Summer has arrived and company morale is at an all-time high!

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1 By: Ted Sykes President & COO American Queen Steamboat Company Summer has arrived and company morale is at an all-time high! The momentum continues to build as nearly every 2016 voyage is sailing at full capacity with 2017 coming in close behind! What could possibly be more exciting than that? Well, for all of us at American Queen Steamboat Company it is the fine company culture of mutual respect that we have established which continues to serve as the foundation of our ongoing success. I recently came across an interesting article relative to how happiness and success go hand-in-hand and I couldn t help but to think of the immense success and growth we have witnessed here at American Queen Steamboat Company. As loyal past guests, you surely have encountered the warm, welcoming and friendly culture we have cultivated aboard both of our vessels. Our staff and crew continually go above and beyond to nurture and protect this culture ensuring that it carries across the guest experience in every aspect of the cruise. The following is a small excerpt from a five-star review as provided by an American Empress guest that really hit home: I think one of the major pluses of sailing on this ship was the friendly and efficient crew. On the larger ships no one ever knows your name unless you wear a name tag. On this ship crew members seemed to remember our names and there were no name tags! I realize that part of the job for the cruise directors, hotel managers (both were married couples), the Riverlorian and others was to be friendly and outgoing. And, everyone sure was. In fact, we had breakfast one day with the Riverlorian, one of the hotel managers SUMMER 2016 Volume 2, Issue 3 Cultivating an Onboard Culture of Excellence We understand that friendly greetings leave lasting impressions. stopped by our table on another morning for a really nice chat, both cruise directors always knew our names and went out of their ways to ask about our day. Kudos to the Empress crew! As this guest has mentioned, it is part of the job to have a friendly, polite and professional demeanor in this industry; and while this is most certainly true, it is important to mention that when you hire the right staff and crew who embody the core values of the company success is bound to follow. Treat others the way you want to be treated. It is a simple motto with a strong impact. When you greet someone with a smile, you re more likely to receive a smile in return. And while we re in the business of creating smiles, your personal letters, reviews and testimonials certify that our all-american crew consistently goes the extra mile to deliver gracious hospitality. It brings us such joy to know that the true happiness of our smiling staff is essentially what drives our success and sets us apart from other river cruise lines. In this issue of The Paddlewheeler, you will learn more about our esteemed onboard culture which includes far more than friendly, smiling faces. As each vessel holds its own remarkable collection of art, antiques and artifacts which is unparalleled on the river. Additionally, there is still time to book your 2016 holiday on the river! Whether it s Thanksgiving, New Year s or our second annual Holiday-Christmas Markets cruises, we urge you to join us for a festive river cruise holiday where you are treated as more than just a guest you are treated as part of our family. Thank you for your continued loyalty. We enjoy serving you.

2 A SPECIAL OFFER FOR SSOA MEMBERS 2017 Full-Length Mighty Mississippi River Cruise: August 13 September 4, 2017 Book Early and Save up to $3,000 per stateroom * Our guest loyalty program, the Steamboat Society of America, was created to recognize our past guests and offer the opportunity to enjoy exclusive benefits and incentives for cruising frequently with us. As a small thank you for being a loyal past guest, we would like to remind you of our special early booking discount for 2017 and extend the offer for savings of up to $3,000 per stateroom* ($1,500 per person) on our 23-Day Mighty Mississippi voyage aboard the American Queen. There is no better way to experience the entire length of the dynamic Mississippi River and now is the time to start planning. Don t miss out on the journey of lifetime! Redeeming this offer is easy, just contact our reservations department at and mention this promotional code 2017MMEBD1. This special offer will expire on September 30, Call today! *Save $3,000 per stateroom ($1,500 per person) on the following three-week American Queen 2017 voyage: 8/13-9/04. Offer expires on 9/30/2016 and is only valid on new, paid-in-full bookings. Full payment at time of booking is required to redeem this offer. Offer is based on cabin availability and only while inventory lasts. Not valid on Group bookings or existing reservations; cannot be combined with other promotions or discounts. Promotional fares and amenities are capacity controlled, may vary by sailing and may be withdrawn without notice. Cruise fares quoted are in U.S. dollars, are per person and do not include government taxes and fees, port charges, gratuities, airfare, insurance, personal expenditures, and transportation costs incurred while traveling to and from embarkation ports. Not responsible for errors or omissions. Additional terms and conditions may apply - call for details. Offer Code must be provided to validate offer: 2017MMEBD1 2

3 2017 TOP RIVER CRUISE The Mighty Mississippi 23-Day Voyage Minneapolis to New Orleans Embark on the journey of a lifetime. Have you ever wondered what this country looked like to its early explorers and pioneers? Traveling on the Mighty Mississippi and its tributaries aboard the American Queen will transport you back in time to an era of leisurely and romantic travel. Storybook American towns and vibrant, bustling cities provide a bit of excitement between peaceful fields of gold, majestic, soaring mountains and high bluffs. There s no better way to see America than from the perspective of the river, for the river has played a tremendous role in the shaping of this beautiful country and the lives of the people who inhabit it. After three fabulous weeks cruising amidst the Antebellum charms and gracious style of the American Queen, you will forever be changed. Aug 13: Minneapolis, MN Your 22-Night/23-Day Mighty Mississippi journey begins with a deluxe hotel stay near Minneapolis. Aug 14: Red Wing, MN Depart 5:00 p.m. Explore nearby Minneapolis at your leisure or consider a Pre-Cruise Premium Shore Excursion with afternoon transfer to the American Queen. Aug 15: Red Wing, MN Enjoy breathtaking views of Minnesota and Wisconsin bluffs from Memorial Park. Aug 16: La Crosse, WI Take a stroll along the inviting Riverwalk and through Riverside International Friendship Garden. Aug 17: Dubuque, IA Experience the Smithsonian-affiliated National Mississippi River Museum. Aug 18: Quad Cities, (Bettendorf ), IA Explore the lively Quad Cities area or enjoy interactive exhibits at the John Deere Pavilion. Aug 19: Burlington, IA Uncover the rich history of the Sauk Indians, Heritage Hill and Snake Alley. Aug 20: Hannibal, MO Tour Mark Twain s hometown and the sites that inspired his beloved American classics. Aug 21: Alton, IL Exclusive St. Louis city tour. Aug 22: Chester, IL The quaint town of Popeye the Sailorman. Aug 23: Cape Girardeau, MO Visit the Old Bridge Overlook and Park for spectacular vistas of the river. Aug 24: Paducah, KY Known as the city of art, rhythm and rivers, take a stroll through the lively Lower Town Arts District. Aug 25: Dover, TN Tour Fort Donelson, the battlefield where Union and Confederate soldiers fought in February of Aug 26 New Madrid, MO Take a guided tour of the New Madrid Historical Museum. Aug 27: Ashport Landing, TN Learn of this area s historic and archaeological significance at Fort Pillow. Aug 28: Memphis, TN Exclusive Memphis city tour. Aug 29: Greenville, MS Here in the heart and soul of the Mississippi Delta lies a rich cultural heritage nearby the birthplace of blues icon B.B. King. Aug 30: Vicksburg, MS Described as the Key to the South by Abraham Lincoln, this Southern gem delivers a rich history unlike any other Civil War city. Aug 31: Natchez, MS Tour lovingly restored mansions such as Stanton Hall and Rosalie Mansion. Sep 1: St. Francisville, LA The oldest town in the Florida Parishes with over 140 buildings on the National Register to explore. Sep 2: Baton Rouge, LA Discover the capital of Louisiana and the seamless blend of past and present. Sep 3: Nottoway, LA Explore the South s largest remaining Antebellum mansion with a rich history dating back to Sep 4: New Orleans, LA Disembark 8:00 a.m. Enjoy New Orleans at your leisure or consider a Post-Cruise Premium Shore Excursion with airport transfer. 3

4 2016 FEATURED ITINERARY 2016 HOLIDAY CRUISES Music of America Discover the sights and sounds of America s rivers and the roots from which sprung a variety of musical genres. Enjoy special onboard entertainment and focused lectures highlighting the music of the regions through which you are traveling. Whether it is the sounds of New Orleans Jazz, the strains of the uniquely American musical art form the Delta Blues, the Rock and Soul of Memphis, or the homegrown Country Music melodies from Nashville, it all harmonizes with the rhythms of the river. Joining us on this unique journey are Ellis Kell, Preston Shannon, Steve Spracklen, Storefront Congregation and Joyce Cobb who will enhance the cruise experience with captivating, musical performances and presentations. Ellis Kell Music historian and multiinstrumentalist, Kell uses story and song to illuminate the evolution of American Music. He has shared the stage with many national acts such as B.B. King, Willie Nelson, Preservation Hall Jazz Band, Leon Russell, Jimmy Rogers, Little Feat, and Johnny & Edgar Winter. He has also performed as backing musician for Rock and Roll icon Bo Diddley, Blues harmonica legend Charlie Musselwhite, and Little Feat founder and keyboardist Bill Payne. Preston Shannon Hailed as the reigning King of Beale Street, Preston Shannon is a powerful guitarist with a compelling and soulful voice that sounds like a cross between Otis Redding and Bobby Womack. He is a singer guitarist who can solo himself through a fire-breathing set of slick, urban blues and exemplifies the power of Southern deep soul. Steve Spracklen Renowned ragtime and riverboat music performer will dazzle guests with a most entertaining show! Joyce Cobb Memphis legendary Queen of Blues will take you from the time of field calls to the new era of modern blues and R&B in her own soulful way. Storefront Congregation One of America s fastest growing Bluegrass bands! Music of America cruise sails October 23-31, 2016 from Nashville (Clarksville) to Memphis. Still Planning Your Holiday Vacation? Join us on the river for a unique holiday experience! If you are still wondering what to do for the holidays this year, we encourage you to join us on the river for a unique holiday experience! Spend Thanksgiving in the beautiful Pacific Northwest aboard the celebrated American Empress and enjoy more than just a special holiday meal, as our newly themed Vineyards, Vintages and Varietals cruise coincides with the Thanksgiving holiday. While cruising amidst the natural beauty of the region, you will have the opportunity to meet with local wine makers for exclusive tastings and pairings of their celebrated, hand-selected wines and get acquainted with the nuances of traditional wine-making. In addition to these special onboard tastings, pairings and lectures from partnering wineries, our award-winning chefs will incorporate local wines of the region into a variety of culinary creations throughout your voyage. If that doesn t tickle your fancy, here are some additional ideas for a memorable holiday season aboard the beloved American Queen: Thanksgiving Festival Surrounded by new friends with the river rolling by, savor a delectable Thanksgiving meal, partake in festive enrichment activities and delight in fabulous entertainment as you journey on the Mississippi River to stunning plantations, palatial mansions and gracious towns. 4 The American Queen s Mark Twain Gallery Holiday-Christmas Markets The season is at its peak and the treasured ports of the Lower Mississippi River are bright with holiday cheer. Join us for our 2nd Annual Christmas Market cruises and discover an endless array of activities to keep you fully immersed in the holiday spirit! New Year s Celebration Enjoy an elegant toast to the New Year as you celebrate in style aboard the opulent American Queen. The sense of excitement is felt from the moment you step onboard and continues to build throughout the entire week. An astonishing New Year s Eve Gala in the Grand Saloon will surround you with glittering décor, the uplifting refrains of Auld Lang Syne, and new friends to share in a magical champagne toast to the New Year!

5 ART ON THE RIVER Exploring Our Extensive Art Collections Traveling aboard the American Queen and the American Empress offers far more than one would imagine from a river cruise, as each vessel hosts an unparalleled collection of art and antiques for guests to admire throughout their journey. The corridors of the American Queen display an extensive collection of artwork, antiques and artifacts for you to enjoy. Most notable are the masterpiece paintings created by renowned marine artist Michael Blaser. Each passionate stroke of his brush has fashioned some of the most breathtaking pieces to ever grace the interiors of the American Queen. Onboard the American Empress, you will discover a vast collection of some of the finest historical artifacts and artwork of the Native Alaska, Russian, Gold Rush and sternwheeler eras. Among the rich collection of Alaska and Pacific Northwest heritage that its unique collection represents, you will discover such delights as Faberge Eggs, including The Coronation Egg We invite you to explore these impressive collections with our self-guided art tour brochures as provided to you onboard. Each piece of art is identified with a numeric plaque that corresponds to the descriptions found in the art tour brochures. GUEST TESTIMONIAL A taste of the 1800 s in today s luxury. Wow! Sail Date: April 2016 Destination: North America River Embarkation: Memphis Wow, was I impressed with the amazing job they have done on refurbishing the American Queen. What an amazing vessel. I had taken a bunch of people with me and we all enjoyed the food for sure, loved the attitude of the dining room waiters and staff, we loved the care everyone took to keeping the vessel s wood and paint looking like new. We liked the fact that there was the Front Porch dining if you wanted to eat more casual, but the food was outstanding there as well. The entertainment in the Grand Saloon was better than even many huge ocean liners. They had a great band to listen and dance to. And the song and dance group were quite talented and generally performed themes that a senior group could relate to. Though the Staterooms are not large, they were elegantly decorated. Our stateroom had plenty of space for us to unpack. We also loved the fact that when we went to breakfast in the morning the room stewardess would clean our room before our return. And the boat was full. We really enjoyed our room stewardess. We never heard sounds from adjoining rooms. And the warmth and vitality of the people in the purser s office to the room stewards made you feel like they cared about you enjoying this 7 days of paddle-wheeling. You could just imagine President Andrew Jackson toasting to a great journey south to New Orleans with all the lamp lights lit. We will definitely be back again. 5

6 EXCLUSIVE PADDLEWHEELER RECIPE Meyer Lemon and Key Lime Pie with Graham Cracker Crust As the weather heats up, cool down with this classic summer treat! Savor each bite of this refreshing sweet-tart pie and dare to keep yourself from having another slice. Meyer Lemon and Key Lime Pie Filling Ingredients: ½ cup key lime juice, fresh is great, sub bottled or Persian lime juice if needed. ½ cup Meyer lemon juice 2 cans sweetened condensed milk 6 each egg yolks, large 1 teaspoon lemon zest 1 teaspoon lime zest Graham Cracker Crust Ingredients: 1 ½ cups flour 4 tablespoons vegetable shortening, chilled 8 tablespoons butter, chilled 1 tablespoon sugar 1 teaspoon salt 4 tablespoons water, chilled with ice 1 tablespoon vodka, add to water and ice 1 cup graham cracker crumbs, fine Directions: Roll the lemons and limes on a cutting board with the palm of your hand with medium pressure to soften slightly. Zest 1ea or as many as needed to reserve 1 teaspoon each. Using a citrus juicing tool or other object, extract the juice, strain seeds and any large pieces of pulp. I keep mine separated until needed. Reserve. Separate the yolks from the whites and reserve the whites for other use (use within a day or freeze). Place the yolks in a medium sized non-reactive bowl. Add the 2 cans of sweetened condensed milk and mix well. Add the reserved zest and 1/2 cup of each juice. Quickly mix well as it will thicken almost immediately. Pour directly into a prepared crust. Smooth the top and place in a preheated 350 degree oven for 10 minutes. Remove and refrigerate. Cover the top with plastic wrap. Serve well chilled. Garnish with whipped cream and/or thin twists of lemon and lime. Directions: Chill butter and shortening and cut into small pieces or cut and then refrigerate; however, it is less messy to chill first. I keep a tin of shortening in the freezer. Combine dry ingredients together in a bowl or food processor. Add chilled shortening and butter and pulse for about seconds longer or until the pieces of fat are about the size of very small peas. Add water/vodka and mix for about 10 seconds. If you overmix, the dough will be tough. Transfer to a floured cutting board and knead lightly into a cohesive ball and flatten into a disk. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. If longer, such as overnight, you may need to warm the dough a bit to make it easier to roll out. Lightly press some graham cracker crumbs onto the top of the disk and roll the dough on a layer of graham cracker crumbs to a diameter of about 12 inches. Transfer to a pie tin and crimp the edges. Chill prepared dough for minutes while preheating oven. Cut a round piece of parchment paper that will cover the bottom of the pie and set inside. Dock the bottom of the pie crust with a fork. Add the parchment cut-out and cover with beans or pie weights. Bake at 375 degrees or until the top edge starts to brown. Remove beans/weights and paper and return to oven to lightly brown the bottom, about 5 minutes longer. Remove from oven and cool. If at any time during the baking the crust gets too brown, cover with foil or turn down the temperature of the oven 25 degrees. DID YOU KNOW? H The American Queen s paddlewheel weighs 80,000 pounds and is constructed of a single shaft that spans 32 feet. H The American Queen is propelled mainly by the steam-driven paddlewheel using two reciprocating steam engines that were built in 1932 and salvaged from the sunken U.S. Dredge Kennedy in Rosedale, MS. The engines were disassembled, modified and reassembled on the American Queen. H In 2015, the American Queen traveled through 13 states, covered 24,351 river miles and transited 313 locks. 6

7 MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS ACTIVATE YOUR MEMBERSHIP TODAY Take advantage of all the benefits that await you by registering your membership today. There are 3 ways to register: 1: ONLINE: 2: ONBOARD 3: CALL: (888) As a member of the American Queen Steamboat Company s Steamboat Society of America, you now have the opportunity to enjoy exclusive benefits and incentives for cruising frequently with us. In addition to our Classic membership, earned after completion of your first cruise on the American Queen or American Empress, we offer four levels of elite membership. These Ruby, Sapphire, Emerald and Diamond levels bring additional benefits and are reached after cruising the designated number of times with us. All Classic members will receive the following after one cruise: H The Paddlewheeler quarterly newsletter H Advance information on new itineraries H Exclusive invitations and promotions H Designation pin for Steamboat Society of America mailed after activation and upon reaching each level milestone H Cocktail party hosted by the Captain and vessel officers onboard H Friends and family can come aboard for a tour and breakfast or lunch aboard American Queen or American Empress while in port when member is a cruise guest. Not available in ports of embarkation/disembarkation. H Member access for breakfast or lunch when American Queen or American Empress are in port near hometown. Not available in ports of embarkation/disembarkation. RUBY (After 5 cruises) All Classic benefits, plus: Members only luggage tags Membership status name badge Dedicated reservations line Receive a $50 onboard credit Private voyage check-in at pre-voyage hotel* Pre-boarding privileges* (one hour earlier than standard) Complimentary laundry service** SAPPHIRE (After 10 cruises) All Ruby benefits, plus: Preferred reserved dining room seating Additional $50 onboard credit per member ($100 total) Welcome back signed card from the Captain plus a set of American Queen or American Empress notecards For questions or more information about the Steamboat Society of America, please visit our website at ssoa@aqsc.com or call us at (888) EMERALD (After 20 cruises) All Sapphire benefits, plus: One cabin category upgrade at time of booking (subject to availability) 10% discount in onboard gift shop DIAMOND (After 30 cruises) All Emerald benefits, plus: Additional $50 onboard credit per member ($150 total) Two cabin category upgrade at time of booking (subject to availability) Members on their 10th, 20th and 30th cruises will receive a deluxe official wall certificate and onboard Captain s presentation of framed painting signed by Michael Blaser. *American Queen voyages only. **Complimentary laundry service is limited to one in-room laundry bag per 7-day cruise.; no dry cleaning services available. Only sailings operated by the American Queen Steamboat Company (since April, 2012) count toward membership level. Membership benefits are non-transferable, combinable with other applicable promotional offers and must be applied to future cruise travel. Additional rules and conditions apply. Cabin category upgrades are subject to availability and only available up to category AAA on the American Queen and category A on the American Empress. Vessel access and onboard visits by members: capacity controlled on a daily basis, not available in ports of embarkation/disembarkation, reservations and government guest security information is required, guests must be accompanied by members and is limited to four times per calendar year. AQSC reserves the right to change SSOA program rules, benefits, terms and/or conditions at any time without notice

8 welcome aboard. One Commerce Square 40 South Main Street Memphis, TN 38103