Nov_Dec 2021

Connections Club

Nov/Dec 2021 Edition

Beautiful

Historic

Cape Cod & Boston June 26—July 1, 2022

Quaint

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Calendar and Contents

Calendar 2021 Nov 11 The American Soldier Solo Show/ UDHeritage Center (p.6) Nov 27 Miracle on 34th Street /Grand Opera House (p.6) Nov 28 A Very Electric Christmas/UD Heritage Center (p.7) Dec 2 Mistletones/Hotel Julien (p.7) Dec 3 Christmas at the Heritage Center/ UD Heritage Center (p.8) Dec 5-6 Winter Getaway/Elkhart Lake, WI Dec 11 Neil Berg’s Broadway Holiday/UD Heritage Center (p.8) Dec 12 The Charitable Sisterhood Christ- mas Spectacular/Bell Tower (p.9) Dec 17 Sara Evans Blue Christmas Tour/ Five Flags (p.22) Dec 19 The Nutcracker Ballet/Grand Opera House (p.9) Calendar 2022 January 26 Drumline LIVE!/UD Heritage Center (p.10) March 4 ESG Investing Seminar (p.5) March 19 The Lettermen/UD Heritage Center (p.10) April 4-13 Enchanting Ireland (p.12-13) April 26-29 Spring Mystery Trip (p.11) June 5-9 Niagara Falls Canada (p.14-15) June 26-July 1 Cape Cod & Boston (p.16-17) July 17-25 The Great Pacific NW (p.18-19) Sept 29-Oct 12 Greek Isles, Croatia & Italy (p.20-21)

Contents

Notes from Connie

p.3 p.4 p.5

Bulletin Board

Upcoming Seminar

Local Events

p.6-10

Spring Mystery Trip Enchanting Ireland Niagara Falls Canada Cape Cod & Boston Great Pacific Northwest Greek Isles, Croatia, Italy

p.11

p.12-13 p.14-15 p.16-17 p.18-19 p.20-21

NEW Event

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Missing Word Contest

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Hello from Connie

Hello Everyone,

Hope you are well and savoring the ending of the year 2021. We are perfecting our ability to be agile as we again nav- igate the changing currents. We sure thought we could stay on course and slowly steer our “ship” into friendly waters, but we once again met with a rough patch. Please know how dedi- cated we are to providing you with opportunities to get out and live the beautiful life you deserve to live. We are being very careful and following recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Not too long ago the only time I would hear the CDC mentioned would be in a movie, a thriller of sorts, one that kept you on the edge of your seat, thinking is this “science fiction” or could this be possible? In the year 2020 we lived out the horror. Hearing the CDC mentioned in everyday life has become common for us. I believe living with this virus and all the variants will also be a part of our everyday lives. Hopefully we can find a safe way of doing just that. Our history over the past year and a half is reminisce of living out the stages of grief. “Denial” started us off as we heard reports of these terribly dangerous new COVID 19 viruses. “Anger” followed when many friends became ill and our lives were put on hold with the closing of the world. “Bargaining” comes next. I certainly did my fair share of that. Moving forward we found “depression”. Why is this happening to us? Why can’t we gather with friends and family? Why do we have to cancel everything? “Acceptance” is the final stage. I’m not sure we are there yet. Our last Journal was a little late getting to you because we had to cancel a few day trips and an extended adventure. As sad as I am, I know things will get better! In closing please remember I’m here for you! I sincerely appreciate your friendship and your support of MidWestOne Bank and our Connections Club. I also appreciate your understanding of the recent changes we had to make. Please make sure we have your email address as the paper copy will no longer be mailed to you. We’ll have an extra supply of Journals at the branch offices to help make the transition go more smoothly.

Make Today Great!

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Bulletin Board

Changes to qualifications!

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.

Member FDIC | Equal Housing Lender

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Upcoming Seminar

ESG Investing Seminar Thursday, March 4, 2022, 6:00 p.m., 12th floor, MidWest One Bank 895 Main St., Dubuque, IA

ESG investing refers to Environmental, Social and Governance measured invest- ment strategies. In our seminar we will learn about the recent emergence of ESG and how MidWestOne is approaching this area. 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. Call 589.0804 to register. Seating is limited. Not FDIC Insured | No Bank Guarantee | May Lose Value | Not a Deposit | Not Insured by any Federal government Agency

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Local Events

The American Soldier Solo Show Thursday, November 11, 7:30 p.m. UD Heritage Center 2250 Bennett Street, Dubuque, IA

Douglas Taurel’s The American Solider is based on, and inspired by, real stories and letters written by veterans and their families from the [A]merican Revolution through current conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. The one-man show reveals the struggles Ameri- can soldiers face at war and their internal struggles to come back home. It strives to help us understand how and why it is so difficult for men and women in the armed services to re-enter our civilian life when they come back home. The show’s goal is to honor veterans and say thank you to their families for their immense sacrifices to our country. Your Con- nections Club price is just $20 per person, due at reservation. Military/Veterans eligible for one free ticket.

Miracle on 34th Street Saturday, November 27, 7:30 p.m. Grand Opera House 158 W. 8th Street, Dubuque, IA

By chance, Kris Kringle, an old man in a retirement home, gets a job working as Santa for Macy’s. Kris unleashes waves of good will with Macy’s customers and the commercial world of New York City by referring parents to other stores to find exactly the toy their child has asked for. Seen as deluded and dangerous by Macy’s vocational counselor, who plots to have Kris shanghaied to Bellevue Psychiatric Hospital, Kris ends up in a court competency hearing. Especially at stake is one little girl’s belief in Santa. In a dramatic decision, the court confirms Kris as the true Santa, allowing Susan and countless other children to experience the joy of childhood fantasy. Your Connections Club price is just $16 per person, due at reservation.

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Time change!

A Very Electric Christmas Sunday, November 28, 4:00 p.m. UD Heritage Center 2250 Bennett Street, Dubuque, IA

This America’s Got Talent semi-finalist will light up your holidays with a magical and captivating tale of family, friendship, and hope set to timeless holiday hits. In this heartfelt story, a young bird named Max is blown off course during a snowstorm and ends up alone and lost at the North Pole. His adventure begins when he encounters friendly caroling worms and dancing Poinsettias. Max also meets Nutcracker soldiers, mischievous mice, and an evil Rat King! This holiday light and dance extravaganza will make children wide-eyed with delight and melt even the hardest of hearts. Your Connections Club price is just $24 per person, children age 18 and under are $10, and lap seats available for age 3 and under are $5, due at reservation.

The Mistletones Thursday, December 2, 12:00 p.m. Hotel Julien 200 Main Street, Dubuque, IA

Delighting audiences since 2007, the Mistletones® are the most highly sought after Christmas gig around. With five singers and a full, smokin’ hot band, they check their song list twice and then some when putting on SNOWBIZ®. Their full-length Christmas variety show is presented dinner-theatre style. A veritable parade of Kringleistas, this group satisfies even the most Grinchiest Grinch with its perfect harmonies for both traditional and con- temporary carols. One holiday classic may be jazzy, the next may have a Latin flair. No matter the genre, they will make your Christmas more Christmassy! Your $55 price includes special Connections Club VIP seating, the show, a full holiday lunch with dessert, and a complimentary drink (wine, soda, or tap beer). Check- in and cocktails are at noon, lunch is at 12:30 p.m., and the show is at 1:30 p.m .

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Local Events

Christmas at Heritage Center Friday, December 3, 7:30 p.m. UD Heritage Center 2250 Bennett Street, Dubuque, IA

This UD tradition returns to bring spiritual meaning to your Christmas season. UD’s Department of Fine and Performing Arts celebrates the birth of Christ through a concert presentation featuring the John and Alice Butler Pipe Organ, UD choirs, and UD concert band with live narration. A highlight this year will be a newly commissioned work dedicated to John and Alice Butler featuring the organ and entire company of singers and instrumentalists. Composer JoAnne Harris will be present for this premiere that promises a grand finale for an evening of truly heavenly music. Complimentary holiday refreshments and live music fromUD’s Jazz Ensemble will immediately follow the concert. Your Connections Club price is just $15 per person, due at reservation.

Neil Bergs Broadway Holiday Saturday, December 11, 7:30 p.m. UD Heritage Center 2250 Bennett Street, Dubuque, IA

Direct from New York, Broadway’s best including Dubuque native Rita Harvey will sing in the New Year with Broadway Holiday. Neil Berg’s critically acclaimed musical revue will take audiences on a journey through Broadway history with an unforgettable holiday event. The show will feature beloved holiday tunes as well as hits from classic shows like My Fair [Lady] and South Pacific to groundbreakers like West Side Story and Chicago to more recent blockbusters like Jersey Boys and Wicked. Your Connections Club price is just $44 per person, due at reservation.

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Charitable Sisterhood Christmas Spectactular Sunday, December 12, 2:00 p.m. Bell Tower Theater 2728 Asbury Road, Dubuque, IA

Christmas is only three weeks away, and the ladies of the Charitable Sisterhood are preparing for the annual Christmas Spectacular...but they are having trouble focusing because there is a criminal on the loose—someone has stolen the baby Jesus from the nativity scene! The fun doesn’t let up until the hilarious climax, which will leave you filled with the very best spirit of the Christmas season. Your Connections Club price is just $18 per person, due at reservation.

The Nutcracker Ballet Sunday, December 19, 2:00 p.m. Grand Opera House 158 W. 8th Street, Dubuque, IA

An Annual Dubuque Christmas Tradition! The Dubuque City Youth Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker is a yearly tradition for many families in the tri-state area and beyond. Join the incredibly talented students as they dance through the journey of Clara meeting her Nutcracker and the adventures they have through a world of mice and fairies. With something new each year, this show is always a treat. Your Connections Club price is just $16 per person, due at reservation.

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Local Events

Drumline LIVE! Wednesday, January 26, 7:30 p.m. UD Heritage Center 2250 Bennett Street, Dubuque, IA

DRUMLine Live, the show stopping attraction created by the musical team behind the hit movies, “Drumline” and “Drumline: A New Beat,” embodies the soulful, high-step- ping style of the Historically Black College and University (HBCU) marching band experience. With its riveting rhythms, bold beats, and ear grabbing energy, DRUMLine Live is a high octane musical roller coaster ride that is guaranteed to touch every emotion in your body. We’re back with a BRAND NEW show for the entire family and we promise you’ll be on your feet by Halftime! Your Connections Club price is just $44 per person, due at reservation.

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

The dictionary defines harmony as “a combination of musical sounds considered to be pleasing”. The music world could define harmony as “The Lettermen”. For more than 50 years, The Lettermen-- Donovan Tea, Bobby Poynton and Rob Gulack, each of whom are entertainers in their own right—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. Your Connections Club price is just $38 per person, due at reservation.

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Dyersville/ Farley Event

Spring Mystery Trip April 26-29, 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 3 nights and 4 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 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.

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Extended Travel

Enchanting Ireland April 4-13, 2022

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)

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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 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 $4,249, double occupancy, $5,119 for single occupancy, and $4, 179 for triple. Pricing does not include optional travel protection. A completed registration form is needed to hold your reservation. Final payment is due December 16, 2021, or when confirmation of the trip is available, whatever comes later.

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Extended Travel

Niagara Falls Canada June 5-9, 2022

Join me on a June adventure to beautiful Niagara Falls Canada. Day 1: Today we fly to Buffalo, NY where our professional tour guide & motor coach will greet us and we will transfer to our hotel in Niagara 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: Today’s highlight will be the beautiful Botanical Gardens and Butterfly Conser- vatory. Just north of Niagara Falls itself as the Niagara River flows to Lake Ontario, these gardens are part of the Niagara Scenic Parkway. Established in 1936, the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens presents visitors with 99 acres of beautifully maintained gardens that include perennials, rhododendrons, azaleas, a formal parterre garden, herb and vegeta- ble plantings, and our world-famous rose garden featuring over 2,400 roses. Nearby, we will continue our exploration into the region’s natural experiences with a visit to the But- terfly Conservatory. Step inside one of the largest glass-enclosed butterfly conservatories in North America, and explore a tropical garden oasis. Admire the beauty of over 2,000 vi- brantly colored butterflies fluttering freely around you as you explore nearly 200 yards of winding pathways adorned with lush vegetation and trickling waterfalls. We will also visit the famous Floral Clock, located north of the Botanical Gardens. The intricate designs on the face of the Floral Clock are created with up to 16,000 carpet bedding plants and are

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changed twice each year. As we travel to and from Niagara Falls we will also witness the spectacle of the Niagara Whirlpool with its Class 6 rapids – don’t get caught in here! We will return to Niagara Falls and enjoy dinner on our own this evening. (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 $2,474, 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. 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

Cape Cod & Boston June 26-July 1, 2022

Day 1: Today we will fly to Boston’s Logan airport. Upon arrival at the airport, we will be met by our local guide and motorcoach. We will head straight to Cape Cod just 75 miles away and our hotel for the next 4 nights. This afternoon we will stop at the Kennedy Memorial overlooking Lewis Bay. We will drive by Saint Francis Xavier Church where the Kennedy’s enjoyed Sunday Mass. This evening a delicious dinner is included. (D) Day 2: If you’re interested in a great getaway where Father Time takes a back seat to Mother Nature….then Martha’s Vineyard is where you want to be! 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 Oceanographic Institute, where Robert Bal- lard spends his time when he is not discovering new mysteries of the sea, as he did when he found the Titanic. The ferry is just 45 minutes and our motorcoach will even travel with us. Once on the island, we will explore Oak Bluffs with its gingerbread homes laid out as the tents once were in this historic campground. We will wander the gentle streets of Edgartown, an old whaling port lined with sea captains’ homes, while we have lunch. The trip is not complete without enjoying the breathtaking view of the Atlantic Ocean from Gayhead Cliffs. When we return to the Cape this evening, you will have a chance to dine on your own at any of the many restaurants on Main Street. (B) Day 3: This morning after breakfast we will journey to the end of Cape Cod where we will enjoy a tour of Provincetown, which is without a doubt the most eclectic of all Cape Cod towns. Over the past century many artists have made Provincetown their home creating a very open community where many painters, writers, playwrights still live today. Then it’s all aboard a Whale Watch Cruise to enjoy the sunshine and ocean breezes on a comfortable vessel searching [for] the exciting and entertaining marine mammals just a splash away! As we sail toward the whale feeding grounds, the on-board naturalists will provide an informative and entertaining commentary on the Cape’s unique eco-system and the creatures that dwell here. Later today, we will visit the Cape Cod National Seashore, where we can stand on the cliffs and view the spectacular scenery. We will visit the Visitor’s Center, where we will learn about the formation of the Cape and other interesting facts. We will return to the hotel later this afternoon following dinner. (B, D)

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Day 4: We will take a ferry ride to Nantucket from Hyannis and enjoy a memorable tour of this beautiful island. We will have time to stroll along the cobblestone streets and visit some of the many quaint shops that line them. If you love small shops with fine mer- chandise, it is here that you’ll find paradise in Nantucket Town. We will view Brant Point Light, the second-oldest lighthouse in the United States. Free time for shopping will be enjoyed on the island before boarding the ferry for the return voyage to the mainland. 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: This morning we will head to Boston for our final night. Boston is affection- ately known as Bean Town (Boston Baked Beans) by some and the cradle of liberty by others. Our guide will tour downtown including parts of the famous Freedom Trail and make several stops while providing commentary throughout. We will visit the Boston Tea Party ship and museum and have a fun time reenacted the rebellion caused by “taxation without representation” as the troubled colonists were upset at the British crown taxes all the way from England. We will 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: This morning, enjoy a local spot for breakfast on your own. Depending on our flight schedule we will have time to explore the downtown with the Boston Common and Public Gardens. Then it’s on to Logan airport and boarding our flight back home. Per person price is $2,911, double occupancy, and $3,585, for single occupancy. A completed registration form is needed to hold your reservation. Final payment is due on March 24, 2022, or when confirmation of the trip is available, whatever comes later.

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Extended Travel

Great Pacific Northwest Columbia and Snake Rivers luxury cruise/American Queen Steamboat Company July 17-25, 2022, aboard American Empress Wind your way through the Pacific Northwest on this nine-night journey! Enjoy a complimentary pre-cruise hotel stay in Vancouver, Washington, then board the American Empress and make your way to Astoria, where you can look out from the peak of the Astoria Column—the highest point in the city. In Portland, relax in the calming Portland Japanese Garden, then sail on to Stevenson to pay a visit to the historic Bonneville Dam. Spend two days in The Dalles, a city filled with the history of gun slingers and gold miners. In Richland, walk downtown to browse the cafés and shops. Before journey’s end, spend a day in Clarkston and trace the path of Lewis and Clark.

July 17 Portland, Oregon/Vancouver, Washington July 18 Vancouver, Washington – Embark

July 19 Astoria, Oregon July 20 River Cruising July 21 Stevenson, Washington July 22 The Dalles, Oregon

July 23 Richland, Washington July 24 Clarkston, Washington July 25 Spokane/Clarkston, Washington

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Price includes airport transfers, airfare, one night hotel stay pre-cruise, hop-on hop-off shore excursions, gratuities, port charges, onboard meals, refreshments and entertainment. Per person double occupancy price: $5,729 Outside Stateroom, $5,829 Veranda Stateroom, $6,129 Deluxe Veranda Stateroommore options available as well as single pricing. Pricing includes a $300 early registration discount. Travel protection not included, pricing for protection corresponds to trip cost (stateroom preference). A deposit of $500 per person is required to pre-register and hold your stateroom. A portion of your deposit is non-refundable if canceled. Optional travel protection pre- mium, and remainder of payment is due March 18, 2022.

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Extended Travel

Greek Isles, Croatia & Italy 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.

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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: Dubrovnik, Croatia, dubbed “the pearl of the Adriatic” by the poet Lord Byron, exudes romantic charm and beautiful scenery with its shimmering marble streets, centuries old buildings capped by bright orange roofs, and lovely beaches ensconced between striking rocky ledges. Day 11: Sicily, Messina, third largest city on the island welcoming visitors with its lovely 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 Mt 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.

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New Event

Sara Evans [Blue] Christmas Tour Friday, December 17, 2021, 7:00 p.m. Five Flags Arena 405 Main St, Dubuque, IA

Sara Evans’ career in country music now spans nearly a quarter-century and has included several massive hits that remain popular on country radio and streaming services. She has recorded more than 30 charting singles and totaled more than five million in album sales. Evans has also released a pair of collections of holiday music: 2009’s “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” and 2014’s “At Christmas.” The latter reached the Top 20 of Billboard’s Country Albums chart. The ten-track record included both contemporary and traditional Christmas songs, as well as the original title track. Now you can enjoy this special Christmas performance at Five Flags! Your Connections Club price is just $70 per person, due at reservation. Seats are located in section 6, rows D, E, and F.

A Note Regarding COVID-19

At the time we are printing this Journal edition, the transmission of the COVID-19 virus inmany of the counties we reside is “High” as tracked by public health officials. As this Delta variant continues 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

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Missing Word

Worth Thinking About: “We can complain because rose bushes have thorns, or rejoice because thorn bushes have [roses].” – Abraham Lincoln

Missing Word Contest:

Our Missing Word Contest winner for Sept/Oct was Lyle Gassmann, who received a check for $25. The missing word was “Bridge” and the song title was “Like a Bridge Over Troubled Water.” 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!

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 November 30, 2021. 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 800.373.1841 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.