2008 Gilhooly Award Winner - Michael Romkey

Michael Romkey editor of The Q-C Leader and associate managing editor of The Dispatch/Argus, a novelist, musician and volunteer. Mike has passed on his passion for culture to the Irish community near and far. His energies and efforts to expand our Irish music experience through venues such as the River City Radio Hour, iTunes podcasts, and the Barley House Band has had a positive influence in the preservation of Irish music. Michael's motto -- Irish Roots, American Branches -- illustrates that there is room for both the traditional and new in our culture.

Michael and his wife, Carol live in Bettendorf, Ia. They have three sons. The Romkey's are active members of Trinity Church in Rock Island and the Boy Scouts of America locally.