Notes from Julia

Dear Friends,

After a long winter, it's a treat to open the windows to warm spring breezes and happy tunes of finches that have taken residence in the yard, gather bouquets of smiling daffodils, and re-discover the tranquility of simply relaxing on the deck after nightfall, observing the stars and jets passing overhead. For those of us whose lives are busy, spring is a great time to reassess priorities and realize the simple things in life are the most precious.

The years pass quickly, and it is important to make every day count. Spending time with family, expanding our horizons through travel and education, socializing, and making new friends are ways to bring fulfillment to life. I hope you will consider AmeriClub events as a wonderful resource for enriching your life. Don't hesitate to contact me about any AmeriClub events or to make suggestions.

AmeriClub members have been busy this year, and our calendar will provide additional opportunities throughout 2013. Responses have been wonderful for discounted AmeriClub tickets to local theatrical productions as well as for day trips to regional dinner theaters. In March, "Pre-Arranged Funeral Planning" educational luncheon seminars were presented by local experts to 80 attendees in Dyersville and Dubuque. Watch for additional seminars later this year. For those who enjoy traveling on extended tours without the hassles of personally planning a trip, consider making memories with us on our relaxing Pacific Coast Cruise or tours to Ireland or Cuba. Register early to avoid disappointment!

Don't forget to take advantage of the experience and expertise of the many professionals ready to serve you at American Trust. If you are blessed with grandchildren or other children special to you, consider balancing gifts of toys, cash, or gift cards by establishing an investment account for the child's future educational needs. You can contribute to it periodically or regularly for birthdays, holidays, and other gift-giving occasions. Various plans are available offering contribution flexibility and/or tax advantages. Contact Investment Representatives Kim Snook at 563.583.5759 or Don Warren at 563.589.0831, or call Kim or Don at 800.373.1841 for advice on

educational accounts. They can also help simplify your life by consolidating IRAs, investment accounts, or retirement plans from various employers.

As you "stop to smell the roses" in May and June, I wish you many days of sunshine as you celebrate Mother's and Father's Days, graduations, and weddings. Make the most of life with the simple pleasures of barbecues, leisurely walks, bike rides, and children's soccer and baseball games. Enjoy life!

With warm regards,

Julia