich will introduce Grand River Center and
Five Flags Civic Center General Manager Ryan Bonifas who will present the FY 2025
Annual Report.
k�4
Mic ael C. Van Milligen
MCVM:sv
Attachment
cc: Crenna Brumwell, City Attorney
Cori Burbach, Assistant City Manager
Matthew Kalcevich, Parks and Recreation Director
Marie L. Ware, Acting Project and Facilities Manager
Jared Charland, Project and Facilities Manager
Ryan Bonifas, General Manager Grand River Center and Five Flags Civic Center
Page 755 of 817
THE COF
DtUB E
Masterpiece on the Mississippi
TO: Michael C. Van Milligen, City Manager
FROM: Matthew K. Kalcevich, Parks and Recreation Director
SUBJECT: Grand River Center Presentation of FY 2025 Annual Report
DATE: October 13, 2025
INTRODUCTION
Dubuque
MUAMINCI Clry
2007.2012
2013.2017
The purpose of this memorandum is to request the opportunity for Ryan Bonifas,
General Manager of the Grand River Center and Five Flags Civic Center, to make a
presentation to the City Council for the FY 2025 Annual Report.
DISCUSSION
OVG 360 is the private management company in charge of day-to-day operations for
the Grand River Center. The management contract has a requirement for an annual
report to the City Council. Ryan Bonifas, General Manager, would like to present
activities in the last fiscal year, as well as plans for the future.
ACTION STEP
I request time on the Council agenda for Ryan to share the FY 25 Annual Report.
Prepared by: Marie L. Ware, Acting Project and Facilities Manager
cc: Ryan Bonifas, General Manager Grand River Center and Five Flags Civic Center
Jared Charland, Project and Facilities Manager
1
Page 756 of 817
C1
3iTT--
GRAND RIVER CENTER
1
2025
Annual
Report
MEETINGS I GALAS I CONVENTIONS I WEDDINGS
SPORTING EVENTS I TRACE SHOWS
mFA 0 I11:1IL►A983IN90119:i
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Page 757 of 817
2025 GRAND RIVER CENTER ANNUAL REPORT
BOUT us
Situated along the magnificent Mississippi River, adjacentto deluxe
lodging, gaming and entertainment venues and within walking distance of
historic downtown Dubuque, the Grand River Center features a diverse,
intimate atmosphere where you will enjoy dedicated service and the finest
cuisine.
You will find the perfect venue for every occasion within one facility. Our
Grand Ballroom is the ideal setting for weddings, hanquets, holiday parties,
or any formal gathering. The enchanting all -glass "River Room" offers
breathtaking views for intimate gatherings, while the expansive Exhibit Hall
provides a versatile space for large crowds and dynamic events, together
creating an ideal backdrop for unforgettable occasions!
or
LM
1
Page 758 of 817
2025 GRAND RIVER CENTER ANNUAL REPORT
A WORD FROM OUR
GENERAL MANAGER
Ryan Bvnifas, MS, CVP
This year has been one of milestones and momentum forthe
Grand River Center & Oak View Group. From the dedication of
our team to the support of our community, we've strengthened
our reputation as a premier destination for conventions, events,
and great experiences.
We are proud to have been recognized with Gold for Best
Convention Center in the Midwest through the NorthStar Stella
Awards — an honor that exemplifies the hard work and
professionalism of every member of our staff. In addition,
achieving Sensory Inclusive Certification through KultureCity
demonstrates our commitment to making every guest
experience accessible, welcoming, and memorable.
Our success is fueled by innovation and collaboration. This
year, we focused on refining our operations, enhancing service,
and creating experiences that leave a lasting impression on
both visitors and our community. Every decision and
improvement is guided by a single goal: to ensure the Grand
River Center continues to exceed expectations and set the
standard for hospitality in the region.
As we move forward, we do so with energy, purpose, and a
continued commitmentta excellence. The Grand River Center is
not just a venue — it's a place where unforgettable moments
are made, and we are honored to bring those moments to life
every day.
Ryan Bonifas, MS, CVP
T General Manager
Grand River Convention Center, OVG
2025 GRAND RIVER CENTER ANNUAL REPORT
A WORD FROM THE
(MAYOR OF DUBUQUE
Brad Cavanagh
As Mayor of the City of Dubuque, I am pleased to share our
support for the City's new partnership with Oak View Group
(OVG) to manage the Grand River Center. The goal of this
partnership is to ensure that this premier convention and
event facility continues to serve as a community and
regional asset.
Public/private partnerships like this have been and will
continue to be key to Dubuque's success. By collaborating
with OVG, we plan to strengthen the Grand River Center's
ability to attract regional and national conferences,
enhance guest experiences, and generate positive
economic impact for local businesses.
On behalf of the Dubuque City Council, thank you for your
continued support of the Grand River Center and of the
City's efforts to create a thriving, welcoming community for
all.
Brad Cavanagh
Mayor of Dubuque
City of Dubuque
THE CITY OF
DUrBQTE
Masterpiece on the Mississippi
3
2025 GRAND RIVER CENTER ANNUAL REPORT
iRAVEL
TfkUq"
WHERE ED STARTED
A WORD FROM
TRAVEL DUBUQUE
Keith Rahe
Travel Dubuque is proud of our partnership with the
Grand River Center in growing Dubuque's tourism
economy through the meetings and events held at this
facility.
We have seen firsthand the dedication of the Grand
River Center's staff and leadership -- not only in
securing new business, but also in cultivating lasting
relationships with returning groups. Equally important
is the center's commitment to accessibility for our
local organizations and nonprofits, ensuring thatthis
beautiful space continues to serve both visitors and
residents alike.
When the convention center is full, the impact reaches
far beyond its doors. Attendees experience Dubuque
hospitality while supporting our hotels, restaurants,
shops, and attractions. Each event creates a ripple
effect that sustains local jobs and drives economic
growth throughout our community.
As we look ahead, Travel Dubuque is excited to build
upon this momentum and continue working with the
Grand River Center team to attract more business and
showcase all that Dubuque has to offer.
Keith Rahe
President & CEO
Travel Dubuque
2025 GRAND RIVER CENTER ANNUAL REPORT
Director of Sales &
Marketing
ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE
City of Dubuque Parks & Recreation
Director
I
Oak View Group Regional
I
General Manager
Office Manager
Director of
Executive Chef
Finance
Sales Manager
Catering Sales Manager
Sales & Marketing Manager
Executive Sa«s
Chef
Kitchen Staff
Director of
Director of
Events & Catering
Operations
Event Manager
Operations Manager
Chief Engineer
Event Manager
Maintenance Lead
Front of
House Staff
Maintenance Tech
S
2025 GRAND RIVER CENTER ANNUAL REPORT
VENUE AT A GLANCE . • • • •
VISION
The Grand River Center offers 86,000 square feet of versatile event space,
including an exhibit hall, ballroom, meeting rooms, and the stunning all -glass River
Room —perfect for more intimate gatherings.
The Grand River Center, opened in 2003, has become a valuable asset to the
community, hosting a wide range of events including cheer & dance competitions,
Circus on Ice, trade and consumer shows, car shows, political town halls, and
other special events.
MISSION
To be a positive disruption to business as usual in the sports, live entertainment
and hospitality insustires.
LIM
6
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2025 GRAND RIVER CENTER ANNUAL REPORT
FACILITY OVERVIEW
The Grand River Center offers more than 86,000 square feet of versatile exhibit,
meeting, and event space —an ideal setting for conferences, conventions, trade
shows, banquets, and more. Level 1 features the spacious Exhibit Hall. Level 2
features the ballroom, as well as six flexible meeting room blocks with direct
access to the Skywalk. Level 3 highlights the River Room, an all -glass venue with
a balcony overlooking tho l,�i�,°nri,v,;iIk. iv. nrl i:i• o Pkll i ss i ss i p p I River.
Upper Level
Ballroom
• Salon A
• Salon B
• Salon C
• Salon D
Ballroom Pre -Function
Meeting Rooms 1,2,3
Meeting Rooms 4,5,6
Spine
Main Meeting Pre -Function
lower Level
Exhibit Hall
• Exhibit Hall A
• Exhibit Hall B
Registration
Show Office
Pre -Function
Parking Garage
Loading Docks
1 !
0 E 0 E
E i
A
4 5 s BALLROOM
N
B C o
MeeSng
Pre.Rmrrim,
Meeting Patin
LEVEL 3
wo�o'91�110
Ballroom Pauo
7
Page 764 of 817
2025 GRAND RIVER CENTER ANNUAL REPORT
T
OVG CORPORATE SUPPORT
GENERAL MANAGER
• Monthly OVG Convention Center Call
• Weekly Regional Manager Call
• Attended the annual OVG VenuesNow Conference
• On -site Regional Venue Support as needed
SALES
• Monthly Director of Sales Call
MARKETING
• Convention Center Monthly OVG Marketing Call
• OVG Director of Events Call
• OVG Events & Professional Development Committee Call
• OVG Event Manager Networking Planning Call
FINANCIALS
• Monthly Convention Center Director of Finance Call
• Monthly Financial Review
CULINARY
• Weekly Regional Food & Beverage Call
�'%w 'qW . ow-
RACHEL CLISH KYLA LINDSEY
GRAND RIVER CENTER GRAND RIVER CENTER
8
y_ ,�5of817 u
2025 GRAND RIVER CENTER ANNUAL REPORT
OUR TEAM
Ryan Banifas IMs, up Rick Stecher
General Manager Director of Finance
Sherri Sherman
Office Manager
Rachel Clisch Kyla Lindsey Lorelei Bahl, CWP
Director of Sales & Marketing Sales & Marketing Manager Catering Sales Manager
Eliza Wilson
Carley Davis
Director of Events
Event Manager
Jayme Mescher
Jae Klecker
Director of Operations
Operations Manager
Chef Ray Mihalic Kassie McCarthy
Executive Chef Executive Sous Chat
i�
Matt Rados
Event Manager
t
�w
=Yr
Teri Witt
Sales Manager
' ' F
_ y
t
%I f�
Don Lorenz
Chief Engineer
Ryne Schlosser Lee Wilson
Set Up Lead Maintenance Lead
9
Page 766 of 817
2025 GRAND RIVER CENTER ANNUAL REPORT
Kyla Lindsey
Sales & Marketing Manager
4
Lorelei Bahl, CWP
Catering Swes Manager
Teri Witt
Sales Manager
RACHEL CLISCH
Director of Sales & Marketing
"I'm proud to celebrate another
outstanding year at the Grand River
Center. This report highlights our team's
dedication as we expand into new markets
and maximize the use of our spaces. With
future bookings already surpassing past
years, the outlook is strong —clear proof
that clients value their experience and are
reserving earlier than ever."
10
17
2025 GRAND RIVER CENTER ANNUAL REPORT
Joe Klecker
Operations Manager
Don Lorenz
Chief Engineer
rr
II.. - 0- 111
is-
Ryne Schlosser
Set Up Lead
J"ME MESCH ER
Director off Operations
"Maintaining the Grand River Center to the
highest standards of cleanliness and order
remains a top priority, ensuring every
guest enjoys a welcoming environment.
Along with regular upkeep, we continue to
invest in beautification projects that
enhance the look and feel of the venue.
Recent upgrades to our kitchen equipment
further strengthen this commitment,
allowing us to elevate service quality and
deliver an enhanced guest experience that
reflects our dedication to excellence."
Lee Wilson
Maintenance Lead
11
7
2025 GRAND RIVER CENTER ANNUAL REPORT
CHEF RAY MIHALIC
Executive Chef
"Atthe Grand River Center, focus and
sustainability are at the heart of our
culinary team. From daily tasks to long-
term goals, we pay close attention to every
detail to deliver the best possible guest
experience. Partnering with local
businesses and schools, we take on
annual sustainability projects —ranging
from creating our awn microgreens grow
roam to cultivating an outdoor garden that
provides fresh, homegrown ingredients for
our clients."
(Lassie McCarthy
Executive sous Chef
12
7
2025 GRAND RIVER CENTER ANNUAL REPORT
RICK STECHER I CPA
Director of Finance
Dubuque, Iowa is proudly known as the
"Masterpiece on the Mississippi," and at
the Grand River Center, we see ourselves
as the centerpiece of that masterpiece.
Our team takes tremendous pride in this
facility, a pride reflected in earning the
prestigious Stella Gold Medal for Best
Convention Center in the Midwest.
Building on our strong partnership with the
City of Dubuque, we look forward to
sustaining this momentum and driving
continued success in the years ahead."
13
2025 GRAND RIVER CENTER ANNUAL REPORT
VENUE AWARDS • 0 •
NORTHSTAR STELLA AWARD
Best Convention Center in the Midwest
Oak View Group, operators of the Grand River Center, proudly announced in October that the
venue earned the 2024 Northstar Stella Award, receiving the Gold Medal for Best Convention
Center in the Midwest. This recognition highlights our commitment to excellence, reflecting both
our team's dedication and the outstanding experiences we deliver at every event.
The Stella Awards celebrate achievement across the meetings and events industry, honoring
hotels, convention centers, airlines, cruise lines, CVBs, and DMCs. Winners are selected from
more than 8,000 votes and 1,000 nominations, recognizing excellence in service, food and
beverage, sustainability, professionalism, and overall guest experience.
Receiving the 2024 Northstar Stella Award for Best Convention Center in the Midwest is a true
reflection of the Grand River Center team's unwavering commitment to excellence. This
recognition underscores their dedication to providing outstanding experiences for clients and
guests. The Grand River Center is proud to be counted among the top venues in the region and
remains committed to upholding the highest standards in service, hospitality, and event
execution. This award not only honors our accomplishments but also motivates us to continually
elevate the quality of future events.
NORTHSTAR
StyIla,
Awa s
Ip T _A
2025 GRAND RIVER CENTER ANNUAL REPORT
VENUE AWARDS '
TRAVEL DUBMUE
2025 Outstanding Front Line Staff Award
At the 2025 Travel Dubuque Hospitality Breakfast, our very own Operations Manager, Joe Klecker, was
recognized with the Outstanding Front Line Staff Award a well -deserved honor that celebrates his
exceptional contributions to both the Grand River Center and the Dubuque hospitality community.
Joe's leadership and hands-on dedication play a key role in ensuring every event hosted at the Grand River
Center runs seamlessly. His professionalism, positive attitude, and willingness to go above and beyond for
both guests and coworkers reflect the true spirit of hospitality. Whether assisting clients with last-minute
needs or supporting his team behind the scenes, Joe continually sets a high standard for service excellence.
This recognition not only highlights Joe's personal achievements, but also represents the strong culture of
teamwork, integrity, and guest care that defines the Grand River Center. His passion and commitment
exemplify what it means to create exceptional experiences in Dubuque's thriving hospitality industry.
15
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2025 GRAND RIVER CENTER ANNUAL REPORT
KULTURE CITY 0 • • • •
Sensory Inclusive .... .
In 2025, the Grand Biver Center proudly achieved Sensory Inclusive TM
Certification through our partnership with KultureCity, a leading non-profit
dedicated to creating sensory accessibility and inclusion for individuals with
invisible disabilities.
This certification represents more than just a designation —it reflects our
ongoing commitment to ensuring every guest feels comfortable, safe, and
welcome in our venue. As part of the process, our entire staff received
specialized training to recognize and respond to guests with sensory
sensitivities. We also Introduced sensory -friendly resources, including
comfort bags equipped with noise -canceling headphones, fidget tools,
verbal cue cards, and weighted lap pads, all available for guests who may
experience sensory overload.
By integrating these tools and trainings into our daily operations, we are
helping to break down barriers and expand access to live events,
conferences, and celebrations of all kinds. The certification reinforces our
belief that hospitality is for everyone, and we are proud to lead the way in
building an inclusive event experience in Dubuque and the greater region.
KultureCity.
Rillillillillilill
16
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2025 GRAND RIVER CENTER ANNUAL REPORT
CLIENT FEEDBACK
Driftless Region Beef
"Eliza & Carley were very
accommodating; especially with my
day ❑f requests."
Kim Abels
Dubuque Fighting Saints
"Everyone had a blast!"
Casey Weitz
Alliant Energy
"It's been several years since we've
had a meeting at GRC because of past
experiences. Everything went very
well with this meeting."
Renee Erschen
Armor Animal Health Conference
"Everyone laved the space, how easy
it was to navigate, haw quickly they
could go back and forth from the hotel
and haw responsive and friendly the
staff was."
Sam Dooley
Foodliner
"The food was amazing, no
complaints from anyone!"
Katy Christensen
Holy Family Catholic Schools
"Appreciated the custom menu for our
event to reflect our theme."
Bob Noel
17
17
2025 GRAND RIVER CENTER ANNUAL REPORT
CLIENT FEEDBACK
Attitude of Gratitude I Opening Doors
"We had an excellent experience hosting our annual fundraising gala at the Grand River
Center in November. The venue exceeded our expectations in every way! The food was not
only delicious but also thoughtfully prepared, with creative options for both meat and
vegetarian dishes. The staff was incredibly attentive, ensuring everything ran smoothly, and
the space was impeccably clean, well -lit, and perfectly set up for our event. We're already
looking forward to returning in the future! Thank you to the entire team at the Grand River
Center for helping make our event a success!"
Natalie Finley
Key City Clash Volleyball Tournament
"We are excited to bring a large-scale volleyball tournament to Dubuque and its
surrounding communities! We have long felt that Dubuque was primed for an event like this
and the turnout for this inaugural event is phenomenal. It speaks to growth of the sport of
volleyball, but also to Dubuque's ability to attract teams from almost 300 miles away.
Special thanks to Travel Dubuque and the Grand River Center for assisting in brining this
event to Dubuque! The Grand River Center facilities and staff rival any market we have
worked with and exceeded our expectations!
Andy Cavins
U.P.A. Weight Lifting
"The Grand River Center is the best venue in the Midwest. I run 4 events a year there.
The set up is perfect for my competitions. The staff is easy to work with and is nicely
located around restaurants and hotels."
Bill Carpenter
FT11
■
Cleanliness 9.14110
Courtesy of Building Staff 9.29110
Parking 9.29110
Quality of Food 8.76110
Client rating of GRC before event 8.4110
Client rating of GRC after event 9110
Client overall rating of event at the GRC 9.04110
2025 GRAND RIVER CENTER ANNUAL REPORT
ECONOMIC IMPACT
ISMINESM
July
August
S e p t e m b e r
October
November
December
January
February
March
April
May
June
TOTAL
$220,202.00
$355,354.00
$257,477.00
$1 ,1 1 7,358.00
$228,010.00
$171 ,466.00
$691 ,345.00
$1 ,965,509.00
$513,487.00
$1,2911272.00
$203,350.00
$90,865.00
$7,105,695.00
20
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2025 GRAND RIVER CENTER ANNUAL REPORT
SUSTAI NABI LITY
nnrn
Micr❑garden
We've introduced a unique microgreen
growing system in our convention
center kitchen. This system includes a
variety of live plants, herbs, and
vegetables, which we now incorporate
into our event dishes.
Agave Straws
0
We have eliminated all plastic straws
and switched to Agave Straws, which
are better for the environment and can
be composted in our composting unit!
Edible Garden
We grow fresh, seasonal vegetables
and herbs on -site, bringing vibrant
farm -to -table flavors to our event
menus while enhancing both taste and
sustainability for every guest.
■
Qa
Composting
��v
We've started composting at our
convention center to to rn food sc ra ps
into nutrient -rich compost for local
parks and community gardens.
� a Recycling
We take great pride in reducing waste,
conserving resources, and supporting
a healthier environment by ensuring
materials are reused and repurposed
instead of ending up in landfills.
Bottle Filling
Guests can refill and reuse water
bottles at conveniently placed stations
throughout the venue. This simple step
supports sustainability and
demonstrates our ongoing commitment
to a greener, more environmentally
responsible future.
21
Page 778 of 817
2025 GRAND RIVER CENTER ANNUAL REPORT
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
OVG continues to demonstrate its strong commitment to community
engagement by investing time, resources, and energy into initiatives that
extend beyond the walls of our venues. Through meaningful outreach, we
partner with local organizations, schools, and nonprofits to support
programs that strengthen our community and foster inclusion. From
volunteer projects and fundraising efforts to educational experiences and
sustainabiIity initiatives, our team works to create opportunities that have a
lasting impact. These community -focused programs reflect our belief that
success is measured not only by the events we host, but also by the positive
difference we make in the lives of those around us.
rMARIA
HOUSE
SH(I.TLE
A.
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22
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2025 GRAND RIVER CENTER ANNUAL REPORT
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT 0 • • • •
• Blood Drive
• Hills & Dales Golf Outing
• St. Mark Youth Enrichment- Apples for Students
• Dubuque Trees Forever
• St. Mark Youth Enrichment with KCRS - Coat Drive
• Almost Home - Open Closet
• Habitat ReStore Dubuque
• Teresa Shelter
• Salvation Army Angel Tree
• Dubuque Food Pantry
• Almost Home - Open Closet
• Dubuque Museum of Art - Winter Art Festival
National Mississippi River Museum
• Multicultural Family Center - Adult Prom
• Dubuque Days of Caring
• Convivium - Distribute Food Boxes
• Millwork Night Market
L
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2025 GRAND RIVER CENTER ANNUAL REPORT
CRUSHIN IT COMMITTEE
The Crushin' It Committee is made up of Oak View Group staff who want to
get involved in planning fun and meaningful ways to bring our team
together. Anyone in the office can join, and the goal is simple: create
moments that celebrate our staff and remind everyone how much their hard
work matters.
Each month, the committee comes up with different activities and events to
get everyone involved, from small celebrations to team -building ideas. It's
all about making work a little more enjoyable, recognizing the amazing
efforts of our staff, and keeping our workplace connected.
Rillillillillilill
24
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2025 GRAND RIVER CENTER ANNUAL REPORT
MILESTONES
168
EVENTS HOSTED
42F754
ATTENDEES
FINANCIAL RESULTS
Actual
Budget
Variance
Number of Events
168
181
(13)
Number of Attendees
420754
43,700
(946)
Rental & Service Income
275,586
280,216
(4,630)
Ancillary Income
1,594,887
2,308,713
(713,826)
Service Cost
158,528
103,311
(55,217)
Ancillary Expense
320,148
428,030
(107,882).
Total Net Event Income
1,391,797
2,057,588
(665,791)
Indirect Expense
2,294,161
2,861,074
(566,913)
Other Income
38,214
3,500
Q4,714},
Total Net Operating Income (Loss)
(864,150)
(799,987)
(64,164)
25
Page 782 of 817
2025 GRAND RIVER CENTER ANNUAL REPORT
SIGNATURE EVENTS
Travel Dubuque Hospitality Breakfast
The Grand River Center was proud to host the 2025 Travel Dubuque Hospitality
Breakfast, bringing together local tourism and hospitality professionals to celebrate
excellence across the industry. The morning also recognized individuals who go
above and beyond to enhance Dubuque's visitors' experience. One of our very own,
Operations Manager, Joe Klecker, received the Outstanding Front Line Staff Award
for his exceptional service and leadership.
_..=� ft
� :b
Key City Volleyball Clash
The Grand River Center hosted the inaugural Key City Volleyball Clash, attracting
teams from across the Midwest. With over 3,500 players and spectators, the event
expanded to Five Flags Arena, UW—Platteville, and Peosta Community Center.
Following its success, the tournament returns in 2026 with two events.
ti
26
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2025 GRAND RIVER CENTER ANNUAL REPORT
SIGNATURE EVENTS
Circle Wisconsin
The Grand River Center was proud to serve as the host venue for the Circle Wisconsin
Midwest Marketplace, a premier travel and tourism event that brings together tour
operators, destinations, and attractions from across the Midwest. The multi -day conference
provided an opportunity for industry professionals to network, share ideas, and collaborate
on future group travel experiences.
Hon❑r Flight
The Honor Flight of Dubuque and the Tri-States brought an incredible sense of pride and community to the
Grand River Center this year. The building was filled with red, white, and blue as families, friends, and
supporters gathered to welcome veterans home from their trip to Washington, D.C. Hosting this heartfelt
event was a true honor, as it reflected the community's deep appreciation for those who have served and
highlighted the Grand River Center's role in bringing people together for meaningful celebrations.
5G.", =
27
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2025 GRAND RIVER CENTER ANNUAL REPORT
EVENT MIX
We hosted 168 total events this fiscal year with great success! Our
event mix was heavilywe1ghted in meetingslsemin ars with 30.3% of
events hosted in this even type followed by banquets with 21.8%.
Weddings, ❑uinceneras, Family B
18.2%
Special Events
2%
Trade SI
12.6'
Sporting Events
7.5%
Conventions
4.3%
Banquets
21.8%
Meetings & Seminars
30.3 %
28
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2025 GRAND RIVER CENTER ANNUAL REPORT
ONE VENUE.
INFINITE POSSIBILITIES.
GRAND RIVER CENTER
GRAND ]JIVER CENTER
I
Ll
29
Page 786 of 817
UF—
GRAM] RIVER CENTER UP
Marie Ware
Director of Parks & Recreation I City of Dubuque
2200 Bunker Hill Road
Dubuque, Iowa 52001
Dear Mrs. Ware,
GRAND RIVER CENTER
500 Bell Street I Dubuque, Iowa 52001
T: 563.690.4500
F: 563.239.9748
I am writing to formally request the opportunity to present the 2025 Annual Report of the Grand River Center at the City
Council meeting scheduled for Monday, October 20, 2025.
This presentation will highlight the significant achievements of our venue over the past year, showcasing the dedication,
hard work, and collaboration of our team and partners in driving our success.
Please let me know if there is an available time slot on the agenda for this presentation. I am happy to provide any additional
information or materials needed in preparation.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Ryan Bonifas, MS, CVP
General Manager
Oak View Group I Grand River Center
500 Bell St., Dubuque, IA 52001
Page 787 of 817