Connections Club Journal March_April

Connections Club

March/April 2021 Edition

Kalona, IA

Green Bay, WI

Elkhart Lake, WI

Exciting NEW Travel for 2021!

Mystery Trip

Connections Club 1

Hello from Connie

Calendar and Contents

Calendar 2021 March 13 Lee Brice/Five Flags Arena March 24 Travel Preview-South America (p.21) March 26 135 LIVE! PianoMan/The Grand Opera House (p.6) April 9 Midsummer Night’s Dream/The Grand Opera House (p.6) April 16-20 Virginia Beach, Norfolk, and Outer Banks April 25 The Numbers Game/Bell Tower (p.7) May 5 Cinco de Mayo Party/Diamond Jo (p.8) May 22 Air Supply/Five Flags Arena (p.7) May 25 Financial Wellness Webinar (p.5) June 6-10 Niagara Falls & Toronto (p.14-15) June 13 Matilda The Musical/The Grand Opera House (p.9) June 17 Travelers Trek-Kalona (p.10) June 30 Beehive/Circa 21 (p.11) July 14 Celebration Belle Oldies Cruise (p.9) July 21-23 Mystery Trip (p.22) Aug 3-4 Green Bay Experience (p.12) Sept 7-16 Enchanting Ireland (p.16-17) Sept 23-Oct 3 Danube Delights Nov 19-23 Holiday Time in New York City (p.18-19) Dec 5-6 Winter Getaway/Elkhart, WI (p.13) Calendar 2022 Feb 15-26 South American Adventure (p.20-21) Sept 29-Oct 12 Greek Isles, Croatia & Italy

Hello Everyone,

We have the first two months of 2021 under our belts and things aren’t looking a whole lot different so far. Remem- ber my resolutions from the last Journal? I vowed to embrace this year with enthusiasm, courage, confidence, and a positive attitude. I need you guys to hold me to it. We had to cancel a couple of events, but I added some new adventures and will

Save the Date! 10-day Greek Isles, Croatia & Italy Cruise, plus... 2-day pre-cruise package in Rome Sept. 29–Oct. 12, 2022 Balcony $5,499 p er person double Interior $4,995 per person double

just keep plugging away until we find our way through this. Fireside Theatre had to postpone our March 17 performance of What Happens In Vegas until next year. Our Nashville Getaway is also postponed. The Heritage Center decided to limit in person attendance to “students only” for this season. It’s okay, we can do this. You know what this reminds me of? Have you ever been in a vehicle or motor coach in a big traffic jam? You look ahead and see a long line of vehicles. You wonder what happened, what is up ahead, what is going on but slowly things start moving. You feel happy for about 10 seconds and then your vehicle slows down, maybe even stops. I feel like that’s what’s happening in life right now. We are in a pandemic jam, and just like a traffic jam they always clear up, and the pandemic jam will too. I have heard from people who question why I’m doing what I’m doing. Why keep planning and then postponing. This is a great question and jets through my mind too. The effects of the pandemic will change us forever, but the pandemic won’t last forever. We will need each other to get going again. I want to have choices and exciting adventures to offer you. We might feel safer traveling in a group when we get back together again. I want to be ready to go when you are. Some people say, “let’s go tomorrow” and yet others may never travel again. That is okay. No one should be judged. That is the beauty of the world we live in and the freedom we have to make our own decisions. Stick with me. We have mountains to climb and oceans to sail. We have miss- ing word contests and prize drawings to win. We have a friendly voice on the end of the phone to reserve a seat at a local performance for you or to request a reservation for an adventure of a lifetime. The choice is yours. We are here for you!

Contents

Notes from Connie

p. 3

Bulletin Board Local Events

p. 4-5 p. 6-9

One-Day Ventures

p. 10-11

Green Bay Packers Exp. Winter Getaway-Osthoff Niagara Falls/Toronto

p. 12 p. 13

p. 14-15 p. 16-17 p. 18-19 p. 20-21

Ireland

New York City

South American Adv.

Make someone smile today!

Mystery Trip

p. 22 p. 23

Missing Word Contest

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Bulletin Board

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: 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. 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 Angie Adams: 608.744.2125

Life’s a puzzle that you have to enjoy! Who wants to have some fun?

National Puzzle Day was just celebrated. We were encouraged at MidWest One Bank to write a note to someone that is an important piece in the puzzle of our life so I’m writing to all of you! Life is like a puzzle; we all just need to find the right pieces. Thank you for being the right pieces for me, for supporting our efforts with Connections Club, and banking at MidWest One Bank. I have a fun challenge for you. I heard many people are working on jigsaw puzzles in their free time. Take a photo of your recently completed jigsaw puzzle and send it to: MidWest One Bank, 895 Main St., Dubuque, IA 52001, attention Connie Francis, or send it to my email cfrancis@midwestone.com by May 31, 2021. Your name will be entered into a drawing for a 16 x 20 customized puzzle using one of your favorite photographs. I will share the entries with you in a future newsletter.

Understanding Investments Tuesday, May 25, 2021 Virtual Webinar

In our second seminar of the year, we will review answers to the following questions and more. What investment options should I consider? How can asset allocation protect me? Am I in the right investment mix? When should I make changes to my investments? Ryan Bryte, Vice President, a MidWest One Wealth Management professional will be presenting the webinar. Ryan has more than 15 years of experience in retirement planning, trust, and wealth management. He currently oversees business development activities and relationship management for the Bank at the Dubuque-Main St. location.

Member FDIC | Equal Housing Lender

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Local Events

135 Live! Piano Man (Billy Joel Tribute) Friday, March 26, 2021, 7:30 p.m. Grand Opera House 135 W 8th St, Dubuque, IA

The Numbers Game Sunday, April 25, 2021, 2:00 p.m. Bell Tower Theater 2728 Asbury Road, Dubuque, IA

The Grand Opera House presents: 135 Live! Featuring live music on the historic stage of the Grand Opera House, each concert is presented to a small live audience as well as streamed live. You can purchase your ticket to be part of the live, socially distanced audience, or sign up for streaming access and enjoy the concert from the comfort of your own couch. Either way, enjoy a live concert from the Grand’s stage. $8 live, $8 to live stream.

She was the most popular girl in high school; he was on the math team. They couldn’t be more different. Thirty-seven years later, Phil is an actuary, looking for a place to live. Bernadette needs a roommate, preferably a female. The only thing they have in common is that they’ve both just been dumped. Does misery really love company? Your Connections Club price is just $18 for prime seating.

Air Supply Saturday, May 22, 2021, 7:30 p.m. Five Flags Arena 405 Main St, Dubuque, IA

A Midsummer Night’s Dream- The Heartland Ballet Friday, April 9, 2021, 7:30 p.m. Grand Opera House 135 W 8th St, Dubuque, IA

For the first time in nearly 38 years, legendary pop group Air Supply will return to the Five Flags Center! Air Supply was one of the most successful groups of the early 1980s on the singles charts. They hit number one in 1981 with ‘’The One That You Love” and reached the Billboard Top 10 more than a half-dozen other times, with signature songs like “All Out of Love,” “Lost in Love,” “Even the Nights are Better,” and “Making Love Out of Nothing At All.” They last graced the Five Flags Center stage in July of 1982, while supporting “The One That You Love.” Local favorite Elizabeth Mary will open what is sure to be a great night of music! Your Connections Club price is just $68 for Section 5, seats in rows D through M.

Titania and Oberon, Queen and King of the Enchanted Forrest, are quarreling over the possession of a precious object. Oberon charges his favorite Fairy, Puck, “Spirit of Mischief,” to dot Titania’s eyes while she sleeps with the magic purple flower “Love in Idleness” so when she wakens, she will love the first she sees, which will be Oberon. Hermia and Lysander enter the forest, deeply in [love]. Demetrius enters, pursuing the affection of Hermia. Helena enters in despair, for she loves Demetrius even though he has eyes only for Hermia. Oberon observes the turmoil of Helena, and orders Puck to affect the eyes of Demetrius, so he will love Helena and set these lovers right. However, Puck makes mischief, and all goes awry! Choreographed by Marina O’Rourke, and music by Felix Mendelssohn. $16 live, $10 to live stream.

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Local Events

Matilda The Musical Sunday, June 13, 2021, 2:00 p.m. Grand Opera House 135 W 8th St, Dubuque, IA

Celebrate Cinco De Mayo Party No time to Siesta, it’s time to Fiesta! Wednesday, May 5, 2021 Diamond Jo Casino, Harborview Room

The Tony Award-winning Roald Dahl’s Matilda The Musical is a captivating masterpiece that revels in the anarchy of childhood, the power of imagination and the inspiring story of a girl who dreams of a better life. 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. 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 could be the students saving grace! 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.

Dust off your sombrero, shine your dancing shoes and clean out your margarita glass we are going to a party! Not just any party, a “Celebrate Cinco De Mayo Party” with your friends from Connections Club. We have a DJ ready to play your favorite Latin music and fun games to keep us entertained for hours. Don’t worry we also have a great Mexican menu planned to keep your tummy happy. Enjoy beef or chicken fajitas with flour tortillas, enchiladas, Spanish rice, refried beans, Mexican layer salad, guacamole and salsa with chips, and my personal favorite…churros with chocolate sauce. 11:30 a.m.–11:45 a.m.—Guests arrive 11:45 a.m.–12 p.m.—Best dressed gringo while enjoying music and the patio 12 p.m.–12:30 p.m.—Decorate the sombrero 12:45 p.m.–1:30 p.m.—Trivingo featuring famous Latin songs (prizes cannot be given out for this, bragging rights only) 1:30 p.m.–1:45 p.m.—Judging of sombreros while enjoying music 1:30 p.m.–2:30 p.m.—Mexican Buffet 2:15 p.m.–2:45 p.m.—Scavenger hunt; a list of items is read off and the table that has the most items wins (examples; paperclip, purple marker, red lipstick) We will have large Connect 4, Bean Bags, Jenga, tabletop Shuffleboard, and inflatable Bowling out for guests to play. Grab some friends and join us! Your Connections Club price is just $39 per person. Full payment is due with reservation by April 14, 2021.

Celebration Belle Four-hour Oldies Cruise Wednesday, July 14, 2021 Boarding 10:30 a.m., Sailing 11:00 a.m. Port of Dubuque

Cruise down the Mississippi and reminisce with entertainers Aaron and Jade to 50s and 60s music. Homemade sticky rolls and fresh fruit are available upon boarding, and a hot two entrée lunch buffet will be served. Pre-cruise check-in will take place for those registered at the Port of Dubuque prior to the cruise. Your Connections Club price is just $64 per person, due at reservation.

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One-Day Ventures

Travelers Trek Thursday, June 17, 2021 Kalona, IA

Beehive The ‘60s Musical Wednesday, June 30, 2021 Circa 21 Dinner Playhouse Rock Island, IL

Located just South of Iowa City is the community of Kalona, Iowa. Kalona, the local Amish community, is home to a large variety of Amish businesses that feature general merchandise, custom furniture, bulk foods, fresh produce, bakery goods, quilts, whole- sale plants and more. Join us for this fun filled day as we learn all about this Mennonite community. We will start our day at the Village Welcome Center where we will be welcomed with Coffee and Strudel. We will also listen to a local Mennonite who will share the history and how the Mennonites settled in Kalona. We will then travel the scenic back roads in our motor coach with our step-on guide. We will visit three to four destinations in the Kalona countryside. We will discover the world of the Kalona businesses and the Amish who continue to live the simple, wholesome lives of our pioneers. We will see their homes, schools and farms as we also learn about their fascinating traditions and customs. Our Trek will also include a culinary adventure in a country setting, where we will enjoy a lovely homemade family-style meal served in a Conservative Mennonite home. From home-baked fresh bread to fresh fruit pies, we ensure you will not leave hungry! A program about the Amish and Mennonite way of life will accompany our meal. Your Connections Club price is just $79 per person and includes transportation from Dubuque, Farley, and Dyersville, driver’s gratuity, tours and meal. Full pay- ment, refundable until May 14, 2021, is due with registration.

A fun, frothy flashback to the fabulous females who unmistakably left their mark on 1960s pop music. Beehive matches big voices with big hairdos, and features non-stop hits fromearly decade bubble gum classics to the explosive late ‘60s soul sound. Paying tribute to performers such as Brenda Lee, The Supremes, Connie Francis, Janis Joplin, Tina Turner, and Aretha Franklin, this irresistible revue will fly you back in time to experience firsthand the music that thrilled a generation. Come rock out with “Respect,” “Natural Woman,” “My Boyfriend’s Back,” “One Fine Day,” “Downtown” and more! With two dozen beloved hits, the show takes you on a journey through song, documenting the dramatic changes that America underwent during the ‘60s. If you like 50s and 60s music, Beehive The ‘60s Musical will have you dancing in your seats and coming back for more! Cost is $93 per person and includes transportation from Dubuque, plated lunch with dessert, show, and driver’s gratuity. Full payment, refundable until May 28, 2021, is due at registration.

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Overnight Ventures

Dyersville/ Farley Event

Green Bay Experience August 3-4, 2021 Green Bay, WI

Winter Getaway December 5-6, 2021 Elkhart Lake, WI

Day 1: Join [us] for a getaway like no other. Hop aboard our warm cozy motor coach and leave the driving to us. We are heading to beautiful Elkhart Lake, WI. Our travels today will be filled with food, drink, and fun. Getting into the Christmas spirit is a requirement. We will be stopping for an included lunch along the way. The Wreath Factory and Kohler Design Center will be on the list of our stops. This afternoon we will check into the won- derful Osthoff Resort for the evening to enjoy all the charm and excitement that Christ- mas brings to the resort. We will have an amazing dinner together and finish our evening with a horse drawn wagon ride. Day 2: That will not be the end of our fun [together] because we will wake up to a fabulous breakfast and head to The Siberian Outpost in Malone, WI. Sure to be one of our favorite stops. The Siberian Outpost offers dogsled rides and group demonstrations. We will learn the history of the Iditarod and the training of one of winter’s most interesting sports. The Siberian Outpost is a labor of love. Visitors get up close and personal with the dogs, learning a bit about their different stories and dispositions and getting a feel for the amount of manpower required to keep the operation running. Then back to the Osthoff Resort for the wonderful Old World Christmas Market. We will stroll the aisles of a grand heated tent bedecked with fragrant boughs of fresh evergreens and the tantalizing scents of roasted almonds and Nüremberg bratwurst as we browse for unique and specialty items among international and regional artisans. After enjoying the Christmas Markets, we will board the motor coach and head for home with a stop or two along the way. Per person price is $354, double occupancy, $414, single occupancy, $326, triple occupancy, $312 quadruple occupancy. Includes all attractions listed, one lunch, one breakfast, and two dinners. Payment in full, refundable until October 5, 2021, is due with reservation. We will have pickups in Dyersville, Farley, and Dubuque.

I know it’s not football season, but we are heading to Lambeau Field to check things out. It will feel like we are tailgating when we arrive for a fun lunch right at the stadium. We are planning a visit to the Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame and have a Legendary Stadium Tour. Training camp will be in session too. A city tour is next to see all that Green Bay has to offer and learn more about what makes this city so popular. We are planning an overnight stay at the Radisson, Green Bay, newly remodeled, with great amenities. It is also attached to the Oneida Casino for more fun whether you are into gambling or not. While in Green Bay we are going to check out The Automobile Gallery. This is a Gallery of electric cars with almost 100 years of Automotive History. See over 70 unique automo- biles in an environment as impressive as the automobile it surrounds. The National Railroad Museum is next on the list. We will have a guided tour, ride on a locomotive and get into character with a Hobo lunch to boot. We will also take a guided tour of the Green Bay Botanical gardens with a great new exhibit. Then on to Badger State Brewing Company to check out some of their brews and have dinner before hopping on the motor coach for home. Per person price is $318 double occupancy, $357 single occupancy, $295 triple occupancy. Includes all attractions listed, two lunches, one breakfast, one dinner and a complimentary beverage plus a $20 food voucher at the hotel. Payment in full, refundable until July 1, 2021, is due with reservation.

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Extended Travel

Niagara Falls and Toronto June 6-10, 2021

Join me on a June adventure to beautiful Niagara Falls and Toronto. Day 1: Today we fly from the Dubuque Regional Airport to Buffalo, NY where our pro- fessional tour guide & motor coach will greet us and we will transfer to our hotel in Niag- ara Falls, Ontario, where will stay for the next four nights. Day 2: We will tour the Niagara Falls area today including Horseshoe Falls, the Great Whirlpools, Niagara Parks Floral Clock, Upper Canadian Rapids, and Queen Victoria Park. And for a special highlight…we will see the wonders of the Falls up close like never before as we experience one on the most thrilling IMAX adventures ever – “Niagara: Miracles, Myths and Magic.” This afternoon we will enjoy a thrilling boat trip to experience the force of this phenomenon on the Hornblower Cruise, as it pours millions of gallons of water on the rocks 289 feet below. The cruise gives a truly close-up view of the falls, flying spray, bubbling surf and its thunderous roar from the safety of a boat. The sheer magnitude of the falls inspires the same awe as it has for three centuries (or if unfavorable weather conditions exist, we will make a visit to the tunnels behind the cascading water, which lets us observe the full force of Niagara’s spectacle). We will visit the Skylon Tower, Niag- ara’s most famous landmark. On a clear day, visitors can see close to 8,000 square miles of Canada and the United States, including the skylines of Toronto and Buffalo. We will enjoy dinner at Skylon Tower before retiring for the night. (B.D) Day 3: This morning after breakfast we will depart Niagara Falls to acquaint ourselves with the treasures of Toronto! Just ninety minutes away, we will arrive for a city tour, including all the highlights: CN Tower, Parliament Buildings, High Park (the city’s largest), the clamshell blocks of New City Hall, the enormous downtown banking district, the ultra- modern Sky Dome Stadium and the St. Lawrence Market. We will step back in time as we enter a world of imperial grace and splendor at Toronto’s majestic landmark castle, Casa Loma. Spanish for “Castle on the Hill” Casa Loma is the former home of Canadian financier Sir Henry Pellatt. Canada’s foremost castle is complete with decorated suites, secret passages, an 800-foot tunnel, towers, stables, and beautiful 5-acre estate gardens. After lunch on our own we will enjoy some more touring as well as some free time before head- ing back to Niagara Falls. This evening we will enjoy a delicious dinner on our own. (B) Day 4: After taking in the panorama that the Falls have to offer, we will travel 15-miles away to Niagara-on-the Lake, the prettiest town in Canada and best known for the

40-year-old Shaw Festival it is a charming village offering a respite frommodern day. Here we can amble through the Old Town, explore the streets and lanes and browse the shops on Queen Street. We will have lunch on our own in Niagara-on-the-Lake. This afternoon we will stop at Inniskillin Winery for a tour and tasting! Established in 1975 by Karl J. Kaiser and Donald Ziraldo, Inniskillin was founded upon and dedicated to the principle of pro- ducing and bottling outstanding VQA wines. We will return to Niagara Falls and have a fabulous dinner overlooking the Falls after which the remainder of the evening is free to explore on our own. Discover the unique atmosphere created by the illumination of the falls or check out the Clifton Hill entertainment area. (B,D) Day 5: This morning, we will have breakfast and depart for our return journey home, via Buffalo airport, leaving with the most pleasant memories of our Canadian neighbors – truly a memory of a lifetime! (B) Per person price is $2,438, double occupancy, and $3,024, for single occupancy. A completed registration form is needed to hold your reservation. Final payment is due on March 4, 2021, or when confirmation of the trip is available, whatever comes later.

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Extended Travel

Enchanting Ireland September 7-16, 2021

Join friends old and new on a delightful trip through one of the most beautiful

and friendly countries in the world – Ireland!

Day 1: Travel to Chicago O’Hare to board our overnight flight to Dublin, Ireland. Day 2: Arrive in Dublin to meet our Irish driver/guide and tour Dublin, Ireland’s capital city. Next, tour the Guinness Brewery and sample Ireland’s famous stout. Mid-after- noon check into the Davenport Hotel for two nights. Our hotel is perfectly located in the heart of the city. Take time to rest or explore the area’s shops, museums, and pubs. (B, D) Day 3: Travel to Glendalough in County Wicklow, where we will visit a monastic site that was founded by St. Kevin in the sixth century. Our next stop is Powerscourt to see the formal gardens - recently voted No. 3 in the World’s Top Ten Gardens by National Geographic! Upon return to Dublin you will have the remainder of the afternoon free to relax or explore on your own. Dinner is included at our hotel. Then walk into nearly any pub in the city to enjoy live, local music. (B, D) Day 4: We travel to Kilkenny today. In this charming town, enjoy lunch, shop at the Kilkenny Design Centre and walk the beautiful grounds of Kilkenny Castle. Then to Waterford to meet an entertaining Irish guide. Afterwards, we will travel to the countryside and check into the luxurious, four-star Faithlegg Hotel for one night. Dinner is included. (B, D) Day 5: Our day starts with a visit to The House of Waterford Crystal with time to shop in the Crystal Showroom. Travel the scenic southern coastline through Dungarvan, Youghal, and Cork on our way to Blarney, stopping for a pub lunch along the way. In Blarney we will visit Blarney Castle and kiss the famous Blarney Stone, said to bestow the gift of eloquence on all those who dare. On arrival in Killarney, we’ll check into Killarney Plaza Hotel, for three nights. Enjoy Ireland’s most charming small town! Our posh hotel is in the heart of Killarney with hundreds of shops and pubs all easily accessible from our hotel. Enjoy dinner in the hotel this evening. (B, L, D) Day 6: We embark on one of Ireland’s most famous tours – the Ring of Kerry. We will stop at Kerry Bog Village and then through the rugged landscape of the Iveragh Peninsula. Enjoy a sheepdog demonstration and witness how amazingly intelligent they are. We’ll pass through Killorglin, Glenbeigh, Cahirciveen, Waterville and Sneem before returning to Killarney. Next to Kate Kearney’s Cottage for a traditional Irish dinner in a cozy atmosphere with music and Irish dancers. (B, D)

Day 7: On to Dingle Peninsula, once cited the most beautiful place on earth by National Geographic. We’ll visit the most westerly point of Ireland where you will see beautiful patchwork fields of a hundred shades of green. From the high cliffs you will marvel at the crashing sea against the pitch-black boulders. We will stop at the Brian de Staic Studio in Dingle which specializes in Celtic jewelry. Then continue around Slea Head and visit the Gallarus Oratory, and to Blasket Islands, the location for such films as Ryan’s Daughter , and Far and Away starring Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman. On to Dingle Cookery School where we will don aprons and learn how to make a tasty chowder using fresh local seafood. We will also bake brown soda bread and create something sweet to follow, then enjoy the fruit of our labor for lunch! Back in Killarney for free time, our guide will have good suggestions from fine dining to great “pub grub.” (B, L) Day 8: Our day begins with the fabulous Muckross House. Afterward, we depart Killarney and make our way to Clare where we check into the five-star Dromoland Castle Hotel, originally the home of Gaelic Royalty. Enjoy an elegant gourmet dinner here this evening. (B, D) Day 9: We’ll travel to Lahinch - famous for its challenging golf course, and then we’ll continue along the coastline to the majestic Cliffs of Moher, rising 600 feet over the surface of the Atlantic Ocean. Upon arrival in Blanchardstown, just outside Dublin, we’ll check into the Crowne Plaza Hotel with enough time to refresh before meeting for our farewell dinner. (B, D) Day 10: The time has come to bid a fond farewell to the Emerald Isle. (B) Per person price is $4,349, double occupancy, and $5,219 for single occupancy. Pricing does not include optional travel protection. A completed registration form is needed to hold your reservation. Final payment is due on May 28, 2021, or when confir- mation of the trip is available, whatever comes later.

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Extended Travel

Holiday Time in New York City November 19-23, 2021

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: : This morning we’ll visit the poignant 9/11 Memorial and Museum. The beautiful and touching memorial is a tribute to the past and a place of hope for the future. At the museum you’ll relive the events of 9/11 through interactive technology, archives, narratives, and a collection of artifacts. This afternoon you’ll have your choice of taking an optional ferry ride to the Statue of Liberty or Ellis Island (additional fee applies), or

returning to the hotel for a free afternoon to shop, visit a museum or relax. After a won- derful dinner together near Times Square, we’ll take our seats at Radio City Music Hall for a performance of their annual Christmas Spectacular featuring the high-kicking precision of the world-famous Rockettes! Since its debut on December 21, 1933, more than 75 mil- lion people have gotten into the yuletide spirit by taking part in this wonderful New York holiday tradition. (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 com- pleted registration form is needed to hold your reservation. Final payment is due on August 12, 2021, or when confirmation of the trip is available, whatever comes later. Travel Documents: All passengers must carry a REAL ID compliant driver’s license or a valid passport. MidWest One cannot be held responsible for travelers who are not permitted to fly due to non-compliance. For more info go to www.iowadot.gov/mvd/ realid.

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Connections Club 19

Extended Travel

South American Adventure February 15-26, 2022

From breathtaking scenery and Iguazú Falls to historic architecture and famous monuments, discover everything South America has to offer on your journey through Brazil, Argentina and Chile. Day 1: Depart the USA. Depart from Chicago O’Hare on an overnight flight to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Day 2: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Upon arrival in Rio, we will be transferred to our hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure until the included welcome dinner. (D) Day 3: Corcovado, Brazil. Exploration of Brazil begins with an excursion via cog-wheel train through the Tijuca Forest to the top of Corcovado Mountain. Exiting the train, continue the ascent via elevator and escalator to the peak of the mountain where you literally stand next to one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World: the Statue of Christ the Redeemer. After descending the mountain, pass by some of the most beautiful beaches in Rio before returning to the hotel for an afternoon at leisure. (B) Day 4: Rio de Janeiro – City Tour and Sugar Loaf. Nestled between mountains and sea, bordered by ocean and verdant hills. Ascending the mountain 1,200 feet by cable car, the view from the top is spectacular and truly a life-enriching experience! Upon returning to the hotel, the remainder of the day is free of planned activities. (B) Day 5: Puerto Iguazú, Brazil National Park and Iguazú Falls. After a flight to Puerto Iguazú, the motor coach takes you through the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Iguazú National Park, home of over 275 waterfalls, including the world-famous Iguazú Falls. Walking along the catwalks, it’s an all-sensory experience as you feel the mist, hear the roar of the falls and admire the contrasts between the green forest, blue sky and foamy white water. (B) Day 6: Argentina National Park and Iguazú Falls. Your day in Argentina is filled with an excursion to the Argentinean National Park where you board a gas-propelled train for a ride to the upper falls to see this incredible site from the Argentinean side. Walk along the Iguazú River canyon see up-close giant trees, ferns, orchids, butterflies and over 400 species of colorful birds. In addition, you may spot jaguar, tiger-cat, fox and monkeys in this National Park designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The remainder of the day is at leisure until the included dinner this evening. (B, D) Day 7: Puerto Iguazú to Buenos Aires. Transfer to the airport for the flight to Buenos Aires, capital of Argentina. This cosmopolitan city has great European cultural

influences and displays refined taste in its cuisine, shopping and entertainment options. The motor coach will transfer you to the hotel upon arrival, where you’ll have time to relax before the included dinner. (B, D) Day 8: Buenos Aires City Tour. Get acquainted with the birthplace of the Tango on today’s tour. Drive along 9 de Julio Avenue, the widest in the world. Pass the Colon Theater, one of the world’s best known opera houses and cultural pride of the locals. See the Government House, Plaza de Mayo and Cabildo (first City Hall). Visit the Metropolitan Cathedral, housing the mausoleum of General San Martin (their National Hero), and the site where Pope Francis celebrated mass as Cardinal of Buenos Aires. The last stop on the tour is Recoleta – one of the city’s most glamorous spots. (B) Day 9: Buenos Aires. Enjoy a day at leisure or join the optional excursion. This evening, immerse in local culture as you are treated to an included dinner and Tango show. (B, D) Day 10: Buenos Aires to Santiago, Chile. Leaving Argentina, fly to Santiago for the remaining two nights. A city of contrasts, experience the eclectic mix of a colonial past and ultra-modern high-rise buildings on a tour of this capital city. The remainder of the day is at leisure. (B) Day 11: Santiago. Enjoy a day at leisure or join an optional excursion. This evening, join your traveling companions for a farewell dinner. (B, D) Day 12: Santiago/USA. After experiencing the wonders of Brazil, Argentina and Chile, it’s time to say ‘adios’ to South America as you depart for the airport and flight home. (B) Per person price is $6,299, double occupancy. Pricing includes optional travel protection. A completed registration form is needed to hold your reservation.

Travel Preview: Wednesday, March 24, 2021, 5:30 p.m., 12th floor, 895 Main St., Dubuque. Call 589.0804 for details and to register.

20 Connections Club

Connections Club 21

Mystery Trip

Missing Word

Worth Thinking About: “The things you do for yourself are gone when you are gone, but the things you do for others remain as your legacy.” ~Kalu Ndukwe Kalu

Calling All Mystery Lovers July 21-23, 2021 Our destination is a secret!

Missing Word Contest:

Our Missing Word Contest winner for January/February was Judith Bakey-Rahe, who received a check for $25. The missing word was “Ain’t,” and the song title was “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough.” 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!

Calling all mystery lovers! Let’s try this one again! I’m so sorry we had to post- pone in 2020, but like all our Mystery Trips, you can expect interesting attractions, comfortable accommodations, delicious meals, and a great time. On Wednesday, July 21, we will begin our three-day, two-night adventure together. I better not say any more because I might ruin the surprise! Your Connections Club price is just $579 per person, double occupancy, and $689 for single. Price includes transportation from Dubuque, two-nights lodging, luggage handling, meals, admission to all included activities. Call to make your reservation. Full payment is due June 1, 2021.

Entry Form

IOWA DRIVER LICENSE

Name

Phone

Address

Does your License Fly? NEW identification requirements for airline travel

The missing word is: Mail to: Connie Francis, Connections Club, PO Box 938, Dubuque, Iowa 52004-0938 Entries must be received before March 31, 2021.

If you fly commercially, you’ll either need a REAL ID license or ID, or another acceptable form of ID such as a US passport. REAL ID is a federal act focusing on anti-ter- rorism, fraud protection, and security specific to the production of driver’s licenses and ID cards that control access to federal facilities inlcuding airlines. REAL ID-compliant cards are marked with a star at the top of the card. Contact your state driver’s license agency on how to obtain a REAL ID compliant card. You can visit the DHS REAL ID website and click your state on the map. Due to COVID-19, the deadline to get your REAL ID (gold star) has been extended to Oct. 1, 2021. Go to iowadot.gov/mvd/realid to see what documents you need.

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.

22 Connections Club

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.