Dubuque, Iowa has seen a significant development as the Dubuque Racing Association (DRA) and Q Casino & Resort President & CEO Alex Dixon has tendered his resignation. This unexpected move has left the local community in a state of anticipation and reflection. Dixon, in a heartfelt announcement at a DRA board meeting on Tuesday, expressed his mixed emotions. "Honestly, I’m quite not yet ready to process all the emotions as you can imagine," he said. He further added that he will be present in Dubuque until mid-January and there is still work to be done. He has been committed to his role and will continue to give his best until his last day.Seeking New Leadership Opportunities
Dixon revealed that he is pursuing another leadership opportunity outside the state after leading the DRA and Q Casino since August 2021. This decision was not taken lightly, as he and his family have been deeply involved in the growth and success of the organization. "It’s the hardest decision of my life. It’s bittersweet," he explained. His family and he take great pride in what they have achieved in Dubuque and as a team. This announcement comes at a time when the Q Casino is debuting Island Social, a new entertainment venue for all ages.The New Entertainment Venue
Island Social features more than 75 arcade games, digital axe throwing, duckpin bowling, and gathering space for events. Madison Wiegand, one of the venue’s first attendees, was excited. "I’m going to tell all my friends about it. I’m just excited that we can come down here as a family and have something fun to do. Another good reason to get together for birthday parties and invite friends and family down," she said. The new venue is set to open to the public on Wednesday, adding a new dimension to the entertainment scene in Dubuque.Leadership Transition
Brian Rakestraw, the Q Casino’s COO and CFO, will be taking over as interim CEO on January 15th. Dixon emphasized that this change in leadership will not affect the plans for the DRA, Q Casino & Resort, or Chaplain Schmitt Island. Mike Donohue, DRA Board Chair, also expressed confidence. "Alex has been the driving force behind the exciting renovation and expansion of the casino and its ongoing transformation, but he has also been integral in helping the community embrace – and move toward – a more comprehensive, strategic vision for the future of Schmitt Island," he said. The DRA Board and the Dubuque City Council have already approved several ongoing projects on Schmitt Island, including a new amphitheater and a seven-story, 90-room Key Hotel with a rooftop restaurant and bar. These projects will continue to move forward, and a search for the next leader is already underway.
