Jan_Feb Journal

Connections Club

Jan/Feb 2020 Edition

Historic

Captivating

Holiday Time In New York City November 20-24, 2020

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Calendar and Contents

Hello from Connie

Calendar 2020 Jan 23 Saturday Night Fever/Fireside Theater (p.12) Feb 8 Hawkeyes vs. Cornhuskers (p.5) Feb 9 Love Happens /Bell Tower (p.6) Feb 15 50 Years of Rock and Roll/UD Heritage Center (p.6) Feb 19 Kinky Boots /Circa 21 (p.12) Feb 22 Peter And The Wolf /Five Flags (p.7) Feb 29 Golden Dragons Acrobats/UD Heritage Center (p.8) March 1 Rock of Ages /Grand Opera House (p.8) March 3-25 New Zealand & Australia (p.14-15) March 20 Piano Fondue Dueling Pianos/ UD (p.9) April 26 Exit Laughing /Bell Tower (p.9) May 1-5 Virginia Beach/Norfolk/Outer Banks (p.16-17) June 14 Matilda The Musical /Grand Opera House (p.10) June 19 Grease /Five Flags Theater (p.11) June 24 What Happens In Vegas /Fireside Theater (p.13) July 19 Brigadoon /Grand Opera House (p.11) July 22-24 Mystery Trip (p.22) August 27-Sept 6 Danube Delights River Cruise (p.18-19) Nov 20-24 Holiday Time in New York City (p.20-21)

Hello Friends,

We conquered another year, hooray! I sure had a great time. This is the Journal issue when I always talk about New Year’s resolutions. Do you have any? I tend to have way too many. I want to stay in shape and be healthy. I want to exercise more and eat less. I want to pray more and complain less.

Pretty common resolutions, but this year I decided to dig in a little deeper. What can I do to make 2020 a little better for all of you, and for me? Lets face it, we have to be happy with ourselves in order to make others happy. We must be satisfied with who we are, and what we do, and accept the fact that some things are out of our control. Many times, we just have to roll with the punches. Travelers are AMAZING at rolling with the punches because we are always at the mercy of others. We get to encounter people who roll out the red carpet for us and their main concern is our happiness, and then we run into others that really don’t have our best interest at heart. The last few words are hard for me to write because I never want to believe it; however, it is a fact of life. We have no idea why a person acts the way they do. They simply may not be capable of acting any other way at that particular moment in time. Hardship, grief, bad health, and constant pain are just a few reasons why people act the way they do. My New Year’s resolutions are going to include practicing patience and tolerance, and finding gratitude. We are embracing a new decade in a fast-paced ever-changing world. Change is inevitable. We experienced it here with a new Club name, a new bank name, and new computer systems. We have new faces in many offices, and new bankers from our help desk answering your calls. One day we will look back and hardly even remember all of this. But for now, I encourage you to practice patience and tolerance along with me and keep believing. We are definitely moving in the right direction. I make many decisions daily that affect all of you. Please know I do so with the very best intentions. I will continue to embrace new opportunities for our Club. Please take a look at our offerings and let me know what you are interested in. I always welcome your feedback.

Contents

Notes from Connie Bulletin Board Dyersville/Farley

p. 3 p. 4 p. 5

Local Events

pp. 6-11

One-Day Ventures pp. 12-13 New Zealand/Australia pp. 14-15 Virginia Beach pp. 16-17 Danube Delights pp. 18-19 New York City pp. 20-21 Mystery Trip p. 22 Missing Word Contest p. 23

Make today great for yourself and others that you love.

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Bulletin Board

Dyersville/Farley Events

To become a Connections Club member: Reach age 40 or better and maintain qualifying account balances. Stop by any branch to request membership information. To be eligible you can choose options 1, 2, or 3: 1. Maintain at least $5,000 in one of the following MidWest One Bank accounts: checking, savings, or money market account. 2. Maintain at least $10,000 in any combination of the following MidWest One accounts: checking, savings, certificates of deposit, money market account, IRA, personal trust services, or brokerage services. 3. Qualify with an initial bal- ance of $50,000 on either a consumer or mortgage loan. (Loans can’t be combined, a joint account relationship held by husband and wife qualifies both. No membership fees are involved. Personal accounts only.) Referral Program: Refer family and friends to Connections Club who do not already bank with MidWest One , and if they join, we will send you a check for $15. There is no limit to the number of referrals you can make. (Husband and wife joining count as one referral.) Bring a Guest: Members are encouraged to invite friends and you may register one guest for each Club event. A couple may invite two individuals. As space becomes available, eachmember may invite more than one guest. For reservations call: Connie Francis: 563.589.0804 Lori Marshall: 608.723.5678 Sheila Tegeler: 563.875.2491 Pam Kreul: 608.822.7300 Kristie Heims: 563.744.3380 Jean Wanezek: 608.348.4300 Cancellation Policy: If a cancellation is necessary, every effort will be made to provide either a partial or full refund. However, we cannot provide a guarantee of a full refund. Please be advised that there will be circumstances when refunds will not be possible due to ticket purchases, meal number guarantees, etc. If a tour is cancelled due to insufficient reservation numbers, you will be issued a full refund. On tours where an outside agent is used, we will adhere to the written cancellation policy of the agent. Stand-By List: We always appreciate your willingness to be on the stand-by list for trips that are filled. Please call and add your name to any that interest you. You may get a call to join us. Points for Travel Program: Each time you travel with us, earn valuable points to redeem as cash discounts for future travel! Every travel day earns you 75 points. For every 300 points you accumulate, you earn a $10 credit toward your next trip.

Hawkeyes vs. Cornhuskers Saturday, February 8, 2020 Carver-Hawkeye Arena, Iowa City

Leave the planning to us and gather your family or friends to cheer on the Iowa Hawkeyes when they battle the Nebraska Cornhuskers at Carver-Hawkeye Arena. This will [be] a Saturday evening game with tip-off at 5:00 p.m. Our motor coach will depart Dubuque at 12:00 p.m. and make passenger stops in Farley and Dyersville on our way to Stone City, Iowa. We will enjoy a late lunch at The General Store in Stone City. Upon arrival, we will feast on an amazing pizza and appetizer buffet. Following our lunch, we will board the coach and head to Iowa City for the exciting conference game! Our hosts for the day will be Connie Francis, our Connections Club Director, and Sheila Tegeler from our Dyersville Office.

To register or for questions call: Connie Francis 563.589.0804 Sheila Tegeler 563.875.2491

Full payment of $89 per person is due at registration. Trip includes the game ticket, transportation, lunch buffet, and driver’s gratuity. Go Hawks!

Member FDIC | Equal Housing Lender

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Local Events

Love Happens Sunday, February 9, 2020, 2:00 p.m. Bell Tower Theater 2728 Asbury Road, Dubuque, IA

Peter and The Wolf Saturday, February 22, 2020, 7:30 p.m.

Lobby Doors Open 6:30 p.m. Theater Doors Open 7:00 p.m. Dubuque Symphony Orchestra Five Flags Theater 405 Main St, Dubuque, IA

Love blossoms when Donna and Tommeet at the local gym. But navigating a new relationship is never easy. Luckily they have Phil and Rose (who will soon be cele- brating 50 years together) to help them through the rough patches. Funny and sweet, this is the perfect show for Valentine’s Day. Your Connections Club price is just $18 for prime seating.

The tale of Peter and the Wolf comes alive onstage in this beloved symphonic fairy tale! Join us in this not-to-be missed performance featuring orchestra, guest narrator, and the Heartland Ballet. Wagner’s “Siegfried Idyll”, named for his first child and written as a surprise gift to his wife, was first played in their home as she woke up on her birthday. As such, it reflects a rarely heard, more intimate side of the composer. In honor of the 50th anniversary of the Dubuque Symphony Youth Orchestra (DSYO), the Youth Orchestra will join the professional musicians in a side-by-side performance of Beethoven’s “Egmont Overture”. And Beethoven’s youthful “Second Symphony”, is thrilling way to begin our year-long celebration of the 250th anniversary of the composer’s birth. Your Connections Club price is just $40 for prime seating.

50 Years of Rock ‘n’ Roll Saturday, February 15, 2020, 7:30 p.m. UD Heritage Center 2255 Bennett Street, Dubuque, IA

With a cast consisting [of] stars from Broadway’s greatest rock musicals including Dubuque native Rita Harvey as well as incredible rock and roll singers, Neil Berg shares the often unknown stories from the 50-year history of the music that changed the world. From rock and roll precursors in the 40s through MTV in the early 80s, this presentation blends fascinating stories and groundbreaking music with tributes to iconic rock stars and groups such as Elvis Presley, Ray Charles, Buddy Holly, Bob Dylan, The Beatles, Beach Boys, Motown, Aretha Franklin, Janis Joplin, Simon & Garfunkel, Elton John, Stevie Wonder, Billy Joel, Aerosmith, Bruce Springsteen, Fleetwood Mac, and many more. Your Connec- tions Club price is just $31 for prime seating.

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Local Events

Piano Fondue Dueling Pianos Friday, March 20, 2020, 7:30 p.m. UD Heritage Center 2255 Bennett Street, Dubuque, IA

Golden Dragon Acrobats Saturday, February 29, 2020, 7:30 p.m. UD Heritage Center 2255 Bennett Street, Dubuque, IA

Piano Fondue presents a fully-interactive, high-energy, sing-along show. Two entertainers take their places behind two baby grand pianos on stage, and the audience controls the set list on their smartphones. Audience members can visit Piano Fondue’s request website, view the set list, and manipulate it in real-time. They can add songs to the list or move songs around. The entire show is crowdsourced. Your Connections Club price is just $16 for prime seating.

The Golden Dragon Acrobats represent the best of a time honored tradition that began more than twenty-five centuries ago. The Golden Dragons are recognized throughout the United States and abroad as the premiere Chinese acrobatic touring company of today. The reputation of the company is solidly rooted in a commitment to the highest of production values and an attention to artistic details that is unparalleled in the art form. World renowned impresario Danny Chang and choreographer Angela Chang com- bine award-winning acrobatics, traditional dance, spectacular costumes, ancient and contemporary music and theatrical techniques to present a show of breathtaking skill and spellbinding beauty. Your Connections Club price is just $30 for prime seating.

Exit Laughing by Paul Elliott Sunday, April 26, 2020, 2:00 p.m. Bell Tower Theater 2728 Asbury Road, Dubuque, IA

Rock of Ages Sunday, March 1, 2020, 2:00 p.m. Grand Opera House 135 W 8th St, Dubuque, IA

When the biggest highlight in your life for the past 30 years has been your weekly bridge night out with the “girls,” what do you do when one of your foursome inconveniently dies? You “borrow” the ashes from the funeral home for one last card game, of course. This wildly funny new comedy shows all the fun you can have when you’re truly living. Your Connections Club price is just $18 for prime seating.

Do you wanna rock? Then it’s time to pull out your day-glo spandex pants and tease your hair as high as it will go! We are taking you back to the 80s and the Sunset strip where a developer is about to tear down the Rock and Roll Mecca. Can love, fishnets, and rock and roll save the beloved Bourbon Room, or will this bastion of all things 80s fall to the idea of “clean living”? Rock of Ages takes you back to the times of [big] bands with big egos playing big guitar solos and sporting even bigger hair! This Tony Award-nominated Broadway musical features the hits of bands including Night Ranger, REO Speedwagon, Pat Benatar, Twisted Sister, and others. Your Connections Club price is just $16 for prime seating.

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Local Events

Matilda The Musical Sunday, June 14, 2020, 2:00 p.m. Grand Opera House 135 W 8th St, Dubuque, IA

Brigadoon Sunday, July 19, 2020, 2:00 p.m. Grand Opera House 135 W 8th St, Dubuque, IA

Lerner and Loewe’s Brigadoon is the enchanting and beloved Broadway and West End musical that inspired the classic MGM film, and numerous productions all over the world. Featuring such standards as “Almost Like Being in Love,” “Come to Me, Bend To Me,” and “Heather on the Hill,” Brigadoon is a timeless, romantic classic which vividly brings the mystery and magic of the Scottish highlands to life. New Yorker Tommy Albright unexpectedly arrives at the mysterious Scottish Highland village of Brigadoon, which only appears for one day every 100 years. When Tommy meets and falls in love with Fiona, a beautiful villager in this magical hamlet, he must decide whether to return to his old life, or stay in Brigadoon – forever. Your Connec- tions Club price is just $16 for prime seating.

Inspired by the twisted genius of Roald Dahl, the Tony Award-winning Roald Dahl’s Matilda The Musical is the captivating masterpiece from the Royal Shakespeare Company that revels in the anarchy of childhood, the power of imagination and the inspiring story of a girl who dreams of a better life. With book by Dennis Kelly and original songs by Tim Minchin, Matilda has won 47 international awards and continues to thrill sold-out audiences of all ages around the world. Matilda is a little girl with astonishing wit, intelligence, and psychokinetic powers. She’s unloved by her cruel parents but impresses her schoolteacher, the highly loveable Miss Honey. Over the course of her first term at school, Matilda and Miss Honey have a profound effect on each other’s lives, as Miss Honey begins not only to recognize but also appreciate Matilda’s extraordinary personality. Matilda’s school life isn’t completely smooth sailing, however – the school’s mean headmistress, Miss Trunchbull, hates children and just loves thinking up new punishments for those who don’t abide by her rules. But Matilda has courage and cleverness in equal amounts, and [could] be the students saving grace! Packed with high-energy dance numbers, catchy songs, and an unforgettable star, Matilda is a joyous girl power romp. Children and adults alike will be thrilled and delighted by the story of the special little girl with an extraordinary imagination. Your Connections Club price is just $16 for prime seating.

Grease Friday, June 19, 2020, 7:30 p.m. The Rising Star Theater Company Five Flags Theater

The Broadway musical Grease , which led to one of the greatest movie musicals of all time, continues to be a favorite for audiences of all ages. Revisit Danny Zuko, the head greaser, and his love interest, good girl Sandy Dumbrowski along with the Pink Ladies and Burger Palace Boys of Rydell High. This 1950s singing and dancing extravaganza includes favorites “Summer Nights,” “Greased Lightnin’,” “Born to Hand Jive,” and “We Go Together.” So throw your mittens around your kittens and hand jive the night away with the show that’ll make you want to stand up and shout, ‘A-wop-bop-a-loo-bop, a-wop- bam-boom!’ Your Connections Club price is just $14 for prime seating.

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One-Day Ventures

What Happens in Vegas Wednesday, June 24, 2020

Saturday Night Fever Thursday, January 23, 2020

Fireside Theater Fort Atkinson, WI

Fireside Theater Fort Atkinson, WI

Capturing the historic flavor of disco-mania in New York City, told through the eyes of a talented, streetwise kid from Brooklyn who attempts to escape his dead-end life through dancing. Saturday Night Fever explores relationships on and off the dance floor with humor, conflict, style and unforgettable swagger. Powered by the chart-breaking hits of the Bee Gees, the pulsating score includes “Stayin’ Alive,” “If I Can’t Have You,” “How Deep is Your Love,” “Boogie Shoes,” and “Disco Inferno.” Cost is $115 per person and includes transportation from Dubuque, plated lunch, show, and driver’s gratuity. Call for availability.

For over 70 years Las Vegas has been the entertainment capital of the world. Just about every great entertainer has appeared in Las Vegas over the last seven decades. The world’s best singers, dancers, musicians, and comedians have flocked to this city where dreams become reality. Now The Fireside will pay tribute to many of those legendary performers in an all new live band show featuring Steve Watts and the celebrated Fireside Band. From the early days with Frank Sinatra and the Rat Pack to the contemporary artists of today, we’ll feature the work of many Las Vegas favorites in the most spectacular band show yet. What happens in Vegas won’t stay in Vegas. It will be here for all to see and enjoy on the stage of The Fireside Theatre. Your Connections Club price is just $115 per person and includes transportation from Dubuque, plated lunch, show, and driver’s gratuity. Full payment, refundable until May 22, is due with your registration.

Kinky Boots Wednesday, February 19, 2020 Circa 21 Dinner Playhouse Rock Island, IL

Charlie Price has reluctantly inherited his father’s failing shoe factory. Trying to live up to his father’s legacy and save his family business, Charlie finds inspiration in the form of Lola, a fabulous drag queen in need of some sturdy stilettos. This joyous musical celebration is about the friendships we discover and the belief that you can change the world when you change your mind. With elaborate costumes, exhilarating choreography and a truly moving and powerful story, Kinky Boots will have you dancing in your seat and discovering why, sometimes, the best way to fit in ... is to stand out! Your Connections Club price is just $89 per person and includes transportation from Dubuque, plated lunch, show, and driver’s gratuity. Full payment, refundable until January 15, 2020, is due with your registration.

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Extended Travel

New Zealand and Australia March 3-25, 2020

Join us on this trip of a lifetime in New Zealand and Australia with tons of excursions, call for the full itinerary. Day 1-2: Transfer to Chicago airport for our flight to Auckland. Day 3: Arrival in Auckland, check into our hotel and enjoy a welcome dinner. (D) Day 4: Auckland sightseeing includes Auckland Harbor Bridge, Viaduct Harbor, Auckland Domain, Auckland War Memorial Museum, Parnell Village, and Michael Joseph Savage Memorial Park. (B,L) Day 5: Auckland – Rotorua. Visit the Hobbiton Movie Set, Te Kauwhata, Huntly, Waitomo Glowworm Caves, and discover the uniqueness New Zealand’s Maori people. (B) Day 6: Visit Rotorua’s geothermal wonderland with bubbling mud pools, and natural hot springs. We stop at the Agrodome and ride eight-seater Gondola cabins to experience scenic views of Lake Rotorua. This evening enjoy Te Po Tour, a feast of storytelling, enter- tainment, and Maori cuisine while absorbing the unforgettable sights at nightfall. (B,D) Day 7: Flight to Christchurch. Travel to the hotel located in the heart of Christchurch and have time to explore on your own before dinner together. (B,D) Day 8: Explore Christchurch; Hagley Park, the Avon River, the International Antarctic Centre, Cardboard Cathedral, and the Botanical Gardens. (B) Day 9: Journey to Mt. Cook to view Geraldine, the spectacular landscape that saw the filming of Lord of the Rings, and where Lake Tekapo and Lake Pukaki reside. (B,D) Day 10: Depart for Oakridge Resort Lake Wanaka to see remote farmland, brilliant turquoise canals, lakes, and alpine meadows. Along the way we visit Puzzling World. (B,D) Day 11: Enjoy a leisurely morning in Wanaka, before we depart for Queenstown. (B) Day 12: Travel to Milford Sound with scenic stops at Eglington Valley, Mirror Lakes, Homer Tunnel and The Chasm. While at Milford Sound we enjoy a lunch cruise. (B,D) Day 13: Full day of sightseeing in Queenstown; Arrowtown, the Bungee Jumping site, Shotover Jetboat ride site, and Skyline Queenstown. Dinner is at the Stratosfare Skyline Restaurant and Bar at the top of the Gondola. (B,D) Day 14: We fly to Melbourne to meet our guide and enjoy an overview as we transfer to our hotel. (B) Day 15: See the Shrine of Remembrance, Fitzroy Gardens, drive past the Sports Pre- cinct, Parliament House, Queen Victoria Market, Flinders Street and Federation Square.

This afternoon we go to Phillip Island’s Koala Conservation center, the Nobbies and later watch the Penguin Parade waddle from the sea to their burrows before we have dinner together. (B,L,D) Day 16-17: Experience beautiful Yarra Valley, and a farm-to-table lunch at Divino’s. This evening we have dinner in Docklands before proceeding to the Melbourne Star . In the morning we fly to Cairns. (B,L,D,B) Day 18: Enjoy a full day at the Great Barrier Reef. Snorkeling in the cay’s protected shallow waters, and cruise in the semi-sub for a diver’s view, both are included. If you prefer a more leisurely day, relax on the beach or onboard Ocean Spirit’s spacious decks. (B,L) Day 19: Today we visit Tjapukai and enjoy an Aboriginal experience at the Tjapkai Cultural Center, ride the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, visit Kuranda Village, and conclude with a scenic ride back to Cairns onboard the Kuranda Scenic Railway. (B,L) Day 20: Today we travel to Sydney to view the Sydney Opera House, then to the Sydney Tower Eye, Sydney’s highest attraction. This afternoon is on your own. (B) Day 21: Discover Blue Mountains National Park with a guide, Scenic World for the Blue Mountain rides; Scenic Railway, Cableway, or Skyway. Tour Featherdale Wildlife Park to have a photo taken with a cuddly koala. See kangaroos, wombats, dingoes and pen- guins. We drive by the site of the 2000 Olympic Games before we return to the city. (B,L) Day 22-23: Experience Australia at your leisure. We gather together this evening for a farewell dinner cruise aboard the prestigious MV Sydney 2000 and enjoy quality dining, wine, live music and dancing, all set to the spectacular backdrop of Sydney by night. The next morning we fly home. (B,D,B) Cost is $11,539 per person for double occupancy, and $13,839 for single. Call for availability.

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Extended Travel

Virginia Beach, Norfolk, and Outer Banks May 1-5, 2020 This trip is sure to please with its history and beauty. All four nights we stay at the same oceanfront hotel. Day 1: Today we will fly into Richmond, VA, and travel down to Virginia Beach. After a short one-hour drive, we arrive at our hotel where we will stay for the next four nights. Relax and unpack knowing you don’t have to pack up again until we head home on Tuesday. We will gather for an included dinner this evening. (D) Day 2: We have a full day today following a great breakfast at the hotel. Just a half an hour away from Virginia Beach is Norfolk, VA, home to the world’s biggest Naval base. Our day will begin with tours by land and sea as we visit the Nauticus and battleship Wisconsin . Nauticus is the science center and museum known as the National Maritime Center, which features one of the largest battleships in the US – the Wisconsin . Next we are treated to reserved seating for the Parade of Nations as the performers we will be seeing later at the Tattoo will be marching in the parade along the streets of Norfolk. Following the parade, we will enjoy a cruise around Norfolk and see magnificent Naval ships with a narrated tour by sea. This afternoon, we visit The MacArthur Memorial. We have an early dinner in Norfolk. Then we experience “the largest spectacle of Music and Might in the United States of America.” An astounding display of inspirational military music, majestic massed pipes and drums, show stopping drill teammaneuvers, colorful and elegant dancers, and much more will be seen at the Virginia International Tattoo. Following the perfor- mance we will make the short drive back to our hotel for the night. (B,L,D) Day 3: Today we [start] with a tour of Virginia Beach. This vibrant coastal city is home to a flourishing local culinary scene, rich history, a variety of arts, entertainment, and attrac- tions. We will visit the Surf and Rescue Museum, which preserves history of the 1903 Life Saving Station, The Military Aviation Museum, home to one of the largest private collec- tions of WWI and WWII era military aircraft in the world, the Cape Henry Lighthouse, built in 1792 commissioned by George Washington and overseen by Alexander Hamilton. We conclude with a visit to Town Center and a drive to Atlantic Avenue Oceanfront. Dinner is included before settling in for the night. (B,D) Day 4: Following breakfast this morning we will drive south out of Virginia Beach and even out of Virginia to the incredible Outer Banks of North Carolina just one hour away. This is America’s First Beach. In Manteo, we will stroll through the majestic Elizabethan

Gardens, which were designed in 1960 as a living memorial to Queen Elizabeth, Sir Walter Raleigh and the members of the Lost Colony. Then it is on to Fort Raleigh National Historic Site located on Roanoke Island. We will walk around downtown Historic Manteo and explore Roanoke Marshes Light and the George Washington Creef (working) Boat shop. We visit Bodie Island Lighthouse, completed in 1872. This Lighthouse sits on the north side of Oregon Inlet near the northern border of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. Jockey’s Ridge State Park is a stop on the way where the tallest natural sand dunes on the East Coast are located. We will visit the Wright Brother National Memorial, where Orville and Wilbur Wright broke our bond with the earth in 1903. Dinner is included this evening. (B,D) Day 5: Today we will enjoy our final breakfast at the hotel and depart to visit the first English permanent settlement in America – Historic Jamestown. Here we will experience the Jamestown story of survival and encounters with the native peoples. Then back to Richmond for our flight home. What a week at the beach! Who would have thought there was so much so close to the Atlantic Ocean in one of America’s great playgrounds! (B) Per person price is $2,991, double occupancy, and $3,587, for single. A deposit of $350 is required to hold your reservation. The final balance is due on January 20, 2020.

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Extended Travel

Danube Delights River Cruise August 27-September 6, 2020

Experience the Danube River aboard a luxurious Emerald Waterways Star-Ship on a seven-night cruise through four countries. Begin the adventure with an included two- night stay and touring in Prague before embarking the ship in Nuremberg, Germany. Day 1: Depart the USA on your overnight flight to Prague, the Czech Republic, one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Day 2: Prague, the Czech Republic. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. The day is at leisure to begin discovering your new surroundings. Day 3: Prague. After breakfast, an included walking tour highlights the famous sites of the city. See Old Town Square, the historic Astronomical Clock and the medieval Charles Bridge. During free time this afternoon, explore the city on your own, or join the optional excursion to Terezin Concentration Camp. (B) Day 4: Nuremberg, Germany. After breakfast, depart Prague by motorcoach for Nuremberg. After a brief city tour of Nuremberg, board your Emerald Waterways vessel, home for the next seven nights. (B, D) Day 5: Regensburg, Germany. This morning takes you through the final stretch of the fascinating Main – Danube Canal to Regensburg, one of Germany’s best preserved medieval cities. On a guided walking tour, see one of the oldest bridges crossing the Danube and see the city’s architectural highlights including the Old Town Hall. (B, L, D) Day 6: Passau, Germany to Linz, Austria. Cobblestone streets and graceful arcades welcome you in the beautiful city of Passau. On this morning’s walking tour, stroll through the old town’s narrow alleyways and see the hilltop Oberhaus Fortress from the town below. Visit St. Stephen’s Cathedral, a wonderful example of Baroque architecture and home to Europe’s largest church organ with more than 17,000 pipes. The afternoon is spent cruising along the Danube River to Linz. (B, L, D) Day 7: Melk to Dürnstein. Situated within Austria’s wine – growing region, Melk is home to an imposing 900-year-old Benedictine Abbey featuring Austria’s finest Italian baroque architecture, with ornate gold-leaf walls, a 640 foot Imperial Corridor and fresco ceilings. After visiting the Abbey, cruise along the Danube for a scenic journey through the picturesque landscape of the Wachau Valley en-route to Dürnstein. One of the most enchanting villages of the Wachau wine region, Dürnstein is also home to the ruins of the castle where Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned. (B, L, D)

Day 8: Vienna, Austria. Welcome to Vienna, the capital of classical music. Today you have a choice of activities: explore Austria’s capital with a drive along the Ringstrasse to see the impressive Opera House, Burgtheater and Town Hall, followed by a walking tour through the city center to see St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the Hofburg Imperial Palace, or, if you feel active, join the guided bike tour of the city. (B, L, D) Day 9: Bratislava, Slovakia. Set on the crossroads of ancient trade routes in the heart of Europe, Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, embodies various cultures – primarily Celtic, Roman and Slavic. Enjoy a sightseeing tour including the enchanting Old City with its Town Hall, Mirbach Palace and the Gothic Cathedral of St Martin. This afternoon, a highlight of the day will be a home-hosted visit where you are treated to tasty home- made specialties in the home of local Slovakians. What a unique opportunity to meet the locals and learn about life in Slovakia! (B, L, D) Day 10: Budapest, Hungary. Budapest is Eastern Europe’s liveliest and most cosmopolitan city. Enjoy a guided panoramic tour seeing the city sights including the Hungarian Parliament Building, the Buda Castle and the Chain Bridge linking Buda and Pest, or choose an exciting hike to Buda Hill. [This] evening, enjoy a traditional Hungarian farewell dinner and complete the evening with a folk dancing and music performance onboard. The perfect nightcap is an evening cruise through the harbor, seeing the city illuminated in nighttime splendor. (B, L, D) Day 11: Hungary to USA. It’s time to say farewell to the Captain and crew as you depart on the transfer to the airport for your flight home. (B) Free airfare incentive available through December 31! Per-person price (with free airfare) starting at $5,178, double occupancy. Promotional air rate of $700 will be added after December 31. This pricing includes optional travel protection. A deposit of $829 is due at registration, $429 is non-refundable. Final balance is due May 28, 2020.

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Extended Travel

Holiday Time in New York City November 20-24, 2020

Kickoff the holiday season touring one of the most exciting cities on earth. You’ll

see the sights and experience many well-known time-honored traditions!

Day 1: This morning we fly to “The Big Apple”–New York City. Upon arrival we will check into the Crowne Plaza, located right in the pulsating heart of Times Square and New York’s historic Theater District, for four nights. All of the excitement of the city is right outside your door! This evening we’ll have an incredible Italian, family-style, feast at Carmine’s, a true New York City institution. After dinner, we’ll pose for a souvenir group photo taken among the scintillating lights of Times Square. We’ll be finished in time for you to see a Broadway show, wander through Times Square, or relax at the hotel after your travels. (D) Day 2: A local guide joins us for a morning tour of midtown and upper Manhattan. We’ll see some of the most iconic New York sites including Lincoln Center, Columbus Circle, Harlem, Central Park, Museum Mile, Rockefeller Center, and Fifth Avenue. You’ll have free time to enjoy lunch at one of the restaurants near our hotel before we take our seats for an exciting Broadway musical! After a delicious dinner at Bond45, the evening is free for you to see another Broadway show, or perhaps ride to the top of the Empire State Building for a birds-eye view of the city. (D) Day 3: We begin our day with a guided tour of lower Manhattan including Times Square, the Garment District, Madison Square Garden, Macy’s Flagship store, the Empire State Building, Chelsea, Greenwich Village, Soho, Tribeca, Wall Street, and Chinatown. Then we’re in for a special treat as we head to The View – a revolving restaurant at the top of the Marriott Marquis with wonderful 360° views of Manhattan from 48 floors up – for an elaborate Sunday Brunch complete with an incredible assortment of gourmet food items and mimosas. We’ll see another delightful Broadway musical this afternoon. Tonight is yours to experience the thrill of The City that Never Sleeps! Watch the talented street artists, revel in the lights and activity, or enjoy a nightcap and live music with friends. (B) Day 4: Enjoy a leisurely morning before we go to Radio City Music Hall to see a late morning performance of the Christmas Spectacular featuring the high-kicking preci- sion of the world famous Rockettes! Since its debut in 1933, more than 75 million people have gotten into the yuletide spirit by taking part in this wonderful New York holiday tradition. After the show, you’ll have your choice of taking an optional ferry ride to the

Statue of Liberty or Ellis Island, visiting the 9/11 Memorial and Museum (additional fees will apply), or returning to the hotel for a free afternoon to shop, visit a museum or relax. Shopping at Macy’s or browsing through the colorful Christmas Market at Bryant Park are good choices. This evening we will dine at the upscale Redeye Grill before returning to the hotel. (D) Day 5: Today we’ll embark on a Pizza Tour of Brooklyn. This tour covers pizza and Brooklyn from one end to the other. You’ll experience award winning pizza from world-famous Grimaldi’s, under the Brooklyn Bridge, to the legendary pizza at L&B Spumoni Gardens in Bensonhurst. This multimedia sightseeing tour highlights Brooklyn’s famous neighborhoods, parks, landmarks and famous movie locations. You’ll see Coney Island, the million dollar homes along scenic Shore Road in Bay Ridge and everything in between! Then we’re off to the airport for our flight home. We’ll be filled with the holiday spirit from the wonderful time we spent in fabulous New York City! Per person price is $3,149, double occupancy, and $3,579, for single. A deposit of $100 is required to hold your reservation. The final balance is due on August 13, 2020.

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Mystery Trip

Missing Word

Worth Thinking About: “You’re off to great places! Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting, so get on your way.” ~ Dr. Seuss

Mystery Trip July 22-24, 2020 Our destination is a secret!

Missing Word Contest: Our Missing Word Contest winner for Nov/Dec was Robert Rapp, who received a check for $25. The missing word was “I’ll,” and the song title was “I’ll Be Home For Christmas.” The year-end winner of $100 was Carol Bagge. We have hidden another song title with a missing word in this issue. Read your Connections Club newsletter carefully, looking for any words enclosed in [brackets] like this. Rearrange the words to form the title or extended title of a popular song. One word will be missing. Figure out the missing word, and write the missing word only on the Missing Word Contest form found below. All correct entries received prior to the deadline indicated on the form are entered into the $25 drawing. All entries received throughout the year are entered into a year-end drawing for a grand prize of $100! Good luck!

Do you like going on mystery trips? Embark on a new Mystery Adventure with me. I’m planning three days and two nights that you will not want to miss. I’m working out the final details and I will have the trip cost in [the] next Journal issue. Please mark your calendars and plan to join me on July 22, 23, and 24.

Entry Form

Name

Phone

Address

The missing word is: Mail to: Connie Francis, Connections Club, PO Box 938, Dubuque, Iowa 52004-0938 Entries must be received before January 30, 2020.

Goodbye Snail Mail–Hello E-mail : Be first to receive details about upcoming trips and events. You won’t misplace your printed copy, as it’s always on your computer! Contact Connie at cfrancis@midwestone.com to sign up.

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Connections Club 23

Presorted Standard U.S. POSTAGE PAID

Permit No 477

Dubuque, Iowa

Dubuque, Iowa 52004-0938 563.589.0804 800.373.1841 www.MidWest One .bank

895 Main Street P.O. Box 938

cfrancis@midwestone.com

Address service requested

Connections Club is a rewards program for clients who maintain qualifying bal- ances and who are ages 40 and better.