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SUSQUEHANNA VALLEY REGION
Vol. 52 No. 6
AAA Member Exclusive Add-on airfare available for just $299 per person for a limited time!
LASKA
Member Appreciation Cruise
© MF/FOTOLIA.COM
Member-only extras worth repeating...plus more!
Celebrity Cruises & AAA Travel offer ‘déjà vu values’ on Solstice to Alaska
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ncore! Encore! Great performances are certainly worth repeating — and make you want even more! AAA members who sailed on the 2013 Member Appreciation Cruise loved the extra-special amenities and values offered on that sailing so much that we’ve ramped up the “goodies” for 2014’s Member Appreciation Cruise. In fact, our 7-night Aug 8 Alaska cruise roundtrip from Seattle on Celebrity Solstice is loaded with more than $500 in member values! You can’t get all of these extras anywhere else — only from AAA. This special AAA departure combines the 49th state’s aweinducing glaciers, mountains and wildlife with the firstclass quality of Celebrity’s “floating resort” — and when you add in all of the many member-only values & amenities only available on this sailing, you’ll know this cruise adventure will be the one you’ll always remember. One eye-popping feature of this popular cruise vacation is the discounted add-on roundtrip airfare (HarrisburgSeattle) — available for a limited time for just $299 per person exclusively for
VALUE COMPARISON Category 2A Balcony Stateroom NONMEMBER INTERNET RATE from $2,139* per person
AAA MEMBER RATE
from $1,999 per person ADDED MEMBER VALUES* DISCOUNTED ADD-ON AIRFARE
$299 per person • R/T Harrisburg-Seattle Save as much as $700 per person!
SHIPBOARD CREDIT — $50
per stateroom • for beverages, spa, shops, etc
NO ADDED VALUES
2 vouchers per stateroom
SPECIALTY-RESTAURANT DINNER 2 people per stateroom • 1 evening
COMPACT HIGH-QUALITY BINOCULARS VIP PRIORITY CHECK-IN
Avoid waiting in check-in lines!
24 / 7 MEMBER ASSISTANCE
Available around-the-clock by telephone!
BEST-PRICE GUARANTEE within 48 hours of booking
IN-PERSON PLANNING ASSISTANCE AAA Travel professionals ready to help!
AAA members booking balcony staterooms. The true cost of this cross-country airfare is as much as $700 more, but AAA will pay the rest; that’s easily more savings than the cost of annual membership and enough to convince anyone that it’s worth way more than road service alone! Settle back into the comfort of your private balcony on Celebrity Solstice for an endless parade of stunning land& seascapes passing by your luxurious stateroom. Kick up your slippered feet, sip a sooth-
AAA PetSpot Adds New Site Features
New content, features and fun PetSpot activities have been added to the AAA PetSpot — PetSpot.AAA.com — including a form where visitors can contribute their own favorite dog parks to the site. Other enhancements include a link from the main page to the AAA PetBook Photo Contest Gallery. AAA PetSpot offers members and nonmembers information on pet passenger safety, pet-friendly travel tips, pet health news, pet e-cards and much more. In addition, AAA members can take advantage of national pet-related discounts, as well as local pet-related discounts. Your pet could be on the cover of the 2014 edition of Traveling with Your Pet: The AAA PetBook®. For the sixth consecutive year, the AAA PetBook® Photo Contest is sponsored by Best Western, which has more than 1,600 pet-friendly hotels worldwide. Capture your pet’s most memorable travel moments on camera and enter your photograph before November 30, 2013. Candid photographs are preferred. Contest rules, entry forms and photos from the previous contest are available on the AAA.com/ PetBook website.
Your one-stop shop for travel discounts There’s a new online travel destination for bargain hunters. Now you can access AAA Travel deals through the AAA Discounts & Rewards site. Browse offers on cruises, tours, hotels, car rentals, airport parking and more on the easyto-navigate site. Discounts are updated frequently, so check often to see latest deals. Visit AAA.com/discounts and click on the “Travel” tab to begin saving on your next getaway.
ONBOARD MARTINI TASTING
1 per stateroom • view wildlife & scenery
*based on rate as of 10/18/13 on CelebrityCruises.com
NOV./DEC. 2013
Travel | Insurance/Financial | Automotive | Member Savings | AAA.com
TAKE THE PLEDGE TO DRIVE DRUG AND ALCOHOL FREE
*valid for all balcony and higher-level staterooms
ing cocktail or a steaming cup of java and take in Mother Nature’s handiwork. Keep a keen eye out for glimpses of wildlife, listen for the eerie groaning of melting glaciers, inhale the impossibly fresh salt air and know without a doubt that you’re in a pristine world with the power to erase your everyday stresses and invigorate your senses. Enhancing your newfound tranquillity are a “boatload” of member-only amenities available with balcony state-
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AAA Auto Buying Tools app wins accolades
The AAA Auto Buying Tools app was among “5 essential apps for buying a car” featured recently by TechHive. The profile focused on the ease with which the AAA app takes users from conducting initial vehicle research to making purchase reservations, as well as available tools and options. These include a tool to help users find a vehicle’s history by entering or scanning its vehicle identification number. The number of multi-device car shoppers — those using a combination of their personal computer, smartphone and/or tablet — is predicted to more than double by 2018.
It’s Better to Give & Receive at AAA Travel Looking for a unique gift for someone special? Consider a value-packed AAA Dream Tour like spectacular South America, Portugal & Its Islands, Alaska By Land, Italian Vistas, A Taste of Scotland & Ireland, or Irish Heritage. Book and deposit by November 30, 2013 and you will also receive a Free Holiday Gift like a 42” flatscreen TV, Google 10 tablet, Bose Bluetooth mini speaker, or a Keurig single-serve brewer — for yourself, or to give as a gift. (New bookings only, gift choices vary with tour booked, other restrictions apply). SEE PAGE 11
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AAA takes the headache out of battery replacement Battery testing, installation, and recycling wherever you are
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inter’s frigid temperatures can take their toll on a car’s battery. The energy required to start and heat your vehicle in cold weather places significant strain on your battery. In fact, if the temperature drops to zero or below, your battery likely has only half its normal power. The last thing you want to face on a chilly morning is a car that won’t start, especially when you have a busy day ahead. Jump-starting your vehicle may get you back on the road quickly, but it’s a short-term fix for long-term battery problems. AAA Battery Service is a convenient member benefit that offers free diagnosis and technicians that come to you, saving you time and giving you piece of mind. “More than 1 million motorists have used AAA Battery Service,” said Steve Popovich, managing director of AAA East Central’s Automotive Service Department. “Mobile battery service eliminates the inconvenience of finding a repair shop, making an appointment and sitting in a waiting room while a new battery is installed. It is another example of how AAA continues to identify ways to make members’ hectic lives a bit easier.” When a AAA member requests roadside assistance and the problem is believed to be battery related, a battery service vehicle will be dispatched. A trained technician equipped with
AAA DIRECTORY INTERNET WEB SITE: www.AAA.com AAA MEMBER SERVICES • ADDRESS CHANGE triptiks, tourbooks, maps, license 412-363-5100 or 1-800-441-5008 APPROVED AUTO REPAIR 412-365-7411 or 1-800-233-9733 EMERGENCY ROAD SERVICE 412-362-1900 or 1-800-222-4357 EXPRESS TRAVEL RESERVATIONS
airline tickets, tours, cruises, rental cars
412-363-7283 or 1-800-354-8761
INSURANCE SERVICES: 1-800-207-7947 MEDIA RELATIONS: 412-365-7157 PUBLIC AFFAIRS: 412-365-7242 AAA MOTORIST: 412-365-7017 SAFETY: 412-365-7211 TDD for the hearing-impaired: 412-363-7144
AAA BRANCH OFFICE LOCATIONS
NO POWER SHORTAGE — AAA batteries are delivered and installed on the spot and come with a 36-month free replacement warranty. state-of-the-art diagnostics will test the battery and electrical system of the disabled vehicle. This technology eliminates the guesswork out of whether a boost will get your battery running and you on the go, or if a new battery is required. This diagnostic test is quick, accurate and, best of all, free to AAA members. If a new battery is needed, you can
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
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2013
have one installed right on the spot. Members even receive a $25 discount when they purchase the replacement battery through AAA. AAA Battery Service vehicles carry batteries compatible with 90 percent of all cars, SUVs and light trucks on the road. The new, high-quality AAA brand battery comes with a 72-month warranty, including 36-months free replacement, and 36-months pro-rated replacement. In addition, AAA will recycle your old battery for you. Think your battery may need replacing soon, but want to see how much your new battery will cost? AAA’s InstaQuote battery price calculator on AAA. com can give you an estimated price for your vehicle’s battery before you call for service. The calculator is easy to use: just select your vehicle’s make, model, year and engine size and click “Request a Quote.” Prices displayed include the member discount. AAA Battery Service is designed to ensure that members get the most out of their batteries. If you suspect your battery is failing, call 800-AAA-HELP and ask for AAA Battery Service. A technician will come to your location and perform a free diagnostic test on your battery. For more information on cold-weather car care, visit AAA.com/ automotive.
DID YOU KNOW?
Ninety-nine percent of the materials in lead-acid batteries can be recycled. AAA has recycled more than 8 million batteries in the U.S. and Canada through its mobile battery service and battery collections. FOR MORE INFORMATION
AAA Battery Service is available from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. 7-days a week. To verify AAA Battery Service availability in your area, call our toll-free number: 1.800.222.4357.
Altoona 1634 Valley View Blvd. ............................. 814-946-1277 Butler 138 Clearview Circle .................................... 724-287-2713 Cranberry The Village Shoppes, 20510 Rt. 19 .......... 724-772-1122 Erie 6660 Peach St. Unit #2 .............................. 814-866-0246 Franklin 102 Sugar Creek Town Center Rd. ........... 814-432-3960 Greensburg Eastgate Shopping Center 5142 Route 30, Suite 135 ......................... 724-834-8300 Grove City 24 Pine Grove Village Dr. .......................... 724-458-8930 Harborcreek 4430 Buffalo Rd. ........................................ 814-897-9508 Hermitage 1749 E. State St.......................................... 724-981-9141 Indiana 1169 Wayne Ave........................................ 724-349-4193 Jamestown (New York) 111 W. Fifth St., Jamestown, N.Y.. ........... 716-488-1981 Kittanning Franklin Village Mall. ............................... 724-543-1924 Lewisburg 530 1/2 North Derr Drive . ....................... 570-524-7455 Lower Burrell/New Kensington Area Crossroads Plaza 2503 Leechburg Rd.................................... 724-339-4440 McKean County (Bradford) 587 South Ave. .......................................... 814-368-3113 Meadville 18939 Park Avenue Plaza Unit #7 ............ 814-724-2247 New Castle 40 East St.................................................... 724-658-8551 Niagara-Orleans 7135 Rochester Rd, Lockport, NY. ............ 716-434-2865 Pittsburgh–Century III Area (Pleasant Hills) 9 Clairton Blvd. (RT 51). ........................... 412-655-6100 Pittsburgh–Downtown 538 Smithfield St. ...................................... 412-338-4300 Pittsburgh–East Liberty/Shadyside 5900 Baum Blvd. ........................................ 412-365-7196 Pittsburgh–Monroeville 2725 Mosside Blvd. .................................... 412-858-4640 Pittsburgh–North Hills Area (Ross Township) 4790 McKnight Rd. .................................... 412-367-7600 Pittsburgh–Robinson Township Robinson Town Centre 1760 Park Manor Blvd. ............................. 412-809-2800 Pittsburgh–South Hills Area (Bethel Park) 160 Ft. Couch Rd. ...................................... 412-833-5203 Rochester 300 Adams St. ............................................ 724-775-8000 St. Marys 1375 Bucktail Rd. ...................................... 814-834-7838 Somerset 110 N. Center Ave. .................................... 814-443-6526 Sunbury 1001 Market Street. .................................. 570-286-4507 Uniontown 111 W. Main St. ......................................... 724-438-8575 Warren 2285 Market St. ......................................... 814-723-6660 Washington 196 Murtland Ave. .................................... 724-222-3800 Waynesburg 184 Greene Plaza, US 21 & I-79 ................ 724-627-3434 White Oak/McKeesport Area Oak Park Mall, 2001 Lincoln Way ............ 412-675-3400
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Take the Pledge — Drive drug and alcohol free Susquehanna Valley Region Official publication of AAA East Central Published bimonthly by AAA East Central 1001 Market Street, Sunbury, PA 17801-2403 USPS 530-080 ISSN 0890-7455
Periodicals Postage Paid at Sunbury, PA and at additional entry offices Postmaster: Send address changes to AAA Motorist Susquehanna Valley Region P.O. Box 788 1001 Market Street Sunbury, PA 17801-2403 Subscription Rate: $1 included in Primary Membership dues. All others: $2/year. Publisher..................................... James E. Lehman Managing Editor.............................. Douglas ONeil Business Manager ..................... Sherry A. Madison Editorial Office 1001 Market Street, Sunbury, PA 17801-2403 570.286.4507 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 E. Lehman Treasurer & CFO: ............................................Michael R. Pratt Secretary: ................................................ Robert H. Compton GOVERNING BOARD OF DIRECTORS 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, Pamela C. Fritz, Richard S. Hamilton, James H. Kanicki, Mary Lynn Laughlin, Richard D. Linderman**, William Duff McCrady, James M. McDonnell, Thomas V. McKernan Jr., Martha Hartle Munsch, Gary K. Munsie** EAST CENTRAL REGION BOARD OF DIRECTORS Debra A. Dinnocenzo, Chairman, Neil D. Bassi, Vice Chairman, Carol Asam, Christian Asam, Jack A. Barkley, William E. Bierer**, Ellsworth T. Bowser**, Peter Burton, Marianne B. Campbell, Charles O. Casto, Michael A. Cochran, Daniel J. Collins Jr.**, Robert S. Collins, Robert H. Compton, James J. Dodaro, Jack G. Ellis, Mona N. Generett, Charles W. Groce , Richard S. Hamilton, Mark Henschen, Luke Howe, 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**, James C. Stump, Jr., James F. Ward *ex officio **emeritus directors Regional President ......................................Gregory S. Shaffer 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.
Join the fight against this killer on the road By Richard Hamilton Chairman, AAA East Central he holiday season is a time to celebrate, but it can also lead to trouble on the road. Cars are packed, traffic is heavy and the weather outside may be frightful. Tempers become frayed and drivers are often exhausted from a long ride. Add alcohol to the mix and you have a recipe for disaster. About 40 percent of all traffic fatalities between Christmas and New Year’s involve alcohol. The first day of the year is also the deadliest day of the year for alcohol-related fatalities for motorists and pedestrians alike. You’ve all heard of Black Friday. Now there’s “Blackout Wednesday” thanks to a staggering increase in binge drinking and alcohol-fueled crashes on the night before Thanksgiving. The real tragedy is that drunk driving injuries and deaths are totally preventable if people make responsible choices. Spurred on by organizations like AAA and like-minded stakeholders, tougher legislation, and more proactive enforcement, drunk driving fatalities have declined by nearly 40 percent in the past two decades. Other contributing factors include shifting demographics and major improvements in emergency medicine and vehicle safety. Although social drinkers are much more aware of the risks, those who continue to drink and drive are more likely to be hard-core offenders, habitual drinkers who regularly consume large amounts of alcohol and drive
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Richard Hamilton afterwards. About one-third of those arrested for drunk driving are repeat offenders, and up to two-thirds of those with suspended licenses still drive. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration those drivers are responsible for approximately 70 percent of all alcohol-related traffic fatalities. Clearly, more work needs to be done preventing drunk drivers from getting behind the wheel. AAA supports requiring ignition interlocks for all convicted DUI offenders. These devices prevent operation of the vehicle by anyone with a blood alcohol content (BAC) above a specified safe level. When installed, interlocks are associated with about a 70 percent reduction in arrest
rates for impaired driving. AAA is also working year-round to educate motorists about the hazards and driving practices that will help keep them safe and reduce alcoholrelated crashes. PreventDUI.AAA.com is an online resource offering impaired driving facts, transportation alternatives and expert advice. While you’re there, AAA encourages visitors to Take the Pledge to drive drug and alcoholfree. Simply provide your name, email and zip code, and “sign” the pledge by checking the box. Then, help spread the word to family and friends via social media sites like Facebook and Twitter. Send personalized e-cards to encourage others to do the same with timely messages that could one day help save their lives. PreventDUI.AAA.com also helps AAA members become more effective advocates. It’s not only a gateway for people to publicly commit to the fight against impaired driving, but a valuable resource for prevention tips and up-todate statistics to help people drive more responsibly. If you’re planning to drink this holiday season, make sure you bring a designated driver. If you feel like you’ve had too much to drink, call a friend or a cab — don’t drive. Never allow yourself or your loved ones to ride in a vehicle driven by someone who is intoxicated. We’ve all seen the consequences of having “one too many” and the stakes are just too high to gamble with the legal limit.
membersonly
Ring in the New Year with AAA Premier Up to 200 miles free towing and more
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ow is the season when people often begin thinking about New Year’s resolutions. This year, resolve to protect your family both at home and on the road with an upgrade to AAA Premier membership, AAA’s most comprehensive package of services and benefits. “We introduced AAA Premier after determining that members were looking for even higher levels of protection and benefits than those of basic or AAA Plus membership,” said John Herrilko, AAA East Central Senior Vice President. AAA Premier is perfect for members planning to hit the road for the holidays. AAA Premier roadside assistance includes one tow of up to 200 miles per household per membership year, in addition to three remaining calls, which can be tows of up to 100 miles. If your vehicle does need to be towed, you’ll also be reimbursed for up to $55 in car-rental fees. If you rent from Hertz, you will receive a second day’s rental free on a minimum two-day emergency rental.
AAA Premier also includes trip interruption protection. Members are eligible for up to $1,500 toward the cost of substitute transportation and/or accommodations, should travel plans be delayed or interrupted (when driving 100 miles or more from home) due to an accident, mechanical breakdown, car theft or illness. In addition, members qualify for up to $500 in vehicle return coverage if car issues result in the use of substitute transportation. “People are amazed how quickly costs can add up, and how much these Premier benefits alone can help out when the unexpected happens,” said Herrilko. “With trip interruption and vehicle return coverage, members can quickly get back on schedule and complete their trip.” Some of the most commonly used AAA Premier benefits can be found at your local AAA branch office. Premier members can receive passport photos or personal notary service at no charge. In addition, the $25 per person airline reservation fee is waived for AAA Premier members who book reserva-
tions at their AAA Travel Agency. AAA Premier members also save 15 percent on luggage and travel accessories at AAA Travel Stores in AAA East Central branch offices. Use your discount to buy gifts for the traveler on your holiday shopping list, or to stock up on essentials for your winter vacation getaway. “With all that AAA Premier membership has to offer, there’s a good chance that your family will use at least one of these benefits each year,” Herrilko said. “And almost all of these benefits pay for the cost of annual membership in themselves. That’s why we think it’s become so popular among our members.” Visit www.AAA.com/premier for a comparison of AAA basic, AAA Plus and AAA Premier benefits. AAA Premier is available at an annual fee of just $35 per household, in addition to the member’s basic and AAA Plus membership dues. To upgrade to AAA Premier, call or stop by your local AAA branch office, or contact the Club’s Member Service Call Center at 800.441.5008.
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What you need to know about travel insurance Why no two travel insurance policies are the same
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lanning a vacation requires preparation: reserving transportation and accommodations, applying for a passport or visa, and researching the destination. There are some travel factors that are impossible to anticipate. With the correct travel insurance coverage, however, you don’t need to worry. “Travel insurance is a way of protecting your investment, just as you would with your home or your vehicle,” said Ruth Nagy, AAA East Central managing director, travel operations. “You worked hard to earn that money to be able to take a vacation, so if you need to cancel or change your travel plans for a valid covered reason, you’re going to want that money back.” Trip cancellation insurance is one of the most popular types of travel insurance. It reimburses your travel expenses if your trip is delayed or cancelled for a valid reason, such as severe weather or major illness. Other reasons often covered by trip cancellation policies include: death of an immediate family member, jury duty, and bankruptcy of the travel vendor. If your trip cancellation policy does not cover a specific reason that may apply to your situation — such as military deployment or pregnancy — talk with your agent to see if that coverage can be added on. Additional options on travel insurance
have to pay out-of-pocket, which can be expensive. Many travel insurance plans include options to cover expenses and medical evacuation, if needed. There may be exclusions such as preexisting condition, so review the coverage and ask your agent about what options are best for your situation. There are several factors affecting the cost of a travel insurance policy, including the age of the travelers, the length of the trip, and the distance they are traveling. In most instances, a travel insurance policy costs approximately 10 to 20 percent of the total trip cost. Before deciding on any travel insurance plan, be sure you understand what you’re buying and what each policy does and does not cover. “I always encourage travelers to read the policy, understand the policy and ask any questions they may have before they leave for their trip,” said Nagy. “You want to make sure your plan includes the coverage that best fits your specific needs.”
BE PREPARED — Lost luggage, bad weather, medical emergencies, and natural disasters can all impact your travel plans. coverage may include reimbursement for delayed or lost luggage and missed connection coverage. Emergency medical coverage is another important aspect of travel insurance. If traveling internationally, most
people are not covered by their health insurance. Even if you are staying within the United States, your health insurance may not cover out-of-network care. If you should need medical treatment on your vacation, you will most likely
FOR MORE INFORMATION
For more information on protecting your next getaway — whether you purchased your trip through AAA Travel or not call 800.354.8761 or visit AAA.com/travelinsurance.
Taking the bite out of winter driving Preparation the key to staying safe on the road
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inter driving can be hazardous for even the most experienced drivers, especially if their vehicles are not properly prepared for the challenging conditions winter often brings. Maintaining the safety and reliability of your vehicle should be a top priority during the winter months. Start the season off right by winterizing your vehicle before taking to the road. Here are some helpful tips to help you arrive safely to your destination: Drive cautiously — Match your driving speed to the current conditions. If conditions are challenging due to a slippery road surface or reduced visibility, decrease your speed. A slower driving speed allows for more reaction time and margin of error. Traction is key — Winter weather is not the time to ignore your tires. For optimum traction to navigate harsh winter conditions with confidence, consider installing a set of winter tires on your vehicle. Winter tires like Goodyear’s Ultra Grip Ice WRT feature a specialized ice tread compound that offers enhanced traction on ice and snow-covered roads and maintains its flexibility in cold weather. This helps the tire to adapt to the road surface and reallly dig into snow and ice. Inflation is essential — Tire pressure
SLIDE RULE — Winter tires are able to stop up to 50 percent faster on ice and snow. decreases by about one pound per square inch for every 10-degree drop in outside air temperature, so it is vital that drivers check the air pressure regularly during the winter months. Proper tire inflation is essential for vehicle stability, fuel efficiency, optimum steering, grip, wear and load-carrying capabilities. Air
pressure should be checked when the tires are cool, meaning they have not been driven even a mile. Service your vehicle — Be prepared for what Mother Nature throws your way by making sure you have enough antifreeze and windshield wiper fluid. For a correct amount of antifreeze to withstand
the winter temperatures, a 50/50 mix of antifreeze to water is sufficient. You can go through all your windshield wiper fluid in one storm, so be sure to completely fill your vehicle’s reservoir before the first snowfall hits. It may be useful to buy extra, but make sure it is high-quality, “no-freeze” fluid. Practice makes perfect — It’s important to be alert when driving on snowcovered roadways because slush, ice and other hazards make it difficult to change lanes and handle your vehicle. In order to know how your vehicle performs in the winter weather, it may be helpful to practice driving techniques in an empty, open parking lot. Refer to your owner’s manual to fully understand your vehicle’s braking and traction control systems. Stock your vehicle — No one wants to break down, especially in cold weather, so keeping a kit with essential items is helpful in case of emergencies. Some essential items to include are blankets, water bottles, a first aid kit, jumper cables, shovel/ice scraper, road flares, a candle and matches.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Visit AAA.com/auto for information on all things automotive including tips on buying, operating and maintaining a vehicle.
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Member Appreciation Cruise rooms — including an opportunity to taste a martini (or 2) and a fee-free dinner at an onboard specialty restaurant. An Alaska cruise vacation, amazing as it is, is even better with a Concierge Class stateroom (upgrade from balcony for $320 per person), where little details make a big difference; AAA has 20 available at a great rate. Besides personalized concierge service, inroom amenities include sparkling wine on arrival, flowers & fruit & evening hors d’oeuvres delivered daily, luxury bedding, pillow menu, personalized stationery, tote bag, umbrella for onboard use and a private bar (custom-stocked for a fee). In-bath amenities include a massage showerhead, plush robes, oversize towels, salon-quality hairdryer and a selection of shampoos/lotions/soaps. You also enjoy express luggage delivery, early embarkation/disembarkation, priority seating in main dining room
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& specialty restaurants, makeup/turndown service, expanded room service menu (24 hours) and shoeshine valet. Balcony enhancements include a table for 2, cushioned chairs and highpower binoculars for onboard use. After using those binoculars on your relaxing full day at sea after departing Seattle, you’ll catch sight of Ketchikan, the first port of call. Variously called “Salmon Capital of the World,” “Alaska’s First City” and “Rain Capital of Alaska,” it was named after a creek flowing through this ancestral home of the Tlingit people; some say it’s their word for “thundering wings of an eagle.” A must-see here is the world’s largest collection of totem poles. You may opt to flightsee by seaplane over nearby spectacular Misty Fjords National Monument, called the “Yosemite of the North.” Back on ship, you’ll sail amid pure silence past translucent blue icebergs
© FLORIDASTOCK/FOTOLIA.COM
SOAR WITH MORE — AAA members get more extras on the 2014 Appreciation Cruise.
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2013
Celebrity Solstice Alaska Aug 8-15 AAA Member Rate $1,999
Balcony rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes 7-night cruise accommodations/entertainment, most onboard meals, government fees, VIP priority check-in, 24–7 member assistance, 48-hour bestprice guarantee, $50 shipboard credit per stateroom, binoculars (1 per stateroom), martini tasting (2 vouchers per stateroom) and specialty-restaurant dining (1 night, 2 people per stateroom). Ship’s registry: Malta. Ask about discounted add-on airfare (available for a limited time). Visit AAA.com/travel for more information. silhouetted against a dramatic backdrop of waterfall-laced rock walls ascending thousands of feet into the sky at Tracy Arm Fjord. Where Earl Grey meets Eddie Bauer® is a way to describe the charms of Alaska’s capital, Juneau. Here, the pioneering spirit lives on in an interesting mix of cosmopolitan chic and frontier ruggedness. Visit the State Museum’s exquisite collection of Russian Orthodox and Gold Rush relics. Grab those binoculars again, as you enter one of the world’s most famously beautiful waterways, the Inside Passage. It features virtually everything you come to Alaska hoping to see, including rain forests, glaciers, fjords and white-capped peaks — all of which create a setting that’s perfect
for viewing whales and sea lions. Wildlife gives way to wild life in the Gold Rush town of Skagway. Saloons and dance-hall revues enliven this little port with the big frontier spirit. If prospecting fever hits you, try the White Pass & Yukon Railway or a ride on the Klondike Highway to places where you can roll up your sleeves and pan for gold on your own! After another day at sea, step ashore at Victoria, British Columbia’s capital and a charming example of colonial splendor. This English-flavored enclave enjoys a temperate climate, which makes exploring its museums, gardens and parks so enjoyable. Learn more about this departure at AAA.com/travel. But hurry — space is limited, and Alaska is very popular!
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AAA membership is a gift for all seasons This year, give the gift that keeps giving
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ou know how valuable your AAA card is. Now you can give as good as you get with a AAA Gift Membership. Who wouldn’t appreciate the gift of security, quality, service and savings? AAA is justifiably famous for our 24-hour emergency roadside assistance, but a Gift Membership offers you and your loved ones so much more. AAA members receive all the great benefits including special discounts and perks on vacation packages, tours and cruises, which they can plan and book through their local AAA Travel Agency or online at AAA.com. Members also receive savings on luggage, accessories, attraction tickets, lodging discounts, Hertz car rental, and more. AAA Prescription Savings will save everyone money on their medications, even the family dog! Our brand new AAA Discounts & Rewards program delivers an innovative shopping experience on AAA.com, where members can save with discount offers from approximately 30,000 participating merchants nationwide — including national chains like Kohl’s, Macy’s, Best Buy, The Gap and The Home Depot. In addition to discount offers, you’ll earn reward points to redeem for extra savings. WOWPoints are AAA’s online reward points — just like the loyalty points you get from credit cards or airlines. AAA’s Show Your Card & Save® pro-
IT’S A GIFT — AAA membership may be close to the “perfect” gift. gram means savings are literally at your fingertips — at more than 150,000 locations worldwide — especially with versatile SmartPhone apps like AAA Mobile. AAA’s TripTik® Travel Planner and TourBook® guides make planning a holiday road trip a breeze. There are plenty of options for online maps and directions, but there’s only one that combines AAA’s professional hotel and restaurant ratings and robust travel information with Google maps. AAA members can also download dig-
Get More... Out of Your Membership with
AAA Plus!!
A
s a AAA basic member, you enjoy countless valuable benefits — from roadside assistance to travel services, member discounts, and access to financial and insurance services. And there’s more! When you sign up for AAA Plus membership, you’re eligible for all of the benefits of basic membership, plus enhanced and extended services, including:
n Up to 100 miles of free towing n Free emergency fuel n Up to $100 emergency locksmith services n Extended extrication service n Extra Trip Interruption Protection coverage
Get more out of your membership
Call or visit your local AAA office or AAA.com, or call our Member Service Center at 1-800-441-5008
ital TourBook® guides for e-reader devices and SmartPhones at AAA.com/ebooks. Content for the 101 eTourBook guides is refreshed nightly to ensure members receive the most up-to-date information. Our Approved Auto Repair network of regional facilities abide by AAA’s stringent standards for technical certification, modern equipment, and customer satisfaction, which means automotive service you can trust. AAA Battery Service provides convenient mobile battery testing and installa-
tion of quality, competitively priced batteries. Over one million AAA members have enjoyed the convenience of having a AAA battery delivered and installed on the spot. And each AAA battery is protected by an unprecedented 36-month free replacement warranty. AAA also offers members trusted insurance protection for your car, home, and life. Financial services include CDs, deposit accounts, credit cards, and Travel Money. Identity theft is one of America’s fastest-growing crimes, and AAA’s Protect MyID® is a brand new member benefit that offers effective, no cost identity theft protection. Exclusive features like Daily Credit Monitoring, Lost Wallet Card Protection and Dedicated Fraud Resolution Support can help catch identity theft when it happens and help you restore your credit and your peace of mind.
SAVE ON GIFT MEMBERSHIPS
If your holiday budget is in the red, AAA can help you save some green. Purchase a AAA Gift Membership through December 31, 2013 and save $10! Your family and friends will enjoy the discounts, services and benefits of AAA all year long — and you enjoy the savings! For more information, visit your local AAA branch office or online at AAA.com.
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AAA MOTORIST
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2013
The Big Chill — How you can prevent frozen pipes What should you do when a water pipe freezes?
I
magine waking up on a frigid morning, and stumbling down the stairs only to find your kitchen is filled with water. Each winter, about a quarter of a million families find themselves with water pipes that have frozen and burst. A single three millimeter crack in a pipe can dump up to 250 gallons of water in your house in a single day causing thousands of dollars of damage. Whether your home has steel, copper or plastic PVC pipes, no one is immune. Fortunately, there a few precautions you can take to protect your pipes: Bundle up those pipes: Take time to insulate all the exposed pipes in your crawl spaces, garage and attic. These pipes are more vulnerable to freezing. Use heat tape or thermostaticallycontrolled heat cable to wrap high-risk pipes. Use exterior tape for outside pipes and interior tape for indoor pipes. Seal the cracks: Look for air leaks near your pipes. If arctic air seeps through even a tiny crack, your pipes can quickly freeze and burst. Seal up every leak with caulk or insulation. Put the garden hose away: Disconnect your garden hose and shut off the indoor valve before winter. Bump up the thermostat: The temperature inside the walls and attic is much colder than the inside of your house. If you let the indoor temperature drop below 65 degrees, your exterior
FROZEN OUT— About a quarter million families deal with frozen water pipes that burst each winter. wall pipes are at high risk of freezing. Protect your home when you’re gone: If you’re going out of town, ask a friend or neighbor to check your house each day. Ask them to make sure it’s warm enough to prevent pipes from freezing and look for any signs of water. Consider shutting off and draining your water system before you leave. Know the signs of a pipe freeze: If you turn on your faucet and no water comes out, your pipe is probably frozen.
You may be able to thaw the pipe yourself with a hair dryer. Start warming the pipe as close to the faucet as possible, working toward the coldest part of the pipe. Never try to thaw pipe with a torch or open flame. Deal with the burst pipe: If your pipes burst, turn off your water at the main shut-off valve and leave the water faucets on. Call a plumber right away. You should also call your insurance agent or company as soon as possi-
ble. Although your insurance adjuster doesn’t need to see the spill before you clean it up, you should at least inform them of your situation. Move electronics, furniture, carpet and other items away from the water. Start mopping up the water and try to make temporary repairs to protect your home from further damage. Be sure to save all of your receipts for any money you spend related to the pipe burst. Your insurance company may be able to reimburse you for temporary repairs. Try to avoid making expensive permanent repairs until your insurance adjuster has a chance to assess the damage. Obviously, no one wants to deal with the cost and aggravation of a pipe burst. Take the proper measures to protect your pipes and your home. It’s also important to ensure your family is prepared to act swiftly and smartly if a pipe does rupture. 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 800.207.7947, or visit AAA.com/insurance for more information or to schedule a comprehensive Insurance review. AAA – your trusted insurance advisor.
Bridging the gap in state transportation funding Pennsylvania bridges and highways need major repairs
P
ennsylvania’s transportation network is one of the largest in the nation. Today the state’s aging roads and bridges are in poor condition due to decades of underinvestment and deferred maintenance. A 2010 transportation funding study — in which AAA participated — determined that Pennsylvania must invest an additional $3.5 billion annually in the state’s transportation system. If not addressed, the funding gap will double by 2020. According to a 2013 report by The Road Information Program (TRIP), roads and bridges that are deficient, congested or lack desirable safety features cost Pennsylvania motorists a total of $9.4 billion statewide — as much as $1,800 annually per driver in some urban areas — due to higher vehicle operating costs (VOC), traffic crashes and congestionrelated delays. In the Pittsburgh area for example, driving on bad roads costs motorists an average of $1,418 per driver in extra vehicle repairs, operating costs, wasted gas in congestion, and traffic crashes. Pennsylvania leads the nation in the number of structurally deficient bridges with 4,479. A total of 42 percent of Pennsylvania bridges are in need of repair, improvement or replacement. Twenty-five percent of the state’s bridges are structurally deficient and 17
A ROUGH ROAD AHEAD — Pennsylvania’s AAA Clubs recently launched a statewide billboard campaign. percent are functionally obsolete. The average age of Pennsylvania’s bridges is 51 years and most were built to have a 50-year lifespan. This past summer, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) announced that they were adding or increasing weight restrictions to about 1,000 structurally deficient bridges statewide to ensure bridge safety and preserve our aging bridge system. After putting these new restrictions in place, Pennsylvania now ranks 27th in
the nation with the percent of structurally deficient bridges that are posted or closed. According to PennDOT, reducing the weight traveling on these bridges will slow down deterioration and preserve safety while funding for their repairs remains uncertain. Once a transportation-funding plan is passed by the legislature, the earliest the weight restrictions could be removed would be when their repairs can be placed on the schedule for funding within two years.
And if conditions warrant, the restrictions could remain in place until repairs are made. AAA remains committed to advancing responsible, long-term solutions to meet the transportation challenges of the future and that all funding options must be on the table. Stabile funding solutions should go hand-in-hand with reforms that target waste, mismanagement, and ensure greater transparency and accountability in federal and state transportation programs. Finding workable solutions will entail a host of challenging policy and revenue issues, but these efforts should be viewed as an opportunity to move the transportation infrastructure into the 21st century, bolster economic recovery, and improve our quality of life.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
AAA works to educate the public about the need for greater investment and significant reforms in the federal transportation program. Our Making America Stronger campaign was designed to raise awareness about the crucial role a safe and well-maintained transportation system plays in our everyday lives and in the nation’s economy. Learn more at makingamericastronger.aaa.com
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2013
AAA MOTORIST
Member Benefits • Exclusive Offers
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1-800-354-8761 • AAA.com/travel
Book & deposit any 1 of 7 special vacations by 11/30/13 & receive a FREE HOLIDAY GIFT! TELEVISION TABLET South America Portugal & its Islands Alaska by Land Italian Vistas Gardens of London Taste of Scotland & Ireland Irish Heritage
• •
• • • • •
SPEAKER
• • • • •
BREWER
• • • • • • •
GOOGLE 10 TABLET COMPUTER BOSE BLUETOOTH MINI SPEAKER
Pick a tour & make a deposit, then pick a qualifying gift. Visit AAA.com/TravelDeals for detailed gift descriptions. Gifts shipped by 12/15/13. Deposit (up to value of selected gift) is nonrefundable.
TREASURES OF
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SOUTH AMERICA
Been there? Done that? Here’s a spectacular getaway for those “tired” of Europe or “over” the Caribbean. Look to the intriguing, inviting lands of South America! This all-too-unsung continent boasts some of the world’s most fascinating natural & manmade landmarks, a colorful tapestry of native & European-influenced cultures and unique travel experiences that rival or surpass destinations you've already seen. “Treasures of South America,” a 17-night escorted AAA Featured Vacation, starts with a bang in exciting Rio de Janeiro. This vibrant city pulses with life 24-7 and is in full-speed prep to host the 2016 Summer Olympics. Stroll the sands at Ipanema, ride a cable car to the top of Sugarloaf and marvel at vistas from atop Corcovado, from which you and “Christ the Redeemer” tower over the sights & sounds of this friendly city. Indulge in a churrascaria, a seemingly unending feast of marinated & barbecued meats, while sipping a sweet/sour (sugar cane liquor & lime) caipirinha. Leave the uber-urban metropolis for the primal atmosphere of Iguazu, one of the world’s largest & most breathtaking waterfalls. Feel its mist & power...then dine at the nexus of the borders of Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay. Refreshed, fly to the wine country of Mendoza, Argentina, for touring and tastings before visiting the “Paris of South America”; Buenos Aires’ European-style architecture and joie de vivre lend Argentina’s stylish capital an air of sophistication unique in the Western Hemisphere. Witness (and participate in!) the much-revered spectacle that is the tango. In Peru, tour Lima’s historical center (a UNESCO World Heritage site), then fly to Cuzco and descend into the Sacred Valley of the Incas to meet locals and visit Ollantayambo, the only Inca settlement continually inhabited since its inception. The next stop alone is worth the journey to South America — Machu Picchu! By Book this vacation & choose 1 gift below. train, ascend to the “Lost City of the Incas” for a magical moment in time and nature.
KEURIG SINGLE-SERVICE BREWER
Portugal & its Islands Right now, Portugal is hot! And getting hotter! Not necessarily temperature-wise; it’s fast becoming the last “undiscovered” destination in Western Europe. Why? Those who have discovered its considerable assets are having a hard time keeping it to themselves! Those assets include Portugal’s impressive history; once a world superpower, its seafarers explored and charted much of the Old and New Worlds. Then there’s the endless variety of things to see and do, all within a manageable area (about the size of Maine). Throw in a lively, cosmopolitan capital and charmingly sleepy villages...as well as world-renowned wines and succulent seafood & sausages. Add sun, sand and surf. And top it all off with the Azores and Madeira — island gems in the Atlantic! In Lisbon, explore the Moorish Alfama Quarter, Jeronimo’s Monastery (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the Monument to the Discoveries and the ©STEVANZZ/FOTOLIA.COM Tower of Belem (UWHS). See Sintra (UWHS), summer residence of kings for 6 centuries. Then enjoy Portugal’s “Riviera” and dinner accompanied by wine and fado, soulful music recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage. On the Silver Coast, see sleepy villages, rich vineyards and age-old castles. At Fatima, see the famous Basilica and view the magnificent Batalha Monastery (UWHS). The truly remote Azores archipelago lies some 900 miles west of Lisbon. Its volcanic birth created mountains and valleys richly covered with varied vegetation, pocket lakes resting in ancient craters, hot springs, fumaroles and thermal fountains. Seaside villages, white-washed houses guarded by medieval city walls, bustling harbors and cities overflowing with architectural treasures — these, and Europe’s Book this vacation & choose 1 gift below. only pineapple and tea plantations, make the Azores all the more inviting. About 600 miles southwest of
more
5 more qualifying vacations on the following pages
more
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AAA MOTORIST
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2013
1-800-354-8761 AAA.com/travel
Member Benefits Exclusive Offers
Book 1 of these 7 vacations by 11/30/13 & get a See the previous page for offer information and visit AAA.com/TravelDeals for descriptions of these gifts. SOUTH AMERICA (continued from preceding page)
In addition to all of this, you’ll enjoy 5 extra-special experiences at no extra cost to you! • Jeep tour of the lush Tijuca Forest National Park around Rio de Janeiro • Rio’s “Samba City” workshop where Carnival floats & costumes are created • a night on the town at Rio Scenarium, a famous club offering live samba & jazz • the unique Inca terraces at Moray and the Sacred Valley Salineras salt mines • Iguazu Falls rainforest safari by Jeeps and Zodiac boats (to base of falls!)
Sept 10-27 • AAA Member Rate: $8,768 Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip flights (Philadelphia–Rio de Janeiro, Cuzco-Philadelphia), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, hotel accommodations/taxes/service charges/baggage handling (1 piece per person), 26 meals, 5 “experiences,” air taxes & fees/surcharges and in–South America Book this vacation & choose 1 gift below. tour director. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent. Visit AAA.com/ GoSouthAmerica for details.
s a s t V i n a i Ital
This magnificent 13-day escorted adventure features visits to 6 UNESCO World Heritage Sites — Rome, Pompeii, Florence, Pisa, Venice and Verona! Enjoy included extra-special “moments” you’d have to research & add on at your own expense and effort: • Guided visits to St Peter’s Basilica and Vatican City’s museums, including the Sistine Chapel • A 4-course dinner with wine in Rome, with live performances of arias from the best operas • A tour of a dried-pasta factory and a dinner featuring this culinary treasure in the factory’s own restaurant • After-hours visit to a 14th-century monastery followed by a family-style feast of traditional Tuscan dishes, with wine! • A serenaded gondola cruise on the canals of Venice — one of the world’s most famous travel experiences Enjoy relaxing multiple-night stays in Rome (3), Sorrento–Amalfi Coast (2), Florence (2), Venice (2) and Stresa–Lakes District (2).
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TABLET COMPUTER
PORTUGAL & ITS ISLANDS (continued from preceding page)
Lisbon, the resort island of Madeira, “pearl of the Atlantic,” boasts a subtropical climate, majestic mountain ranges and volcanic caves as well as traditional villages and the world’s second highest cliff. Encounter islanders continuing age-old ways of life — fishing, wickerwork, intricate embroidery and, of course, world-renowned wine making. Sit down to an espetada (traditional dinner) and enjoy folk music & dancers as you feast on herb-marinated beef cooked over an open fire!
Sept 12-24 • AAA Member Rate: $4,619 Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip flights (Philadelphia-Lisbon), in-Portugal flights, roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, hotel accommodations/taxes/service charges/baggage handling (1 piece per person), 19 meals, air taxes & fees/surcharges and in-Portugal tour director. Book this vacation & choose 1 gift below. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details. Visit AAA.com/ GoEurope for details.
LIMITEED! SPAC
ALASKA BY LAND! See the incredible, inspirational interior of the Last Frontier on this 9-night escorted tour Unforgettable experiences not on cruises! Traditional salmon bake & a sternwheeler river cruise in Fairbanks Thrilling 4-hour aerial adventure flying over the Arctic Circle, the Trans-Alaska Pipeline and the Yukon River 7-hour Tundra Wilderness Tour in Denali National Park, looking for grizzlies, moose & more...with an overnight in the park Meet a 4-time winner of the Iditarod Sled Dog Race and his canine crew at Happy Trails Kennel near Anchorage Visits to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation & Begich Boggs Visitor centers 2-hour river float trip in Kenai Fjords National Park A ride on Girdwood’s Alyeska Tram — from sea level to 2,300 feet! Special welcome & farewell dinners with your fellow travelers
May 5-17 • AAA Member Rate: $5,364
July 8-17 • AAA Member Rate: $4,999
Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip flights (Philadelphia-Rome, Milan-Philadelphia), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, hotel accommodations/ taxes/service charges/baggage handling (1 piece Book this vacation & choose 1 gift below. per person), 21 meals, air taxes & fees/surcharges, in-Italy tour director. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details. Visit AAA.com/GoItaly for details.
Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip flights (Harrisburg-Fairbanks), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, motorcoach sightseeing, accommodations (Fairbanks, Denali, Anchorage, Seward: 2 each, Book this vacation & choose 1 gift below. Girdwood: 1), 16 meals, luggage handling (1 bag/ person), gratuities for included features (includes driver, escort), in-Alaska escort and AAA Tour Manager (if minimum-participation goal is met).
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2013
AAA MOTORIST
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1-800-354-8761 AAA.com/travel
Member Benefits Exclusive Offers
FREE HOLIDAY GIFT! MINI SPEAKER
SINGLE BREWER
Discover Britain’s horticultural heritage on a journey featuring dinner with representatives of the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), the Chelsea Flower Show (on RHS-members-only day), Hampton Court Palace & its gardens, the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew (a UNESCO World Heritage site), Windsor Castle and an exclusive gala dinner at the RHS flagship garden at Wisley. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE... Half-day city tour including views of Buckingham Palace, Tower of London, Big Ben, Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, Changing of the Guard (if scheduled) A briefing on planning the best use of your time at the Chelsea Flower Show at Royal Hospital Chelsea “Diner’s Choice”: Choose a spot perfect for you one night from a “menu” of London’s great restaurants Free time to explore London’s endless offerings — theaters, museums, galleries, parks, etc
May 17-24 • AAA Member Rate: $4,199 Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip flights (Philadelphia-London), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, hotel accommodations/taxes/ service charges/baggage handling (1 piece per Book this vacation & choose 1 gift below. person), 9 meals, air taxes & fees/surcharges. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent. Visit AAA.com/travel for more information.
ESCORTED TOUR OPERATED BY CIE TOURS INTERNATIONAL
Glasgow • Spean Bridge Woollen Mill • Loch Ness cruise • Highland evening • Blair Athol Whisky Distillery • Edinburgh & its Castle • Ferry to Northern Ireland • Belfast: Titanic Center • Dublin: Guinness Storehouse, canal dinner cruise • Rock of Cashel • Blarney Castle & Woolen Mills • Killarney: “jaunting car” • Ring of Kerry • Skellig Experience • Sneem • Moll’s Gap • River Shannon ferry • Cliffs of Moher (pictured) • Bunratty Castle medieval banquet • AND MORE!
LIGHT UP THE HOLIDAYS FOR THE
TRAVELERS IN YOUR LIFE Help make their travel dreams come true this year! AAA Travel Gift Certificates (in amounts of $200 or greater) are available at all AAA Travel locations. Certificates are redeemable at any AAA East Central Travel Agency toward the purchase of airline tickets, tour packages or escorted tour reservations. Certificates expire 60 months (5 years) from date of issue. © GVS - FOTOLIA.COM
ESCORTED TOUR OPERATED BY CIE TOURS INTERNATIONAL Bunratty Folk Park Medieval banquet in a 15th-century castle Cliffs of Moher Flying Boat Museum Killarney National Park, including Muckross House Ring of Kerry, Skellig Experience & Moll’s Gap Waterford Crystal tour Russborough House Dinner & song at a pub Dublin: tour & free time ...AND MUCH, MUCH MORE!
Nov 1-12 • AAA Member Rate: $1,799
Oct 5-12 • AAA Member Rate: $1,459
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, 17 meals (including medieval banquet, canal dinner cruise), in-Ireland tour director, hotel luggage handling (1 piece per person), hotel Book this vacation taxes & service charges. Ask about available add-on airfare. & get this gift. Visit AAA.com/Ireland for itinerary and more information.
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 Book this vacation piece per person), hotel taxes & service charges. Ask about available & get this gift. add-on airfare. Visit AAA.com/GoIreland for itinerary and information.
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AAA MOTORIST
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2013
1-800-354-8761 AAA.com/travel
Member Benefits Exclusive Offers
ULTIMATE ALASKA Winter Wonderland Tour • Feb 20–March 2
An extraordinary chance to witness the Northern Lights, the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race and Alaska’s winter wildlife & wilderness! Fairbanks • Chena Hot Springs Resort Alaska Railroad • Seward Highway Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center Alaska Sealife Center • Alyeska Resort Anchorage • Alaska Zoo • Wasilla Mushers Banquet • Iditarod Race
AAA.com
Linking you & your next vacation! FLIGHTS RENTAL CARS HOTEL/MOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS Research & book travel arrangements from the comfort of your home – 24/7. TRAVEL WITH SOMEONE YOU TRUST.®
AAA Member Rate: $2,955
See the “real” Alaska summer visitors never see! Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, hotel luggage handling, sightseeing transportation/ admissions, 14 meals, in-Alaska guide, hand warmers and services of a AAA Tour Manager (if minimum-participation goal is met). Ask about available add-on airfare. Visit AAA.com/GoAlaska for more information.
LEWISBURG . . . . . . . . . . . .570-524-2244 SUNBURY . . . . . . . . . . . . . .570-286-4507 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. 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.
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2013
AAA MOTORIST
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1-800-354-8761 AAA.com/travel
Member Benefits Exclusive Offers
RESERVE EARLY FOR THE BEST AVAILABILITY! Call 570-286-4507 • Email sunbury-trav@aaaec.com Visit 1001 Market St in Sunbury MOTORCOACH CRUISES FROM NEW YORK NY from $839 per person May 12-20.....................Exotic Eastern Caribbean .............. Carnival Splendor May 18-25.....................Bermuda ......................................... Norwegian Breakaway May 12-20.....................Bermuda ......................................... Norwegian Breakaway June 15-22 ....................Exotic Eastern Caribbean .............. Carnival Splendor July 15-23 .....................Exotic Eastern Caribbean .............. Carnival Splendor July 20-27 .....................Bermuda ......................................... Norwegian Breakaway Aug 31–Sept 7..............Bermuda ......................................... Norwegian Breakaway Oct 19-26 ......................Bahamas & Florida......................... Norwegian Breakaway
MOTORCOACH CRUISES FROM BAYONNE NJ from $899 per person Jan 21-31 ............................Eastern Caribbean........................... Explorer of the Seas Feb 9-16 .............................Bahamas .......................................... Explorer of the Seas Sept 7-21 ............................Canada & New England .................. Celebrity Summit Sept 25–Oct 4 ....................Bermuda & Caribbean .................... Explorer of the Seas Dec 12-20, 2014 ................Bahamas .......................................... Quantum of the Seas
MOTORCOACH CRUISES FROM BALTIMORE MD from $899 per person June 22-29 ................Florida & Bahamas .................. Carnival Pride Aug 1-8 .....................Bermuda ................................... Grandeur of the Seas
ESCORTED TOURS May 29–June 7 ..................... American Parks Trail Tour Aug 27–Sept 1...................... Ireland: Penn State vs UCF
OTHER CRUISES & CRUISETOURS Feb 15-23 .................Southern Caribbean Cruise ........................... Adventure of the Seas Chrisman Morning Show
June 20–July 3 ........ Alaska Northern Glacier Cruisetour .............. Celebrity Millennium Aug 8-15 ................. Alaska Sawyer Glacier Cruise ........................ Celebrity Solstice Aug 8-21 ................. Canadian Rockies Alaska Cruisetour ............ Celebrity Millennium
ESCORTED MOTORCOACH TOURS Dec 5, 2013 ....... Radio City Music Hall Christmas Show Dec 7, 2013 ....... Radio City Music Hall Christmas Show Dec 14, 2013 ..... Radio City Music Hall Christmas Show Dec 21, 2013 ..... Radio City Music Hall Christmas Show May 3 ................. Broadway Show: “Raisin in the Sun” starring Denzel Washington
July 19 ................ Broadway Show: “Disney’s Aladdin”
Call 570-286-4507 • Email sunbury-trav@aaaec.com Visit 1001 Market St in Sunbury
RESERVE EARLY FOR THE BEST AVAILABILITY!
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AAA MOTORIST
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2013
1-800-354-8761 AAA.com/travel
Member Benefits Exclusive Offers
Yellowstone in Winter
Indulge in the infinitely better V.I.P. EXPERIENCE on the newly “Solsticized” Celebrity Infinity ®
Upgraded and enhanced to the highest levels of luxury and comfort, Celebrity Infinity boasts the high-quality amenities and embellishments that make Solstice-class vessels the seasoned cruise traveler's ships of choice!
BOOK A VERANDA STATEROOM & ENJOY ALL OF THESE V.I.P. PERKS: CELEBRITY V.I.P. AMENITIES
The British Isles & Beyond
Celebrity and AAA present a unique 11-night springtime cruise from Harwich, England, to Copenhagen, Denmark, with visits to:
Begin in SALT LAKE CITY UT; see Temple Square and witness the awesome power of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir (schedule permitting). Travel to WEST YELLOWSTONE MT, gateway to Yellowstone National Park. Ride private vintage snowcoaches (heated!) to see Firehole Falls, Old Faithful and wildlife. Drive through majestic Grand Teton National Park to JACKSON HOLE WY, where you may choose to ride a sleigh through the National Elk Refuge and visit the National Museum of Wildlife Art or, for an additional fee, opt for a Granite Hot Springs snowmobile tour (bring a swimsuit!). Drive through Snake River Canyon and visit Utah Olympic Park before heading home.
Feb 1-6 • AAA Member Rate: $2,085 Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip flights (Harrisburg–Salt Lake City), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, luggage handling (1 bag per person), accommodations, motorcoach sightseeing & admissions (as indicated), 9 meals, services of a AAA Tour Manager (if minimum-participation goal is met), taxes, gratuities for guide & driver. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details. Visit AAA.com/travel for more information.
2 VACATIONS IN 1
New Orleans
Western Caribbean
3 DAYS / 2 NIGHTS
8-DAY / 7-NIGHT CRUISE
City tour, including Katrinaimpacted sites
Serenade of the Seas
Mississippi River cruise on the steamboat Natchez Louisiana swampboat tour Mardi Gras World Demonstration & dinner at the N.O. School of Cooking
$25.00 per person onboard credit Cozumel, Mexico George Town, Grand Cayman Falmouth, Jamaica 3 full days at sea
MARCH 27–APRIL 5 • AAA MEMBER RATE: from $1,499 Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip airport/hotel/pier transfers, 2-night hotel accommodations/taxes/service charge/baggage handling (1 piece per person), 5 meals (on land), cruise accommodations/entertainment, most onboard meals, government fees and services of a AAA Tour Manager (if minimum-participation goal is met). Ship’s registry: Bahamas. Visit AAA.com/travel for more details. Ask about available add-on airfare.
PARIS (Le Havre), FRANCE • CORK (Cobh) & DUBLIN, IRELAND • LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND • BELFAST, NORTHERN IRELAND • GLASGOW (Greenock), SCOTLAND • OSLO, NORWAY Plus 3 full days at sea!
Indulge in the comfort & conveniences of a veranda stateroom (choose standard or Concierge Class) — a private sanctuary where you’ll enjoy both indoor and outdoor space. Relax in the spacious lounge or step outside to linger over morning coffee or wonder at evening sunsets.
In-stateroom fruit basket on arrival In-stateroom Domaine Chandon sparkling wine on arrival In-stateroom chocolate-covered strawberries on arrival 6-piece petit-fours at turndown on your second evening Priority tender & debarkation
AAA VACATIONS® AMENITIES
Priority check-in $50.00 shipboard credit per stateroom
SPECIAL AAA INCLUSION
Dinner in an onboard specialty restaurant (1 evening, 2 guests per stateroom)
AAA MEMBER EXCLUSIVES 24 / 7 member care assistance 48-hour best-price guarantee
May 12-23 • AAA Member Rate: from $2,660 Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes veranda-stateroom cruise accommodations/entertainment, most onboard meals, Celebrity VIP amenities (in-stateroom fruit basket on arrival, in-stateroom sparkling wine on arrival, in-stateroom chocolate-covered strawberries on arrival, 6-piece petit-fours at turndown on second evening, priority tender & debarkation), AAA Vacations® amenities (priority check-in, $100 shipboard credit per stateroom), AAA Member Exclusives (24 / 7 member care assistance, 48-hour best-price guarantee), government taxes and port charges. Ship’s registry: Malta. Visit AAA.com/travel for itinerary. Ask about available add-on airfare and transfers.
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2013
AAA MOTORIST
1-800-354-8761 AAA.com/travel
PAGE 17
Member Benefits Exclusive Offers
DEC 6-14
Be a snowbird & escape winter for up to a month: Rent a furnished Florida “nest” for you, your family and / or your friends! Just because you don’t own a home in Florida is no reason you can’t be a “snowbird” and live the leisurely (and warm!) life-style of the Sunshine State for up 28 nights (Saturday-toSaturday weeks) in January, February or March 2014. AAA Travel has just what you need — 1- to 4-week Saturdayto-Saturday rental of a roomy furnished vacation home in peaceful Port Charlotte! On the southwest Gulf Coast just 100 miles south of Tampa and 65 miles north of Naples, Port Charlotte is a premier ecotourism destination that’s off the beaten path and free of crowds, yet offers sailing, boating, fishing, birding, shopping, dining, arts & more. One of Sail magazine’s 10 Greatest Places to Sail, the Charlotte Harbor area offers nature adventures like canoe/kayak paddling on 53 Blueways trails, exploring 5 national wildlife refuges and discovering prime birding opportunities. There are more than 70 parks & preserves, 16 golf courses and numerous annual sporting events and recreational facilities. Cultural HOME
Image representative of available homes. No 2 homes are identical, but styles & amenities are similar. pursuits include visual arts, theater, dance and music (Port Charlotte is home to the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra). It’s no wonder Money magazine called Port Charlotte Best Place to Retire. Choose from a selection of attractively landscaped homes, and use yours as a base from which to explore the local area’s uncrowded beaches and/or the many attractions within
2014 RENTAL PERIOD
AAA MEMBER RATE
4137 Library St ............................1/4–1/11 (1 week) ............... $1,349 SOLD OUT! 18146 Brazil Ave ........................ 1/4–1/18 (2 weeks) .............. $2,141 1198 Dewhurst St ....................... 1/4–2/1 (4 weeks) ............... $3,896 18106 Lake Worth Blvd ............. 2/1–2/15 (2 weeks) .............. $3,003 18130 Lake Worth Blvd ............. 2/1–2/15 (2 weeks) .............. $2,743
HOME
comfortable driving distance. Or just settle in, take advantage of the screened-in swimming pool and laugh at winter back home! Get away from it all...or invite your family and/or friends to share some Florida fun with you. These 3-bedroom/ 2-bathroom (some with 2.5) homes can comfortably sleep 6 (bedding/linens provided for each bedroom). They feature fully equipped kitchens (dishwasher, stove/oven, refrigerator/ freezer, microwave) and dining areas for everyone to gather in...screened-in heated pools for swimming, lounging and loafing! Living rooms feature entertainment centers (with cable). Optional weekly cleaning/linen service is available for an additional fee. Imagine not having to shovel snow this winter...and watching the sun set over the Gulf of Mexico instead. Forget about bundling up just to go to the corner store...and slipping into a soothing pool after dining on your patio instead. With AAA’s help, you can look forward to winter this year; contact a AAA travel agent now! 2014 RENTAL PERIOD
AAA MEMBER RATE
18239 Temple Ave ...................... 2/1–3/1 (4 weeks) ............... $5,239 18211 Brazil Ave ........................ 3/1–3/29 (4 weeks) .............. $5,756 22491 Cezane ............................ 3/1–3/29 (4 weeks) .............. $5,377 18106 Lake Worth Blvd ............. 3/8–3/22 (2 weeks) .............. $3,071 4249 Flamingo Blvd .................. 3/29–4/12 (2 weeks) ............. $2,486
Rates vary by home selected, are subject to availability at time of booking and include accommodations, taxes & fees and pool heating fee. Visit AAA.com/HomeRentals.
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1-800-354-8761 AAA.com/travel
Member Benefits Exclusive Offers
See, do & get MORE on a Celebrity Cruisetour!
A Celebrity Cruisetour is an unforgettable vacation that delivers the best — and most — of both sea & land.
Enjoy the experience-packed combination of a 7-night Alaska cruise on Celebrity Millennium
PLUS a 6-night land tour of Alaska (Seward, Anchorage, Talkeetna, Denali, Fairbanks) OR a 6-night land tour of the Canadian Rockies (Vancouver,Victoria, Jasper, Banff, Calgary).
Members get $150* off! PLUS a blanket, wine & binoculars! Book and make a deposit on a balcony (or above) stateroom on the cruisetours below by 12/31/13.
Alaska Northern Glacier Cruisetour
June 20–July 3
AAA Member Rate: from $3,274
Canadian Rockies & Alaska Cruisetour
Before-discount rates are per person (double occupancy), are subject to availability at time of booking and include 7-night balcony-stateroom cruise accommodations/entertainment, most onboard meals, in-stateroom bottle of wine, AAA roll-up lap blanket (1 per person), compact binoculars (1 pair per stateroom), government taxes, port charges, 6-night hotel accommodations and sightseeing/transportation. Ships' registry: Malta. Visit AAA.com/travel for more information. Ask about available add-on airfare. Passport required. *per stateroom
Aug 8–21
AAA Member Rate: from $4,927
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Uniworld showcases new ship and new destinations Boutique river cruise line has some exciting upgrades for 2014
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ew destinations, a new ship, and new amenities are all part of Uniworld Boutique River Cruises’ exciting additions for 2014. Travelers can experience their newest destination, Bordeaux, France, with two new itineraries sailing through this legendary region. The eight-day Bordeaux, Vineyards & Châteaux and 15-day A Portrait of Majestic France, take guests along the three rivers of Aquitaine—the Garonne, the Gironde, and the Dordogne. It’s a place where joie de vivre is not simply a phrase, but a way of life! Taste regional delights including—duck confit, caviar d’Aquitaine, and oysters, and indulge in an onboard meal designed by French Master Chef Philippe Etchebest. Travelers will visit some of the Aquitaine region’s most prestigious châteaux, as well as Pauillac, gateway to the magical Médoc wine route and Saint-Émilion, the oldest wine area of the Bordeaux region and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Grapes have been grown here since the Romans marched into the Gironde Estuary two millennia ago. The route through Dordogne, also known as the Périgord, is an especially scenic one, and you’ll stop to explore charming Bastide villages on both sides of the river. The 16th-century Château de Monbazillac offers memorable views overlooking Pays de Bergerac and the Dordogne River.
ONE ROOM A THOUSAND VIEWS — Uniworld travels on Europe’s original highways. Uniworld is the only North American River cruise line to offer a truly allinclusive river cruise experience that encompasses shore excursions and world-class gourmet cuisine. They are expanding their services and amenities on all European cruises in 2014 to cover unlimited fine wine, beer, spirits, soft drinks, and bottled water, and all gratuities for all onboard and onshore services, including pre- and post-cruise extensions. The 2014 European itineraries also
Safeguard your identity this holiday season with ProtectMyID
T
he holiday season is here, and while you’re busy shopping online for that perfect gift, criminals are also searching for a one-of-a-kind item — your identity. Over 12-million Americans have their identities stolen every year, but there are ways to protect yourself. ProtectMyID® Essential is a new, no cost benefit available exclusively for AAA members. Comparable to plans costing $7.95 per month, it includes these important features: • Daily Credit Monitoring of your Experian® Report — Your credit report is monitored daily to detect key changes. • Email Alerts — Receive email alerts when key changes are detected on your credit report. If no changes are detected, you’ll be sent a monthly all-clear email. • Dedicated Fraud Resolution Support — Agents are available to walk you through each step of resolving identity theft—from beginning to end. • Lost Wallet Card Protection — Securely store your debit and medical card numbers in one safe place. If your wallet is lost or stolen, it only takes a single call to a ProtectMyID® agent for assistance in canceling and replacing your cards. In addition, ProtectMyID® Essential
also provides AAA Premier members with $10,000 in no cost identity theft insurance. ProtectMyID® Deluxe, available to members at just $8.95 per month, adds an extra level of protection with these advanced tools: • Comprehensive Daily Monitoring — Checks all three national credit bureaus—Experian, Equifax ® and TransUnion® for new credit cards, loans, delinquent payments and more. • Experian Credit Report and Score — Lets you review your credit history to catch inaccuracies, potential fraud and suspicious activity even sooner. • ChildSecureSM — Monitors children’s personal information, and alerts you if someone applies for credit or opens credit accounts in their names. • Internet Scan — Conducts confidential, daily scans on illegal websites and chat rooms for signs your identity is exposed. • Identity Theft Insurance — $1 million identity theft insurance. To register for your free ProtectMyID® Essential, or to upgrade to ProtectMyID® Deluxe, simply go to AAA.com/ProtectMyID or call 1.877.440.6943.
delve more deeply into authentic and personalized travel experiences. Uniworld’s onshore activities will focus on flexibility with their “Choice is Yours” options such “Do as the Locals” and exclusive “Village Days” where you can meet and mingle with the locals. Uniworld’s latest Super Ship, the S.S. Catherine, will launch in 2014 and will share the same standards and attention to detail reflected throughout the entire fleet. The ship’s design will reflect her new home along the Rhône and Saône
rivers of Burgundy and Provence. All top deck suites and staterooms offer full open-air private balconies that, with the flick of a switch, raise the glass to become a completely enclosed conservatory. Staterooms house their own LCD flat-screen infotainment center, including movies-on-demand, music, news, sports, hotel services, and more. Marble baths are stocked with L’Occicitane en Provence bath and body products, plush towels from Christys of England, and cozy waffle bathrobes. River cruising also means no packing or unpacking, no sea days and no lines to get on or off the ship. Distance between ports is typically short and the ships usually dock in the middle of town, so the charming squares, and bustling marketplaces are often just a short stroll away.
IF YOU GO
Los Angeles-based Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection has been named to Condé Nast Traveler’s prestigious Gold List for six consecutive years. Uniworld offers over 500 departures sailing on over 13 rivers in more than 20 countries. FOR MORE INFORMATION
Please see this issue’s Departures Guide or log on to AAA.com/cruises for special values on cruise vacations.
Building the next generation of zero-emission vehicles
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n 1874 Jules Verne predicted that hydrogen and oxygen, the two elements that combine to form water, would “one day be an inexhaustible source of heat and light.” Today carmakers are one step closer to making that prediction a reality, with plans to roll out a variety of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (FCEVs) by 2015. Toyota’s hydrogen fuel cell vehicle, developed in cooperation with BMW, comes to market in 2015, and Honda plans to introduce the next generation of its FCX Clarity the same year. Fuel-cell vehicles could eventually overcome the range limitations of battery electric vehicles. Powered by electricity generated from hydrogen and oxygen, the electricity is generated by an electro-chemical reaction. They emit no greenhouse gases and the only byproducts are water vapor and heat. The Mercedes-Benz B-Class F-Cell and the Honda FCX Clarity are currently the only FCEV vehicles available in North America, mostly in California. The first modern fuel cell vehicle was a modified Allis-Chalmers farm tractor, fitted with a 15 kilowatt fuel cell around 1959. In 1966, General Motors created the Chevrolet Electrovan. MercedesBenz introduced its first fuel cell car in 1994, and in 2003, their NECAR 5 successfully completed a coast-to-coast trip
from San Francisco to Washington, D.C. The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) estimates that the cost of automobile fuel cells had fallen 80% since 2002, but fuel cells remain expensive because they use platinum. Current FCV designs use high-pressure (5,000to 10,000-psi) tanks to store hydrogen that are large, heavy, and costly. While FCEVs are more energy efficient than conventional cars, hydrogen gas contains only a third of the energy per volume that gasoline does, making it difficult to store enough fuel to go as far as a gasoline vehicle on a full tank. The Electrovan for example, needed its entire cargo area to store fuel tanks. More recent designs have the fuel-cell unit located beneath a specially designed body, that can accommodate up to four passengers. Hyundai will lease 1,000 hydrogen cars based on its Tucson crossover in the U.S. beginning in 2015. “Hydrogenpowered electric vehicles represent the next generation of electric vehicle technology,” said John Krafcik, President and Chief Executive Officer of Hyundai Motor America. “Their refueling speed and range will delight their owners, and we’ll all share the environmental benefits. We’re excited to be bring FCEV technology and infrastructure to market as quickly as possible.”
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PRIVACY STATEMENT
• AAA East Central • AAA Travel Agency Your privacy is important to us
AAA East Central and its affiliates are proud to have been providing topquality AAA member services, benefits and products for more than 110 years. We greatly appreciate and value the trust that you and more than 2.6 million other AAA members, customers and consumers have placed in us. We will protect that trust by respecting the privacy of all of our members and nonmember customers/consumers.
Gathering information
In order to provide you with the services, benefits and products that you want from us, and to insure that you receive the very best services and benefits and the highest quality products, we collect the following personal information about you: • Information we receive from you, such as information you give us orally or in writing on applications (including membership applications) or other order forms; • Information about your transactions with us, our affiliates or others; and • Information we receive from an outside source, such as a consumer reporting agency. In addition, if you visit our Internet web site at www.AAA.com, the web server automatically recognizes and records information about your Internet usage, such as the referring (immediate preceding) web site, Internet workstation address, date and time of log-in/ log-out, site pages visited, time spent per page, files downloaded and search criteria used. If, during your visit to our web site, you voluntarily provide personally identifiable information such as an e-mail address, information to complete or submit an application or form online or other information (such as survey information or content of e-mail), we will collect such information. To better serve you, we may use a feature of your Internet browser called a “cookie” (an entry placed in a file on your computer’s hard drive or in your browser memory) to enhance your browsing experience and to permit you to request data and conduct business transactions through the web site. You should also be aware that other online retailers, partners, third-party Internet sites and third-party services accessible through our web site have separate privacy and data collection policies and practices which are independent of and may be different from our policies and practices. Please be alert for, and be sure to review, such separate policies and practices when you encounter them as you move between the links of our web site.
Handling of gathered information
In the course of our normal service and business operations, we use and may share or disclose all of the information that we collect, as described above. However, since some of the informa-
tion we gather and share or disclose is not publicly available, we take care to insure that your nonpublic personal information is protected from unauthorized access or use. We restrict access to nonpublic personal information about you to those employees who need to know that information in order to provide services, benefits and products to you. Where we select and use agents and service/product provider partners to deliver or offer services, benefits and products to you or to us, we restrict access to nonpublic personal information about you to such persons and firms who commit to properly use and protect your nonpublic personal information. We maintain physical, electronic and procedural safeguards that comply with applicable federal regulations to guard your nonpublic personal information. We do not share or disclose your nonpublic personal information in violation of any applicable law or regulation.
Sharing information among our Affiliates and Partners
In the course of our normal service and business operations, or when we think it may benefit you, we may disclose all of the information that we collect, as described above, within our family of AAA-affiliated companies and business lines. Our family of AAA-affiliated companies and business lines includes AAA East Central, AAA Ashland County, AAA Massillon Automobile Club, AAA Travel Agency, West Penn AAA Insurance Agency, Inc., Ohio Motorists Insurance Agency, Inc., Ohio Motorists Holding Company, Ohio Motorists Life Insurance Company, AAA Kentucky Insurance Agency, Inc., AAA East Penn Insurance Agency, Inc., Automobile Club Insurance Agency of Massillon, Ohio, Inc., Auto Club Driving Schools, Inc., AAA Kentucky Driver Training Center, Inc., AAA Massillon Driving School, Inc., Tri-State Foundation for Safety and Education, Inc., Ohio Motorists Safety Foundation, and Automobile Club of Southern California and its affiliates/ subsidiaries, including Interinsurance Exchange of the Automobile Club, Automobile Club of Southern California Life Insurance Company, Auto Club Casualty Company, Auto Club Indemnity Company, Automobile Club Inter-Insurance Exchange, Auto
Club Family Insurance Company, ACSC Management Services, Inc., Club Exchange Corporation, Auto Club Insurance Holdings, LLC, Auto Club Insurance Company of Florida, AAA Club Services, LLC, Auto Club Enterprises, Automobile Club of Missouri, Alabama Motorists Association, Inc., AAA Northern New England, Tidewater Automobile Association of Virginia, Incorporated, AAA Texas, LLC, AAA New Mexico, LLC, AAA Hawaii, LLC, Pleasant Travel Holding Company, LLC, Pleasant Holidays, LLC, and Hawaii World, LLC. The sharing of information among affiliates is permitted by law. Some of our affiliates may receive personal health care information (such as information received from medical or health care providers) or consumer credit information (such as information reported by a consumer reporting agency). Such affiliates do not share such personal health care information or credit information with our other affiliates. We may disclose all of the nonpublic personal financial information we collect (other than consumer credit information) as described above to companies that perform operational services related to your membership and/or transactional accounts with us. We may disclose all of the nonpublic personal financial information we collect (other than consumer credit information) as described above to companies that perform marketing services on our behalf or to other financial institutions with whom we have joint marketing agreements. The sharing of nonpublic personal financial information with these types of companies is permitted by law.
Sharing information with Third Parties
From time to time, we may allow nonaffiliated companies to extend offers of products and services to AAA members and nonmember customers/ consumers when we feel that such products and services might be of special value or of particular interest to you. We may disclose nonpublic personal information about you to the following types of third parties: • Financial service providers, such as banks & bank holding companies, depositary & thrift institutions, credit unions and other consumer lenders;
securities broker-dealers; investment companies; financial & investment advisers; insurance companies & agents; and others that offer financial products and services to consumers; • Nonfinancial companies such as airlines, cruise lines, hotels & resorts, car rental companies and other travel vendors; retailers; direct marketers; and others that offer goods and services to consumers; and • Others, such as the American Automobile Association, Inc. and other nonprofit organizations. We may also disclose nonpublic personal information about you to nonaffiliated third parties as required or permitted by law.
Your preference/opt-out rights
If you prefer not to receive future AAA special value-added offers and notifications of products, services and special savings opportunities from us or our joint marketing partners, you may direct us not to send or contact you with such offers or savings opportunities. (If you are a AAA member, you will continue to receive the AAA Motorist/Traveler publication and annual membership renewal information and billing statements.) If you prefer that we not disclose nonpublic personal financial information about you to nonaffiliated third parties, you may opt out of those disclosures – that is, you may direct us not to make those disclosures (other than disclosures required or permitted by law). An optout request by any member on a membership account, or by any party on a joint transactional account, will apply to all Primary and Associate Members on the membership account, and to all parties on the joint account, within the same household. If you wish to exercise one or both of the preference and opt-out rights described above, you must do so in writing by filing a AAA Marketing Preference/Disclosure Opt-out Form with us. To request that a copy of the AAA Marketing Preference/Disclosure Opt-out Form be sent to you, write to: AAA Member Records, 5900 Baum Blvd, Pittsburgh PA 15206-3854. We will continue to respect your privacy even after your AAA membership or other relationship with us ends. Please note, however, that AAA is a national association of independently chartered local AAA motor clubs and organizations. If you relocate to a AAA service territory assigned to a AAA club or organization other than AAA East Central, your AAA membership may be transferred to such other AAA club or organization. Such other AAA club or organization will have its own separate privacy and data collection polices and practices which are independent of and may be different from our policies and practices. Such separate policies and practices will govern the future handling and disclosure of your personal information. © 2013 AAA East Central
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
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How you can prevent grand theft auto Your car could be gone in 60 seconds
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eople are often surprised to learn that the most commonly stolen vehicles are your typical family haulers. According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau’s (NICB) annual Hot Wheels report, the 10 most stolen vehicles were: 1.Honda Accord (58,596) 2.Honda Civic (47,037) 3. Ford Pickup (Full Size) (26,770) 4. Chevrolet Pickup (Full Size) (23,745) 5.Toyota Camry (16,251) 6. Dodge Caravan (11,799) 7. Dodge Pickup (Full Size) (11,755) 8. Acura Integra (9,555) 9.Nissan Altima (9,169) 10. Nissan Maxima (6,947) Each year, NICB reviews all NCIC vehicle theft records to produce its national and state lists of the 10 most stolen vehicles. The report examines vehicle theft data submitted by law enforcement to the National Crime Information Center (NCIC). If a vehicle was reported stolen to law enforcement, it is captured in this report. Older Honda Accords and Civics were by far the most stolen models in 2012. The 1996 Accord led the list with 8,637 thefts. In fact, Accords and Civics account for the first 16 spots on the most stolen list and all are 1990-2000 models. By comparison, newer Hondas are rarely stolen, thanks to improved anti-theft technology. Although the FBI is predicting a 1.3
car remains where you left it. Immobilizing Device: Generally speaking, if your vehicle can’t be started, it can’t be stolen. “Kill” switches, fuel cut-offs and smart keys are among the devices which are extremely effective. Tracking Device: These systems combine GPS and wireless technologies to allow remote monitoring. If the vehicle is moved, the system will alert the owner and it can be tracked via computer. Some will even slow the vehicle down. Not only do anti-theft devices give your car extra protection and encourage thieves to go elsewhere, they also may help you save money on your car insurance.
A DUBIOUS DISTINCTION — The 1996 Honda Accord ranks as the most stolen car model in America percent increase in 2012 vehicle thefts over 2011’s number—reversing an eightyear trend—the overall vehicle theft picture is still positive. The peak year for vehicle thefts was 1991 with 1,661,738. If the FBI’s preliminary 2012 vehicle theft estimate holds, there will have been roughly 724,672 thefts, a decrease of over 50 percent since 1991. Even though the decline in vehicle thefts is great news, don’t think it can’t happen to you. Most experts recommend a layered approach – combining
AAA Member benefit changes
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n order to provide the most relevant, comprehensive package of benefits to members, AAA East Central announces the following changes. Effectively immediately, ProtectMyID Essential, an identity theft monitoring service, will be offered free to members. ProtectMyID Essential provides daily monitoring of the member’s Experian credit report, with e-mail alerts any time changes are detected. Identity Theft is a growing problem, and ProtectMyID Essential helps protect members from
unauthorized activity. For more details, click on h t t p : / / w w w. A A A . c o m / identitytheft. AAA East Central also announces changes to AAA Plus and Premier Travel Accident Insurance. Coverage for Plus members is being discontinued, effective at the end of the member’s current membership year, beginning with October 31, 2013 membership expirations. Coverage for Premier members will continue and change to a $300,000 maximum benefit effective November 1, 2014.
Breakaway Niagara Falls We’re as close as it gets...
Just steps from the Falls, next to Skylon Tower and right beside the world-class Fallsview Casino. Two nights from just $154* including meals... 2 full breakfasts, dinner at Coco’s Steakhouse, and a superb dinner high atop Skylon’s Revolving Dining Room overlooking the Falls. Ask us about our super Niagara Attraction Package From $124 PP/DO. Unbeatable value!
15400*
$
FROM
PER PERSON DBL. OCC.
We are in the heart of Niagara's Winter Festival of Lights Nov 9 to Jan 31,2014 (Friday Fireworks)!
BY THE FALLS Prices are per-person based on double occupancy valid Sun to Thurs. Holidays and weekends higher. Tax extra. Free Parking. Rates valid from Oct 14, 2013 through May 15, 2014. Also available child add-ons, whirlpool suites and gift certificates. *Subject to exchange rates.
Holiday Inn By The Falls Niagara Falls, Canada 1-800-263-9393 holidayinnniagarafalls.com
both passive and active devices to thwart even the most ambitious thieves. Common Sense: Lock your car and take your keys. It’s simple enough but many thefts occur because owners make it easy for thieves to steal their cars. Eighty percent of vehicle thefts occur while the doors are unlocked. About 20 percent of vehicles stolen have the keys in the ignition Warning Device: Having and using a visible or audible warning device is another item that can ensure that your
KEEP YOUR CAR SAFE
Here are some common sense ways to help prevent your vehicle from being stolen: • Never leave your car running unattended; • Lock it up. When leaving your car, lock all doors, close all windows; • Don’t leave valuables in plain sight. A laptop computer or cell phone is a tempting target for thieves. Take them with you or lock them in your trunk; • Avoid parking in isolated or dimly lit areas. Opt for well-lit, attended lots whenever possible; • Park inside. Locking your car inside provides an extra layer of protection.
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Universal Orlando is bringing Diagon Alley to life Experience even more Harry Potter adventures
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veryone is wild about Harry, especially The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando’s Islands of Adventure. This revolutionary, multi-sensory melding of live-action, advanced robotics and innovative filmmaking became the most talked about theme park experience on the planet faster than you can say Abracadabra. Now Universal is adding an entirely new level of Harry Potter adventures. Scheduled to open next summer, the world’s first centrally themed, multipark experience expands The Wizarding World of Harry Potter across both Universal Orlando theme parks. Located in London, behind a pub called the Leaky Cauldron, Diagon Alley will recreate many of the key locations from the Harry Potter series. Guests will travel between London and the existing Hogsmeade at Universal’s Islands of Adventure aboard an actual Hogwarts Express — just like in the books and film. Instead of windows passengers will be looking at virtual screens that make it appear like you’re traveling through the English countryside. Diagon Alley will feature shops, a restaurant and an innovative, marquee attraction based on Gringotts Wizarding Bank. Details are sketchy but the ride will likely combine dark ride elements, similar to Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, with the addition of 3D technol-
arrival into Hogsmeade Station. Explore Hogwarts Castle’s familiar passageways, classrooms and corridors. Enter iconic locations taken from the films like Dumbledore’s office, the Defence Against the Dark Arts classroom, and the Room of Requirement with hundreds of floating candles and where the Forbidden Journey begins. Your adventure will have you soaring over Hogwarts, narrowly escaping a dragon attack, have a close encounter with the Whomping Willow, and get pulled into a Quidditch match. Other attractions include the Dragon Challenge a twin high-speed roller coaster with many iconic elements from the Triwizard Tournament. SHOW YOUR CARD AND SAVE
CASHING IN — Diagon Alley’s marquee attraction will be based on Gringotts Wizarding Bank. ogy similar to that used in Transformers. To bring Diagon Alley to life, Universal’s creative team is working closely with Warner Bros. and the production design team from the Harry Potter films – just as it did for Hogwarts and Hogsmeade. “I’m so pleased that The Wizarding World of Harry Potter has proved so popular,” said J.K. Rowling. “I’m sure that the attention to detail in creating the new Diagon Alley area will make this
an even better experience.” Inspired by J.K. Rowling’s compelling characters — and faithful to the visual language of the films The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade opened at Universal’s Islands of Adventure in June 2010 and has entertained millions of people from around the world. The Harry Potter experience begins as soon as you step through the gates and a billowing steam train signals your
AAA members save $5.00 on multiday park-to-park tickets when they show their membership cards at the park entrance. They can also show their card and save 10% on select merchandise and dining throughout the park; 10% at select CityWalk locations. The savings are applicable to the AAA member and immediate family (up to 6 people). FOR MORE INFORMATION
Please see your Departures Guide or log on to AAA.com/Universal for more information about Universal Orlando vacations.
AAA Digest of Motor Laws available free online
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Laws — available at DrivingLaws.AAA. com — is an online compendium of laws and rules related to driving and owning a motor vehicle in the United States and Canada. Users simply click
early everything you ever wanted to know about laws, rules, and fees related to driving is now just a few mouse clicks away. The AAA Digest of Motor
1. Publication Title
Statement of Ownership, Management, and Circulation (All Periodicals Publications Except Requester Publications)
AAA Motorist Susquehanna Valley Region 4. Issue Frequency
2. Publication Number
5 3 0
_
3. Filing Date
0 8 0
5. Number of Issues Published Annually
Bi-Monthly
6
7. Complete Mailing Address of Known Office of Publication (Not printer) (Street, city, county, state, and ZIP+4 ®)
AAA Susquehanna Valley, 1001 Market St., P.O. Box 788, Sunbury, PA 17801-2403
9/11/13
13. Publication Title
15. Extent and Nature of Circulation
$1.00 Included in Membership Dues
a. Total Number of Copies (Net press run)
Contact Person
Doug O'Neil
(1)
412-365-7203
Mailed Outside-County Paid Subscriptions Stated on PS Form 3541 (Include paid distribution above nominal rate, advertiser’s proof copies, and exchange copies)
b. Paid Circulation (2) Mailed In-County Paid Subscriptions Stated on PS Form 3541 (Include paid distribution above nominal rate, advertiser’s proof copies, and exchange copies) (By Mail and Outside Paid Distribution Outside the Mails Including Sales Through Dealers and Carriers, (3) the Mail) Street Vendors, Counter Sales, and Other Paid Distribution Outside USPS®
9. Full Names and Complete Mailing Addresses of Publisher, Editor, and Managing Editor (Do not leave blank) Publisher (Name and complete mailing address)
James E. Lehman 5900 Baum Blvd. Pittsburgh, PA 15206 Editor (Name and complete mailing address) Douglas L. O'Neil 5900 Baum Blvd. Pittsburgh, PA 15206 Managing Editor (Name and complete mailing address) Douglas L. O'Neil 5900 Baum Blvd. Pittsburgh, PA 15206
(4)
Paid Distribution by Other Classes of Mail Through the USPS (e.g., FirstClass Mail®)
c. Total Paid Distribution (Sum of 15b (1), (2), (3), and (4)) d. Free or (1) Free or Nominal Rate Outside-County Copies included on PS Form 3541 Nominal Rate Distribution (2) Free or Nominal Rate In-County Copies Included on PS Form 3541 (By Mail and Free or Nominal Rate Copies Mailed at Other Classes Through the USPS (3) Outside (e.g., First-Class Mail) the Mail)
10. Owner (Do not leave blank. If the publication is owned by a corporation, give the name and address of the corporation immediately followed by the names and addresses of all stockholders owning or holding 1 percent or more of the total amount of stock. If not owned by a corporation, give the names and addresses of the individual owners. If owned by a partnership or other unincorporated firm, give its name and address as well as those of each individual owner. If the publication is published by a nonprofit organization, give its name and address.) Complete Mailing Address Full Name
AAA East Central
5900 Baum Blvd.
A Pennsylvania Nonprofit Corporation
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
11. Known Bondholders, Mortgagees, and Other Security Holders Owning or Holding 1 Percent or More of Total Amount of Bonds, Mortgages, or Other Securities. If none, check box None
X
(4) e.
Sept./Oct. 2013 Average No. Copies No. Copies of Single Each Issue During Issue Published Preceding 12 Months Nearest to Filing Date
6. Annual Subscription Price
AAA, 5900 Baum Blvd. Pittsburgh, PA 15206-3854
Full Name
14. Issue Date for Circulation Data Below
AAA Motorist Susquehanna Valley Region
Telephone (Include area code)
8. Complete Mailing Address of Headquarters or General Business Office of Publisher (Not printer)
on the map to browse each state’s traffic laws, vehicle titling and registration requirements, fees and taxes, driver’s licenses, and traffic safety. “DrivingLaws.AAA.com is a user-
Free or Nominal Rate Distribution Outside the Mail (Carriers or other means)
Total Free or Nominal Rate Distribution (Sum of 15d (1), (2), (3) and (4))
f.
Total Distribution (Sum of 15c and 15e)
g.
Copies not Distributed (See Instructions to Publishers #4 (page #3))
h.
Total (Sum of 15f and g)
i.
Percent Paid (15c divided by 15f times 100)
18,990
18,266
18,485
17,783
0
0
0
0
0
0
18,485
17,783
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
18,485
17,783
421
483
18,990
18,266
100.00
100.00
Total circulation includes electronic copies. Report circulation on PS Form 3526-X worksheet.
16.
Complete Mailing Address
17. Publication of Statement of Ownership
X
If the publication is a general publication, publication of this statement is required. Will be printed
Nov./Dec. 2013 issue of this publication. in the ________________________
18. Signature and Title of Editor, Publisher, Business Manager, or Owner
,Managing Editor 12. Tax Status (For completion by nonprofit organizations authorized to mail at nonprofit rates) (Check one) The purpose, function, and nonprofit status of this organization and the exempt status for federal income tax purposes: Has Not Changed During Preceding 12 Months Has Changed During Preceding 12 Months (Publisher must submit explanation of change with this statement) PS Form 3526, August 2012 (Page 1 of 3 (Instructions Page 3)) PSN: 7530-01-000-9931
PRIVACY NOTICE: See our privacy policy on www.usps.com.
Publication not required.
Date
9/11/13
I certify that all information furnished on this form is true and complete. I understand that anyone who furnishes false or misleading information on this form or who omits material or information requested on the form may be subject to criminal sanctions (including fines and imprisonment) and/or civil sanctions (including civil penalties). PS Form 3526, August 2012 (Page 2 of 3)
friendly clearinghouse for information from across the full spectrum of rules that impact motorists,” said Jim Lehman, president AAA East Central. “Unlike the old printed copies the online version is updated throughout the year as states make changes to their laws and regulations. Visitors can search, filter and compare side-by-side specific laws across the states.” The Digest of Motor Laws was first published in 1930, and grew from a modest pamphlet to a more than 700-page book — aiding motorists, law enforcement and others. The 2010 edition was the last printed version of the book, and in 2011, the publication was transitioned to an online format. Other topics featured include state graduated driver’s licensing systems, child safety seat and seat belt laws, licensing for senior drivers, distracted driving laws, safety and emissions inspections, motorcycles and mopeds, auto insurance requirements and passenger car towing. Some limited coverage of laws governing commercial vehicles is also included and you can easily compare specific laws or requirements across multiple jurisdictions. By putting a wealth of information about traffic laws, licensing policies, and vehicle regulations at their fingertips, this online resource will help drivers and others navigate the complex patchwork of state motor vehicle laws.
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2013
AAA MOTORIST
PAGE 27
The savings are sensational at AAA Discounts & Rewards Give like Santa and save like Scrooge this holiday season
I
t’s the most wonderful time of the year. That is, if you don’t mind slogging through slush and snow and fighting the crowds to finish your holiday shopping. So, if Bedford Falls is beginning to feel more like Pottersville, AAA Discounts & Rewards gives you a whole new way to make your holiday shopping days merry and bright. AAA Discounts & Rewards is an innovative new shopping experience on AAA.com featuring deep discounts, limited-time offers and everyday savings on dining, electronics, home, apparel, entertainment, pet care and more, from approximately 30,000 participating merchants nationwide — including national chains like Kohl’s, Macy’s, Best Buy, The Gap and The Home Depot. Discover great deals on the names you want and the products you need — all at unbeatable prices. It’s just one of the many perks of AAA membership. AAA has leveraged the purchasing power of millions of members in return for big savings from merchants who want your business. The AAA Discounts & Rewards shopping portal at AAA. com/discounts features an intuitive, easy-to-navigate interface to help you find exactly what you are looking for with just few simple clicks. Check out some of the limited-time offers, or customize your shopping experience to
purchase — even when you’re redeeming WOWPoints. Now that’s rewarding!
Save Online and In-store
PREPARE TO BE WOWED — Save serious cash and earn WOWPoints at AAA Discounts & Rewards. receive weekly Perk Alerts featuring our top offers to help you take advantage of our best deals. Over time Perk Alerts will become more targeted and tailored to your needs.
lines. One hundred WOWPoints always equals $1 and your points never expire as long as you are a AAA member! Redeem them at checkout and receive cash back for your purchase.
Earn WOWPoints
The 5 Star Advantage
In addition to discount offers, you’ll earn reward points to redeem for extra savings. WOWPoints are AAA’s online reward points — just like the loyalty points you get from credit cards or air-
Look for special offers that earn you 3X, 6X, even 10X the WOWPoints. Earn 5,000 WOWPoints in one calendar year and receive 5 STAR Status. You’ll earn 50% more WOWPoints on each
In addition to saving with over 30,000 online retailers, AAA members can also show their AAA membership card at over 100,000 participating store locations. No fumbling for coupons or searching for lost flyers — all you have to do is show your AAA membership card and save! And remember to download the free AAA Mobile app for places to save, wherever you go. AAA East Central members can access the AAA Discounts & Rewards page from AAA.com/discounts. Feel free to browse through all the offers, however, you must register at the time of transaction. Registration is completely free — a valid AAA membership and email address are all you need. Don’t wait any longer. Register online at AAA.com/discounts. Then shop, save and earn on national and local brands, movie and attraction tickets, restaurants and retailers. FOR MORE INFORMATION
To learn more about the AAA Discounts program including Show Your Card & Save and AAA Prescription Savings, or to sign up free for AAA Discounts & Rewards visit AAA.com/Discounts
Black ice is the danger you can’t see Dealing with a hidden peril of winter driving
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ce has always been slippery stuff, but black ice can form so quickly and is so difficult to see that the Occupational Safety and Health Administration calls it the deadliest of all winter driving hazards. Regular ice and slush are formed from snow that falls, melts, and freezes either partially (slush) or completely (ice) on the road. Black ice forms directly on the surface of the road from moisture or airborne exhaust particles when there’s a sudden drop in temperature. It’s very thin and transparent, and allows the black road surface to be seen through it. Black ice is more common at night and early mornings. It is particularly hazardous on asphalt road surfaces, shaded areas and on bridges or overpasses that have cold air freely circulating around them. Intersections can also be dangerous because car exhaust and spinning tires melt snow, which refreezes as an invisible coating. Watch out for sections of pavement that appear slightly darker as this can indicate the presence of black ice. Unfortunately, many motorists don’t notice it until their vehicle begins to slide. One study found that braking distance on black ice can be up to nine times longer. Slippery, cold, wet or icy road con-
SLIP SLIDING AWAY — Black ice is more dangerous than regular ice because it’s very thin and almost invisible. ditions change the way you need to handle your vehicle and it’s easier when you understand how your vehicle behaves in these conditions. Accelerate at the wrong time, or braking while turning on snow and ice can cause you to lose control. If you do begin to skid, take your foot off the gas pedal, shift the trans-
mission into neutral and look and steer in the direction you wish to go. Avoid using the gas and brake pedals. Slow down before you turn while still traveling in a straight line. Maintain a slow and steady speed while you turn and wait until you are well out of a turn before you accelerate. It is important to know whether
your vehicle is equipped with ABS brakes, which are designed to prevent locking. Keep your foot firmly on the pedal and apply maximum pressure to your brakes. It’s normal to have noise and vibration coming from the brake pedal. Contrary to popular belief ABS or Four Wheel Drive will not help your vehicle stop any shorter. If you don’t have ABS, you should use the threshold braking technique. Instead of pumping, brake firmly and without locking the wheels. If you feel the wheels locking or sliding release the pressure slightly and reapply. Locked wheels will not allow you to change direction if needed. It goes without saying that the faster you are driving, the longer the distance required to bring your vehicle to a full stop. Winter tires can reduce braking distance by up to 50%, compared to allseason tires. It is essential to significantly increase your following distance and anticipate braking distance to avoid losing control.
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
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2013