Trip - Shades of Ireland Featuring Northern Ireland
SOLD OUT. Contact Kimberly Rowatt at Direct Travel to be put on the waitlist krowatt@dt.com
Experience Ireland in all its vibrant shades as you travel from the lively city of Dublin to the untamed natural beauty of Northern Ireland. Explore Dublin with a local guide. Kiss the Blarney Stone at historic Blarney Castle. See Killarney National Park on a boat ride. Experience the world-famous beauty of the Ring of Kerry. Marvel at the stunning 700-foot Cliffs of Moher. Enjoy tea and scones on a traditional family farm. Tour the walled city of Derry. Stand on the awe-inspiring Giant’s Causeway. Uncover the legend of the Titanic at Belfast’s famed Titanic Experience. From breathtaking nature and stunning coasts to a captivating culture and friendly locals – this is Ireland.
Trip Dates: April 26-May 8, 2025
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State Farm Museum Tours for Retirees - 2025 Waitlist
Did you miss attending a tour of the Good Neighbor Center Museum? Add your name to the waitlist and Goldtimers will notify you when additional tours are available.
Tour Dates: No Dates Scheduled yet for 2025
Info Meeting - Escape to Paradise: Discover the Magic of Hawaii
Join us on Thursday, May 1, 2025, at 10:00 AM, at The Bloomington Country Club for an In-Person Informational Meeting.
Trip Dates: February 25 - March 8, 2026
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Tour: Advanced Manufacturing Center & SF EV Lab
The Advanced Manufacuring Center and State Farm EV Lab opened at Heartland Community College in January of 2024.
It is the only Electric Vehicle - Energy Storage (EVES) training center in the state of Illinois.
Tour Date: Friday, May 9, 2025 from 1:30-3:00 PM
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Info Meeting - Collette Event: Multiple Trips
Join us on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, at 10:00 AM, at The Bloomington Country Club for an In-Person Informational Meeting.
Trips: Fall Maine, Savour the South, and the Utah Big 5 with Rocky Mountaineer that will be released the day of the event.
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June 2025 - Quarterly Meeting
“Achieving the Impossible: Laughter, Connection, and the Power of Perception”
Join us for a one-of-a-kind experience as mentalist and communication expert Christopher Carter blends mind-reading, humor, and powerful insight into how we connect with each other. In this high-energy, interactive presentation, you’ll witness the impossible—while learning how body language and nonverbal cues shape the way we communicate. You'll even get to play “human lie detector” with your fellow Goldtimers! Perfect for a group that values fun, connection, and meaningful moments, this program will leave you entertained, inspired, and talking about it long after the event ends.
This will be an IN-PERSON event, LIVESTREAMED for remote participants and RECORDED for later viewing.
Thursday, June 5, 2025 at 10:00 AM (Central) at the ISU Alumni Center, 1101 North Main Street, Normal, Illinois 61761
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Info Meeting - Oceania Event: Trips to be Announced
Join us on Thursday, June 12, 2025, at 4:30 PM, at The Bloomington Country Club for an In-Person Informational Meeting.
Trips: To Be Announced
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Trip - Canadian Rockies Ft. Rocky Mountaineer and Calgary Stampede
Canadian Rockies Ft. Rock Mountaineer, and Calgary Stampede
Embark on a breathtaking adventure through Western Canada aboard the renowned Rocky Mountaineer train, traversing a landscape rich with natural wonders and cultural gems.
Trip Dates: June 29 - July 7, 2025
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Trip - Alaska - Land & Cruise Adventure
Join us on an unforgettable journey to Alaska by Land & Cruise. Explore Fairbanks, known as Alaska’s “Golden Heart City,” at your leisure. Enjoy a cruise along the Chena River aboard a Sternwheeler Riverboat before heading to Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge for a two-night stay.
Trip Dates: July 6-July 19, 2025
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Trip - Alaska - Fairbanks to Vancouver
Fairbanks to Vancouver
11 day Land and Sea adventure
Aboard the Noordam Holland America
Trip Dates: August 20-August 31, 2025
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Trip - Rhine River Cruise - Amsterdam to Basel
Join us for an absolutely thrilling cruise down the magnificent Rhine River! The Rhine is a legendary river that is contoured by vineyard–clad hills and castles from yesteryear, and it is sure to captivate you with its beauty and charm. You will have the opportunity to experience the allure of France’s Alsace region in its welcoming capital, Strasbourg, and its priceless gem, Riquewihr. Discover Breisach, which rises above the vineyards of the Rhine, and Freiburg, one of Germany’s sunniest cities and gateway to the Black Forest.
Trip Dates: August 22-30, 2025
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Trip - Mediterranean Voyage - Barcelona to Venice
Join us on the Mediterranean Voyage starting in Barcelona, Spain, with a pre-night stay to enjoy the city’s vibrant culture. Then board the luxurious Azamara Onward as it takes you to multiple captivating Mediterranean destinations, including France, Monaco, Italy, Montenegro, Croatia, and Slovenia. This voyage features extended stays in Florence, Rome, and Venice, allowing ample time to delve into their rich history, art, and cuisine.
Trip Dates: Sept 4 - 18, 2025
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Trip - Fall Colors of Coastal Maine
This is Maine, where rocky shores, infinite nature, and endless lobster forge a coastal New England classic. Dig in to local delicacies with an oyster shucking demonstration and tasting. Immerse yourself in dramatic nature at Acadia National Park. See how lobster traps are retrieved from the ocean. Admire the picturesque Portland Head Light, Maine’s oldest lighthouse. Enjoy free time in the vibrant city of Portland. Towering mountains, delectable cuisine, and bustling harbors await you in this maritime treasure.
Trip Dates: September 28 - October 4, 2025
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Trip - Enchanting Christmas Markets of Quebec
Experience the festive charm of Canada’s most enchanting cities—Montreal and Quebec City—during the holiday season, with the added bonus of enjoying European-style Christmas markets just a short two-hour flight from Illinois! This six-day adventure immerses you in the magic of the season, from vibrant holiday markets to historic landmarks and picturesque streets illuminated with twinkling lights. Savor local cuisine, explore world-famous sites, and embrace the festive spirit in these winter wonderlands.
Trip Dates: December 3 - 8, 2025
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Trip - Escape to Paradise: Discover the Magic of Hawaii
Imagine a place where the sun kisses the ocean, lush green mountains merge with golden sandy beach, and where the spirit of Aloha welcomes you with open arms. Join us Hawaii, the ultimate paradise getaway that promises you an unforgettable experience as we explore the island on land and cruising to explore stunning beaches, majestic volcanoes, lush rainforests and rich culture. Aloha is more than just a greeting; it’s a way of life that will leave you feeling connected and rejuvenated.
Trip Dates: February 25 - March 8, 2026
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Trip - Savour the South
Experience the Charm of America’s Southeast
Immerse yourself in the enchanting pace and timeless beauty of the South as you wander cobblestone streets, explore historic homes, and enjoy the unspoiled coastline. With two-night stays in Charleston and Savannah, you’ll uncover the rich history and southern charm of these iconic cities. Visit Charleston’s City Market, one of America’s oldest public markets, and choose between a trolley or walking tour of Savannah’s expansive Historic District. Conclude your journey with two nights at the luxurious Jekyll Island Club, once hailed as “the richest, most exclusive club in the world.” Witness sea turtle rehabilitation at the Georgia Sea Turtle Center and savor the unique hospitality of South Carolina and Georgia’s Low Country.
Trip Dates: April 21-April 27, 2026
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Trip - Portugal - Douro River Cruise
Join us on an incredible adventure through the stunning Douro River Valley in Portugal! Experience the breathtaking beauty of this unspoiled region, home to the world’s oldest demarcated wine region, Port country. Sail roundtrip from the charming “City of Bridges,” Porto, and discover the Douro Valley’s capital, Regua. Explore the UNESCO-designated “Golden City” of Salamanca and indulge in the rich flavors of historic wineries. Immerse yourself in the genuine beauty of one of Europe’s most unadulterated landscapes and create unforgettable memories on our Portugal Cruise!
Trip Dates: June 24 - July 3, 2026
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Workshop: Navigating Volatility - Economic and Market Update
“Navigating Volatility - Economic and Market Update” - presented by Busey Bank
Please join Derek Sasveld, Director of Investment Research and Strategy, for this special installment of Busey Bank’s Workshop Series. Derek will discuss the recent market volatility, Busey’s economic outlook, and navigating markets during times of uncertainty and volatility.
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Info Meeting - Enchanting Christmas Markets of Quebec
Join us on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, at 10:00 AM, at The Bloomington Country Club for an In-Person Informational Meeting.
Trip Dates: December 3-8, 2025
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Trip - Panama Canal Cruise
Join the Flick’s on an unforgettable Panama Canal Cruise, embarking on a round-trip adventure from sunny Fort Lauderdale! This exquisite journey offers a blend of relaxation and exploration as you sail through the iconic Panama Canal, a marvel of engineering and history. Along the way, you’ll visit stunning destinations including Bonaire’s crystal-clear waters, Aruba’s picturesque beaches, and Curacao’s charming Dutch architecture. Experience the vibrant culture of Colombia and witness the lush landscapes of Panama, where you’ll navigate the famed canal locks and soak in the beauty of one of the world’s greatest waterways. This cruise promises not only breathtaking sights but also opportunities for adventure and relaxation, making it the perfect escape for travelers seeking both discovery and leisure.
Trip Dates: April 6 - 18, 2025
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March 2025 - Quarterly Meeting
“Tips to Organize Your Records NOW, Before Others Need Them”
Our speaker will be Sonja Reece. Sonja is a speaker and advisor on getting your records organized. Being prepared for the unexpected or even gradual changes in ability involves you and your family knowing where to find important information. To make that easier, she developed a reference guide to her personal, home, and business affairs that she calls her “Grab and Go Book”. She is ready to teach you how to do the same.
This will be an IN-PERSON event and LIVESTREAMED. This event will be RECORDED for later viewing.
Thursday, March 27, 2025 at 10:00 AM at the ISU Alumni Center, 1101 North Main Street, Normal, Illinois 61761
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Trip - French Riviera
SOLD OUT. Contact Kimberly Rowatt at Direct Travel to be put on the waitlist krowatt@dt.com
Get ready to uncover the chic resorts, sun-soaked beaches, and elegant allure that attract the rich and famous to the exquisite French Riviera!
Trip Dates: March 20-28, 2025
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Workshop: 2025 Tax Workshop
“2025 Tax Workshop” hosted by Brett Petersen
Busey Wealth Management is pleased to host a series of Goldtimers Workshops designed to help you simplify complex financial topics from experts with the knowledge and resources to serve your unique financial needs.
Our next installment of the complimentary workshop will include an update on 2025 tax changes along with common tax strategies from Kathleen Edgecombe, Senior Vice President, Tax & Financial Planning Team Lead at Busey Wealth Management.
Kathleen has been in the financial services industry for more than 30 years. She focuses her time and efforts in the Tax and Financial Planning areas of Busey Wealth Management.
Kathleen, a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ practitioner, is a member of the Eastern Illinois Estate Planning Council. Kathleen received her degree from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in Accountancy.
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Trip - Hawaii
SOLD OUT. Contact Kimberly Rowatt at Direct Travel to be put on the waitlist krowatt@dt.com
Join us & WJBC’s Scott Miller on an incredible adventure cruise through the beautiful Hawaiian Islands! Discover the magic of Honolulu, Maui, Hilo, Kona and Kauai.
Trip Dates: February 18 - March 1, 2025
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Trip - Puerto Vallarta (MIX)
SOLD OUT. Contact Kimberly Rowatt at Direct Travel to be put on the waitlist krowatt@dt.com
Join Mix 106.9 Winter Escape to Sunny Puerto Vallarta Mexico this February. Enjoy a week at the All-Inclusive, Adults Only Riu Palace Pacifico.
Trip Dates: February 8-15, 2025
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Trip - Puerto Vallarta (WBNQ)
SOLD OUT. Contact Kimberly Rowatt at Direct Travel to be put on the waitlist krowatt@dt.com
Join WBNQ for your Winter Escape to Sunny Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. What better way to escape the cold, snowy Central IL winter than to spend a week in the all-inclusive, adults only Riu Palace Pacifico.
Trip Dates: February 1-8, 2025
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Info Meeting - Fall Colors of Coastal Maine
Join us on Wednesday, December 11, 2024, at 10:00 AM, at The Chateau Hotel and Conference Center for an In-Person Informational Meeting.
Trip Dates: September 28 - October 4, 2025
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State Farm Museum Tours for Retirees - December 2024
The State Farm Heritage Team has added two additional December dates for retirees to attend a tour of the Good Neighbor Center Museum!
Tour Dates: More than One Date Available
Info Meeting - Alaska
Join us on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, at 5:00 PM, at the Bloomington Country Club for an In-Person Informational Meeting.
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November 2024 - Quarterly Meeting
“2024/25 Economic and Market Update”
This will be an IN-PERSON event, LIVESTREAMED and RECORDED.
On November 21st, Derek Sasveld, CFA, Senior Vice President, Director of Investment Research and Strategy - Busey Bank, will present an Economic and Market Update. He will discuss the current economic situation, future outlook, and address opportunities in the financial markets.
Thursday, November 21, 2024 at 10:00 AM
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Trip - Costa Rica - A World of Nature
Highlights:
Encounter an emerald wonderland, where trees climb high and animals roam free. Immerse yourself in nature when you spend 2 nights at a remote resort in San Carlos and 3 nights in the region of Arenal National Park. Sample fresh cacao during a visit to a local plantation. Give back to preservation efforts at a sea turtle research station in Tortuguero National Park. Embark on a crocodile safari in the jungle and a bird-watching cruise in the rainforest. Stand suspended over the rainforest floor as you journey across a network of hanging bridges. Hike the lava fields of Arenal Volcano or soar over jungle canopies on a zip line. It’s time to experience a world of nature.
Trip Dates: November 9 - 20, 2024
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State Farm Museum Tours for Retirees
OCTOBER TOURS FULL - SEE ADDITIONAL DATES IN DECEMBER
The State Farm Heritage Team is pleased to once again invite retirees to attend a tour of the Good Neighbor Center Museum!
Tour Dates: More than One Date Available
Dinner in the Park!
Dinner in the Park!
Back by popular demand…. Dinner in the Park! Mark your calendars now for Tuesday, October 8th 4:30-6:30!
The Bloomington Link Center (b’link) invites you to take the night off from cooking and have Nelson’s Catering prepare dinner for you and your family.
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Social #2!
Social #2!
JOIN US on Wednesday, September 18th, from 3PM CST - 6PM CST at Little Beaver Brewery (5 Finance Drive, Bloomington, IL) for our next Social! Come out for a beverage and reconnect with former co-workers/friends and meet new friends! There will be a cash bar and food available for purchase. This is a casual event held in the indoor and outdoor public areas at the Brewery. Invite your friends - the more the merrier!
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September 2024 - Quarterly Meeting
“The Barn III History”
This will be an IN-PERSON event, LIVESTREAMED and RECORDED.
Join us for an engaging presentation by Abby Reel. Abby is the current owner of The Barn III Dinner Theatre and Event Center in Goodfield, IL (the former Conklin’s Dinner Theatre operated by Chaunce Conklin and Mary Simon).
Abby will be speaking about the history of the barn, The Barn III Dinner Theatre and Event Center current operations and their plans for the future.
Feel free to come early to socialize with friends and coworkers. This will be our first event at the ISU Alumni Center so you may want to arrive early just to look around.
Thursday, September 12, 2024 at 10:00 AM
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Trip - Alpine Lakes & Scenic Trains
Climb aboard legendary Alpine railways and set out on a journey across the captivating Alpine landscapes of Switzerland and Italy. Ride 2 legendary train routes – the Glacier Express and the Bernina Pass Train. Relax in some of Europe’s most stunning and exclusive resort villages, including Zermatt, St. Moritz and Lake Maggiore, Italy. Explore Lucerne, the “Swiss Paradise on the Lake.” Ascend Pilatus on a unique excursion along the steepest railway in the world, soaking in the scenery from 7,000 feet above sea level. These are the Alpine views you’ve been dreaming of.
Trip Dates: Sept 12-22, 2024
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Info Meeting - Rhine River Cruise - Amsterdam to Basel
Join us on Wednesday, September 11, 2024, at 5:00 PM, at the Bloomington Country Club for an In-Person Informational Meeting.
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Trip - Great Lakes & Niagara Cruise
Highlights:
Join us from Nature to Culture. From urban skylines to uninhabited islands, discover North America’s wilderness alongside renowned cultural attractions while cruising the striking waterways of the Great Lakes. Immerse yourself in the lakes’ compelling shipping history, experience the power of the thundering Niagara Falls and keep watch for scores of migratory birds at Point Pelee. Led by a team of experts, explore sheltered bays and woodlands to uncover complex ecosystems and hidden treasures.
Trip Dates: August 29 - September 5, 2024
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Workshop: What is a Financial Plan and Why it Matters
“What is a Financial Plan and Why it Matters”
Busey Wealth Management is pleased to host a series of Goldtimers Workshops designed to help you simplify complex financial topics from experts with the knowledge and resources to serve your unique financial needs.
Our next installment of the complimentary workshop series is scheduled for Thursday, August 22nd at 10 am, and will be presented by Dries Durnez and Taylor Morgan.
In this workshop they will discuss the importance of a financial plan and what the potential benefits are. The will also be highlighting the key items when thinking about engaging a firm in this process.
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Trip - Alaska 3 (August)
Anchorage to Vancouver
11 day Land and Sea adventure
Aboard the Koningsdam Holland America
Trip Dates: August 20-31, 2024
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Info Meeting - Collette Event Night
Join us on Tuesday, August 6, 2024, at 5:00 PM, at the Chateau Hotel & Conference Center for an IN-PERSON information meeting.
Learn all about the following trips: Canadian Rockies Ft. Rocky Mountaineer & Calgary Stampede, Shades of Ireland ft Northern Ireland and the French Riviera.
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Info Meeting - Portugal - Douro River Cruise
Join us on Wednesday, July 31, 2024, at 5:30 PM, at the Bloomington Country Club for an In-Person Informational Meeting.
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Info Meeting - Flick’s Panama Canal Cruise
Join us on Wednesday, July 24, 2024, at 5:30 PM, at the Bloomington Country Club for an In-Person Informational Meeting.
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Trip - Alaska 2 (July)
WJBC Great Escape to Alaska
hosted by Scott Miller, WJBC Morning Man
11 day Land and Sea adventure
Aboard the Noordam Holland America
Trip Dates: July 10-21, 2024
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Workshop: Estate Planning Strategies-Know Your Options
“Estate Planning Strategies-Know Your Options”
Busey Wealth Management is pleased to host a series of Goldtimers Workshops designed to help you simplify complex financial topics from experts with the knowledge and resources to serve your unique financial needs.
Our next installment of the complimentary workshop series is scheduled for Thursday, June 27th at 10 am, and will be presented by Renea Harbert, Senior Vice President - Director of Estate Settlement.
While much of financial planning has to do with acquiring and preserving assets, estate planning also involves determining the most effective way to distribute assets. Many people are uncomfortable discussing estate planning, which is understandable. But, without an estate plan, everything you hold dear could be at risk.
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Trip - British Landscapes
Highlights:
An adventure fit for a Shakespearean tale takes you from verdant hillsides to bustling British cities rich with culture. Explore The Athens of the North during your stay in Edinburgh. Explore the ruins of a Roman Fort during a visit to Hadrian’s Wall. Enjoy medieval York and its historic Minster. See the picturesque village of Llangolen in Wales. Walk in the footsteps of the Bard, visiting the childhood home of William Shakespeare. Personalize your tour with a choice of included excursions in Edinburgh and Oxford. See the quintessential sights of London with a local guide. Sleepy villages, grassy slopes, mountainside lakes, and cities built upon layers of history – these are the landscapes of Britain.
Trip Dates: June 16 - 25, 2024
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Trip - Alaska 1 (June)
Fairbanks to Vancouver
11 day Land and Sea adventure
Aboard the Noordam Holland America
Trip Dates: June 12 - 23, 2024
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