Mar_April 2022

Connections Club

Mar/April 2022 Edition

Tropical

Exotic

Honored

Hawaii February 5-14, 2023

Connections Club 1

Hello from Connie

Calendar and Contents

Calendar 2022 March 6 Steel Magnolias /Grand Opera House (p.6) March 9 Beautiful: The Carole King Musical /Adler Theatre March 15 Don’t Let it be You Seminar (p.5) March 19 The Lettermen/UD Heritage Center (p.6) April 4-13 Enchanting Ireland April 19 Spamilton /UD Heritage Center (p.7) April 19 Travel Preview/Hawaii (p.21) April 19 Travel Preview/Greek Isles (p.17) April 19 Travel Preview/New York (p.19) April 26-29 Spring Mystery Trip (p.22) May 1 Getting Sara Married (p.7) May 18 Mortgage Seminar (p.5) June 5-9 Niagara Falls Canada (p.14) June 15 What Happens in Vegas /Fireside Theater (p.10) June 19 The Sound of Music /Grand Opera House (p.8) June26-July1 CapeCod&Boston (p.15) July 13 Celebration Belle (p.8) July 31 Dirty Rotten Scoundrels /Grand Opera House (p.9) August 16 Hamilton /OvertureCenter (p.12) August 21 Carrie Underwood at the Iowa State Fair (p.13) Sept 29-Oct 12 Greek Isles, Malta & Italy (p.16-17) Oct 26 Clue The Musical /Circa 21 (p.11) Nov 18-22 Holiday Time in New York City (p.18-19) Feb 5-14, 2023 Hawaii (p.20-21)

Hello Friends,

Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow this year on Groundhog’s Day signaling six more weeks of winter. Really on February 2nd don’t we all anticipate 6 more weeks of winter? I do. Living in the Midwest just lends itself to unpre- dictable weather and lots to talk about such as the lines at

the grocery stores when snow is forecasted or the extreme heat that accompanies our children on their first day back to school after summer break. It’s natural for us. When I decided to start my letter with Punxsutawney Phil, I thought I better do some research. After a few keystrokes, my computer screen was filled with more information than I could ever imagine. By the way Phil is only accurate 40% of the time. I was kind of disappointed to learn that fact. Back in the day when we wanted to research something, we would have gone to an outdated set of encyclopedias grabbing a volume, in this case “G” to find out more. Now we have this amazing technology with so much at our fingertips. I’m always “fact” checking something. I will never forget when I first heard of this thing called the “World Wide Web.” My husband had returned to school as an adult learner and came home from Clarke College one evening saying the strangest things. He said his teachers where telling the class about how life would change with the introduction of the World Wide Web. One thing he mentioned was the abil- ity to type in a question, any question and an answer would appear. I said, “who is going to answer it?” He also said we were going to be able to communicate with people anytime, anywhere, all over the world. It all sounded so crazy. Well, it really wasn’t crazy at all was it? It brings me to the topic of the recent changes for Connections Club. We are using email to get our Connections Club Journal to many of our members. We have our printed version of the Journal available at the branch offices for pick up. Change is always a little hard at first. We have been through so much just recently. Hang in there with me. Remember most people under the age of 20 could show us more about technology than we could ever dream to know. It is a great excuse to call a young person.

Contents

Notes from Connie

p.3 p.4 p.5

Bulletin Board

Upcoming Seminars

Local Events

p.6-9

One-Day Ventures

p.10-11 p.12-13

Dyersville/Farley Event Niagara Falls Canada Cape Cod & Boston p.15 Greek Isles, Malta, & Italy p.16-17 New York City p.18-19 Hawaii p.20-21 Spring Mystery Trip p.22 Missing Word Contest p.23 p.14

Make Today Great!

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Upcoming Seminars

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 $10,000 in one of the following MidWest One Bank accounts: checking, savings, or money market account. 2. Maintain at least $50,000 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 balance of $50,000 on either a consumer or mortgage loan. (Loans [can’t] be combined, a joint account relationship held by a married couple qualifies both. No membership fees are involved. Personal accounts only.) 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 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.

Don’t Let It Be You! Tuesday, March 15, 2022, 10:00 a.m., 12th floor MidWest One Bank, 895 Main St., Dubuque, IA

Unfortunately, fraud happens every day, that’s why we’re excited to offer this opportunity for you to learn how to protect yourself. Receive tips to proactively stay safe, and avoid the frustration and possible financial loss from fraudelent activity. Justine Bemis, 2nd Vice President-AML Fraud Services, has been with MidWest One Bank for 24 years. Justine is responsible for developing and implementing all processes and policies designed to safeguard the Bank and its customers from fraud. She also works to mitigate loss and risk after fraud occurs. Call 589.0804 to register. Seating is limited.

Reverse Mortgage Lunch & Learn Wednesday, May 18, 2022, 11:30 a.m., 3rd Floor Conference Room MidWest One Bank, 895 Main St., Dubuque, IA

Reverse mortgages (Home Equity Conversion Mortgage-HECM) 1 let you access your home’s equity to help fund retirement needs. If you qualify, there’s no monthly payment required as long as you live in and maintain your home. 2 You may be able to use the funds to pay off your exising mortgage 3 , pay medical bills, fund home repairs or renovations 4 , and more. Join this seminar to hear more from MidWest One ’s own Reverse Mortgage expert, John Leer. John is a Certified Reverse Mortgage Professional, CRMP®, and has been originating reverse mortgages since 2006. He has helped hundreds of seniors benefit from a Reverse Mortgage Loan. You must be 62 years or older to qualify, other restrictions apply. Call 589.0804 to register. Seating is limited. 1 The HECM loan program is offered through the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) and should not be viewed as a government benefit; mortgage insurance is required. 2 Regular payments must be made for taxes and insurance. Repayment of loan balance, fees and compounded interest will be required when a maturing event occurs. Examples of a maturing event include, selling the home, borrower no longer occupies the home or is deceased, not paying homeowners insurance and property taxes, or not keeping the home in good repair, as required by the FHA. Failing to meet these requirements can trigger a loan default that can lead to foreclosure. 3 Your existing mortgage, if any, must be paid off before obtaining any funds from a HECM loan; you can use proceeds from the HECM loan for this purpose. 4 If your home needs repairs to be eligible for a HECM loan, you may be able to use the proceeds of the loan to accomplish this. FHA did not distribute or approve this material. Loans subject to credit approval. Equal Housing Lender

Member FDIC | Equal Housing Lender

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Local Events

Steel Magnolias Sunday, March 6, 2:00 p.m. Grand Opera House 158 W. 8th Street, Dubuque, IA

S pamilton: An American Parody Tuesday, April 19, 7:30 p.m. UD Heritage Center 2250 Bennett Street, Dubuque, IA

Based on the 1989 film, the play follows the lives of strong southern women. Truvy Jones runs a successful beauty salon in Chinquapin, Louisiana, where all the ladies in the neighborhood have a standing Saturday appointment. Truvy styles the hair of many of the women about town: wealthy widow and former first lady of Chinquapin, Clairee Belcher, local curmudgeon Ouiser Boudreaux, intelligent and compassionate career woman M’Lynn, and her daughter Shelby, the prettiest girl in town. Shelby’s engagement is the talk of the town, but the joy and excitement of her wedding quickly turn to concern as she faces a myriad of health complications. As the women of Chinquapin make their way over life’s many hurdles together, they find comfort. Connections Club price is just $16 per person, due at reservation.

Don’t miss this “convulsively funny” (NY Times) parody from the comic mastermind behind the long-running hit Forbidden Broadway . After tearing it up in New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles, Spamilton: An American Parody will stage a singing, dancing, comedy revolution in Dubuque for one night only. Barbara Hoffman of the New York Post says it’s “the next best thing to seeing Hamilton!” Connections Club price is just $54 per person, due at reservation.

Getting Sara Married Sunday, May 1, 2:00 p.m. Bell Tower Theater 2728 Asbury Road, Dubuque, IA

The Lettermen Saturday, March 19, 8:00 p.m. UD Heritage Center 2250 Bennett Street, Dubuque, IA

Sara Hastings is an unmarried lawyer in her mid-thirties, and she is much too busy for romance. Her eccentric Aunt Martha has decided to take matters into her own hands and find Sara a husband, no matter what it takes. Connections Club price is just $21 per person, due at reservation.

For more than 50 years, The Lettermen-- Donovan Tea, Bobby Poynton and Rob Gulack have kept the meaning of harmony alive with their soft, romantic, harmonic blend of music which is as popular with their fans today as it was in 1961 when they recorded their first hit, “The Way You Look Tonight”. Even though there have been personnel changes over the years, the one thing that has remained constant is the vision that Tony Butala first dreamed of - that unique three-part harmony as only The Lettermen can achieve. Though musical tastes have changed over the years, The Lettermen legacy continues. Harmony will always endure the true test of time—just as The Lettermen have stood the test of time. Connections Club price is just $38 per person, due at reservation.

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Local Events

The Sound of Music Sunday, June 19, 2:00 p.m. Grand Opera House 158 W. 8th Street, Dubuque, IA

Dirty Rotten Scoundrels Sunday, July 31, 2:00 p.m. Grand Opera House 158 W. 8th Street, Dubuque, IA

The final collaboration between Richard Rodgers & Oscar Hammerstein II, The Sound of Music , has become a play beloved around the world. Based on the true story of the Von Trapp Family Singers, this play captures a personal tale of growth and hope amidst the horrors of World War II. The Sound of Music tells the tale of young postulant Maria Rainer, whose free spirit has trouble fitting into the rules and regulations of convent life. Commissioned by the Mother Abbess to serve as the governess for seven motherless children, Maria transforms the Von Trapp family home from a place of dour rules and regulations to one filled with joy, laughter, and music. Connections Club price is just $16 per person, due at reservation.

The modern musical, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels , is based on the 1988 MGM film of the same name, starring Michael Caine and Steve Martin. In the exotic French Riviera, Lawrence Jameson makes his living by smooth talking rich, single women out of their money. He’s been in the trade for many years and has got his technique down to a tee. But then he bumps into Freddy Benson, Freddy takes a humbler, more laid-back approach, swindling women with emotional lies about his grandmother’s failing health and his own economic struggles. The two men initially decide to form a double act, but their egos soon clash. They agree on a bet: the first to swindle $50,000 from the latest [you]ng heiress in town, Christine Colgate, can stay and the other must leave town. However, is Christine really all she seems? Hilarity and confusion ensue as the two men pull out all the steps to prove they’re the best con man in town. Connections Club price is just $16 per person, due at reservation.

Celebration Belle Four-hour Oldies Cruise Wednesday, July 13 Boarding 10:30 a.m., Sailing 11:00 a.m. Port of Dubuque

While you’re cruising down the Mississippi, just sit back and reminisce to the songs that bring back all the memories of the Juke Box era. The magical songs that made the 50s and 60s the era to remember. Enjoy a show with the Oldies coming to life once again. Imagine Patsy Cline, Johnny Cash, Chuck Berry, Jerry Lee Lewis and a whole cast of others, and of course Elvis. This is a must see classic oldies show cruise! The cruise starts off with homemade sticky rolls & assorted fresh fruits. Later a full hot 2 entrée lunch buffet will be served. Pre-cruise check-in will take place at the Port of Dubuque for those registered. Tickets will not be mailed. Connections Club price is just $64 per person, due at reservation.

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One-Day Ventures

Clue The Musical Wednesday, October 26 Circa ‘21, Rock Island, IL

What Happens in Vegas Wednesday, June 15 Fireside Theatre, Fort Atkinson, WI

The internationally popular game is now a fun-filled musical that brings the world’s best-known suspects to life and invites the audience to help solve the mystery: who killed Mr. Boddy, in what room, and with what weapon. The audience receives forms to help them deduce the solution from clues given throughout the fun-filled evening. Three audience mem- bers choose from cards representing the potential murderers, weapons, and rooms; there are 216 possible solutions! Only one hard-nosed female detective is qualified to unravel the merry mayhem. Comic antics, witty lyrics, and a beguiling score carry the investigation from room to room. Even after the culprit confesses, a surprise twist delights the audience. Your Connections Club price is just $93 per person and includes transportation from Dubuque, plated lunch with dessert, show, and driver’s gratuity. Full payment, refundable until September 23, is due with your registration.

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 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. Enjoy the work of many Las Vegas favorites in the most spectacular band show yet. 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 10, is due with your registration.

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Dyersville/ Farley Event

Hamilton Tuesday, August 16, 2022 Overture Center for the Arts, Madison, WI

Carrie Underwood Sunday, August 21 Iowa State Fair, Des Moines, IA

We finally did it! We are going to see Hamilton . We have seats reserved at the Overture Center for Arts in beautiful Madison, WI. This stunning architectural landmark is conveniently located within walking distance to galleries, museums, great restaurants, and shopping. We will head to Madison in the early afternoon. When we arrive, you will have free time to explore the area and grab dinner on your own. Make your way to the theater for the amazingly popular Broadway production of Hamilton . Doors open at 6:15 p.m., perfor- mance begins at 7:30 p.m. Hamilton is the story of America then, told by America now. Featuring a score that blends hip-hop, jazz, R&B and Broadway, Hamilton has taken the story of American found- ing father Alexander Hamilton and created a revolutionary moment in theatre—a musical that has had a profound impact on culture, politics and education. With book, music and lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda, direction by Thomas Kail, choreography by Andy Blankenbuehler and musical supervision and orchestrations by Alex Lacamoire, Hamilton is based on Ron Chernow’s acclaimed biography. It has won Tony®, Grammy® and Olivier Awards, the Pulitzer Prize for Drama and an unprecedented special citation from the Kennedy Center Honors. Your Connections Club price is just $229 per person and includes transportation fromDubuque, Dyersville and Farley, driver’s gratuity and show ticket. Our seats are located in the “Circle” rows B, C, and D. Full payment is due March 30, 2022. Overture’s health and safety policy is as follows: Overture Center requires proof of vaccination, including (as of March 1, 2022) a booster if eli- gible*, or a negative COVID-19 PCR test result (from within 72 hours prior to entry) along with photo ID from all who enter the building. In addition, Overture Center requires a facial mask be worn by all who enter the building and at all public performances and events. This policy will be re-evaluated mid-March, and patrons will be informed of any changes at that time.

Let’s go to the Iowa State Fair. It is the single largest event in the state of Iowa and one of the oldest and largest agricultural and industrial expositions in the country. Annu- ally attracting more than a million people from all over the world, the Iowa State Fair in Des Moines is Iowa’s great celebration, a salute to the state’s best in agriculture, industry, entertainment and achievement. It is the true heartbeat of the Midwest, unequaled and unduplicated. But wait, there’s more...Connections Club has fantastic grandstand seats in rows 4-6, section JK, to see Carrie Underwood. Carrie last played at the Iowa State Fair to a sold- out crowd in 2015. She has sold more than 66 million records worldwide, recorded 28 number one singles, and has seven albums that are certified Platinum or Multi-Platinum by the RIAA. She’s won seven GRAMMY® Awards, 15 ACM Awards-three for Entertainer of the Year, 23 CMT Music Awards, seven CMA Awards, and 17 American Music Awards. Her first-ever residency, began in December at the brand-new Resorts World Las Vegas. Your Connections Club price is just $164 per person and includes transportation fromDubuque, Farley, and Dyersville, driver’s gratuity, snacks on the coach, admission to the fair, and concert ticket. Full payment is due with your registration.

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Extended Travel

Niagara Falls Canada June 5-9, 2022

Cape Cod & Boston June 26-July 1, 2022

Day 1: We arrive in Buffalo where our professional tour guide & motor coach will greet us and we will transfer to our hotel, The Embassy Suites Niagara Falls - Fallsview, where we will stay for the next four nights. Day 2: Tour the immediate Niagara Falls area including Horseshoe Falls, Queen Victoria Park and Table Rock Center. View the thrilling IMAX adventure– “Niagara: Miracles, Myths and Magic.” Experience the force of this phenomenon on the Hornblower Cruise. Visit to the Skylon Tower, Niagara’s most famous landmark and enjoy dinner there. (B,D) Day 3: Enjoy the beautiful Botanical Gardens and Butterfly Conservatory plus famous Floral Clock. Witness the spectacle of the Niagara Whirlpool. (B) Day 4: Travel 15-miles away to Niagara-on-the-Lake, the prettiest town in Canada. Amble through the Old Town while exploring the streets and lanes. Browse the shops on Queen Street. Visit Fort George, the British fort built to repel American Forces during the war of 1812. We will have lunch on our own with a stop at one of the great Niagara Wineries. A fabulous dinner overlooking the Falls is our next stop. Enjoy 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) Please call for full tour itinerary. Per person price is $2,474, double occupancy, and $2,972, for single occupancy. A completed registration form is needed to hold your reservation. Final payment is due on March 4, 2022, or when confirmation of the trip is available, whatever comes later.

Day 1: We will fly to Boston’s Logan airport where we will be met by our local guide and motor coach. We will head straight to Cape Cod just 75 miles away and our hotel for the next 4 nights. We will stop at the Kennedy Memorial overlooking Lewis Bay. (D) Day 2: Martha’s Vineyard is a delightful island in Nantucket Sound and it is best known for its wealthy personalities who reside on the island during the summer months. Our ferry departs from Woods Hole, the home of the world-renowned Woods Hole Ocean- ographic Institute. We will explore Oak Bluffs and finish the day enjoying the breathtaking view of the Atlantic Ocean from Gayhead Cliffs. (B) Day 3: Journey to Provincetown. Then it’s all aboard a Whale Watch Cruise to enjoy the sunshine and ocean breezes. Later today, we will visit the Cape Cod National Seashore, where we can stand on the cliffs and view the spectacular scenery. (B, D) Day 4: Take a ferry ride to Nantucket from Hyannis and enjoy a memorable tour of this beautiful island plus time to stroll along the cobblestone streets. View Brant Point Light, the second-oldest lighthouse in the United States. Tonight, we will have a traditional New England Lobster dinner with all the trimmings as we celebrate our last night on the Cape (B, Lobster Dinner) Day 5: Head to Boston to tour downtown including parts of the famous Freedom Trail and make several stops throughout. Visit the Boston Tea Party Ship and Museum. Tour the North End, where the Old North Church is located, made famous by the two-light signal hung from its bell tower to alert the Patriots that the British were attacking by sea, “one if by land and two if by sea. Following a great day of revolutionary history, we will have our farewell dinner this evening. (B, D) Day 6: Enjoy a local spot for breakfast on your own. If flight schedule permits, explore the downtown with the Boston Common and Public Gardens. Please call for full tour itinerary. Per person price is $2,911, double occupancy, and $3,585, for single occupancy. A completed registration formand deposit of $350 is needed to hold your reservation. Final payment is due on March 24, 2022.

Note: To travel to this destination, you must be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 and provide proof of vaccination.

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Extended Travel

Greek Isles, Malta, & Italy- plus 2 days in Rome! September 29-October 12, 2022 Immerse yourself in the history, culture, and beauty of the Mediterranean. Day 1: Depart on our overnight flight bound for the Eternal City-Rome! (in-flight dinner) Day 2: Arrive in Rome where we’ll be joined by a local guide who will take us on a sightseeing tour to see highlights such as the Piazza Navona and the Pantheon. Following the tour, relax at La Pace del Palato with a fabulous included lunch. Then check into the Hotel Dei Mellini for two nights. Retire early after your long flight and exciting day or get out and explore! (In-flight breakfast, L) Day 3: This morning we tour the Vatican Museums. Our visit includes the Sistine Chapel to marvel at the work of Michelangelo. We’ll visit St. Peter’s Basilica, regarded as one of the world’s holiest Christian sites. Enjoy delicious, traditional, Roman cuisine along with regional wine at dinner tonight. After dinner marvel at the beauty of the fabulous illuminated Trevi Fountain and toss a coin over your shoulder making a wish to return to Rome! (B, D) Day 4: This morning we will see the famous sights of the Eternal City on a panoramic tour of Rome. The highlight of our tour will be an interior visit of the Colosseum, one of the most notable works of Roman architecture and engineering ever created. Following the tour, we’ll depart Rome and make our way to Civitavecchia to board the Norwegian Getaway. (B) Beginning with dinner today, all meals are included on the ship. Day 5: Today is a great day to discover all of the ship’s amenities! Day 6: Santorini Islands, the whitewashed villages clinging to the sides of the sea cliffs have made this volcanic island one of the most photographed places in the world. The island’s charm and subtle mystery have even made it a target of speculation as the location of the lost city of Atlantis. Day 7: Piraeus (Athens), the cradle of civilization, the oldest city in Europe. Not only is this city home to the Acropolis and some of the most important architectural structures and archaeological finds in the Western world, it is also a very modern city, an urban amalgam of extraordinary art, culture, cuisine and shopping. Day 8: Mykonos, a classic Greek Island with whitewashed houses, blue-domed churches and windmills. Its reputation for beautiful beaches makes Mykonos the most popular island in the Cyclades. Day 9: Corfu, the lushest of the Greek Isles, rimmed in dramatic blue waters and

topped with tranquil hillside villages. A collection of quaint cafes feels very continental, but the island’s secluded coves and sandy beaches could only be found in the Greek Isles. Day 10: Valletta, Malta prides itself on its magnificent Baroque palaces, piazzas, gardens and churches. Admire the stunning scenery and wander through imposing churches and down the streets of fortified towns where the Knights of St. John once held sway. Day 11: Sicily, Messina, third largest city on the island welcoming visitors with its [love]ly harbor and extraordinary architecture. Stroll through Messina’s Piazza Cairoli taking in magnificent fountains and cathedrals, or sip Marsala wine at a sidewalk cafe. Day 12: Naples, located on Italy’s stunning Amalfi coast is a city rich in history. Discover the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Pompeii, the most-visited archaeological site in the world. Explore the ancient ruins, frozen in time by ash from the massive eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Day 13: Florence and Pisa, famous cities known for their resplendent art and history! See Santa Croce, Piazza del Duomo, Michelangelo’s David, and the famous Leaning Tower. Day 14: This morning we arrive back in Civitavecchia, Italy where we will disembark and transfer to the airport for our return flight. What an amazing trip we will have had! Price includes airport transfer, airfare, motor coach transportation and driver gratuity. 10-night cruise with free amenities options, plus two days in Rome. All meals and enter- tainment aboard the ship. Port taxes, air taxes, and government fees. Customary shipboard gratuities. Per person price based on double occupancy, balcony stateroom $5,499, single occupancy balcony stateroom $7,485. Per person price double occupancy, inside stateroom $4,995, single occupancy inside stateroom $6,435. Optional travel protection-balcony double $424, balcony single $623, inside stateroom double $383, inside stateroom single $506. Deposit of $450 due at reservation final payment due May 20, 2022. Travel Preview: Tuesday, April 19, 2022 at 6:30 on 12th floor, 895 Main St., Dubuque. Call 589.0804 to register.

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Extended Travel

Holiday Time in New York City November 18-22, 2022

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 Marriott Marquis, 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 Morton’s Steakhouse, the eve- ning 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 livemusic with friends. (Brunch) 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! (L) Per person price is $3,299, double occupancy, and $3,759, for single. A deposit of $100 is required to hold your reservation. The final balance is due on August 5, 2022.

Travel Preview: Tuesday, April 19, 2022 at 7:00 on 12th floor, 895 Main St., Dubuque. Call 589.0804 to register.

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Extended Travel

Hawaii February 5-14, 2023

Day 1: We’ll travel to the Chicago airport today to board our flight bound for beautiful Honolulu, Hawaii! Upon arrival we’ll check into the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort & Spa for three nights. This lovely property is just steps from Waikiki Beach and offers ocean view rooms. Day 2: After breakfast we depart on a morning East Side of Oahu tour. Ride through the exclusive Kahala Estates, then marvel at the beautiful views at the Diamond Head, Halona Blow Hole and Nu’uanu Pali Lookouts. We’ll also ride through the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific at Punchbowl Crater. The afternoon is free to enjoy the amenities at our hotel, stroll along the beach or browse through the stores. We’ll meet up for dinner at the Hula Grill. (B,D) Day 3: We’ll see the State Capitol and the King Kamehameha Statue. Tour the fabu- lous Iolani Palace, the royal residence of the rulers of the Kingdom of Hawaii. At the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, learn about one of the most pivotal moments in US history: the attack on Pearl Harbor, and the subsequent entry of the United States into World War II. Board a naval launch for a cruise to the USS Arizona Memorial where you can pay your respects to the 1,177 fallen soldiers. View the marble wall that displays the names of those who perished, as well as the “black tears,” which is the oil that is still seeping out of the ship. The afternoon and evening are free for your enjoyment. (B) Day 4: A five-minute walk this morning takes us to Duke’s for breakfast with a view. We’ll return to the hotel to check out before heading to the airport for our short flight to Kauai, also known as the Garden Isle. We’ll check into oceanfront Sheraton Kauai Coco- nut Beach Resort for three nights. Get settled in your beautifully appointed ocean view room and then meet for dinner at the hotel. (B,D) Day 5: We’re off for a fun day of sightseeing! The 3,600-foot-deep Waimea Canyon, known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, boasts a colorful array of red, brown, and green hues adorned with waterfalls and frequent rainbows. We’ll see Spouting Horn, in Kauai, where the ocean water sprays several stories high into the air. At Gaylord’s Restau- rant, we’ll learn how to craft Hawaii’s famous drink, the Mai Tai, before we dine on fresh, island-influenced dishes. This afternoon, we’ll cruise on the Wailua River Cruise, the only navigable river in all of Hawaii. During our two-mile journey we’ll hear songs and stories of ancient Hawaii and learn how to hula. Take a short nature walk through the rainforest to see the lush Fern Grotto. We return to the hotel for a free evening to relax. (B,L)

Day 6: We depart on a five-hour tour to experience Kauai’s many tropical landscapes and natural beauty. We’ll see the mighty Opaekaa Falls cascading down into a hidden pool. Admire the views from the Kilauea Lighthouse and Hanalei Pier. There will be free time in Hanalei for lunch and shopping. This afternoon enjoy the hotel’s beautiful pool and the beach. Tonight, a short walk brings us to the Hukilau Lanai where we’ll have a wonderful dinner. (B,D) Day 7: Relish a leisurely morning before we transfer to the airport for a quick flight to the beautiful island of Maui. On arrival, we’ll visit the Maui Tropical Plantation and sample some delicious fruit while on the tour. We’ll check into ocean view rooms for two nights at the Royal Lahaina Resort. Set amidst 27 tropical acres, this oceanfront hotel sits along an exclusive half-mile stretch of Kaanapali Beach. Enjoy the Myths of Maui, a cultural celebration featuring the dances, music, and festivities of the Hawaiian and Polynesian people. (B,D) Day 8: Enjoy breakfast and then do as you wish on your free day in Maui! Take a trol- ley into Lahaina Town to Whaler’s Village for shopping, museum exploration and lunch or enjoy the day on the beach or by the pool at the resort. Perhaps you’d like to go on a Whale Watch cruise or a day-long Road to Hana tour (additional fees apply). (B) Day 9: Mid-morning, we’ll check out and depart for a day of Maui sightseeing. We’ll ride through Makawao, the biggest little town in Maui’s upcountry, famous for its Hawaiian cowboys, or paniolo. We’ll stop at the ʻIao Valley State Monument including the striking Iao Needle. We’ll make our way to the Maui airport for our overnight flight home. We’ll be taking with us very fond memories and the remarkable Spirit of Aloha! (B) Day 10: Arrive home. Pricing will be available late March.

Travel Preview: Tuesday, April 19, 2022 at 5:15 on 12th floor, 895 Main St., Dubuque. Call 589.0804 to register.

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Mystery Trip

Missing Word

Worth Thinking About: “When one door closes another door opens; but we so often look so long and so regretfully upon the closed door, that we do not see the ones which open for us.” ~Alexander GrahamBell

Missing Word Contest:

Spring Mystery Trip April 26-29, 2022

Our Missing Word Contest winner for Jan/Feb was Ruth Slaats, who received a check for $25. The missing word was “Baby” and the song title was “Take Good Care of My Baby.” 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. Odds of winning are dependent upon number of entries. All entries received throughout the year are entered into a year- end drawing for a grand prize of $100! Good luck!

A Note Regarding COVID-19 At the time we are printing this Journal edition, the transmission of the COVID-19 virus in many of the counties we reside is “High” as tracked by public health officials. As the Delta and Omicron variants continue to spread, we will monitor transmission rates andmay adjust our offerings as needed. Your health and safety are very important to us. Please stay informed of themost current CDC guidelines by visiting www.cdc.gov. Another helpful site is https://covid. cdc.gov/covid-data-tracker/#county-view. per person, single occupancy, $1,042 per person, triple occupancy. Price includes transportation from Dyersville, Farley, and Dubuque. Three-nights lodging, luggage handling, three breakfasts, two lunches, one box lunch, two dinners, gratuities and admission to all included activities. Call to make your reservation. Full payment is due March 15, 2022. This four-day Mystery Getaway is the perfect prescription to get us on the road again. The variety and unique nature of attractions gives this great adventure a definite thumbs up. We will have three nights and four days to enjoy great food, great fun and great company. Sign up today! Your Connections Club price is $1,099 per person, double occupancy, $1,345

Entry Form

Name

Phone

Address

The missing word is: Mail to: Connie Francis, MidWestOne Bank, Connections Club, 895 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001. Entries must be received before March 31, 2022. Must be 18 or older to enter. Rules: Must be 18 or older to enter. No purchase, payment, donation or account required to enter or win and need not be present. Offer voidwhere prohibited. Employees of MidWestOne Bank and their immediate family members are not eligible to win. Prizes are non-transferable, non-refundable and no substitutions are allowed. MidWestOne Bank assume no responsibility for damages, losses, or injury from acceptance. Odds of winning are dependent upon number of entries. Entries can be submitted through the website, email or mailed to: Connections Club, 895 Main Street, Dubuque IA 52001. Winners will be notified by US Mail within 30 business days of each drawing. Drawings will be held six times in a calendar year, as well as one grand prize drawing at year end. This offer is void where prohibited by law and subject to all federal, state, and local laws. Copies of the rules and regulations are available at any MidWestOne office, online at https://www.midwestone.bank/personal/connections-club.

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Presorted Standard U.S. POSTAGE PAID

Permit No 477

Dubuque, Iowa

Dubuque, Iowa 52004-0938 563.589.0804 800.247.4418 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.