July Aug 2020

Connections Club

July/August 2020 Edition

Legendary

Fun

Enchanting Ireland September 7-16, 2021

Ancient

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Calendar and Contents

August 13 Beyond the Game an Iowa Baseball Experience (p.7) August 13 Home Free/Five Flags Arena (p.6) August 16 Church Basement Ladies/Bell Tower Cancelled August 19 Celebration Belle (p.7) August 21 Our Lady of the Mississippi Abbey Cancelled August 27-Sept 6 Danube Delights River Cruise Postponed Sept 2 A Dubuque Adventure/Four Mounds (p.8) Sept 10 JimMcDonough/Cedar Rapids, IA (p.12) Sept 25 Beatles vs. Stones/Five Flags Theater (p.8) Sept 30 Joseph And The Amazing Techni- color Dreamcoat /Fireside Theatre (p.13) Oct 8 Travelers Trek/Kalona, IA (p.5) Oct 9 Air Supply/Five Flags Arena (p.9) Oct 11 The Church of DiminishingMarginal Returns /Bell Tower (p.10) Oct 13 Celebration Belle Day Long (p.10) Oct 21 Let the Sun Shine In/Creative Ad- venture Lab (p.11) Nov 1 Holiday Inn /Fireside Theater (p.13) N ov 12 Lee Brice/Five Flags Arena (p.11) Nov 20-24 Holiday Time in New York City (p.14-15) Calendar 2021 Feb 16-27 South American Adventure (p.16-17) April 5-11 Nashville (p.18-19) Sept 7-16 Enchanting Ireland (p.20-21) Sept 23-Oct 3 Danube Delights River Cruise

See page 22 for new dates on postponed events.

Calendar 2020 July 8 New York City Travel Preview (p.15) July 8 Ireland Travel Preview (p.21) July 19 Brigadoon /Grand Opera House Postponed July 22-24 Mystery Trip Postponed Aug 4 It’s Party Thyme/Dubuque Arbore- tum (p.6) August 7 Willy Wonka /Five Flags Theater Postponed

Contents

Notes from Connie Bulletin Board Dyersville/Farley

p. 3 p. 4 p. 5

Local Events

p. 6-11 p. 12-13

One-Day Ventures

New York City p. 14-15 SouthAmericanAdventure p. 16-17 Nashville p. 18-19 Ireland p. 20-21 New Dates p. 22 Missing Word Contest p. 23

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Hello from Connie

Hi Friends,

I miss all of you so much! I work in my office daily, but I must admit it has a different feel. Not all bad, just quiet, and as you know or may suspect I’m not very good at being quiet. The more I have going on the better I handle my time and the man- agement of it. I walked out of the office on Friday evening with a little skip in my step because I received quite a few phone calls wondering about Club activities. I have been dealing with many postponements and cancellations so answer- ing calls from you is pure music to my ears. I have more good news. I added a few local events so that we have something to do together. I realize that not everyone will be ready for activities and I totally understand and respect the need for additional precautions but wanted to have something for those who are ready to go again. Soon we will be through this unusual event and planning even more events to enjoy. I had to change the dates on a few activities we had planned. The Celebration Belle four-hour cruise is now August 19 and the Jim McDonough in home concert changed to September 10. I added a trip to the Arboretum on August 4 with an em- phasis on the Herb garden. Please take a minute to look at the description on page 6. We are heading to Four Mounds on September 2 where we have a few hours of fun planned. We are also going to Creative Adventure Lab to make suncatchers. We will have time to chat and enjoy a few refreshments. Please look in the Journal in the Local Events section. I love hearing your stories and about the creative activities you are coming up with to entertain your families. We all have a new appreciation for the word virtual. Who would have thought Zoom calls would be part of our daily schedule. Please con- tinue to try to find the positive in every situation. It is there somewhere, and I think finding it is like winning the lottery. We are meant for greatness. Keep in touch.

Smile Often!!

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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: Connie Francis: 563.589.0804 Lori Marshall: 608.723.5678 Angie Adams: 608.744.2125 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. Sheila Tegeler: 563.875.2491 Pam Kreul: 608.822.7300 Kristie Heims: 563.744.3380 Jean Wanezek: 608.348.4300

Member FDIC | Equal Housing Lender

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Dyersville/Farley Events

Date change!

Travelers Trek Thursday, October 8, 2020 Kalona, IA

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 September 1, is due with registration.

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Local Events

It’s Party Thyme Tuesday, August 4, 2020, 9:30 a.m. Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens 3800 Arboretum Dr, Dubuque, IA

Meet me in the screened in porch area and get ready to be amazed. We are going to check out and learn more about the Herb Garden. Did you know some of the herbs we grow in this area date back thousands of years? The Herb Garden is divided into four quadrants; Culinary, Aromatic, Medicinal, and Tea. So, here is my plan… I’m going to find what herbs I can cook with to lose a cou- ple of pounds. I’m going to find out what herbs I can use to get rid of this aching hip that I’m complaining about. I’m going to find a few herbs to make my house smell wonderful and then I’m going to sit back and have a cup of tea to enjoy all I have learned. We are also going to tour other areas and stop back to the porch for refreshments. Eat, Drink and Be Rosemary. We are Mint to be together. It’s kind of a big Dill. Come Join me! Your Connections Club price is $6 per person. We will limit the group size to 24.

Home Free — Dive Bar Saints World Tour Thursday, August 13, 2020, 8:00 p.m. Five Flags Arena 405 Main St, Dubuque, IA

Home Free features rich southern harmonies from four vocalists Tim Foust, Rob Lundquist, Austin Brown, Adam Chance, and one beatboxer Adam Rupp. The group achieved worldwide acclaim in 2013, when they won the fourth season of the NBC singing competition The Sing Off. The group’s extraordinary showmen electrify crowds with a one-of-a-kind live show, mixing Nashville standards, soaring originals, and quick-witted humor which brings audiences to their feet with energy and laughter. Your Connections Club price is just $29.50 for section 5, rows N, P, and Q.

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Beyond the Game an Iowa Baseball Experience Thursday, August 13, 2020, Rain Date: Friday, August 14, 2020 Dyersville, IA

MidWest One Bank is sponsoring an event called Beyond the Game. Experience a once in a lifetime opportunity as history is made at the Field of Dreams Movie Site. Immerse yourself in outdoor concerts and events, a major league baseball fanfest, and viewing parties of the highly anticipated August 13th face off between the Chicago White Sox and the New York Yankees. Connections Club is going to Dyersville to get in the action. Details are still being worked out but we know we want to be a part of it. This venue offers a variety of activities surrounding the big game. There will be exhibits, live entertainment food and more. We have a motor coach reserved to get you there and back. Call if interested.

Celebration Belle Four-hour Keys and Country Cruise Wednesday, August 19, 2020 Boarding 10:30 a.m., Sailing 11:00 a.m. Port of Dubuque

Cruise down the Mississippi with the Belle’s new entertainers Aaron and Jade Bloom! Homemade sticky rolls and fresh fruit are available at boarding. Lunch will be a plated meal which includes a salad, marinated chicken breast, vegetable, potatoes, roll & butter, and then a plated dessert. 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 $60 per person, due at registration.

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Local Events

A Dubuque Adventure Four Mounds Wednesday, September 2, 2020, 11:30 a.m. 4900 Peru Rd Dubuque, IA

Join us at Four Mounds for a few hours of fun. Just driving up the narrow one lane wooded road gives me a sense of peace. We will start our day in the Grey House with great food and a little history about this fascinating estate. The Grey House, a mansion built in the early 1900s is the focus of the site. The home was owned by George Burden and his wife Elizabeth. The site is now owned by the City of Dubuque and Four Mounds Foundation is entirely responsible for its management and fundraising. After lunch you can tour as much or as little of the 60 acres of bluff-land along the Mississippi river. We have some interesting demonstrations planned for you. You will not want to miss this one. The best part of the day will be getting out with people to relax and enjoy your time. Your Connections Club Price is just $19 per person and includes lunch, tour, and demonstrations.

Beatles vs. Stones— A Musical Showdown Friday, September 25, 2020, 7:30 p.m. Five Flags Theater, 405 Main St, Dubuque, IA

The two greatest rock ‘n’ roll bands of all time face off in Beatles vs. Stones—A Musical Showdown. Taking the side of the Fab Four is Abbey Road, one of the country’s top Beatles tribute bands. With brilliant musicianship and authentic costumes and gear, Abbey Road plays beloved songs spanning the Beatles’ career. They engage in a musical “showdown” of the hits against premier Stones tribute band Satisfaction—The Interna- tional Rolling Stones Show, who offer a faithful rendition of the music and style of Mick Jagger, Keith Richards and the bad boys of the British Invasion. Your Connections Club price is just $58 for rows M and N, seats on left and right side of theater.

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Air Supply Friday, October 9, 2020, 7:30 p.m. Five Flags Arena, 405 Main 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.” In addition, the group reached the Top 40 of the Adult Contempo- rary chart fifteen times, most recently in 2010 with both “Dance with Me” and “Faith in Love.” They last graced the Five Flags Center stage in July of 1982, while supporting “The One That You Love.” That show followed another Five Flags performance by the group just ten months earlier. The two shows drew a combined crowd of more than 6,600 people! 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.

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Local Events

The Church of Diminishing Marginal Returns Sunday, October 11, 2020, 2:00 p.m. Bell Tower Theater, 2728 Asbury Road, Dubuque, IA

When “not-entirely-honest” entrepreneur Josh finds himself in financial trouble, he cons his evangelical brother Jon into starting their own church. Josh and Jon [raised] so much money they’re able to pay off most of their debts. Then the IRS shows up! The laughs are non-stop as the boys try to solve one comic complication after another. Connections Club price is just $18 for prime seating.

Celebration Belle Day Long Cruise Tuesday, October 13, 2020 Port of Dubuque, Boarding 7:30 a.m.

The Celebration Belle’s autumn round-trip cruise features new entertainment [on] board; Aaron and Jade Bloom! We depart from Dubuque’s Ice Harbor, cruise upriver to Guttenberg, and cruise back to Dubuque on one of the most beautiful sections of the Mississippi River. Enjoy live entertainment, the captain’s narrative, plus their always delicious breakfast, lunch and dinner. Connections Club price is $159 per person, due at registration. A full refund is available for cancellation by September 10.

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Let The Sun Shine In Wednesday, October 21, 2020, 5:00 p.m. Creative Adventure Lab, 210 Jones St #100, Dubuque, IA

Have you always wanted to try your hand at being more creative? Here is your chance. Learn the basics of stained glass in this fun group setting. The instructors at Creative Adventure Labs will show you how to cut, grind, and foil glass. There will be pre- cut pieces to choose from to create your own suncatchers and your instructors will help you solder pieces together. By the end of the class, you will have two to three beautiful suncatchers to take home! We will also enjoy some light refreshments and always great conversations. Plan to get a few friends together and catch up while showing off your creative side. Your Con- nections Club price is just $30.

Lee Brice Thursday, November 12, 2020, 7:00 p.m. Five Flags Arena, 405 Main St, Dubuque, IA

Brice’s Five Flags show will mark his return to Dubuque. He previously played at Five Flags in February of 2018, drawing more than 1,500 fans to the venue. Brice is one of the most successful country artists of the past decade. Since releasing his debut album in 2010, he has been a nearly constant presence on country radio and online streaming ser- vices. Lee Brice is a Grammy nominee, a CMA award nominee, and a double ACM award winner. He’s taken six radio singles to Number One: “A Woman Like You,” “Hard to Love,” “I Drive Your Truck,” “I Don’t Dance,” “Drinking Class,” and “Rumor.” Your Connections Club price is just $55 for Section 5, rows C and D.

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One-Day Ventures

Jim McDonough’s Home Concert Thursday, September 10, 2020 Cedar Rapids, IA

Please join Connections Club for an unforgettable concert experience at the Cedar Rapids home of International Steinway Artist, JimMcDonough. We will be treated to a full- length concert (approximately 2 hours), featuring McDonough’s distinctive brand of piano music, as well as stories and memories, intertwined with everyone’s favorite songs. The event will include an intermission boasting beautiful, complimentary desserts and cham- pagne (non-alcoholic options will also be available). See for yourself why other groups and individuals alike are raving about this rare, one-of-a-kind experience. We need at least 40 people in attendance in order for the concert to be performed. Your Connections Club price is just $102 per person and includes transpor- tation fromDubuque, Farley or Dyersville, driver’s gratuity and concert ticket. Full payment, refundable until August 10, is due with your registration.

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Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

Wednesday, September 30, 2020 Fireside Theatre, Fort Atkinson, WI

From the creators of Evita and Jesus Christ SuperStar comes one of the most popular musicals of the last 50 years. This telling of the biblical story of Joseph and his brothers is filled with great music, costumes, laughter, joy, and heart. Utilizing many different styles of music from pop/rock to country to musical comedy this sparkling show follows young Joseph as he faces adversity and triumphs through his dreams and his strong, unwavering faith. This show has entertained tens of millions of people around the world and is still one of Broadway’s shining stars. 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 August 27, is due with your registration.

Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn Sunday, November 1, 2020 Fireside Theatre, Fort Atkinson, WI

Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn tells the story of Jim, who leaves the bright lights of show business behind to settle down on his farmhouse in Connecticut. Jim’s luck takes a turn when he meets Linda, a spirited schoolteacher with talent to spare. Together they turn the farmhouse into a fabulous inn with dazzling performances to celebrate each hol- iday, but when Jim’s best friend Ted tries to lure Linda away to be his new dance partner in Hollywood, will Jim be able to salvage his last chance at love? Based on the classic film, this joyous musical is a year-round classic to make any holiday sparkle! Cost is $115 per person and includes transportation fromDubuque, brunch buffet, show, and driver’s gratuity. Full payment, refundable until October 1, is due at regis- tration.

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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

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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.

Travel Preview: Wednesday, July 8, 2020, 5:15 p.m., MidWest One Bank at 9th & Main St., 12th floor. Call 589.0804 to register to attend.

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Extended Travel

South American Adventure February 16-27, 2021

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

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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 deposit of $549 is due at registration, $299 (travel protection cost) is non-refundable. Final balance is due November 13, 2020.

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Extended Travel

Nashville Getaway April 5-11, 2021

Day 1: Depart Dubuque today on your private charter motor coach. Travel south through Iowa and Illinois to the Bluegrass state of Kentucky. Your destination is Paducah, KY on the banks of the Ohio River. Check into your hotel for the evening. Enjoy a welcome dinner tonight near the river. While here take in the murals on the flood walls recounting local history. (D) Day 2: Visit the National Quilting Museum this morning to view some of the remark- able quilts on display. The museum offers support for beginner and master quilters as well as revolving displays. Continue to Nashville, Tennessee. Check into the Opryland Hotel for the next four nights. Tonight, dinner is served at the Opry Grille before going to the world -famous Grand Ole Opry show. The Opry showcases the stars of country music and is the longest running radio show in America. Return to the hotel for the night. (D) Day 3: Meet your local singer/songwriter city guide for tour of Music City. Sights along the way include the Parthenon, Centennial Park, The State Capitol, Music Row, the Ryman Auditorium, Broadway, Printer’ Alley and more. You will also visit the Ryman Auditorium for a self-guided tour of the Mother Church of [country] music. Lunch is included at the one and only Wildhorse Saloon. Enjoy good southern food as well as line dancing lessons. Then take a backstage tour of the Grand Ole Opry House to see where the magic is made. Enjoy an evening at leisure to explore this one of a kind hotel and its beautiful indoor gardens. Dinner is on your own. (B,L) Day 4: Take a short ride to Studio B today. This RCA recording studio has had more recorded #1 hits than any other studio in the world. You will hear stories of some of the famous artists that have recorded here plus you will see Elvis Presley’s favorite musical instrument, a baby grand piano. Later today explore the Country Music Hall of Fame filled with artifacts and personal belongings of many artists. This evening board the showboat General Jackson for a delightful cruise on the Cumberland River complete with musical show and dinner. (B,D) Day 5: This morning visit the Hermitage, the home of the seventh president of the US, Andrew Jackson. Jackson settled here with his beloved wife, Rachel and both are buried here. The home tour features views of period pieces and family artifacts. The grounds are also home to some of the best restored slave quarters in the south. Later

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head into downtown Nashville. Take a stroll along Broadway to see Hatch Printing where show bills have been produced to promote shows for over a hundred years. You can also see the famed honky-tonks like Tootsie’s Purple Orchid where stars like Kris Kristofferson and Willy Nelson started their music careers. Your dinner tonight features a performance by a local singer/songwriter who will tell you what it is like to try to get songs recorded in Music City. (B,D) Day 6: Say goodbye to Nashville as you head north. Travel to St. Louis with more fun in store for you. Check into your hotel for the night before enjoying a farewell dinner at Favazza’s on the Hill. (B,D) Day 7: Travel back to Dubuque today. Arrive home late this afternoon where your Nashville Getaway tour will conclude. (B) Per person price is $2,230, double occupancy, and 2,840, for single. A deposit of $200 is required to hold your reservation. The final balance is due on Feb 5, 2021. Travel and trip interruption protection is NOT included.

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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, [I]reland. 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)

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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 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. Pricing does not include optional travel protection. A deposit of $100 is due at registration, final payment is due May 28.

Travel Preview: Wednesday, July 8, 2020, 6:30 p.m., MidWest One Bank at 9th & Main St., 12th floor. Call 589.0804 to register to attend.

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New Dates

Postponement Updates

March 17, 2021 What Happens in Vegas /Fireside June 2021 Matilda The Musical /Grand Opera House June 2021 Grease /Five Flags Theater July 2021 Brigadoon /Grand Opera House July 21-23, 2021 Mystery Trip August 2021 Willy Wonka /Five Flags Sept 23-Oct 3, 2021 Danube Delights River Cruise

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Missing Word

Missing Word Contest: Our Missing Word Contest winner for May/June was Gary Linden, who received a check for $25. The missing word was “Guy,” and the song title was “This Guy’s In Love With You.” 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! Worth Thinking About: “Isn’t it themoment of most profound doubt that gives birth to new certainties? Perhaps hopelessness is the very soil that nourishes human hope; perhaps one could never find sense in life without first experiencing its absurdity.” ~Vaclav Havel

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 July 31, 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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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.