SEE PAGE 3
EAST CENTRAL OHIO REGION
Get on board now & save up to $400* per room!
MARCH 2013
ALL ABOARD
Book & deposit no later than 3 / 31
with AAA Travel & Amtrak Vacations ®
COURTESY OF TIM LYFORD
Aug 23–Sept 2
© TYCOON101/FOTOLIA.COM
Vol. 5 No. 3
RAIL JOURNEY FROM CHICAGO TO SEATTLE!
Coach / train / plane adventure peaks at Montana’s Glacier National Park
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XPERIENCING America’s splendor by rail is a must-do milestone on the “bucket lists” of many travelers. To explore beyond the interstates...to escape driving’s drudgery & distractions...to enhance a vacation with the romance and relaxed ambiance of a “rolling hotel” full of opportunities to meet & mingle with interesting folks. These are all hallmarks of an unforgettable train vacation. AAA and Amtrak Vacations® invite you to follow portions of the Lewis & Clark Trail on Amtrak’s Empire Builder from the “Windy City” (Chicago) to the “Emerald City” (Seattle), with a 4-night exploration of the “Crown of the Continent” (Glacier National Park) in between. *And, if you accept this invitation to book & deposit on this adventure by 3/31/13 and you’re a Premier Member,
you’ll save $400 per room! AAA Plus Members save $350, and Basic Members save $325! Board your AAA motorcoach at a Cleveland-area pick-up point and relax on the way to Chicago. The real fun begins with an exclusive reception at the iconic Palmer House, a world-class hotel within steps of Chicago’s best attractions. Sleep where every President since Grant has slept! Enjoy a city tour and the can’t-miss Architecture Cruise on the Chicago River.
VACATION FEATURES Motorcoach to Chicago for 2 nights, including a wine & cheese reception, a city tour & an architecture cruise 2 nights on Amtrak’s Empire Builder in a sleeper roomette 4 nights, 4 tours & 1 cruise in Glacier National Park A cross-border visit to Canada’s Waterton Lakes National Park 2 nights in Seattle, including a city tour & the Space Needle 16 meals with gratuities (5 on train without gratuities) Amtrak Vacations® Tour Escort
Start your rail journey with magnificent views of the Mississippi River and glimpses of the glowing night skyline of Minneapolis/St Paul. Awaken the next morning from a restful night in your private sleeping accommodations to cross North Dakota’s plains and traverse the spectacular Gassman Coulee Trestle. Enjoy breakfast and lunch onboard as you skirt the Missouri and cross into Montana’s Big Sky Country to Glacier National Park. This vast ice-carved terrain of serrated ridges, jutting peaks (6 more than 10,000 feet high), waterfalls, dramatic hanging valleys, 50 glaciers, dense forests and more than 200 lakes is one of the world’s most pristine natural environments. Designated a national park (the 10th) in 1910 by President William Howard Taft, the continued on page 6
SEE ONE OF AMERICA’S GREATEST NATURAL LANDMARKS!
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AAA Club Rewards is an exciting new online discount program that significantly expands discounts and savings available to AAA members! This innovative new shopping experience on AAA.com, features deep discounts, limited offers and everyday savings on electronics, home improvement, apparel, entertainment, pet care and more, from approximately 30,000 participating merchants nationwide — including national chains like Kohl’s, Macy’s, Best Buy, Walmart and The Home Depot. In addition to discount offers, you’ll earn reward or WOWPoints on most purchases that you can “burn off” at your favorite participating merchants. Starting with just 200 points, AAA members can redeem their WOWPoints for merchandise on AAA Club Rewards. • WOWPoints are as flexible as cash; • 100 WOWPoints earned = $1.00; • No limit to the points you can earn; • No blackout dates, no restrictions. Registration is completely free — a valid AAA membership and email address are all you need. Why wait any longer? Register online at AAA.com/discounts. Then shop, save and earn on national and local brands, restaurants and retailers.
Live Nation Concert Cash From Hertz Hertz is rocking AAA members with an exciting exclusive offer this spring! For a limited time only, AAA members can save $35 on qualified weekly rentals AND receive $50 Live Nation® Concert Cash® to use online toward the purchase of select concert tickets to over 70 Live Nation venues or artist merchandise at the Live Nation Store. Just book and complete your rental between March 1, 2013 and April 30, 2013 to qualify for this offer. Promotional Code (PC #) 178474. Visit AAA.com/hertz for complete details of this exciting offer.
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when you use your new AAA Member Rewards Visa® card. See page 6 for details.
Visit AAA.com/creditcard or stop by any AAA branch.
It’s Full Steam Ahead with Free Tablet Offer Go rolling on the river onboard the American Queen. The world’s largest steamboat is a showcase of Victorian splendor, with handsomely appointed rooms and six delicately filigreed decks. The whistle blows, the calliope plays, the big wheel keeps on turning in a thrilling blend of Americana, acclaimed cuisine, and showboatstyle entertainment. Plus, AAA members who book and deposit a 7-night or longer American Queen River Cruise by March 15, 2013 will receive a free Google Nexus 7 Tablet. With a stunning 7-inch display and all day battery life, Nexus 7 is the perfect travel companion. AAA members will also receive an exclusive $160 onboard credit per cabin on all 2013 American Queen sailings! SEE PAGE 7
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AAA MOTORIST
AAA cautions motorists about the risks of E15 Available only in a handful of locations — for now
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recent survey by AAA finds a strong likelihood of consumer confusion and the potential for voided warranties and vehicle damage as a result of the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) recent approval of E15 gasoline. More than 95 percent of the gasoline sold in the United States contains up to 10 percent ethanol. Despite objections by auto manufacturers, the EPA officially approved the sale of E15, which contains 15 percent ethanol, last June after receiving a waiver request from producers interested in expanding the use of corn-based ethanol. Currently, E15 is available only in the states of Nebraska, Iowa and Kansas. If and when it does become more widely available, fuel pumps will be clearly marked with black and orange labels to differentiate E15 from more familiar formulations. Unsuspecting consumers using E15 could end up with engine problems that might not be covered by their vehicle’s warranty. Five manufacturers (BMW, Chrysler, Nissan, Toyota and Volkswagen) are on record saying their warranties will not cover fuel-related claims caused by the use of E15. Seven additional automakers (Ford, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz and Volvo) have said that E15 does not comply with the fuel requirements specified in their owner’s manuals and may void warranty coverage.
MARCH 2013
AAA DIRECTORY AAA MEMBER SERVICES
Triptiking, Tourbooks, Maps, Address Change, AAA Plus
800-441-5008 membersvccntr@aaaec.com APPROVED AUTO REPAIR: 216-606-6332 aar@aaaec.com
AUTO BUYING SERVICE: 800-446-7433 BAIL BOND SERVICE: 216-606-6640, 216-606-6000 (After 5 p.m.) DRIVER IMPROVEMENT PROGRAMS: 216-606-6121 EMERGENCY ROAD SERVICE: Cuyahoga County: 216-606-6000, ers@aaaec.com Ashland, Ashtabula, Geauga, Huron, Lake, Lorain, Portage, Mahoning, Stark, Trumbull, and Tuscarawas: 800-AAA-HELP
INSURANCE AGENCY: 216-606-6194, 800-343-4851 insuranceservices@aaaec.com
IRA's: 888-728-3230 LEGAL REIMBURSEMENT: 216-606-6864 administration@aaaec.com
MOTORIST, Northeast Ohio Region: 216-606-6700
“It is clear that millions of Americans are unfamiliar with E15, which means there is a strong possibility that many motorists may improperly fill up using this gasoline and damage their vehicle,” said John Nielsen, AAA’s Director of Automotive Engineering and Repair. With less than five percent of cars on the road approved by automakers to use the fuel, AAA is urging regulators and the industry to stop the sale of E15 until motorists are better protected. AAA automotive engineering experts believe that sustained use of E15 could result in significant problems, such as accelerated engine wear and failure, fuel-system damage and false “check engine” lights for any
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vehicle not approved by its manufacturer to use E15. The only vehicles currently approved by automakers to use E15 are flex-fuel models, 2001 model-year and newer Porsches, 2012 model-year and newer GM vehicles and 2013 model-year Ford vehicles. The use of E15 is expressly prohibited in heavy-duty vehicles, boats, motorcycles, power equipment, lawn mowers and off-road vehicles. “The sale and use of E15 should be suspended until consumer education efforts are implemented to mitigate problems for motorists and their vehicles,” said Brian Newbacher, director of public affairs for AAA East Central. “Consumers should read pump labels carefully and know their auto manufacturer’s recommendations to help prevent any E15 related problems.” AAA urges fuel producers and regulators to do a better job of educating consumers about potential dangers before selling E15 gasoline. This outreach should include a consumer education campaign and more effective pump labels, among other safeguards.
motorist@aaaec.com
PERSONAL ACCIDENT INSURANCE: 216-606-6194 PUBLIC AFFAIRS: 216-606-6702 PUBLIC RELATIONS: 216-606-6712 SCHOOL SAFETY PROGRAMS: 216-606-6022 TRAFFIC LAWS & TRAFFIC SAFETY: 216-606-6022 TRAVEL AGENCY: 800-354-8761 www.AAA.com
Northeast Ohio AAA Offices ALLIANCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 330/823-9820 TRAVEL AGENCY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 330/821-2323 2322 South Union Ave., 44601 ASHLAND . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 419/289-8133 TRAVEL AGENCY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 419/289-2222 1074 Commerce Parkway, 44805 ASHTABULA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 440/997-5586 TRAVEL AGENCY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 440/998-1008 2835 North Ridge Rd. East 44004 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 866/260-7322 INDEPENDENCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 216/606-6300 TRAVEL AGENCY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 216/606-6080 5700 Brecksville Rd. 44131 LAKE COUNTY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 440/974-0990 TRAVEL AGENCY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 440/205-9090 6980 Heisley Rd., Mentor 44060 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800/964-5253 LYNDHURST . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 440/473-0700 TRAVEL AGENCY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 440/473-0747 5356 Mayfield Rd. 44124 MAHONING COUNTY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 330/726-9083 TRAVEL AGENCY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 330/726-0622 1275 Boardman-Canfield Rd., Boardman 44512 MASSILLON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 330/833-1084 TRAVEL AGENCY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 330/833-1084 1972 Wales Rd, 44646 MIDWAY MALL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 440/324-2090 TRAVEL AGENCY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 440/324-3423 1839 Midway Mall, Elyria 44035 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800/964-3929 NORWALK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 419/668-1622 TRAVEL AGENCY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 419/668-1622 275 Benedict Ave. Norwalk 44857. . . . . . . . . . . . . 800/964-8766
LOOK FOR THE LABEL — E15 fuel pumps will be marked with this label.
STUDY CONFIRMS PROBLEMS
AAA Plus RV includes all of the benefits of basic AAA and AAA Plus®, and extends emergency road service coverage to other vehicles (beyond a car) such as Motorhomes,Travel/ Boat Trailers, Pickups with Campers and Motorcycles. ®
DEC 31 2011
Visit your local AAA office or call our 24-hour TeleService Center to add AAA Plus/RV coverage.
New research released by the Coordinating Research Council (CRC) last January, found that E15, gasoline blended with 15 percent ethanol, would damage millions of post-2001 model year vehicles. The CRC — which is supported by Chrysler, Ford, General Motors, Honda, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Toyota, and Volkswagen —said testing showed E15 could cause erratic fuel-gauge readings and concluded that E15 would result in fuel system failures and cause checkengine alerts.
PORTAGE COUNTY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 330/296-3406 TRAVEL AGENCY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 330/296-3406 2641 Rte. 59, Ravenna 44266 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800/999-0012 SOLON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 440/248-9000 TRAVEL AGENCY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 440/248-1808 34050 Solon Rd. 44139 STRONGSVILLE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 440/783-3395 TRAVEL AGENCY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 440/783-3396 17220 Royalton Rd. 44136, Borders Plaza TRUMBULL COUNTY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 330/652-6466 TRAVEL AGENCY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 330/652-6466 937 Youngstown-Warren Rd., Niles 44446 . . . . . . 800/999-3391 TUSCARAWAS COUNTY TRAVEL AGENCY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 330/343-4481 1112 Fourth St., New Philadelphia 44663 . . . . . . . 330/343-4481 WESTLAKE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 440/788-3102 TRAVEL AGENCY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 440/788-3103 149 Market St., Crocker Park, Westlake 44145
MARCH 2013
AAA MOTORIST
PAGE 3
When it comes to bad driving, it’s always the other guy
It’s do as I say, not as I do on America’s roads East Central Ohio Region Official publication of AAA East Central Published monthly (except bimonthly Aug./Sept., Nov./Dec.) by AAA East Central 1972 Wales Rd. NE#1, Massillon, OH 44646-4110 330/ 833-1084 USPS 0679-850 Periodicals Postage Paid at Massillon, OH Postmaster: Send address changes to AAA Motorist East Central Ohio Region P.O. Box 6150 Cleveland, OH 44101 Subscription Rate: $1 included in Primary Membership dues. All others: $2/year. Publisher ............................... James J. McGrath Managing Editor............................. Douglas O’Neil Business Manager ..................... Sherry A. Madison Editorial Office 5700 Brecksville Road, Independence, OH 44131 216/606-6700 e-mail: motorist@aaaec.com
AAA EAST CENTRAL Chairman: ................................................Richard S. Hamilton Vice Chairman:....................................... James E. Broome, Jr. Vice Chairman:....................................... Douglas W. Caldwell Vice Chairman:.........................................Mary Lynn Laughlin Vice Chairman:.................................... Martha Hartle Munsch OFFICERS: President: ...................................................James J. McGrath Executive Vice President: ........................... James E. Lehman Treasurer & CFO: ...........................................Michael R. Pratt Secretary: ................................................Robert H. Compton GOVERNING BOARD OF DIRECTORS Glenn B. Bachman, James E. Broome, Jr., Steve D. Bullock**, Douglas W. Caldwell, Charles O. Casto, Edward C. Coaxum, Jr., Robert S. Collins, Robert H. Compton, Jon E. Denney, Debra A. Dinnocenzo, Floyd R. Ganassi**, Richard S. Hamilton, James H. Kanicki, Mary Lynn Laughlin, William Duff McCrady, James M. McDonnell**, Thomas V. McKernan Jr., Martha Hartle Munsch, Gary K. Munsie, Terrence L. Walton** EAST CENTRAL REGION BOARD OF DIRECTORS Debra A. Dinnocenzo, Chairman, Neil D. Bassi, Vice Chairman, Robert L. Anderson, George J. Anetakis, Carol Asam, Christian Asam, Jack A. Barkley, William E. Bierer**, Ellsworth T. Bowser, Louise R. Brown, Peter Burton, Marianne B. Campbell, Charles O. Casto, Hans P.B. Christensen, Michael A. Cochran, Daniel J. Collins Jr.**, Robert S. Collins, Robert H. Compton, Terence Conner, James J. Dodaro, James O. Doersam, Jack G. Ellis, J. Terrence Farrell, Floyd R. Ganassi**, Mona N. Generett, Charles W. Groce , Richard S. Hamilton, Mark Henschen, Luke Howe, David W. Hunter**, Richard Kallenborn, Herbert G. Koenig, Mark S. Mansour, W. Duff McCrady, Martha Hartle Munsch, W. Lee Oswalt, III, Michael Parkes, John D. Petruso, Louis Pomerico, Leonard L. Scheinholtz**, John L. Sellstrom, James C. Stump, Jr., James F. Ward *ex officio **emeritus directors OHIO MOTORISTS REGION BOARD OF TRUSTEES John B. Hexter, Chairman, James H. Kanicki, Vice Chairman, Keith Boales, Thomas G. Brick**, Steve D. Bullock, Edward C. Coaxum, Jr., Audrey T. Cole, Gary S. Cowling**, Jon E. Denney, Richard S. Hamilton, John B. Hexter, James H. Kanicki, Mary Lynn Laughlin, John D. Leech**, Khai H. Lim, Marvin E. Montgomery, Peter C. Ohlheiser, James H. Purtz, Sara E. Stashower *ex officio **emeritus directors ALLIANCE REGIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS Glenn L. Akins, Keith Brown, Roy Clunk, Janet Culp, Mark Henschen, Gregory King, Terence Taylor, Andrew Zumbar MASSILLON REGIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS Wendy Blosser, Doug Lab, Robert Marks, Ray Martinez, James Purtz, William Schumacher, James Snively, Robert Yund, TUSCARAWAS REGIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS William Andreas, Terry Bates, William Belknap, II, James Carrothers, Michael Cochran, Chris Helbing, Chris Hensel, John Herzig, Blair Hillyer, Rex Hostetler, E. L. Loader, Tom R. McCartney, Jeannie Michel, Sally O’Donnell, John Ourant, Rod Rafael, Ron Shell, Clark Smith, Bob Stephenson, Richard Stephenson, Dayne Thomas, Ryan Wallick, Michael Welsh Copyright ©2013 by AAA East Central. Publication of an advertisement in the AAA Motorist does not constitute an endorsement of the product or service by the AAA Motorist or by AAA East Central, except in the case of products and services which are being offered by AAA East Central.
By Richard Hamilton Chairman, AAA East Central eople are quick to blame “the other guy” for unsafe driving, despite the fact that most admit to practicing many of the same dangerous driving habits themselves. That’s the surprising conclusion of a new report by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. The study found that while motorists are outspoken in their criticism of the risks other drivers take, they tend to minimize or overlook their own bad driving behaviors. More than twothirds (69 percent) of licensed drivers reported talking on a cell phone while driving within the last month, even though nearly nine-in-ten respondents (89 percent) believe other drivers using cell phones are a threat to their personal safety. The distraction data was collected as part of the AAA Foundation’s 2012 Traffic Safety Culture Index, a nationally representative, probability-based survey of the driving public’s attitudes on a broad range of issues. According to a survey, ninety percent of respondents believe that distracted driving is a somewhat or much bigger problem today than it was three years ago. Despite the near-universal disapproval of texting and emailing while driving (95 percent), more than one-in-four licensed drivers (27 percent) reported sending a text or email at least once in the past 30 days. More
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Richard Hamilton than one-third (35 percent) said they read a text or email while driving. Young drivers age 16-24 were even more likely to use mobile devices with more than half (61 percent) reporting having read a text or email while driving in the past month. More than onein-four (26 percent) reported checking or updating social media while driving, regardless of the fact that texting while driving makes you 23 times more likely to crash. Distracted driving may simply be one manifestation of risk-prone driving in general. Researchers at MIT found that motorists who use cell phones while driving are also more likely to
engage in additional dangerous behaviors such as speeding, driving drowsy, driving without a safety belt and sending texts or emails. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that more than 3,000 people are killed and nearly half a million are injured each year in crashes involving distraction. Given the challenges associated with determining the role of distraction in crashes, these figures are likely just the tip of the iceberg. AAA and the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety have long been leading advocates for educating motorists about the risks of distracted driving. AAA recommends that motorists turn off their phone before driving or pull over to a safe place to talk, send texts or use email. Motorists must also know the rules and know they will be enforced. Distracted driving crashes are preventable tragedies and using a mobile phone behind the wheel roughly quadruples crash risk. They impair reaction times and in a critical situation, fractions of a second often determine whether a collision occurs. Experts conclude that about 60 percent of rear end and one third of front end collisions would not happen if a driver reacted just one half a second sooner. Let’s put an end to this deadly double standard. Instead of blaming the other guy, the real key is for every motorist to put down the phone, avoid distractions and focus on the task of driving.
membersonly
AAA helps you save when fuel prices climb Gas prices rising at near record rates
T
he U.S. Department of Energy reports that the average household spent nearly $3,000 refueling their vehicles last year, and in 2013, gas prices have been rising at a near record clip. Fortunately, AAA offers several ways for drivers to stretch each tank of gas and find the lowest fuel prices when it is time to fill up. Your driving habits impact your car’s fuel consumption by up to 33 percent. Instead of quick starts and sudden stops, go easy on the gas and brake pedals. Planning your travel, following speed limits, and paying attention to traffic, weather and road conditions will allow your vehicle to operate more efficiently, and ultimately, save you money. Check AAA’s Fuel Cost Calculator before you go — Key in your starting city, your destination and the year, make and model of your vehicle. The AAA Fuel Cost Calculator on AAA. com estimates the amount and cost of gasoline using prices from AAA’s daily, online Fuel Gauge Report. Your actual mileage may vary slightly, but you’ll
have a good handle on the costs. Let AAA find the lowest gas prices — AAA Mobile, our free app for Apple and Android devices, provides motorists with the most current and accurate gas price data available, by drawing on credit card transactions at more than 100,000 stations nationwide. Drivers can find the lowest gas prices, close to home or on the road. AAA Mobile’s GPS technology enables users to quickly locate stations on a map and see the price for all available grades of gasoline. Visit AAA.com/Mobile. Stretch your gas money — Members who pay for gasoline with their AAA Member Rewards Visa® credit card earn double points on gas purchases. In addition to No Annual Fee, cardholders can earn triple points on qualifying AAA purchases, double points on gas, grocery and drug store purchases and one point for every $1 on all other qualifying purchases. Redeem your points for a variety of rewards, including a AAA travel voucher good toward your next vacation, cruise or tour package. Members can apply for the AAA Member Rewards Visa® credit
card at AAA.com/credit card or by calling 1.866.665.3581 and mentioning code VABFFQ.
AAA benefits updated
AAA is constantly reviewing and evaluating membership benefits and services to ensure they provide maximum usage to our members. Over time, certain benefits or services may be updated as part of our overall effort to maintain the lowest possible dues and the highest level of services. Benefit changes scheduled for 2013 are as follows: Effective March 1st, 2013, Vehicle Locksmith services available to Basic members will increase to $60, from $50. Vehicle Locksmith services available to Premier members will increase to $150, from $100. (Premier Home Lockout service remains unchanged at $100.) Additionally, the following member benefits will be eliminated effective December 31st, 2013: Emergency Check Cashing, Auto Theft Reward, Legal Defense Fee Reimbursement, and Trip Interruption Protection (for Basic and Plus membership levels only.)
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Glacier National Park Train Adventure park covers some 1.2 million acres. Deer are among the most commonly spotted wildlife, but elk, moose, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, wolves and bears (grizzly & black) are seen. You’ll tour in a 1930s red “jammer” with a canvas roll-top; rebuilt in 2001, the 33-bus fleet plies the park’s primary route, the peak-hugging 49-mile-long Going-to-the-Sun Road. This National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark is open from early June to mid-October; in winter, up to 80 feet of snow cover it at the Continental Divide at Logan Pass! You’ll cross the border into Canada to visit Alberta’s Waterton Lakes National Park, site of the Canadian Rockies’ deepest lakes and the historic Prince of Wales Hotel National Historic Site. The park is part of the Waterton-Glacier Interna-
MARCH 2013
continued from page 1
tional Peace Park, a World Heritage Site. Enjoy 2 nights at impressive, rusticstyle Glacier Park Lodge, built in the early 20th century by the Great Northern Railway on land purchased from the Blackfeet tribe, who named it “Big Tree Lodge”; its 60 immense (36-42 " diameter, 40 ' long) support timbers were probably 500-800 years old when they were cut. The lobby’s massive stone fireplace invites fireside chats, and there’s an outdoor heated pool, a 9-hole golf course, a pitch-n-putt and a day spa on site. Your other in-park home for 2 nights is the Swiss Alpine–themed Many Glacier Hotel on the shores of Swiftcurrent Lake. Its wraparound lakeside balcony offers 180-degree views of the lake, rugged hillsides, 3 glaciers and serrated peaks. A secluded Old World–style ho-
tel featuring rustic and comfortable accommodations, it’s a one-of-a-kind national park lodging experience. Take in the prolonged evening sunset from the lakeside veranda or Interlaken Lounge. After experiencing the park, it’s time to reboard Empire Builder and re-enter civilization in Seattle, where the sophisticated Fairmont Olympic awaits you. This historic hotel provides modern conveniences and attentive personal service in an elegant surrounding. In the heart of the Financial District, with easy access to shopping and local attractions, it’s a perfect base from which to tour the Emerald City’s gems, including lively Pike Place Market (witness some world-renowned “fish tossing”). As a thrilling way to top off this vacation of peaks, ascend the iconic 605-foot-tall Space Needle from the 1962 World’s Fair for breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, bays and islands. All too soon it’s time to fly home from Seattle!
DAVID RESTIVO, NPS
Aug 23–Sept 2 • AAA Member Rate: $5,139
DINNER WITH ROLL — Eating on the go takes on new meaning aboard Amtrak’s Empire Builder from Chicago to Seattle. Savor the ever changing view with your breakfasts, lunches and dinners in the “tasteful” onboard dining car!
Pre-discount rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes motorcoach (Cleveland-Chicago), train (Chicago-Seattle), flight (Seattle-Cleveland), transfers (hotel/train, hotel/airport), 8-night hotel accommodations, 2-night roomette accommodations on train, 16 meals (5 on train), meal gratuities (except on train), Chicago welcome reception, 4 tours & 1 cruise in Glacier National Park, sightseeing per itinerary, air & hotel taxes and the services of an Amtrak Vacations® tour escort (Chicago-Seattle). Visit AAA.com/travel for complete itinerary. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details.
FORDS & FAUNA — Glacier National Park’s knowledgeable and entertaining red-bus driver-guides are called “jammers” because of the sounds the original vehicles’ gears made shifting on steep roads. Today, the refurbished roll-top roadsters are a fun way to see the park’s flora and fauna, like pikas and bighorn sheep.
Get more
when you use your new AAA Member Rewards Visa® card. Receive a $100 grocery store gift card after qualifying purchases. (students not eligible)
Stock up on rewards with your new AAA Member Rewards Visa credit card. You can earn bunches of points on everyday purchases all year round that can be redeemed for exciting rewards like cash back, gift cards, merchandise and AAA vouchers.
Visit AAA.com/creditcard or stop by any AAA branch.
For information on the rates, fees, other costs and benefits associated with the use of this credit card, visit the website listed above or your AAA branch. This credit card program is issued and administered by FIA Card Services, N.A. Grocery Card Offer. You will qualify to receive a certificate with information and PIN number via mail entitling you to a $100 grocery card redeemable at www.pickyourgiftcard.com for the grocery merchant of your choice after you use your new AAA Member Rewards account to make retail purchase(s) totaling at least $500 (exclusive of any returns and adjustments) within 90 days of account opening. Limit one (1) item per new account. Offer is sponsored by Bank of America. We may substitute an item of equal or greater value and we are not responsible for lost, stolen or undelivered merchandise. This is a limited time offer for new customers opening an account in response to this offer and may be cancelled at any time without notice. Other advertised promotional offers can vary from this promotion and may not be substituted. Federal law prohibits students from receiving a premium. The value of this reward may constitute taxable income to you. Bank of America may issue an Internal Revenue Service Form 1099 (or other appropriate form) that reflects the value of such reward. Please consult your tax advisor, as neither Bank of America, its affiliates, nor their employees provide tax advice. The listed merchants are in no way affiliated with Bank of America nor are the listed merchants considered sponsors or co-sponsors of this program. Uses of merchant names and/or logos are by permission of each respective merchant and all trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Terms and conditions are applied to gift cards/certificates. Please see the merchant gift card/certificate for additional terms and conditions, which are subject to change at merchant’s sole discretion. Merchants are not liable for any actual or alleged claims related to this offer. All logos are registered trademarks. All rights reserved. Must be 18 years or older to participate. A U.S. address is required for delivery. Other restrictions may apply. Visa and Visa Signature are registered trademarks of Visa International Service Association and are used by the Issuer pursuant to license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. AAA is a trademark of American Automobile Association, Inc. ©2012 Bank of America Corporation
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AAA MOTORIST
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Member Benefits • Exclusive Offers
1-800-354-8761 • AAA.com/travel
Get a Google Nexus 7 tablet computer when you book & make a deposit on a 7-night-or-longer American Queen river cruise by 3/15/13!
T
AAA MEMBER EXCLUSIVE! $160 Onboard Credit per cabin in 2013
he largest steamboat ever built, the American Queen is a gracious and elegant triumph of American ingenuity. Although filled with the newest amenities (including free wi-fi!), her public rooms and private accommodations display the opulence of America’s Victorian era. Glistening woodwork, fresh flowers and antiques adorn interior spaces. Outside, lacy filigree evokes memories of the stately steamers that preceded her and inspired her designers. Be transported not just through America but also through time. And, through 3/31/13, get a Google Nexus 7 tablet computer when you book & make a deposit on a 2013 American Queen cruise of 7 nights or longer at AAA through its travel partner Pleasant Holidays. With a 7-inch display and all-day battery life, the thin & light Nexus 7 is the perfect portable travel companion. With up to 32GB of storage and the option to add mobile data, take and enjoy your favorite content with you...even on American Queen! Imagine sailing on the same waters as Mark Twain. Watch the mighty river “erase” the paddlewheel’s unique “footprints” on its surface; soon, it’s the same broad river behind you as it is in front of you. The short-lived wake is simply a ripple in time — but, for the brief moment you’re there, you’re part of something much larger than yourself. The paddlewheel has its own rhythm, but so does the music of the river as you float through the myriad melodies of blues, gospel, folk, rockabilly, ragtime, Dixieland jazz and zydeco. Sway to the music of Louis Armstrong and Jelly Roll Morton and try your hand at that quintessential river instrument, the calliope. You’ll quickly discover that the river has a rhythm all its own. The rich history of steamboats and the river is reflected in the authenticity of the Queen’s antebellum décor, the family recipes of Southern Chef Regina Charboneau and the familiar smiles of an all-American crew. The Queen is warm, inviting and comforting. She won’t just take you away; she’ll bring you closer together. Enjoy a vacation where community is formed during each voyage...where the rhythm of the past melds seamlessly with the rhythm of today in places like the rocking chairs on the Queen’s Front Porch of America and the mahogany comfort of her Mark Twain Gallery. The past echoes in the calliope music that drifts across the water and in your fellow passengers’ contented smiles. Discover what American Queen steamboatin’ is all about! Contact a AAA Travel Agent now.
SAILINGS INCLUDE... 1-night pre-cruise hotel accommodations Complimentary shore excursions in every port All onboard meals, including wine & beer with dinner, specialty coffees, soft drinks & bottled water Nightly showboat-style entertainment & dancing Daily lectures by river historians Port charges & taxes
SAMPLE ITINERARY DATES*
SHIP NIGHTS / HOTEL NIGHTS
EMBARK / DISEMBARK
June 1-9 ............... 7 / 1....... Memphis / New Orleans June 22–July 5..... 12 / 1 ...... New Orleans / St Louis July 19-27............. 7 / 1....... St Louis / Cincinnati Aug 9-22 ............. 12 / 1 ...... Pittsburgh / St Louis Aug 21-31 ............ 9 / 1....... St Louis / St Paul Sept 11-21 ........... 8 / 2 ....... Memphis / Chattanooga Oct 4-12 ............... 7 / 1....... St Paul / St Louis Oct 25–Nov 2 ....... 7 / 1 ....... St Louis / New Orleans Nov 16-24 ............ 7 / 1....... New Orleans / New Orleans Nov 29–Dec 7 ...... 7 / 1 ....... New Orleans / Memphis Dec 20-28............. 7 / 1....... New Orleans / Memphis Dec 27–Jan 4 ........ 7 / 1 ....... Memphis / New Orleans *Ask a AAA Travel Agent about other available itineraries.
To qualify for the Nexus 7 and $160 onboard credit, cruise must be arranged with AAA through travel partner Pleasant Holidays.
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AAA MOTORIST
MARCH 2013
1-800-354-8761 AAA.com/travel
Member Benefits Exclusive Offers My friend, it’s time to let your fun side come out to play in the Caribbean, The Bahamas, Bermuda, Mexico, Hawaii, Alaska, Canada and New England, or Europe. Think good friends, family fun, explosive laughter, and ginormous smiles. Carnival means sweet destinations, award-winning service, delicious dining, onboard activities, nighttime entertainment and spacious accommodations-wrapped up in one imaginative floating resort. It’s time to get your fun on!
This year, the people of Ireland are hosting an unprecedented year-long celebration of everything that is unique & great about Ireland. It's called The Gathering. Communities, villages and towns are organizing gatherings, festivals and events to welcome visitors. With the focus on Ireland’s vibrant living culture, heritage and people, it’s a chance to experience Ireland like never before. • Bunratty Folk Park
SAVE $140.00 PER ROOM
Book NOW to Save More! 7 Day Sailings from:
BOOK & DEPOSIT BY 3/28/13
• Medieval banquet in a 15th-century castle • Cliffs of Moher • Flying Boat Museum • Killarney National Park, including Muckross House • Ring of Kerry drive, including the Skellig Experience & Moll’s Gap • Waterford Crystal tour • Russborough House mansion • Dinner & song at a real pub • Dublin: city tour & free time ...AND MUCH MORE!
Oct 13-20 • AAA Member Rate: $1,399 Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, guided motorcoach sightseeing, entrance fees, 11 meals (including Bunratty Castle medieval banquet/entertainment & Merry Ploughboy pub dinner/entertainment), in-Ireland tour director, hotel luggage handling (1 piece per person), hotel taxes & service charges. Ask about available add-on airfare. Visit AAA.com/GoIreland for itinerary and more information.
SAVE $170.00 PER ROOM
BOOK & DEPOSIT BY 3/28/13
Edinburgh: welcome drink & dinner • Spean Bridge Woolen Mill • Loch Ness cruise • Scottish Highland evening • Culloden Battlefield • Whisky tasting/tour at Blair Athol Distillery • Edinburgh Castle & city tour • Ferry to Northern Ireland • Belfast: city tour, Titanic Center • Dublin: city tour, Book of Kells, canal dinner cruise with live music • Rock of Cashel • Blarney: Castle & Woolen Mills • Killarney: national park “jaunting car” ride • Ring of Kerry • The Skellig Experience • Sneem • Moll’s Gap • River Shannon ferry • Cliffs of Moher (pictured) • Bunratty Castle medieval banquet • AND MUCH MORE!
Nov 2-12 • AAA Member Rate: $1,699 Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, guided motorcoach sightseeing, entrance fees, 16 meals (including medieval banquet, canal dinner cruise), in-Ireland tour director, hotel luggage handling (1 piece per person), hotel taxes & service charges. Ask about available add-on airfare. Visit AAA.com/GoIreland for itinerary and more information.
PROGRAMS OPERATED BY CIE TOURS INTERNATIONAL
MARCH 2013
AAA MOTORIST
PAGE 9
1-800-354-8761 AAA.com/travel
Member Benefits Exclusive Offers
ART!
•
FOOD!
•
WINE!
includes 4 nights in a Tuscan villa! The romance of Italy comes to life on this tour. Explore the lakes region your way when you choose between a scenic boat ride on Lake Maggiore or a visit to a local farm for a cheese & wine tasting. Explore the rugged coast and remote fishing villages of the Cinque Terre. Spend 4 relaxing nights in a Tuscan villa. Discover the hilltop town of San Gimignano. Experience medieval life at the Palazzo Davanzati. Visit a winery in the countryside and learn the secrets of Tuscan cuisine. Wander a Florentine food market. Spend 2 wonderful nights in Venice. Explore Lake Orta, one of Italy’s hidden treasures. Travel by boat to your welcome dinner on Isola dei Pescatori. Explore Lucca’s piazzas and medieval streets. These are Italy’s treasures! Special inclusion: A serenaded gondola cruise — with Prosecco! — on Venice’s canals! Experience the benefits of Whisper headsets, designed for better communication between you and your guides. Enjoy regional wines included with every dinner.
Aug 31–Sept 11 AAA Member Rate: $5,710 Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip flights (Cleveland-Milan, Venice-Cleveland), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, hotel accommodations, guided motorcoach sightseeing, entrance fees, 17 meals, inItaly tour director, air & hotel taxes (subject to change) and vendor travel protection. Visit AAA.com/GoItaly for itinerary and more information. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details.
AAA MEMBER BENEFIT SAVE $50.00 PER PERSON
PAGE 10
AAA MOTORIST
1-800-354-8761 AAA.com/travel
MARCH 2013
Member Benefits Exclusive Offers
Cruising Hawaii is the best way to catch the
ALOHA SPIRIT
SEE MORE HAWAII BY CRUISING!
Pride of America
AAA’s 9-night Hawaiian vacation features a 2-night pre-cruise stay in Honolulu, a tour of the USS Arizona Memorial & a 7-night cruise of 4 islands (Oahu, Maui, Hawaii & Kauai). AAA Member Rates Oct 10-19: from $1,721 • Nov 7-16: from $1,774 Rates are per person (double occupancy), are subject to change/availability at time of booking and include hotel/pier transfers, 2 nights at the Marriott Waikiki Beach Resort & Spa, USS Arizona Memorial/Pearl Harbor tour, 7-night cruise accommodations/entertainment, most onboard meals and government taxes/fees. Ship’s registry: USA. Ask about available add-on airfare.
AAA Featured Vacations are specific cruise, motorcoach or air tour vacations created or selected by AAA Travel for their value, amenities and/or inclusions. Whether at AAA.com/Travel or in your AAA Motorist, look for the AAA Featured Vacations logo to identify out-of-the-ordinary offerings.
Even more than a cruise hugging its spectacular shoreline, a comprehensive land journey into the heart of Alaska’s awe-inspiring interior can deepen your understanding and enrich your overall experience of our 49th state. AAA’s July 8-17 Alaska by Land 9-night adventure starts in Fairbanks. An Italian immigrant’s 1902 gold strike coincided with the building of a trading post on the banks of the Chena River — and the Gold Rush to Fairbanks was on! This “Golden Heart City” pulsed once again as a boomtown in the early 1970s during construction of the 800-milelong Trans-Alaska Pipeline. Learn how the Gold Rush affected Alaska’s interior on a tour that includes a visit to the University of Alaska, Fairbanks Museum. Enjoy shopping, walking or dining on your own downtown. Cruise on a sternwheeler to experience the thrill of river travel. Enjoy a salmon bake dinner at Pioneer Park; savor salmon, prime rib and Bering Sea cod and all the fixings. Then fly above it all on an Arctic Circle air adventure! This thrilling 4-hour tour soars over the Brooks Range and crosses the Arctic Circle; the narrated adventure includes a visit to Wiseman and views of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline and Yukon River. Motorcoach to Denali National Park to explore at your leisure or participate in a park service activity. Then enjoy the Denali Education Center’s “Welcome to the Subarctic” talk at Sheldon Center; learn about Denali from the ground up before overnighting in the park and touring it some more the next day. Travel deep into Denali on a full-day Tundra Wilderness Tour, looking for grizzly, moose, caribou, Dall sheep and more; get insights into this vast park’s flora & fauna. Travel to Anchorage, Alaska’s largest city; tour its historic downtown and visit the kennel & home of a 4-time Iditarod Sled Dog Race winner, and learn about the art of mushing dogs. Visit the Native Heritage Center, a gathering place celebrating, perpetuating and sharing Native cultures. Dine in the center’s Athabascan House. Motorcoach to coastal Seward, keeping an eye out along scenic Turnagain Arm for Dall sheep, moose, bear and eagle. Visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center in Portage Valley to see critters up close. Tour along scenic Seward Highway to Begich Boggs Visitor Center; enjoy an award-winning movie, “Voices from the Ice.” Explore Seward on your own; the coastal town is known for scenic views and as gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park. Transfer to Cooper Landing for a 2-hour scenic float on the Kenai River. Drift through Chugach National Forest and Kenai National Wildlife Refuge. At Girdwood, ride the Alyeska Tram from sea level to 2,300 feet. An observation deck provides breathtaking views of majestic mountains, hanging glaciers and often an array of wildlife. Descend and explore Girdwood on your own. Enjoy a farewell seafood buffet dinner.
July 8-17 • AAA Member Rate: $5,399 Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip flights (Cleveland-Fairbanks, Anchorage-Cleveland), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, 9-night accommodations, motorcoach sightseeing, 16 meals, in-Alaska local guide, services of a AAA Tour Manager (if participation goal is met), Arctic Circle air adventure (small aircraft; group will be staggered; departure is weather-dependent) & more. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details. Visit AAA.com/Alaska for itinerary details.
MARCH 2013
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PAGE 11
Member Benefits Exclusive Offers THE AMERICAN WEST
Southwestern Canyonlands Eroded for eons by wind and water, the colorful canyons of Arizona, Utah and Nevada captivate all who visit. See the stunning Red Rocks of Sedona, the magnificence of the Grand Canyon, the backcountry of Monument Valley, the hoodoos of Bryce Canyon National Park and the sandstone cliffs of Zion National Park. Enjoy Grand Canyon National Park lodging, guided tour and IMAX Theater. Take an “adventure cruise” through Antelope/Navajo Canyon. Visit Lake Powell and spend 2 fun nights in Las Vegas. 11 meals.
June 12-20 • AAA Member Rate: $2,725
Pacific Coast Enjoy a stunningly scenic journey exploring America’s majestic northern Pacific coastline and its vibrant cities, including Seattle, Portland, San Francisco and more! Along the way, take a sunset dinner cruise on Seattle’s lakes, a dune buggy ride at Oregon Dunes National Park and a jet boat ride on the Rogue River! Visit Mt St Helens, Portland’s Rose Gardens, Multnomah Falls, the Columbia River Gorge, Mt Hood & Timberline Lodge, Redwood National Park, Sonoma’s wine country and much more. 17 meals.
June 16-25 • AAA Member Rate: $3,325
Where the sun sets ...and the fun rises! Rates are per person (double occupancy), are subject to availability at time of booking and include roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, motorcoach sightseeing & admissions as indicated, services of a AAA Tour Manager and more. Ask about available add-on airfare. Visit AAA.com/USA for complete itinerary details.
Yellowstone Experience America’s first national park’s first explorers were called liars when they described its otherworldly features and wildlife. From Salt Lake City, visit Antelope Island State Park. At Yellowstone, head straight for Old Faithful! Visit the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center. Taking a wildlife safari (with sunset picnic) with opportunities for wildlife sightings. Enjoy the “Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone,” the Grand Tetons, the cowboy town of Jackson, a Snake River float trip and the Mormon Tabernacle Choir (schedule permitting). 12 meals.
Aug 5-11 • AAA Member Rate: $1,835
American Majesty From Salt Lake City to Denver, take in some of America’s favorite landmarks in between. Visit Grand Teton National Park, Yellowstone NP (Old Faithful & Mammoth Hot Springs), Devil’s Tower National Monument, Mt Rushmore National Memorial (evening light ceremony), Ft Laramie National Historic Site and the Buffalo Bill Historic Center. Float down the Snake River and ride a Jeep safari through the Black Hills. Hear the Mormon Tabernacle Choir (schedule permitting). See Crazy Horse Monument. 15 meals, including a chuck wagon dinner.
Grand Canyon Adventure Luxuriate in Red Rock Country at the Hilton Sedona Resort & Spa. Take a Pink Jeep backcountry tour. Ride first class on the Grand Canyon Railway from Williams to your national park lodging just a quarter-mile from the South Rim. Visit Glen Canyon Recreational Area and a night at Lake Powell Resort. A tour highlight is your guided half-day float trip on the Colorado River! Motorcoach to the Luxor Hotel on the Strip in Las Vegas. Flirt with Lady Luck, relax by the pool or take in a top-notch show on your free full day in Vegas. 9 meals.
Oct 4-10 • AAA Member Rate: $2,195
Napa Valley & San Francisco So many delights in one tour — from San Francisco’s endless charms to the natural splendor of the Muir Woods redwoods. Cross Golden Gate Bridge to enjoy 5 vineyards (participate in a “Blend Your Own Merlot” event) and3 nights at Tuscan-style Vino Bella Resort in Napa. Savor an exquisite 4-course dinner on the Napa Valley Wine Train. With your hotel at Fisherman’s Wharf as your base, tour San Francisco’s famous landmarks, cruise by ferry across the bay and enjoy free time for shopping and exploring. 2 meals.
Oct 7-12 • AAA Member Rate: $1,949
Aug 31–Sept 8 • AAA Member Rate: $2,735
Best of Northern California
New Mexico Balloon Fiesta
Explore San Francisco, the redwoods at Muir Woods, Mediterranean-style Sausalito and the wine country of the Sonoma and Napa valleys (and dine on the Napa Valley Wine Train). Ride Amtrak’s California Zephyr to the scenic shores of Lake Tahoe and cruise its crystal-blue waters aboard a paddlewheeler. Venture to Yosemite National Park, then take the Pacific Coast Highway to Monterey, Carmelby-the-Sea, 17-Mile Drive, Big Sur, San Simeon (Hearst Castle), Salinas Valley and Silicon Valley. 14 meals.
Calling all train lovers! Join this multi-train Great American Rail Adventure in the Centennial State. Enjoy unforgettable rides on the Pike’s Peak Cog Railway, the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad and the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. Marvel at the awesome natural rock formations in the Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs, the spectacular landscapes at the Colorado National Monument in Grand Junction and the dizzying height of the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park in Cañon City. 15 meals.
Explore Albuquerque, the Land of Enchantment’s largest city. At the International Balloon Fiesta, witness the mass ascension of hundreds of balloons. Explore landmarks along Route 66, visit Old Town & its Plaza and tour the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center. Ride Sandia Peak’s Aerial Tramway and visit an artisanal winery. See the Balloon Fiesta’s evening “Glowdeo” & fireworks. Explore historic Chimayo village, artistic Taos and charming Santa Fe. Take a guided desert wilderness hike with llamas! 14 meals.
July 25–Aug 2 • AAA Member Rate: $2,859
Sept 14-21 • AAA Member Rate: $2,095
Oct 9-15 • AAA Member Rate: $2,309
Colorado Train Adventure
PAGE 12
AAA MOTORIST
MARCH 2013
1-800-354-8761 AAA.com/travel
Member Benefits Exclusive Offers
ROCKY MOUNTAINEER
The world-renowned, luxurious Rocky Mountaineer train travels by daylight through the wild beauty of Canada’s West. The best way to experience the majestic Canadian Rockies, it offers more than 45 Canadian vacation packages and several unique rail routes — 3 train journeys through British Columbia & Alberta to Banff, Lake Louise, Jasper and Calgary; 1 train excursion from Vancouver to Whistler; and, NEW THIS YEAR, the Coastal Passage rail journey connecting Seattle WA and Vancouver BC to the Canadian Rockies. Choose from many tours, including the 4-day Classic First Passage to the West (AAA Member Rate: from $1,185 per person).
me o c o d s am e r d n o i t Vaca
E V O E R E H W E M O S ASSPORT P R U O Y B A GR OVER AND CROSS LAND TO A GRAND NDERS! WO OF UNIQUE
STAY & PLAY CREDIT!
Book a qualifying rail journey (any vacation of 4 nights or more from the 2013 Rocky Mountaineer brochure) by 3/28/13 and take advantage of up to $800 per couple in added value! Use your Stay & Play added-value credit toward customizing your vacation with your choice of these options: • • • • • • •
Extra hotel nights in any Rocky Mountaineer destination Additional tours in the Canadian Rockies Sea to Sky Climb rail journey to Whistler BC Additional meals & meal plans Transfers Activities, including Jasper Tramway, Whistler Peak 2 Peak Gondola & more Rocky Mountaineer “Rail & Cruise” packages
RAILING
Offer valid on new 2013 bookings made in USA & Canada between 12/31/12 & 3/28/13. Offer is applicable to any Rocky Mountaineer holiday of 4 or more nights from the 2013 Rocky Mountaineer brochure. Deposits are required at time of booking. Maximum offer value of $400 per adult bonus credit ($800 bonus per couple) is with qualifying holidays of 7 nights or more in GoldLeaf Service. Bonus credit amount varies by package class of service and duration of holiday. Travel during 2013 Rocky Mountaineer summer season between April & October. Applicable to single or double package tour prices; triple room bookings receive a lower per person credit. Qualifying packages can be purchased in any class of train travel or grade of accommodation. Credit must be requested at time of booking and will not be automatically allocated or retrospectively added. Credited option must be selected at time of booking and can only be added to a Rocky Mountaineer package. Amendment fee of $50 CAD per booking will be charged for changes to the use of the credit after booking has been confirmed. US guests will be charged the equivalent amount in USD at time of amendment. Credits can only be used toward the purchase of additional services offered by Rocky Mountaineer; credit cannot be used to upgrade rail service or accommodation and cannot be used against price of core package. Add-on credit values are expressed in CAD and will be converted to USD at time of booking at the exchange rate used for the package booking. US guests must pay in USD. Credit cannot be deferred to a later trip. Offer is not applicable to child prices, 2-day rail only bookings or Group Tour bookings. Not available in conjunction with any other offer. Offer has no cash value and is nontransferable. Offer is capacity-controlled and may be modified, withdrawn or amended without prior notice. Additional conditions apply.
RAIL & CRUISE BONUS!
Book a qualifying package (below) before 3/31/13 and take advantage of up to $1,300 per couple in added value. Use your Rail & Cruise bonus toward customizing your vacation with your choice of these options: • • • • •
Extra hotel nights in any Rocky Mountaineer destination Additional tours in the Canadian Rockies Additional meals Activities, including Jasper Tramway, Whistler Peak 2 Peak Gondola & more Credit toward cruise portion of the package
Canada ranks in the top to “life satisfaction” (overal work, income & relationshi (enjoyment, smiling & laugh happiness survey reported i AAA invites you to f Head north this y THE GREAT H T some of the g WHITE NOR S Canadian REALLY I & WARM L! WONDERFU
DRIVING
2013 QUALIFYING PACKAGES
Canadian Rockies Highlights & Coastal Passage wtih Pre-tour Cruise (OPLE) Canadian Rockies Highlights & Coastal Passage with Post-tour Cruise (OPNW) Western Explorer & Coastal Passage with Pre-tour Cruise (OPOE) Western Explorer & Coastal Passage with Post-tour Cruise (OPOW) Western Explorer & Coastal Passage (XPIE) • Western Explorer & Coastal Passage (XPIW) Offer valid on new 2013 bookings made in USA & Canada between 12/31/12 & 3/28/13. Offer is only applicable to specific Rocky Mountaineer Coastal Passage Packages (codes OPLE, OPNW, OPOE, OPOW, XPIE, XPIW). Deposits are required at time of booking. Maximum offer value of $650 per adult bonus credit ($1,300 bonus per couple) is with qualifying Coastal Passage holidays in GoldLeaf Service or GoldLeaf Deluxe Service. Travel during 2013 Rocky Mountaineer summer season between April & October. Applicable to single or double package tour prices; triple room bookings receive a lower per person credit. Credit must be requested at time of booking and will not be automatically allocated or retrospectively added. Credited option must be selected at time of booking and can only be added to a Rocky Mountaineer package. Amendment fee of $50 CAD per booking will be charged for changes to the use of the credit after booking has been confirmed. US guests will be charged the equivalent amount in USD at time of amendment. Credits can only be used toward the purchase of additional services offered by Rocky Mountaineer; credit cannot be used to upgrade rail service or accommodation and cannot be used against price of core package. Add-on credit values are expressed in CAD and will be converted to USD at time of booking at the exchange rate used for the package booking. US guests must pay in USD. Credit cannot be deferred to a later trip. Offer is not applicable to child prices, 2-day rail only bookings or Group Tour bookings. Not available in conjunction with any other offer. Offer has no cash value and is nontransferable. Offer is capacity-controlled and may be modified, withdrawn or amended without prior notice. Additional conditions apply.
COME GET HA
F
rom storybook lands and magical fairytale settings to the sheer adrenaline rush of adventure opportunities, each of Canada’s regions offers that “little something special.” Whether it’s a vacation for the senses, a relaxing weekend away or a once-in-a-lifetime dream come true, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for! And a great way to do that is through AAA’s travel partner, CANADA à la Carte. CANADA à la Carte offers a wide variety of Independent vacations showcasing the best of
Canada by car & rail, from m cosmopolitan cities. Indepen feature “à la Carte” sights — such as winery tours, wh Rockies trail riding — allow your vacation to suit your in CANADA à la Carte’s ind provide flexibility in your tra you don’t bypass region hig requests, accommodations a cars and/or VIA Rail tickets are pre-booked. Many pack round, and all may be offere to customizing existing pack Carte can help you create y
MARCH 2013
AAA MOTORIST
PAGE 13
1-800-354-8761 AAA.com/travel
Member Benefits Exclusive Offers
! R E D R O B . . . E H T ER
e true
AAA OFFERS LOTS OF WAYS TO EXPERIENCE
CANADA
Experience Canada aboard the elegant, sophisticated ships of Oceania. Its midsize vessels can journey off the beaten path to boutique ports and yet provide all the amenities of larger ships. Overnight stays and late-evening departures FREE FLIGHTS allow you to fully explore each fascinating AND $50.00 IN destination, while exemplary service, gourmet ONBOARD CREDIT cuisine and opulent accommodations ensure your onboard experience is defined by luxury and comfort. Canada & New England ignite in a blaze of color each autumn. A foliage tapestry of fiery reds, brilliant oranges, delicate yellows and exotic purples blankets the land, attracting “leaf peepers.” And the best seat for viewing the drama is on Regatta. Best of all, the backdrop changes daily for the maximum effect of nature’s glory. Opportunities for adventure ashore are as spectacular as the scenery. Tour the Gilded Age mansions in Newport. Ride the funicular to Dufferin Terrace for the best view of Québec City. Marvel at seafaring artifacts in the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic in Halifax and amazing seascapes in Rockland’s Farmsworth Museum. Indoors & out, the show goes on forever.
CRUISING
E ON, APPY!
Sept 12-24: Montréal to New York
5 nations when it comes ll appraisal of life, including ips) and “positive feeling” hing), according to a global in Scientific American Mind. find out for yourself: year and tap into good feelings FOREIGN, E ns enjoy! H? ENGLISH SPOKEN HE RE!
majestic wilderness to ndent travel packages seeing and activity options hale watching or Canadian wing you to personalize nterests and budget. dependent vacations avel plans while ensuring ghlights. Based on your are pre-reserved, rental are arranged and activities kages are available yeared with airfare. In addition kages, CANADA à la your own special adventure.
COLORS, COASTS & COVES
Québec City QC • St Lawrence River (cruising) • Corner Brook NF • Charlottetown PEI Sydney NS • Halifax NS • St John (Bay of Fundy) NB • Bar Harbor ME • Rockland/Camden ME Gulf of Maine (cruising) • Newport RI
Oct 6-18: New York City to Montréal (reverse itinerary of departure above) AAA Member Rate: from $4,797 (including FREE FLIGHTS!) Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip flights (SEPT: ClevelandMontréal, New York–Cleveland) (OCT: Cleveland–New York, Montréal-Cleveland), roundtrip airport/pier transfers, cruise accommodations/ entertainment, most onboard meals, government fees/taxes and $50 onboard credit per stateroom. Ship’s registry: Marshall Islands. Visit AAA.com/travel for complete itinerary details. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details.
AIR & MOTORCOACH
Book a CANADA à la Carte Independent Vacation and receive a documentation package (1 per booking) with a personalized itinerary containing driving instructions, maps, brochures and region guides (all items “if applicable”).
Sample 3-night vacations (rates per person) Montréal Explorer • AAA Member Rate: $314 Québec City Explorer • AAA Member Rate: $529 Vancouver Explorer • AAA Member Rate: $383 Victoria Explorer • AAA Member Rate: $742
ATLANTIC ADVENTURE
Hug the rugged shores of — and never venture far from — the Atlantic Ocean on this exciting exploration of coastal Canada & New England. Witness the influence the sea has on life & land in Massachusetts, Maine, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island. From big cities to tiny villages, experience cultural differences, visit fascinating attractions and taste unique regional cuisines. The combination of spectacular natural beauty, insightful guides and inevitable camaraderie that AAA motorcoach sightseeing tours are known for make this a journey you’ll not soon forget.
July 12-20: Roundtrip from Cleveland • AAA Member Rate: $2,689 Boston MA • Portland ME • NB: St John, Reversing Falls Rapids, Fundy National Park PEI: Green Gables, PEI National Park • NS: Cabot Trail, Cape Breton, Alexander Graham Bell site, Anne Murray Centre • NB: St Andrews by the Seas, Kingsbrae Gardens • AND MORE! Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip flights (Cleveland-Boston), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, super-deluxe motorcoach (wi-fi, leather seats, video screens, seatback trays, seatbelts), sightseeing/admissions, 17 meals, taxes/gratuities on included items, baggage handling (1 per person), services of a AAA Tour Manager. Visit AAA.com/travel for complete itinerary details. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details.
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AAA MOTORIST
MARCH 2013
Member Benefits Exclusive Offers
MARCH 2013
AAA MOTORIST
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Member Benefits Exclusive Offers
ALLIANCE ........................ 330-821-2323 ASHLAND ........................ 419-289-2222 ASHTABULA ..................... 440-998-1008 BOARDMAN ..................... 330-726-0622 ELYRIA ............................ 440-324-2090 INDEPENDENCE ............... 216-606-6080 LYNDHURST ..................... 440-473-0747 MASSILLON ..................... 330-833-1084
MENTOR .......................... 440-205-9090 NEW PHILADELPHIA......... 330-343-4481 NILES .............................. 330-652-6466 NORWALK........................ 419-668-1622 RAVENNA ........................ 330-296-3406 SOLON ............................ 440-248-1808 STRONGSVILLE ................ 440-783-3396 WESTLAKE ....................... 440-788-3103
Convenient Motorcoach Cruises — from Cleveland to the Pier! Avoid potential airport hassles and leave the driving to AAA! Ride our motorcoach right to the pier to board your ship. Motorcoach to/from BALTIMORE MD and sail on Grandeur of the Seas! THE BAHAMAS 7 nights (3 days at sea): July 19 • AAA Member Rate: from $1,225 CANADA & NEW ENGLAND 8 nights (3 days at sea): Oct 17 • AAA Member Rate: from $1,130
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GENERAL TRAVEL DISCLAIMER: AAA Travel Agency makes every effort to provide accurate, up-to-date prices as of press time and cannot assume responsibility for typographic errors. Rates/offers are per person based on double occupancy, unless otherwise indicated, and are subject to availability and airline/operator changes. International rates/offers are subject to currency fluctuations and additional tax & security charges. Rates that include airfare include all taxes, government fees and surcharges. Additional restrictions may apply. Rates/offers are available at all AAA East Central travel agency locations. For tour details, contact AAA or visit AAA.com/travel. AAA Featured Vacations are specially priced, unique departures; therefore, tour operators, cruise lines and other travel providers often exclude them from additional discounts or specials they offer. AAA Featured Vacations include services provided by third-party tour destination service companies; see your AAA Travel Agent for details. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for more details or visit the air carrier’s website for baggage allowance and fee information.
LEAVE THE DRIVING TO US!
Rates are per person (double occupancy), are subject to availability at time of booking and include roundtrip motorcoach transportation, cruise accommodations/ entertainment, most onboard meals and government fees. Ship’s registry: Bahamas. Visit AAA.com/motorcruise for complete itinerary details & pick-up points.
Rates are per person, are subject to availability at time of booking and include roundtrip motorcoach transportation from the Cleveland area, accommodations (for multiday tours, based on double occupancy), sightseeing/admissions, taxes/gratuities for included features, baggage handling (for multiday tours), meals as indicated and the services of a AAA Tour Manager. Visit AAA.com/USA for complete itinerary details and pick-up points.
“NOAH!” & MORE IN LANCASTER PA May 17-19
AAA Member Rate: $589
“Noah!”, the show that made Sight & Sound Theatres famous, returns for one season only. Embark on a journey with Noah and his family as they uphold the call of God to build a boat in a land that has never seen rain! Then watch as hundreds of animals enter and live inside the great ark that surrounds the audience on 3 sides of a 300-foot stage. Forty-foot-tall sets, toe-tapping songs, professional actors and a message of hope make Noah a must-see! Includes 1 ticket to 2 performances ("Noah!" and "Fun Between the Covers"), guided tour of Lancaster Amish region, Kitchen Kettle Village, 4 meals & more.
CHAUTAUQUA WINE WEEKEND June 22-23
AAA Rate: $339
Visit the largest grape-growing region in the US outside of Napa Valley. Enjoy a fun and educational weekend in New York’s Lake Chautauqua region. Includes tastings/lessons at 3 wineries, salad class at Brick Village Gourmet, Chautauqua Institution tour, dessert & Champagne cruise aboard Chautauqua Wind, 3 meals (including luncheon at the Athenaeum Hotel on the Chautauqua grounds and dinner at the historic White Inn).
MAINE’S TRAINS: Coastal New England July 15-20
AAA Member Rate: $1,169
Maine’s beautiful, rocky coast is highlighted on this tour featuring 2 train rides and many “must-do” sights. Start in Boston with Quincy Market and Harvard Yard. Travel on Amtrak’s Downeaster train to Portland, Maine. Then ride on the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad. Includes half-day tour of Boston’s Harvard Yard & Harvard University, 2 train rides, Portland Head Lighthouse, Portland’s Historic Waterfront, Seashore Trolley Museum, lobster boat cruise, Stonewall Kitchens, 9 meals (including a classic downeast lobster bake) & much more.
BOSTON POPS ON CAPE COD Aug 8-13
AAA Member Rate: $1,229
See New England at its best on this excursion to Cape Cod. Hear the fabulous Boston Pops Orchestra, marvel as you watch a humpback whale broaching and take in the beauty of Cape and Martha’s Vineyard. Includes Boston city tour, Cape Cod tour, 1 reserved seat at “Pops by the Sea” concert, Martha’s Vineyard tour (with roundtrip ferry), whale watching cruise, Heritage Plantation, Plymouth waterfront, 9 meals (including traditional lobster bake) & more.
LAKE GEORGE
NEW YORK STATE RAIL & SAIL Aug 26-30
AAA Member Rate: $1,069
Enjoy 2 train rides and 3 cruises on this exploration of scenic northern New York. Start in the Thousand Islands/St Lawrence River area, tour the dense woods of the Central Adirondacks and wind up at 32-milelong Lake George. Includes boat ride to Boldt Castle & Heart Island, Amtrak’s Maple Leaf (train from Syracuse to Albany), “Railroads on Parade” exhibit, North Creek Depot Museum, train through the Central Adirondacks (North Creek to Saratoga), Saratoga Springs tour, Turning Stone Casino, 9 meals (including Thousand Islands dinner cruise and Lake George luncheon cruise) & more.
WASHINGTON DC Sept 5-8
AAA Member Rate: $659
Bring a camera to capture DC’s most memorable sights. A full-day tour features many of the national capital’s most interesting and historic attractions. Includes full-day DC sightseeing, half-day Arlington tour, illuminated monuments tour, Flight 93 Memorial (Shanksville PA), 5 meals & more.
DATE
AAA MEMBER RATE
April 13...... LOAFIN’ AROUND: Chautauqua NY ........... $99 Bread-making class. Salad-making class. Chef-prepared lunch. Bake sale. Samples. Shopping galore.
June 1 ........... WE LOVE LUCY: Jamestown NY .............. $99 Lucy/Desi Museum. Desilu Playhouse. Lucy’s final resting place. Driving tour. Candy shop. More.
June 7 ...........3 RIVERS CRUISE: Pittsburgh PA ............. $89 Luncheon cruise with musical tribute to Neil Diamond. 3 hours at Rivers Casino.
June 14 .........3 RIVERS CRUISE: Pittsburgh PA ............. $89 Luncheon cruise with musical tribute to Patsy Cline. 3 hours at Rivers Casino.
July 1 ............3 RIVERS CRUISE: Pittsburgh PA ............. $89
Luncheon cruise with music by jazz guitarist Tony Janflone. 3 hours at Rivers Casino.
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LEAVE THE DRIVING TO US!
MARCH 2013
Rates are per person, are subject to availability at time of booking and include roundtrip deluxe motorcoach transportation, accommodations (for multiday tours, based on double occupancy), sightseeing/admissions, taxes/gratuities for included features, baggage handling (for multiday tours), meals as indicated and services of a AAA Tour Manager. Visit AAA.com/USA for complete itinerary details and pick-up points (from the Massillon, New Philadelphia and/or Alliance areas, depending on tour).
Dead Sea Scrolls Exhibition Cincinnati OH
April 1-2
AAA Member Rate: $289
See the Creation Museum’s 160 exhibits depicting Eden, the Tree of the Knowledge of Good & Evil, Noah’s Ark and more. Visit the Cincinnati Museum Center for biblical treasures discovered in a cave in 1947. Dead Sea Scrolls showcase 600+ items, including a 3-ton stone from Jerusalem’s wall, artifacts from Jerusalem and the oldest known copies of the Hebrew Bible. A unique historical opportunity. 2 meals.
Vera Bradley Outlet Sale Ft Wayne IN
April 10-11
AAA Member Rate: $239
Great discounts! Early-bird shopping before the crowds arrive! At this annual sale of discontinued and overrun Vera Bradley stock, reap the benefits of a limited-attendance shopping opportunity, designated cashiers that ony service motorcoach groups and unlimited access to the Archer Room to relax and rejuvenate. Book now; past passengers have already been given the opportunity to book, and seating is limited! 4 meals.
A Salute to Our Armed Forces Cleveland OH: Severance Hall
May 17
AAA Member Rate: $129
This imuch-loved Memorial Day tradition sells out every year. The Cleveland Pops Orchestra’s 13th annual Salute to Our Armed Forces honors all branches of the US military, veterans and their families. This tribute is full of patriotic music, sing-alongs, songs and marches. Your heart will swell with pride at this opportunity to lift our voices in song to our heroes. Dinner before the performance is included at Nighttown. 1 meal.
NASCAR Race Day
Michigan International Speedway: Brooklyn MI
June 16
AAA Member Rate: from $165
Back by popular demand and sure to be a sell-out! Following the dramatic ending of the 2012 NASCAR season, this race will be hot. Satisfy your need for speed. Our Priority Parking gets us in close to the track. Your seats in Turn One or Center Grandstand allow great viewing of the entire track so you won’t miss a second of the action. Take your PitPass to the track and sign the wall to wish your driver luck. 3 meals.
“Book of Mormon”
“War Horse”
Cleveland OH: Palace Theater
April 18 (7:30pm)
AAA Member Rate: from $99
As WW I begins, Albert’s beloved horse is sold in England to the cavalry; he serves on both sides of the war before finding himself alone in noman’s-land in France. Albert, still not old enough to enlist, embarks on a mission to find him and bring him home. This moving drama is filled with stirring music. At its heart are astonishing life-size puppets. Orchestra B seating: $99. Mezzanine A seating: $129. Pre-show dinner.
“Noah!” & More Lancaster PA
April 23-24
AAA Member Rate: from $374
Journey to the Millenium Theatre, where the story of “Noah!” comes to life. Watch as hundreds of animals enter the great ark that surrounds the audience on 3 sides of a 300-foot stage. Forty-foot-tall sets, toe-tapping songs, professional actors and a message of hope make this a must-see! Also visit Kitchen Kettle Village and enjoy lunch with a show at the Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre, where the Scottish mystery love story, Brigadoon, is playing. Head home humming musical scores such as Almost Like Being in Love, The Heather on the Hill and Go Home with Bonnie Jean. 3 meals.
Another 2-buck Treasure Tour Northeast Ohio
May 3
AAA Member Rate: $82
This tour sold out so fast last year that we’re back with a new destination. Come with a sense of adventure and your best bargain-hunting skills. Visit thrift stores, consignment shops, a wholesaler or 2 and unique boutiques that you may not know exist. It’s truly a shop-&-never-drop tour. A list of shops will be available to passengers prior to departure; that’s part of the mystery! HINT: This 1-day shopping tour heads toward the shore! 1 meal.
“Guys & Dolls”
Cleveland OH: Palace Theater
Cleveland OH: Palace Theater
June 30 (6:30pm) July 2 (7:30pm)
AAA Member Rate: $119 AAA Member Rate: $119
See the hit show everyone’s talking about! Dinner is not included with this production; dine on your own in the Theater District, pack a picnic dinner or order one for purchase the evening of the show.
Disney’s “The Lion King”
July 30 (evening) Aug 1 (matinee)
AAA Member Rate: from $124 AAA Member Rate: from $112
One of America’s best-loved musicals returns to Cleveland’s PlayhouseSquare! Marvel at the breathtakingly imaginative spectacle of humans-asanimals, vibrant African rhythms and the unforgettable music of Sir Elton John, such as “Circle of Life” and “Can You Feel the Love Tonight.” Let your imagination run wild at this Tony Award–winning Broadway sensation. Pay in full at time of booking OR deposit $25 on this & any 2 other AAA theater packages and make your final payment at a later date.
July 17
Ann Arbor MI Arts Festival
AAA Member Rate: $102
Artists from nearly every state participate in this 54-year-old show that boasts a diversity of mediums and an atmosphere that appeals to casual art appreciators and serious collectors alike. Four fairs on the University of Michigan campus feature unique individuals who imagine, plan and create curious, beautiful and amazing works of art. You’ll be on your own to linger where you choose for as long as you like. 2 meals.
Mackinac: Shipwrecks & Shorelines
Aug 20-23
AAA Member Rate: from $759
More than just charming Mackinac Island, this intriguing getaway includes a shipwreck tour, a visit to a National Marine Sanctuary, a search for treasure and time to relax. Wind up summer with a new learning experience, lake breezes and the timeless beauty of the Great Lakes region.
AAA Member Rate: from $99
Washington DC, Manassas & Quantico
Set in mid-20th-century New York with a score that’s among the most immortal works in theater history, this classic has been called “the perfect musical comedy.” With high-rolling gambler “guys,” well-meaning missionary “dolls” and brassy-voiced showgirls, it’s a toe-tappingly fun, romantic fable about gamblers and the women who love them. Lounge seating: $99. Banquette seating: $119. Pre-show dinner.
Here’s a unique opportunity to enjoy the patriotic sites you expect to see in our nation’s capital PLUS lesser-known, less-visited but fascinating gems in next-door Virginia — Manassas’s Civil War Battlefield, Quantico’s National Cemetery & National Museum of the Marine Corps and Occoquan’s quaint riverfront on the Potomac as well as the outlets at Potomac Mills.
May 16 (7:30pm)
Sept 30–Oct 4
AAA Member Rate: from $859
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Go North to Alaska with Disney Cruise Line Disney Wonder sails to America’s Last Frontier
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n Alaska cruise gives you a front row seat to the wonders of nature and Disney Wonder combines the adventurous spirit of Alaska with an unparalleled, family-friendly onboard experience. Departing out of Vancouver, B.C., the 2700-passenger vessel will call on ports such as Juneau, Ketchikan and Skagway. Designed in the style of a sumptuous pre-war ocean liner, Wonder will sail a total of 15, seven-night cruises to Alaska for the 2013 summer season, beginning on May 27 and running through September 2. Alaska’s Inside Passage is a maze of channels and bays. Mountains rise dramatically from mist-shrouded fjords. Navigating the iceberg-dotted waters of Tracy Arm, the ship bisects the steep cliffs rising up to 4,000 feet on either side of the fjord. Guests will be able to experience breathtaking natural vistas, an abundance of wildlife and the rich history and customs of Alaska’s native culture. Signature Port Adventures include fishing for wild salmon in Ketchikan, or learning about local culture by making hand-carved totem poles. A few blocks from the harbor is Creek Street, where neatly restored buildings follow a curving plank road built over Ketchikan Creek. In Skagway, Disney guests can traverse panoramic landscapes aboard the narrow gauge White
many other popular Disney characters. Film and sports buffs are in for a deck-side bonus — poolside movies on a jumbo LED screen. Watch classic Disney animated or live-action movies and major sporting events on the 336 square-foot screen. An innovative dining experience rotates guests through three imaginatively themed restaurants during the cruise — the casually elegant Triton’s, the whimsical, island-inspired Parrot Cay, and the Animator’s Palate, where Disney animation paints the evening with living color. The Outlook Café located high atop deck 10, is a stylish retreat for guests to relax as they take in Alaska’s breathtaking vistas through expansive, floor-to-ceiling, curved glass windows.
BUSH PILOT MICKEY — Disney Wonder is making magical memories in Alaska this summer. Pass Railroad, or pan for gold. In Juneau, guests will board floatplanes for a 30-minute aerial voyage that includes breathtaking views of several glaciers before arriving at Taku Lodge, a remote outpost built in 1923, directly across from the picturesque Hole-In-The-Wall Glacier in the untouched Tongass National Forest. Glacier Dog Musher for a Day takes guests by helicopter over the massive Juneau Icefield where they’ll meet the crew of Alaska Heli Mush and the sled
dogs of the Iditarod. Mushers will take guests out on the snow-capped glacier for an unforgettable sled trip through the pristine wilderness. From its enhanced spa and adult pool to exciting entertainment upgrades, Disney Wonder packs a treasure trove of magical memories. The three-deck high Walt Disney Theatre takes onboard entertainment to a whole new level with live shows like “Toy Story – The Musical,” and “Disney Dreams”, a bedtime story featuring Peter Pan, and
IT’S A BLAST
Disney Cruise Line offers a host of special events, including the Pirates IN the Caribbean deck party. Stunt performers rappel from atop the funnel, and an epic battle ensues with characters like Captain Hook, and Captain Mickey. The grand finale is a spectacular pyrotechnics performance – a fireworks display at sea! FOR MORE INFORMATION
Please see your AAA Departures Guide or log on to AAA.com/cruises for special values on Disney cruise vacations.
Mechanics choose top ten car maintenance mistakes Ignoring this list can cost you money in car repairs
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new survey details the top 10 maintenance mistakes car owners make that can cost them down the road. CarMD. com Corporation queried its team of Automotive Service Excellence (ASE)certified Master Technicians on which mistakes, bad decisions and missed maintenance items do the most damage to vehicles. 1. Putting off recommended/scheduled maintenance; 2. Ignoring the “check engine” light; 3. Not changing the oil, or not having it changed on time; 4. Not checking tire pressure; 5. Neglecting coolant, brake, transmission and other fluid services; 6. Continuing to drive when the vehicle is overheating; 7. Not changing fuel and air filters; 8. Having unqualified shops service your vehicle; 9. Using generic aftermarket parts instead of original equipment manufacturer (OEM)-quality parts; 10. Trying to service your own hightech vehicle; Number 3, “not changing your oil,” was also listed as by far the single most damaging car maintenance item. Dirty oil can damage today’s high-tech engines. Simply following the facto-
KEEPING IT UP — Bad decisions and missed maintenance items do the most damage to vehicles. ry-recommended oil change schedule helps avoid this problem, along with potential repair costs. Automotive fluids help to lubricate, cool and power your vehicle’s key components, which include the engine, cooling system, transmission and brakes. Coolant keeps your engine from overheating and protects the cooling system from corrosion. Check your coolant levels once a month or every
1,000 miles and have your cooling system flushed and replaced as recommended by your owner’s manual. Automatic transmission fluid cleans, cools, lubricates and protects your transmission. Check the levels regularly and change it at the factory recommended intervals. Your fluid should be a clear red color, not brown or black. Dark fluid accompanied by a burnt smell can indicate transmission problems.
Ignoring the “check engine” light is another example of how putting off repairs on a small problem can escalate into an expensive repair. In Ohio the most common reason for a “check engine” light is catalyst system efficiency, followed by exhaust gas recirculation system efficiency and then random misfire. Igmoring an O2 sensor failure — about a $250 repair — can eventually result in the need for an expensive catalytic converter replacement which could cost around $1,000 or more. Maintaining proper tire pressure is one of the least expensive ways to increase vehicle fuel economy while saving drivers money. Under-inflated tires increase a vehicle’s resistance, require the engine to work harder and use more fuel. In fact, 10 percent of a vehicle’s useful energy is used to overcome rolling resistance. By keeping tires inflated to the recommended pressure, drivers can improve their gas mileage by a maximum of 3 percent — the equivalent of saving up to $0.10 per gallon of gasoline. FOR MORE INFORMATION
Visit AAA.com for information on all things automotive including tips on buying, operating and maintaining a vehicle.
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MARCH 2013
There’s always room at the top in Switzerland High altitude adventure in the land of the Alps
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witzerland may be a neutral country, but it is anything but colorless. Along with the jaw-dropping scenery this eminently workable amalgam of German, French and Italian cultures gives a whole new meaning to the term diversity. Zürich is Switzerland’s largest city and famous for its gnomes and financial institutions. The Bahnhofstrasse — Zürich’s answer to Fifth Avenue and Wall Street — was built on the site of the old city walls and is lined with upscale boutiques, cafes and those ubiquitous Swiss banks. Much of Switzerland’s heavily creased Alpine territory is best seen by rail. The Rhaetion Railway includes the world famous Glacier, and Bernina Express lines. The engineering equivalent of Hannibal’s passage through the Alps, the Bernina Express takes travelers through scenery that ranges from the blue-tongued glaciers of Piz Bernina, to the palms trees of Tirano, Italy. The Glacier Express runs from St. Moritz and Davos via Zermatt where it brings you face to face with the wondrous Matterhorn or “the mountain,” as it is respectfully called by the Swiss. The little red train literally ties itself in knots as every bend brings a magnificent new vista or a fairytale-like castle perched astride a mountaintop. Zermatt has over 300 days of sunlight per year, and mild, dry weather that the
HIGH TIMES — The Gornergratbahn on the Findelbachbrücke, against the backdrop of the Matterhorn. Swiss refer to this as their “champagne climate.” The air is so unbelievably pure that it feels nearly as intoxicating as a chilled flute of Pol Roger. Vehicles powered by internal combustion engines have been banned in the village since 1947, and Zermatt’s only
Give Yourself an Upgrade— to the highest level of protection available! Get more from your membership. Upgrade to AAA Premier. With expanded roadside assistance — and a host of other benefits — AAA Premier is a smart choice. To upgrade your membership, call or visit your local AAA office or AAA.com, or call the Member Service Center at
1-800-441-5008
traffic jam is a herd of Blackneck goats that pass through the Bahnhofstrasse every morning and evening. From Zermatt visitors can board the 111-year-old cog railway for the 6.5mile journey up Gornergrat Mountain. The Gornergratbahn is Europe’s highest rack railway, climbing past Swiss stone pine and larch forests to an altitude of 10,100 feet. When you reach the top, pause to take in the breathtaking panorama of 29 peaks above 13,000-feet, with the Matterhorn, the Queen of the Alps, right in the middle. St. Moritz has become so synonymous with the jet set that the town has taken the unusual step of registering its name as a trademark in 25 countries. The resort town conjures up glamorous images of the Cresta and horses racing across the snow, but summers here are generally quite leisurely. Lucerne is considered the quintessential Swiss town and its most popular travel destination. Famous for the two medieval bridges spanning the Reuss
River, few leave without taking a boat ride on scenic Lake Lucerne, framed by mountains and old growth forests that reach right down to the shore. Visitors can also ride the world’s steepest cog railway up Mount Pilatus with a gradient of 48% and return by a cable car that soars past rugged alpine peaks, divided by verdant green valleys.
IF YOU GO
Join AAA Travel on an 8-night Alpine Lakes & Scenic Trains tour of Switzerland and Italy, August 16-25, 2013. Highlights of this AAA Member Choice vacation include a Zurich dinner cruise; Golden Pass, Glacier Express and Bernina Pass Scenic Trains; Lake Como, Italy; 2-nights in Zermatt; Saint Moritz, Lucerne and Montreux, Switzerland, and Milan, Italy. FOR MORE INFORMATION
Visit AAA.com/mcv for a complete itinerary, trip details and information.
MARCH 2013
AAA MOTORIST
A bright idea for clearing cloudy headlights
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ou’ve probably heard the old joke: During the winter, road crews use so much salt on the roads that you can get high blood pressure just by gong for a drive. Imagine what all that salt spray and build-up can do to your car by the end of the season? The plastic surfaces of your headlights are especially vulnerable and damaged headlights can create dangerous driving situations in any weather. It may seem obvious but headlights are one of the most critical safety features on your car. Studies show that headlight lenses damaged by harsh weather, abrasives, debris and exposure to the sun, become so opaque, they can reduce lighting effectiveness by up to fifty percent. Most likely, if your car is five years old or older, the headlights are already showing visible signs of weathering and hazing. The best way to protect yourself is to make sure your headlights are clean and clear and at optimal visibility. Wash your headlight lenses when you wash your windshield. You’ll see better at night and in poor weather conditions. Check your headlights by parking on a level surface facing five feet from a building wall or your garage door.
If the circles of light are bright and white, they are in good, working condition. Yellow or dim lights should be replaced. If your headlight lenses are cloudy, consider an inexpensive headlight restoration kit, which can restore them to optimum condition and light output. Restoring headlights to their original crystal-clear and scratch-free finish can improve your reaction times and help save both human and animal lives. To help you determine if your headlights need restoration, examine them in daylight for one or more of these conditions: • The lenses look milky, foggy or yellow; • You can’t see the bulb through the lens; • The lenses are scratched or scarred. Restoring headlights can be done simply and inexpensively with a quality do-it-yourself product. They have been shown to restore up to 95 percent of a headlight’s original clarity and light performance. If you can wash your car, you can clean and restore your headlights. A little elbow grease and you can sand, smooth, and polish your way to clearer lenses from the comfort of your own driveway or garage.
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Computer-related vision problems are on the rise
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f you are part of the 46 percent of Americans who spend five or more hours a day on a computer or a smart phone, you probably already know that a long day staring at your screen can sometimes lead to tired eyes and headaches. But did you know these issues could also be signs of Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS)? Besides tired eyes and headaches, other symptoms of CVS include double vision, eyestrain and sometimes even neck and shoulder aches. The reason is that our eyes have a harder time focusing on characters on a computer screen. Unlike printed type, computer characters are brightest at the center and lighter on the edges. The eyes jump around as they try to focus, making them tired and affecting other areas of the upper body. Fortunately, the effects of CVS are neither permanent nor damaging to the eye. You can help combat CVS by following a few simple steps: • Get an eye exam before starting a job that requires computer use. • Use a flat-panel monitor or LCD screen that has crisper resolutions. • Place the monitor at eye level about 20 to 26 inches away from you. • Always use the computer in proper light. • Blink more often to keep eyes moist.
• Take breaks from your computer to rest your eyes. • Visit your eye doctor annually to monitor and manage symptoms, unless otherwise recommended by your eye doctor. For some, CVS symptoms can be relieved with computer eyewear or UV coating on your lenses to reduce glare. Talk with your eye doctor to learn about these options. If new glasses are in order, now is the perfect time to visit LensCrafters for The Semi-Annual Sale where you will save 50% off lenses with a frame purchase. PLUS, for a limited time, AAA members get an extra $25 OFF when you Show Your Card & Save ®. Hurry, offer expires 3/31/2013. Visit www. AAA.com/visionsavings for details.
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MARCH 2013
Understanding the two main types of Life Insurance How to choose a policy that’s right for you
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dies during the predetermined time frame. For example, a person who is 40 and purchases a 30-year policy would produce a death benefit if he or she died at age 68. However, if the individual did not obtain additional coverage and died at age 72, there would be no death benefit. Most terms vary between one and 30 years. Since the policies are simple, they do not offer any other benefits such as cash withdrawals. With term life, there are two main forms of policies, which are decreasing term and level term. Decreasing term policies have dropping death benefits, which are usually based on one-year time increments. These last for the entire life of the policy. For level term, the death benefit remains the same throughout the policy’s term. In the past decade, the most popular type of coverage purchased has been level term. To learn more about these options, discuss concerns with an agent.
he two most popular types of life insurance are whole life and term life. In some cases, whole life may also be called permanent coverage. It encompasses several subcategories, which include universal, traditional, variable universal and variable. Millions of people purchase whole life or term life each year. In 2003, there was only a difference of about 1 million purchases between the two types of products. It is important to remember that life coverage sold to individuals is different than the insurance policies sold to groups.
Understanding Whole Life Insurance
Whole or permanent life coverage provides a benefit upon the death of the policyholder. There is no term limit, so a policyholder’s beneficiary would receive money whether the insured died at age 50, 80 or even 100. As mentioned previously, there are sub-types of coverage under whole life. In addition to this, each of the subcategory coverage types offer their own variations. With traditional whole life coverage, both the premium and death benefit amount will remain the same for the policy’s duration. As the insured ages, the premium amount per $1,000 of coverage increases. For those who live beyond age 80, these premiums can be very high. However, insurers do not assess higher premiums in later years to
A SOUND INVESTMENT — Millions of people purchase whole life or term life each year. keep up with these rising amounts. The premiums are higher when a person is younger. As the person ages, the premium amounts decrease. Insurers understand that people generally have less income as they age, which is why the policy is designed this way. When the money paid into the policy reaches a certain point, it must be made available
to the insured as a cash value benefit. If the policyholder decides to discontinue the plan, the cash may be withdrawn.
Understanding Term Life Insurance
This is the easiest form of coverage to understand and obtain. Term life only provides a death benefit if the insured
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Trust AAA to steer you right on all your current and future Auto, Home and Life insurance needs. Combining your coverage with one insurance company could make a significant difference in your premium. Call 866.802.8210, or visit AAA.com/insurance for more information or to schedule a comprehensive Insurance review.
MARCH 2013
AAA MOTORIST
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AAA Four & Five Diamond Award winners for 2013 Northeast Ohio properties add another jewel to their crowns
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nn Walden, Aurora’s palatial country hostelry, has earned the AAA Five Diamond Award for a ninth consecutive year. “We are very proud to honor Inn Walden with another Five-Diamond Award,” said Jim Lehman, executive vice president, AAA East Central. “When it comes to quality, diamonds speak louder than words.” Ohio’s only Five Diamond lodging property, Inn Walden is a 25-unit, all-suite, luxury inn that features a 175-year-old barn and silo on 32 acres of scenic horse pasture. Regardless of your vacation style, Walden offers a broad range of choices in an opulent setting. Explore the beautiful grounds on horseback or visit the equestrian center. The nature trail provides a great area to walk or run. Spa Walden, a recent addition at the inn, features twelve private spa suites allowing each client to indulge in amenities including a Kohler bubble massage tub, Swiss shower, steam room, personal powder room, and relaxation day bed. All of 2013’s Four and Five Diamond award winners are multiple repeat winners and to maintain this level of service year over year is an impressive accomplishment. Among the lodging properties, the Ritz Carlton Cleveland has claimed a Four-Diamond Award for 22 consecutive years, a feat matched only by a handful of properties. Other
of America, France, and Japan. AAA’s Diamond Rating System is the only ratings system that covers all of North America and conducts physical, on-site evaluations. Full-time, professionally trained evaluators to inspect each property on an annual basis, using published guidelines weighted by member priorities.
LODGINGS AAA FIVE DIAMOND WINNER
Inn Walden — 1119 Aurora Hudson Rd, Aurora (9 years) AAA FOUR DIAMOND WINNERS
A POLISHED GEM — One of the Equestrian Suites at Inn Walden. Northeast Ohio lodging properties on the list include the Georgian Manor Inn in Norwalk; Intercontinental Hotel & Conference Center in Cleveland; The Red Maple Inn in Burton; and Julia’s Bed & Breakfast in Hubbard. Perfect for romantic getaways Julia’s offers spectacular views of the Pine Lakes Golf Club, Jacuzzi luxury suites, and an outdoor 120-foot Triple Gazebo for weddings. Four Diamond restaurants were lead by Ristorante Giovanni’s in Beachwood, who notched their 21st consecutive award. Delivering what is arguably the classiest evening in Cleveland, Giovanni’s backs up a wall
Four Diamond awards with impeccable service and great food. The service is from Lake Como, and the menu vintage Perry Como, full of truly imaginative variations of classic recipes, which include handmade pastas, seafood from around the world and the finest in veal, lamb, beef and game. Other area winners include Lola, celebrity chef Michael Symon’s downtown Cleveland eatery, where diners enjoy a modern spin on their favorite dishes, and The Leopard Restaurant in Aurora. The creative inspiration of Iris and Bert Wolstein, the Leopard’s eclectic menu combines the unique flavors
The Ritz-Carlton, Cleveland —1515 W. 3rd St., Cleveland (22 years) Georgian Manor Inn — 123 W. Main St., Norwalk (13 years) Red Maple Inn — 14707 S. Cheshire St., Burton (11 years) Intercontinental Hotel & Conference Center — 9801 Carnegie Ave., Cleveland (10 years) Julia’s Bed & Breakfast — 6219 West Liberty St., Hubbard (8 years) RESTAURANTS AAA FOUR DIAMOND WINNERS
Ristorante Giovanni’s — 25550 Chagrin Blvd., Beachwood (21 years) The Leopard Restaurant — 600 N. Aurora Rd., Aurora (11 years) Lola — 2058 E. Fourth St., Cleveland (3 years)
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A cool Breeze is blowing in the Caribbean Tradewinds and tropical flowers on Carnival’s newest ship
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arnival Breeze is being called a “destination within a ship” and among its many firsts is a dramatic retooling of Carnival’s traditional look and feel. Gone is the sometimes over the top “entertainment architecture” of previous Carnival ships. The soothing blue and sandstone color scheme was inspired by the natural palette of her Caribbean destinations. The $765-million, 130,000-ton behemoth began sailing year-round sixand eight-day Caribbean cruises from Miami last November, becoming the largest Carnival Cruise Lines ship ever based in South Florida. Carnival’s newest ship features a towering atrium with a distinctive nightsky ceiling and ambient lighting from floating lanterns. Signature Dream-class elements include a 23,750-square-foot Cloud 9 Spa and The Lanai, an outdoor promenade featuring cantilevered whirlpools that extend over the ship’s sides. The WaterWorks aqua park is home to two amazing waterslides: Drainpipe and Twister, and a 300-gallon dump bucket. Breeze’s six-day cruises visit Grand Turk; Nassau, Bahamas; Ocho Rios, Jamaica or Key West Florida. Eight-day eastern Caribbean cruises call in Nassau or Grand Turk; spicy San Juan, Puerto Rico; Antigua/Tortola or St. Maarten, and St. Thomas.
SETTING SAIL — Carnival Breeze is sailing its inaugural season in the Caribbean. Tucked away at the southeastern corner of the Bahamas, Grand Turk is filled with turn-of-the-century Caribbean charm. Visitors can hike up to the hilltop overlooking Chalk Sound and ponder the weathered stones inscribed by shipwrecked sailors. San Juan is a colorful mélange of beaches, history and Latin and AfroCaribbean cultures. The 7-square-block historic area of Old San Juan, is a century older than Jamestown and Plymouth Rock.
Antigua is known for its multitude of beaches — some 365 of them, in fact, or “one for every day of the year.” The island also features several historical sites including Nelson’s Dockyard, the Caribbean version of Colonial Williamsburg. Ocho Rios — Jamaica’s sizzling resort town — is Spanish for “eight rivers,” which flow against a sun-drenched canvas of blue-green mountains, and white-sand beaches. Three miles west of town Dunn’s River Falls gushes out the
limestone rock and cascades 600 feet to the beach. The falls spill over layered tiers of stone that form a natural walkway interrupted by occasional rapids and quiet mountain pools. Visitors can either climb up the falls with the assistance of a guide, or follow the paved walkway that parallels the falls. Carnival Breeze’s family-friendly amenities include separate, purposebuilt facilities for the line’s three distinct children’s programs. Accommodations include spacious deluxe ocean view staterooms with two bathrooms, in addition to dozens of inter-connecting staterooms that hold up to five guests. Dining options include Cucina del Capitano — a family-style restaurant reminiscent of a cozy Italian home with dishes inspired by Carnival Breeze Captain Vincenzo Alcaras’ own grandmother. Food Network star Guy Fieri serves up his amazing hand-crafted burgers and fresh-cut fries at Guy’s Burger Joint, while Fahrenheit 555 is a classic American steakhouse grilling mouthwatering steaks and other gourmet fare.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Please see this month’s Departures section or visit AAA.com/cruises for special member values on cruise vacations.
aroundtown WINE & CHOCOLATE TASTING — (March 8) Make plans to attend this special event featuring singers Pam and Doug DiPreta, direct from Las Vegas. Admission includes: flight of wine; flight of chocolate; and a commemorative AWLTC wine glass. Please bring a designated driver if you plan to taste the wine. Tickets are $35.00 per person, $60.00 per couple, or $40.00 per person and $65.00 per couple at the door. Proceeds benefit the Animal Welfare League of Trumbull County. The time is from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Tiffany’s Banquet Center, 601 Bedford Rd SE, Brookfield, OH. Contact: 330.394.3512 or www.AnimalWelfareofOhio.org. SOUTH AMERICAN FOOD TOUR — (March 8-9) Experience a spicy tour of South America by sampling their foods. The time is from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Canal Tavern of Zoar, 8806 Towpath RD NE, Bolivar, OH. Contact: 330.874.4444. AN EVENING WITH GROUCHO — (March 9) Award-winning actor/ director/playwright Frank Ferrante recreates his acclaimed portrayal of legendary comedian Groucho Marx. The two-act comedy consists of the best Groucho one-liners, anecdotes and songs including “Hooray for Captain Spalding” and “Lydia, the Tattooed Lady.” The audience literally becomes a part of the show as
Ferrante ad-libs his way throughout the performance in grand Groucho style. The time is at 7:30 p.m. at the Performing Arts Center at Kent State University at Tuscarawas, 330 University Drive NE, New Philadelphia. Phone: 330.308.6400. JUNIOR HIGH STATE WRESTLING CHAMPIONSHIPS — (March 9-10) The Ohio Athletic Committee brings the Junior High State Wrestling Championships to the Covelli Centre. Tickets are $15.00 per day. Saturday hours: 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.; Sunday matches begin at 8:00 a.m. with finals to be held at 6:00 p.m. that day. Location: Covelli Centre, 229 E Front Street, Youngstown, OH. Contact: www.ohioathletics.com or www.covellicentre.com. HUNTING & MILITARY RELIC SHOW — (March 9-10) Check out the latest hunting gear as exhibitors display a wide variety of guns, knives and military items and collectables. The times are: Sat. 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m; Sunday 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Location: Eastwood Expo Center, 5555 Youngstown Warren Road, Niles OH. Contact: 330.539.4247. STEAK FRY AT THE CLAY MUSEUM — (March 16) The Uhrichsville Clay Museum will be hosting its third annual Steak Fry. Enjoy a savory steak, cooked to your liking, and numerous side dishes! All
proceeds go to the Uhrichsville Clay Museum. Location: 330 N Main St. Uhrichsville, OH. For more information, please call 740.922.6776 or visit their website at www.claymuseum.com. POPOVICH COMEDY PET THEATER — (March 20) Gregory Popovich and his sensational Comedy Pet Theater are wowing audiences around the country with a unique combination of rescue-pet performers and eye-popping juggling. This awardwinning show features a cast of talented cats and dogs rescued from animal shelters and transformed into stars. The time is at 7:30 p.m. at the Performing Arts Center at Kent State University at Tuscarawas, 330 University Drive NE, New Philadelphia. Phone: 330.308.6400. TRUMBULL COUNTY WOMEN’S HISTORY CELEBRATION — (March 23) This year’s program features Ohio Chautauqua scholar and actress, Debra Conner, portraying author Margaret Mitchell. Guests are asked to wear hats. The afternoon event includes lunch, scholarship presentation and raffles. Tickets are $25 and reservations are required. Sponsored by the Tribune’s Trumbull County Woman magazine. The time is from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Packard Music Hall, 1703 Mahoning Avenue NW, Warren, OH. Contact: Esther Gartland at 330.637.4843.
KID ROCK - REBEL SOUL TOUR — (March 25) Kid Rock brings his Rebel Soul tour to downtown Youngstown. Special guests are Buckcherry and Hellbound Glory. Showtime is at 7:30 p.m. at the Covelli Centre, 229 E Front Street, Youngstown. Call 330.746.5600 option 3, or www.covellicentre.com. HELEN TAFT’S CHERRY BLOSSOM TEA — (April 6) Helen Taft was an ambitious, intelligent woman, and a talented musician. This beautiful program takes its theme from “Nellie” who brought the now famous cherry trees from Japan to Washington D. C. and planted them around the Tidal Basin. Audiences will meet the energetic First Lady as she relates her life in a most entertaining fashion. Cost is $35 general admission, $31 members and High Tea at 10:00 a.m. or 1:00 p.m., is included with 11:30 a.m. program. The National First Ladies’ Library, 205 Market Ave., South, Canton, OH. Contact: 330.452.0876 ex. 307. RAIN - THE BEATLES EXPERIENCE — (March 28) Beatles tribute band that began as an offshoot of the Broadway production of Beatlemania. “RAIN” ran on Broadway for 300 shows. The time is at 7:30 p.m. at the Powers Auditorium-DeYor Performing Arts Center, 260 W Federal, Youngstown, OH. Tickets: 330.744.0264 or visit www.youngstownsymhony.com.
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Namibia is the land of endless horizons Epic landscapes amid the drama of the dunes
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amibia is immense even by African standards. Twice the size of California, but with a population of just over 2 million, the rugged landscape is endless and almost unimaginable. The relentless fog and surf of the Skeleton Coast give way to the quivering sands of Sossusvlei, and the spectacular Fish River Canyon, the second largest natural gorge on earth. Visitors can follow in the footsteps of the desert adapted elephant in Damaraland, or witness nature untamed in Etosha Pan National Park on the ultimate Southern Africa safari experience. One of the world’s newest nations, Namibia gained independence from South Africa in 1990. Its name is derived from the harsh Namib Desert, considered the oldest desert in the world. Known as the “Land of Endless Horizons”, Namibia’s natural wonders recently provided some of the dramatic backdrop for Sports Illustrated 2013 Swimsuit edition. Locations included the iconic dunes in Namib-Naukluft National Park. Here, the world’s tallest dunes tower in tones of orange and red from the floor of the Namib Desert. Visitors can climb to the top of the infamous “Big Daddy” dune, or drift above these monolithic mounds on a hot air balloon safari. The first rays of the sunrise paint these mountains of sand with a
wildlife get most of their water from wells dug by baboons and elephants. Etosha Pan, a vast 8,600 square mile tract in northwestern Namibia, is the county’s most popular destination. The park is home to four of the Big Five, including Africa’s tallest elephants, and the rare black rhinoceros. The Desert Express, a trans Namib excursion train, runs between the capital city of Windhoek and the beach resort of Swakopmund. A fine example of German colonial architecture, attractions include a camel farm and the spectacular sand dunes near Langstrand. The Martin Luther steam locomotive dates from 1896, and now sits abandoned in the desert. IF YOU GO
STILL STANDING — The tree skeletons in Deadvlei are 900-years-old. palette of rose, coral, amber and vermillion, framed against an impossible blue sky. Deadvlei is a forest frozen in time. Visitors will discover the skeletons of 900-year-old camelthorn trees whose blackened remains rise like specters from a bed of white sand framed by Sossusvlei’s iconic ochre dunes. Namibia is famous for its many national parks and all 1,200 miles of its Atlantic coastline is protected. The
Bushmen of the Namibian interior called the Skelton Coast “the land God made in anger.” The name derives from the whale and seal bones that once littered the shore and later the skeletal remains of the doomed vessels trapped by the offshore rocks and fog. More than a thousand wrecks are scattered along the coast, notably the Eduard Bohlen, and the Dunedin Star. Further inland, the arid plains are home to zebra, giraffe, lions, and springbok. The
Join AAA Travel on the October 5-18 Plains of Africa Wildlife Safari. This 12 night Explorations by AAA Member Choice Vacations features 9 Wildlife Safaris, visits to Nairobi, the Masai Mara, Karen Blixen Home, and Amboseli National Park, famous for Africa’s Big Five and snow-capped Mt. Kilimanjaro. Spend two nights in the Mt. Kenya Safari Club, once the private retreat of actor William Holden. FOR MORE INFORMATION
Visit AAA.com/Africa for a complete itinerary, trip details and information.
Lightweighting latest trend in improving fuel efficiency Technology lightens the load on vehicles and fuel costs
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ow more than ever, car buyers are focused on fuel efficiency. At the same time, no one wants to sacrifice performance, safety and style. To satisfy car buyers’ tastes, automakers have been busily developing ways to squeeze more miles out of a gallon of gas. Today, they are turning to lighter-weight plastics to lower weight and help increase fuel efficiency. Known as “lightweighting,” reducing a car’s weight minimizes the load on the engine, so it needs less fuel. Experts estimate plastics make up 50 percent of today’s automobiles by volume — but only 10 percent by weight, a progression that’s taken place over many decades. So, if roughly half of today’s car is made with plastics — where is all this stuff? Other than windows and perhaps leather seats, nearly everything a driver sees and touches inside their vehicle is made with plastics: the dashboard, door panels, carpeting, seat fabrics and cushions, and air bags. On the exterior, bumpers, quarter panels, headlights, taillights, grills, spoilers, running boards, and some other parts are typically made with plastics — or headed in that direction. Under the hood, a plethora of hoses, and housings are made with plastics.
PLASTIC FANTASTIC — Chevrolet’s provocative 2014 Corvette Sting Ray may be the ultimate expression of plastics in automobiles. And the development of advanced plastics with special properties — such as shatter, heat, and corrosion-resistance — is leading to even greater usage in vehicles. For example, polycarbonate plastic is emerging as an alternative to glass. Nearly unbreakable, this plastic has long been used in racecars because it’s less likely to shatter and reduces the weight of the car to help improve
speed. Some carmakers are using polycarbonate for sunroofs and other windows to shave off unwanted pounds. Lightweighting, and the resulting increase in fuel efficiency, contributes not only to the car owner’s bottom line but to a lighter environmental footprint. Better gas mileage saves money at the pump, and cutting fuel consumption, reducing a car’s CO2 and other
greenhouse gas emissions, as well as the impacts associated with energy production itself. Some automakers are taking greater steps toward sustainability by using recycled plastics in their vehicles. For example, Ford is recycling an estimated 2 million plastic bottles into fabric for car upholstery. Car designers also have begun using plastics sourced partially from plants, such as soybeans for the plastic foam in some seat cushions. With federal regulations requiring an increase in fuel economy to nearly 55 miles per gallon for cars and light trucks by 2025, automakers must continue to seek ways to do more with less. More technological advancements, more safety features, more fuel efficiency. And less weight. To meet these goals, many experts predict even wider-scale adoption of plastics in future models — including plastic composites in the chassis and engine — leading to ultralightweight cars with better gas mileage and lower emissions than ever before.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Visit AAA.com for information on all things automotive including tips on buying, operating and maintaining a vehicle.
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AAA MOTORIST
MARCH 2013