CAA Magazine - Atlantic - Winter 2023

CAA MAGAZINE

BERMUDA BOUND

REVISITING AN ICONIC ISLAND PARADISE

• Roll into winter with vital vehicle advice

• Helping kids benefit from the power of play

• How to ensure travels are wildlife friendly

WINTER 2023

Your passion for Canada’s natural spaces defines your life; now it can define your legacy. With a gift in your Will to the Nature Conservancy of Canada, no matter the size, you can help protect our most vulnerable habitats and the wildlife that live there. For today, for tomorrow and for generations to come. Order your Free Legacy Information Booklet today! Call Jackie at 1-877-231-3552 x2275 or visit DefineYourLegacy.ca

WINTER 2023

THE GOOD PLACE

The Charlottetown Library Learning Centre represents the future of libraries.

DRIVEN BY GOOD

RADAR

Travel, arts, culture, local hot spots and more.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE?

Meet choreographer

Louise Moyes.

CREATURE COMFORT

Finding ethical animal attractions that preserve and protect wildlife.

GAME ON

Three of the organizations working to ensure that Canadian kids benefit from the power of play.

CAA Member updates, helpful resources and what’s coming next. A MESSAGE FROM CAA MEMBER LETTERS

OVER EXTENDED

Sales ploys pushing extra warranties can be high-pressure, but most buyers should shy away.

A food scientist’s research on plantbased meat alternatives addresses the challenges of climate change and food insecurity.

ROLLING INTO WINTER

How to prepare your vehicle for winter’s unique challenges.

INSIDER FEATURES

THE BEST OF BERMUDA

Travel writer

Vivian Vassos shares her love for this gem of a destination in the mid-Atlantic.

TRAVEL GOALS

A father and son make winning memories on a footie-focused trip to London.

Building a Brighter Future Together

I WANT TO TAKE A MOMENT to highlight the incredible impact of community-focused initiatives and sponsorships in our region. As a member-based organization, CAA understands the power of working together to support our communities. And it’s with your participation as members that we at CAA are able to keep giving.

At CAA Atlantic Canada, we firmly believe in the value of giving back. Our commitment to making a positive difference extends far beyond CAA’s exceptional roadside assistance and travel services. We aim to be an active participant in building strong, vibrant communities.

We’ve had the privilege of working with local organizations to host events and promote causes that align with our values and the needs of our communities. By supporting youth programs, health-care facilities, environmental projects and cultural events, we are contributing to make a lasting impact on the lives of those we serve.

Our community-giving endeavours allow us to foster unity, compassion and resilience. This is why we are committed to continuing our efforts to uplift and enrich the lives of Atlantic Canadians.

I encourage each and every one of you to join us in our mission. Whether it’s through volunteering, fundraising or promoting awareness of causes close to your heart, your contribution matters. Together, we can create a ripple effect of impactful change that will reverberate across our region.

As we move forward, I invite you to stay connected with us and informed about the meaningful work being done in our communities. Follow our social media channels, visit our website and keep an eye out for upcoming special events and sponsorships.

Thank you for being part of the CAA Atlantic family and for sharing our commitment to community-giving. Through our collective efforts, we can make a difference and build a brighter future for all. CAA

Karen Stanley Vice President Marketing and Member Experience CAA Atlantic

Explore the world of beef.

Persian Beef Kabobs

Get this recipe of mine and many more at World Cuisine, part of the Canadian Beef Information Gateway Explore my Middle Eastern culinary heritage – with beef. Tara Omidvar @madeofsugarandsaffron

World Cuisine on the Canadian Beef Information Gateway, celebrates Canada’s diverse culinary influences. Ten global cuisines are featured, all using Canadian beef, with unique recipes and videos developed by guest content creators. The Gateway is all things beef, with cooking know-how information for over 70 cuts of beef – each with a set of recipes and matching videos. Check out World Cuisine at scan.cdnbeef.ca. Get it. Bookmark it.

Member Letters

YOU’VE INSPIRED US, CAA!

Have a story or comment you’d like to share? Email us at caamagazine@caasco.ca and you could be featured in an upcoming issue. Letters may be edited for length and clarity.

Since that first issue of CAA Magazine we received, our family’s travels have been inspired by the covers and articles. Our goal as a family is to visit all 10 Canadian provinces and at least one of the territories. We’ve been to six so far—and reading stories from the magazine has helped greatly with planning future trips. The cover photo of Rome, from the fall 2023 issue, inspired us so much that we’re planning on visiting next year. Thanks, CAA, for all the travel inspiration, tips and info.

–Hazel L.

It’s lovely to know that CAA has such compassionate employees

TURBO TOW TRUCK

Our family of three was packed up and ready to go on a road trip to Florida when we realized our car battery was dead. I dashed to the phone and called CAA. The tow truck operator did an outstanding job, towing us to the nearest dealer to replace our battery in record time—we were off to Florida a few hours later! What a great relief.

–Jim and Trudie

A ROOKIE MISTAKE

A friend and I headed out with my dog, Prada, on a particularly warm day when we made a rookie mistake—we both hopped out of the car, with the key still in the ignition, and closed the doors before realizing that we locked ourselves out and Prada in. Prada didn’t seem to have a care in the world, but we were very aware of how quickly the inside of the vehicle could heat up. I borrowed a phone to call CAA, and a mere 20 minutes later, a CAA truck pulled up. The driver raced to our location because he knew there was a dog locked in the car on such a hot day. Thankfully, Prada came out of the situation unfazed. It’s lovely to know that CAA has such compassionate employees.

–Cindy W.

PHOTOGRAPHS: (FROM LEFT) SPENCER DAVIS/UNSPLASH; COURTESY OF CAA

Feel the Heat

Take the plunge into nature’s own hot tubs

By Claudia Laroye

COLD OUTSIDE? All the more reason to luxuriate in a soothing reservoir of warm mineral-laced waters! Take the plunge into these five remarkable hot springs in Canada and around the world.

LIARD RIVER HOT SPRINGS, B.C.

The second-largest natural hot springs in Canada is just off the Alaska Highway in northern British Columbia. This hot pool, which ranges in temperature from 420C to 520C, is surrounded by a frosty white boreal forest. A boardwalk leads to the pool, passing through a warm-water swamp that supports diverse plants and local wildlife.

BANFF UPPER HOT SPRINGS, ALBERTA

Canada’s most historic and highestelevation hot springs offer healing mineral-rich geothermal waters that come with splendid views of Bow Valley and Mount Rundle. The bathhouse on-site is a federal heritage building with signage highlighting the history of these iconic springs.

BLUE LAGOON, ICELAND

The bright milky blue of Iceland’s renowned Blue Lagoon contrasts with the stark black volcanic landscape in Grindavík, about 45 minutes from Reykjavík. Steam rises from the 370C–400C blend of heated saltwater and freshwater—a mineral-rich by-product of the nearby geothermal power plant.

PAMUKKALE, TÜRKIYE

Known for its brilliant white travertine marble pools brimming with striking blue thermal waters, Pamukkale (Turkish for “cotton castle”) is one of the country’s most popular destinations. The barefoot-only terraced pools are a UNESCO World Heritage site. In Cleopatra’s Pool, a.k.a. the Antique Pool, you’ll find Doric columns that tumbled into the water as a result of an earthquake in the 7th century. This is where Cleopatra liked to take a relaxing dip.

AQUA DOME SPA, AUSTRIA

Alpine wellness prevails at the futuristic Aqua Dome Spa, about an hour’s drive from Innsbruck. The site features 12 thermal baths and 7 saunas with a full relaxation menu underneath a crystal-faceted glass dome, and, outdoors, spectacular views of the Ötztal Alps. There’s also a kid-friendly area with a cascade waterfall and water slides.

CAA Travel can help you escape winter. Book your adventure today.

The terraced pools at Pamukkale, a UNESCO World Heritage site, were allegedly favoured by Cleopatra. PHOTOGRAPH: PRMUSTAFA/ i STOCK

Brogan Ingram

HAVING A CLEAN HOME can boost a person’s well-being. However, Brogan Ingram knows that can be out of reach for some.

“There are so many people struggling in silence because of shame and lack of empathy from others,” says the Halifax woman better known as “Not the Worst Cleaner” on TikTok, where she’s garnered 5.6 million followers.

Ingram loves to clean. And she loves to help people. So, she provides a house-cleaning service—free of charge—to folks with physical- and mental-health issues who cope with challenging living conditions. She also shares her own experiences to show the connection between clean homes and mental health. “It’s important to let the people struggling know that there is light at the end of the tunnel.”

She began the free service two years ago and cherishes all the meaningful encounters she has with people in her community, including a woman who risked losing her children if her house wasn’t cleaned out. Eighteen bags of trash later, Ingram received a video of the woman’s daughter crying happy tears. Later, the grateful mom also reached out. “My entire house is clean and I’ve been decluttering monthly. It’s feeling like a home again.”

–Briony Smith

Nominate a Localer. We’d love to hear about people doing great things in your community. Send ideas to caamagazine@caasco.ca and they could be featured in an upcoming issue.

THE ONE

The East Coast Lifestyle Classic Vintage Hoodie

Brave the cold, snug in this best-selling super-soft midweight-fleece hoodie from East Coast Lifestyle. Rep the Atlantic provinces in a variety of colours and match up with anyone and everyone, thanks to its unisex fit.

• kangaroo pouch holds items and protects hands from the cold

• matching-colour drawstrings equals a seamless look

Update your winter wardrobe. Save 15% off online purchases at East Coast Lifestyle with promot code CAA15.

Brogan Ingram brings a little sparkle to those in need with her free house-cleaning service.

OF

Andersons Butcher and Takeaway

AT ANDERSONS (andersonsnl.ca), you can anticipate meat sourced from family farms as well as friendly staff happy to share their favourite cooking tips. Owners William Dray and Nick Howard bring their guiding motto—“Good food makes good neighbours”—to St. John’s bustling Water Street. Don’t feel much like cooking? There’s a deli, too, with a range of delicious offerings, like burgers and fried chicken sandwiches.

–Kate Rae

The long-awaited Grand Egyptian Museum opens early 2024.

Three to See

The Bridge Collection Museum

Porto, Portugal

At this bustling St. John’s butcher shop, customers enjoy cooking tips from the friendly staff to go with their groceries

Fittingly located near the city of Porto, home of the famous sweet wine, The Bridge Collection Museum explores the history of the tradition of drinking and its role in society and culture over the past 9,000-plus years. On weekends, guests can participate in an immersive “escape room” game. Your mission: An artifact is missing and your team of researchers is charged with its recovery. You have 60 minutes.

The Punk Rock Museum

Las Vegas, Nevada

The Punk Rock Museum chronicles the rebels of rock ’n’ roll with memorabilia covering the genre’s instigators (Iggy Pop and the Stooges, Ramones, Sex Pistols) through its mainstream hit-makers (Blondie, Devo, Green Day, The Offspring). Canadian bands are well represented, too, from Newfoundland’s satirical Da Slyme (who, this year, released their first album in more than 20 years) to B.C.’s garage rockers The Smugglers (led by Grant Lawrence, host of CBC Music’s Top 20 and Searchlight).

Grand Egyptian Museum

Cairo, Egypt

The Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) houses the largest archaeological museum complex in the world with more than 100,000 artifacts, including the complete collection of King Tut’s treasures. Construction began in 2005 and the museum is currently offering limited “trial” visits. It is slated to officially open in early 2024. –Staff

PHOTOGRAPHS: (FROM LEFT) COURTESY OF ANDERSONS BUTCHER AND TAKEAWAY; AHMED FAWZY ELARABY / ALAMY STOCK

Nick Howard (left) and William Dray: “Good food makes good neighbours.”

Light Up Your Winter

’Tis the season for sparkling light shows across Canada

AS WINTER PAINTS Canada in dreamy white, the country responds with a vibrant palette of light. From coast to coast, glittering light festivals blanket frosty landscapes, creating a winter wonderland filled with magical experiences for all ages.

ALBERTA Glow Holiday Festival of Lights

Alberta decks the halls in style. The Glow Festival of Lights in Edmonton (Dec. 1–Jan. 1) and Calgary (Dec. 7–31) is a Christmas-themed indoor extravaganza spanning approximately 90,000 square feet featuring millions of twinkling lights, lively music, festive food and a bustling market.

SASKATCHEWAN Enchanted Forest

Located in the Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park and Zoo, the Enchanted Forest (Nov. 18–Jan. 7) features one of the longestrunning drive-through light shows in the country. Now in its 25th year, the fantastical landscape boasts dozens of stunning custom displays, including a mesmerizing take on Noah’s Ark that’s 70 feet high and 160 feet in length.

MANITOBA Canad Inns Winter Wonderland

In Winnipeg, the Canad Inns Winter Wonderland (Dec. 1–Jan. 6) is a festive tour-de-force. More than a dazzling light show, the event features horse-drawn sleigh rides, a skating rink and food trucks offering delectable treats.

NIAGARA Winter Festival of Lights

Niagara Falls’ Winter Festival of Lights (Nov. 12–Feb. 20) is Canada’s largest free outdoor light extravaganza. The American and Canadian Horseshoe Falls become the canvas for vibrant light displays and fireworks, creating a memorable spectacle that mirrors the awe-inspiring power of nature.

ONTARIO Canada’s Wonderland WinterFest

Canada’s Wonderland, just north of Toronto, transforms into WinterFest (on select dates, Nov. 17–Jan. 7)—a haven resplendent in holiday cheer. This year’s event features skating on Snow Flake Lake, live shows and hundreds of beautifully decorated Christmas trees throughout the theme park.

ATLANTIC

CANADA Evergreen Bright

A wintertime celebration of Nova Scotian hospitality, Evergreen Bright (Nov. 24–Dec. 17) is all aglow with installations along the Halifax waterfront and throughout downtown Halifax and Dartmouth. Visitors can stroll through the light-strewn paths, enjoy live performances and stop by vendors set up in cozy wooden chalets offering warming beverages and delicious local food.

–Claire Sibonney

PLAYLIST

What Songs Do You Road Trip to, T. Thomason?

HALIFAX-BASED T. Thomason has been releasing albums since his teens but came to national attention on TV talent search The Launch, winning his episode in February 2019. In early 2023, the nonbinary singer-songwriter signed to Toronto’s Six Shooter Records. While he works on new music, he released a cover of Bruce Cockburn’s “Lovers in a Dangerous Time.” He says his road-trip playlist consists of “driver-seat-safe dance moves and maybe a little happy tear.”

Lightning

Charli XCX

Basic Sigrid

Learn to Let Go

Kesha

Silk Chiffon

MUNA (feat. Phoebe Bridgers)

Boy Problems

Carly Rae Jepsen

Jealous (I Ain’t with It)

Chromeo

Oh, What a World

Kacey Musgraves

Invisible String

Taylor Swift

Light On

Maggie Rogers

Songs may not be appropriate for everyone. Listener discretion is advised.

Surf’s Up

Experience the delight of winter surfing all across Canada

By Briony Smith

ANTONIO LENNERT was destined for the sea.

After a childhood spent surfing the beaches of his native Brazil, he moved to California, where he found a cool camaraderie with fellow surf enthusiasts. Even a move northward to Canada couldn’t keep him from the waves for long.

Lennert co-founded Surf the Greats, a surf and coffee shop in Toronto that aims to cultivate community among surfers—experienced and beginner alike—and promote the joys of surfing on the Great Lakes and beyond.

Canada certainly has an abundance of exciting surf spots and, perhaps best of all, many can be enjoyed year-round—even in winter.

Here, Lennert shares his recommendations for the best winter-surfing spots across Canada.

WOODBINE BEACH

Lake Ontario, Toronto

“Situated along Lake Ontario’s shores, Woodbine Beach offers relatively smaller waves along its sandy bottom shoreline, making it a reliable location for winter surfing. And there’s a striking juxtaposition of Toronto’s skyline against the vast expanse of Lake Ontario.”

Best for beginners: “The often-gentler wave patterns make it particularly suitable for beginners. Here, novice surfers can learn the ropes without being overwhelmed, and there are always other surfers around.”

Visit nearby: “After a surf session, pop by our shop in Leslieville. Woodbine Beach offers one of Toronto’s most captivating sunrises.”

COX BAY BEACH

Tofino, Vancouver Island, B.C.

“The area offers consistent swells, especially during the winter months. This Pacific Northwest paradise is an amalgamation of dense rainforests, rugged coastlines and misty shores. The mist

hanging over the towering cedars as waves crash onto the rocky shores presents an ethereal winter wonderland for surfers.”

Best for intermediate surfers: “The waves at Cox Bay Beach can go from very chill to powerful, depending on the swell, making it an ideal spot for intermediate surfers.”

Visit nearby: “Check out Storm Surf Shop for all your local surfing needs. Post-surf, head to Tacofino for the best tacos in town and grab a pint at the Tofino Brewery.”

LAWRENCETOWN BEACH

Nova Scotia

“Lawrencetown Beach is exposed to the open Atlantic, ensuring powerful swells and challenging wave conditions, especially during hurricane season and the winter, when the North Atlantic storms roll in. The raw power of the Atlantic is palpable here, with the waves crashing against the rocks and creating a mesmerizing spectacle.”

Best for advanced surfers: “The challenging wave conditions demand a certain level of expertise, making Lawrencetown Beach a haven for more advanced surfers.”

Visit nearby: “After an unforgettable surf session, head to one of the quaint towns nearby for some classic Maritime hospitality. The picturesque landscapes surrounding the area, especially during sunrise, provide photographers with countless opportunities to capture Nova Scotia’s raw beauty.”

Canada certainly has an abundance of exciting surf spots and, perhaps best of all, many can be enjoyed year-round

(FROM TOP) COURTESY OF MIKE PALMER ; COURTESY OF SAM MOFFATT

Lennert catches a wave on Lake Ontario.

Antonio Lennert prepares to surf on Georgian Bay.

What’s Your Favourite...?

CAA Member Louise Moyes on Newfoundland and Labrador’s thriving culture, long walks and the best Cockney rhyming slang

By Sean Deasy

What’s a place you travelled to that made you think, I might never want to leave?

Tasmania was so beautiful—easy to drive around, and the capital, Hobart, is so picturesque. I could certainly imagine living there!

What’s one thing, big or small, that you always do while travelling?

I love to walk through and around a place. Only semi-planned, seeing what we run into, how people live in their cities or villages.

You’re renowned for your storytelling and accents. What’s your favourite accent to do?

The gentle accent of the women of the south coast of Newfoundland. Their ancestors would have come from southwest England, Somerset and Devon.

You were raised in Newfoundland by parents from the east end of London. What’s your favourite Cockney rhyming slang term?

“Skin and blister” for “sister.”

The Nook and Cannery, Louise Moyes’ restaurant of choice in St. John’s; choreographer and docu-dancer Louise Moyes.

LOUISE MOYES UNDERSTANDS that the rich tapestry of a place—a town, a region, a country—is indelibly woven by its people. As a choreographer, dancer and performer, she takes that understanding to scintillating heights with her one-woman “docu-dances”—multidisciplinary, bilingual shows created from recordings of conversations with people she encounters while travelling. Here, Moyes, who lives in St. John’s, shares some of her favourite things (and yes, most involve people).

What’s your favourite hometown restaurant, bar or coffee shop?

The Nook and Cannery on Harvey Road, just around the corner from our house, in the centre of downtown St. John’s. The décor is funky and the staff are terrific—the perfect townie mix of fun and warm, with a touch of saucy.

Do you have a favourite venue for live music?

The Ship Pub on Duckworth Street, hands down. We have an incredible variety of high-quality bands here: traditional, funk, jazz, punk, rock ’n’ roll, pop, West African…. I’ve probably spent weeks of my life over the years dancing very happily at the Ship.

I love to walk through and around a place. Only semi-planned, seeing what we run into

How do you embrace the Newfoundland winter?

I love to hike in the snow, toboggan, crosscountry ski and skate on the wonderful outdoor rink called The Loop, in Bannerman Park, in downtown St. John’s.

If you could perform for one person, either living or from the past, who would it be?

It would be for my late grandmothers, Ruby and Marie. Listening to their stories is part of what inspired me to do docudances, which mix interviews, life stories, film and dance. I’d love to see their smiling faces in the audience.

What’s the perfect day for you?

A walk and a swim outdoors, a good meal and talking to people. I love talking with “strangers” while travelling. You learn so much about them—their culture, politics, history, landscape and lifestyle. CAA

Creature Comfort

Here’s how to track down ethical animal attractions that preserve and protect wildlife

By Vawn Himmelsbach

Illustration by Guilherme Henrique

IF YOU LOVE ANIMALS, the chance to swim with dolphins may seem like a dream vacation opportunity. But you might want to consider scratching that off your list.

From snorkelling with salmon in B.C. to gorilla trekking in Uganda, there’s no shortage of exotic animal encounters being offered to entice travellers. Around 110 million people visit wildlife attractions each year, according to World Animal Protection, a global non-profit animal advocate, but it also notes that 75 percent of these venues have a negative impact on wild animals. Think ostrich rides and shark baiting. Often, animals have been snatched out of their natural habitat to become “props” for tourists, which can cause long-term harm.

“Many wild animals that are used for the tourism industry have endured severe trauma, like being removed from the mother at an early age, facing inhumane training methods and cosmetic alterations [such as] removal of teeth or claws,” says Michèle Hamers, wildlife campaign manager for World Animal Protection Canada.

Animals in captivity can’t engage in natural behaviours, often leading to boredom, frustration and stress, warns Hamers. That translates into abnormal behaviours, from pacing and self-harm—such as plucking out their own hair or feathers—to unnatural aggressiveness. “Other impacts are less visible, like PTSD and depression,” she points out.

Unfortunately, there is no globally recognized body—nor any formal standards or certifications—that people can turn to for determining if a wildlife experience is ethical. However, they can watch out for these red flags suggested by World Animal Protection.

• Avoid venues where you can touch, hug, feed, take a selfie or closely interact with a wild animal (and yes, that includes swimming with dolphins).

• If a “sanctuary” sells, breeds or makes animals perform tricks, it’s not an ethical operation.

• Be skeptical if operators “guarantee” an encounter with animals in the wild, which could mean animals are baited. “Labels like ‘sanctuary’ and ‘rescue centre’ can be used by anyone, so people cannot rely on such descriptions,” notes Hamers. The same red flags apply to wildlife voluntourism.

World Animal Protection provides tips on its website (worldanimalprotection.ca/take-action/animal-friendlytravel-tips) to help people determine if animals’ basic needs are being met by the operator or venue.

Several groups are establishing volunteer or independent certifications to guide animal lovers looking for ethical ways to interact with wild animals. Whale Sense (whalesense.org) —sponsored by Whale and Dolphin Conservation and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration—assists visitors to find whale-watching companies committed to responsible practices. The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries—which has accredited more than 200 sanctuaries, rescue facilities and rehabilitation centres—enables visitors to its website (sanctuaryfederation.org) to search by animal and region. And the World Wildlife Fund has teamed up with Natural Habitat Adventures on 90-plus conservation-based itineraries, searchable on its website (nathab.com).

While you won’t be riding an elephant or taking selfies with koalas, the magic of an encounter with happy, healthy animals in their natural habitat is, after all, hard to beat. CAA

A CAA Travel Advisor can help you book trustworthy local attractions for your next vacation. Visit travelwithcaa.ca to learn more.

Over Extended

Sales ploys pushing extra warranties can be high-pressure, but most buyers should shy away

By Matt Bubbers

DO YOU NEED an extended warranty on your new vehicle?

The short answer is no. Sometimes, though, it feels like you do—especially if the salesperson is pushy.

Here’s the usual scenario. Just when you think the deal for that new car is done, you’ll be ushered into the dealership’s business office, or something like that, where another salesperson will try to sell—among other things—an extended warranty.

“Just know it’s coming, so don’t be alarmed when it does,” advises Ryan Peterson, manager of automotive services for the CAA Club Group. He’s well acquainted with the inner workings of car dealerships, having spent more than 20 years as an employee at various dealers in both service and management roles before joining CAA.

Buyers should anticipate high-pressure sales tactics from reps in the business office. “Some of them will almost hold you hostage,” Peterson warns. Dealer margins are typically thin, and offering extra products like warranties is one way to boost profits. Meanwhile, drivers are keeping their vehicles longer, and with an older vehicle comes the fear of expensive repairs. This makes buyers vulnerable to suggestion.

Keep in mind that every new vehicle has a factory warranty included in the price. Extended warranties can provide longer-term coverage and can be optionally offered from the manufacturer or from third parties. As The New York Times reported in June, some of those third-party warranties can be okay, while others are bad and some are total scams. The cost of making repairs as they are needed very rarely exceeds the price of the extended warranty.

So, what’s a car buyer to do? Consumer Reports doesn’t recommend third-party warranties at all, period. Peterson’s advice: “If you’re a person that’s fearful or worried about a big expensive repair, then maybe the mental calmness an extended warranty would bring is worth the money. Or, if you can’t afford that sudden unexpected repair, then buy the factory extended warranty.” For everyone else, extended warranties are usually not worth the cost. CAA

CAN THE DEALER CHANGE THE PRICE AFTER WE’VE AGREED ON IT?

In certain rare circumstances, yes, the dealer can change the price of a vehicle even after a contract is signed. (Be sure to read the fine print.) If, for example, a manufacturer stops building a certain trim level, a dealer may have to substitute a higher-end trim at a higher price. In that case, the buyer could back out and get the deposit back. But if there is no good reason for the sudden price hike, buyers should contact the manufacturer and the provincial regulator to report the dealer’s improper behaviour.

Questions about vehicles? Ask us anything. Email autoadvice@cassco.ca or call 1-866-464-6448 with questions for our experts.

The Best of Bermuda

Travel writer Vivian Vassos shares what keeps her coming back to this gem of a destination in the mid-Atlantic

By Vivian Vassos

WHEN I RECALL BERMUDA, I always think pink—the pink sand beaches, candy-floss-coloured houses and verdant gardens dotted with roses and fuchsias growing so close to the roadside that you can roll down the car window and almost touch them. I have rosy memories of all my trips to Britain’s oldest overseas territory.

Bermuda was one of the first places I visited, solo, years ago, and I always feel safe there. On my second trip, I learned how to mix cocktails with the region’s famous rum (more on that later). I then returned to sail around these coral islands on a catamaran. This year, I took time to dig a little deeper and learn more about Bermuda’s origins. And there’s always more to bring me back.

People may speak of Bermuda as if it’s one island, but, in fact, it’s an archipelago of strung-together islands, islets and other tiny rocks that span roughly 56 square kilometres. It may be small, but it’s rich in culture, with a prosperous economy, complex history and lively arts community.

Here are some of my favourite things to see and do on—as locals lovingly call it—“The Rock.”

(Opposite page) Bermuda’s famous pink sands; (above) Hamilton Princess & Beach Club, a.k.a. the Pink Palace.

HIT THE LINKS

Bermuda is a golfer’s heaven with seven world-class courses, including the award-winning Port Royal, designed by the inimitable golf course architect Robert Trent Jones, Sr. The PGA’s Butterfield Bermuda Championship tees off here in November. Most courses are public or run by hotels such as Tuckers Point Golf Club at the Rosewood or Turtle Hill at the Fairmont Southampton. All seven courses have spectacular ocean views and are open year-round.

CLIMB A LIGHTHOUSE

Gibbs Hill Lighthouse, among the oldest of cast-iron lighthouses on the planet, still beams out into the Atlantic, as it has been doing since 1846. If you’re feeling fit, climb the 185 steps to the top and take in the views of the South Shore, Little Sound, the Royal Naval Dockyard and the skyline of Hamilton, Bermuda’s capital.

Insider tip: The little door at the top leads to an outdoor walking platform with a 360-degree view.

LIVE ARTFULLY

Splurge and book a stay at the Hamilton Princess & Beach Club. This Fairmont-managed property—known locally as the Pink Palace—has been a mainstay in Bermuda since 1885. Mark Twain lounged on the veranda and held autograph signings in the hotel. Now, the Hamilton Princess includes an impressive gallery space with a collection of more than 300 pieces by some of the biggest names in modern and contemporary art. Visitors can get up close to major works by Warhol, Picasso, Koons, Kusama, Weiwei and Banksy.

Insider tip: A local gallerist leads a hotel art tour by request.

DINE AT AN INTRIGUING SPOT

After taking the art tour at the Pink Palace, head to its newly opened restaurant, Intrepid. This steak-and-seafood venue is directed by the deft hand of Antwan Ellis, who honed his craft at Shula’s and Todd English in Orlando. Here, in Bermuda, American grill-meets-raw-bar in an elegant art deco–inspired space. Intrepid was the code name for the Bermuda-based Second World War operative, Sir William Stephenson, a friend of author Sir Ian Fleming and rumoured to be the inspiration for Fleming’s famous character, James Bond.

Bermuda may be small, but it’s rich in culture, with a prosperous economy, complex history and lively arts community

Insider tip: Mid Ocean, consistently voted as one of the world’s best courses, is private but opens a few coveted spots to the public on weekdays. Book a tee time far in advance.

Insider tip: If you order a martini, expect vodka, Lillet and an olive—a variation of Bond’s cocktail in Casino Royale. Shaken, not stirred, of course.

LEARN FROM LOCALS

Enjoy a history lesson via Unchained on the Rock, a new initiative founded by locals Liana Nanang and Ajala Omodele—year-round talks, tours and workshops chronicling Black liberation and resistance. I met them at the Commissioner’s House in the Dockyard, where their guided tour of the National Museum of Bermuda offered the perspective of the African diaspora and enslaved people of West Africa, the West Indies and Indigenous American peoples. Nanang, a descendant of enslaved Africans and Indigenous Americans brought to Bermuda, and Omodele read snippets

(This page)

Intrepid restaurant, at the Hamilton Princess hotel, features a faceted curve of panoramic windows overlooking Hamilton Harbour. (Opposite page)

A view of the North Atlantic Ocean from atop Gibbs Hill Lighthouse.

(Opposite page, clockwise from top left) Blue Hole Park in Walsingham Nature Reserve; the Dark ’n Stormy cocktail mixes dark rum and ginger beer; centuries-old stalactites at Crystal Caves; coral reefs fringing the historic town of St. George are part of a UNESCO World Heritage site. (This page) Bermuda’s shallow reef system is easily accessible to snorkellers.

of their poetry as we walked the halls where their ancestors once toiled—a deeply moving experience that encouraged me to learn more.

Insider tip: Follow the island’s African Diaspora Heritage Trail of more than 50 Sites of Memory, created as part of the UNESCO Slave Route Project, which shares the stories of enslaved people across the globe.

DIVE IN

Bermuda is great for snorkelling and diving yearround. I sailed to a near-perfect snorkelling spot at the Western Blue Cut, where several shipwrecks, caught in the shallow barrier reef, are easily spotted at a depth of less than nine metres.

Insider tip: April is Dive Month in Bermuda, when visibility of the coral reefs and the numerous shipwrecks is considered at its best.

SIP ISLAND RUM

I learned how to stir up a perfect Dark ’n Stormy cocktail with rum and ginger beer at Gosling’s Rum Distillery in Hamilton. According to Gosling’s, the recipe originated at a local ginger beer factory run as a subsidiary of the Royal Navy officers’ club. It’s said the name comes from a fisherman’s observation that the dark drink looks like “the colour of a cloud only a fool or dead man would sail under.”

Insider tip: Bermuda’s other famous cocktail is the Rum Swizzle—you’ll find different versions of this rum-and-citrus drink across the island, but I

recommend the one that claims to be the original, at The Swizzle Inn Pub.

TAKE IN THE LANDSCAPE

Walsingham Nature Reserve is sort of a one-stop shop to take in Bermuda’s most dazzling views. Blue-pooled grottos offer plenty of snorkelling and swimming options, and the hiking trails abound with flora and fauna. The famous Crystal Caves, with their luminous stalactites dripping above groves of stalagmites, provide a breathtaking respite from the heat of the day.

Insider tip: Rent a bike and tour the island at your own pace along the 29 kilometres of accessible trails of the Bermuda Railway Trail National Park. Tourists are not allowed to rent cars on the island, but rental electric mini-cars and scooters are available. Taxis and public transport are well organized and easily accessible. CAA

VIVIAN VASSOS is a lifestyle writer and editor with more than 25 years of experience in magazine and newspaper journalism. Her work has appeared in Traveller, The Globe and Mail, ZOOMER Magazine and Travelweek.

Book the ultimate winter getaway with a CAA Travel Advisor. Visit travelwithcaa.ca to learn more.

Travel Goals

A father and son make winning memories on a footie-focused trip to London

By Michael Bettencourt

AS OUR CAR FROM Heathrow Airport approached the busy Wembley district of northwest London, my son Adrian and I watched the impressive 133-metre archway of Wembley Stadium come into view. I felt a tingle of anticipation for the historic football match we had come all the way from Toronto to see—Manchester City versus Manchester United, two teams that have dominated English football for the past 30 years, in the highly anticipated final game of the 2023 Football Association (FA) Challenge Cup.

This father-and-son trip was a promise I had made to Adrian during one of our many weekend mornings spent together watching English football (it’s rarely called soccer in our household). His older brother, Julian—a passionate fan who’s

now pursuing a sports media career in university—and I had previously enjoyed a similar footie-focused trip to England, so it felt like a rite of passage for Adrian to experience a game at one of the meccas of international football.

I’m sure we were not the only Canadian family making the trip. Catching a football match has long been a popular activity for visitors to England, and attendance was already on the upswing pre-pandemic. The number of tourists who attended a match increased from 900,000 in 2011 to 1.5 million in 2019, according to a VisitBritain report. The popularity of soccer is increasing in North America, likely fuelled by hit shows Ted Lasso and Welcome to Wrexham and Inter Miami’s acquisition of all-timegreat Lionel Messi. And fan numbers

PHOTO; DANIEL HAMBURY/STELLA PICTURES LTD; HORST FRIEDRICHS/ALAMY STOCK PHOTO; COURTESY OF MICHAEL BETTENCOURT

Steps of Change by Acrylicize, a design installation created for Wembley Park Art Trail’s summer 2023 exhibition, Equilibrium

(Clockwise from top) The 2023 Football Association Cup final game at Wembley Stadium; Chelsea artifacts on display at Stamford Bridge; views of Tottenham Hotspur Stadium from the Dare Skywalk; Arsenal’s home dressing room in Emirates Stadium; Michael and Adrian kitted out in rivalling team colours.

MORE GOTTA-SEE FOOTBALL STOPS IN ENGLAND

Manchester

Two major global soccer powerhouse teams are located a 12-minute drive apart in Manchester. Fans can visit Man U’s iconic Old Trafford grounds and, in contrast, the city’s gleamingly new Etihad Stadium. Both offer tours, but Manchester City includes a virtual press conference with a hologram of its manager, Pep Guardiola.

will grow in the lead-up to the 2026 World Cup to be co- hosted by Canada, the U.S. and Mexico.

We were lucky to have scored tickets to this sold-out game, the first time in the FA Cup’s 151-year history that rivals City and Man U were facing off in the final. It’s also Wembley’s 100th anniversary year—the massive 90,000-seat stadium was built in 1923 to support England’s intense passion for football.

The day before the game, Adrian and I checked out some of London’s many other famous soccer sights, eschewing more customary attractions such as Buckingham Palace and Piccadilly Circus. Emirates Stadium in central London was our first stop—home of the Arsenal football club—where we toured the field, dressing rooms, directors box, home dugout and the museum and trophy room.

Liverpool

Fierce Man U rivals, the Liverpool Football Club plays at Anfield Stadium. Tours take you past Liverpool’s famous “This is Anfield” sign and offer fans the chance to try a penalty kick or commentate on a big play. Hard-core football fans can also visit the nearby Goodison Park before Everton FC’s oldest pro stadium is closed for redevelopment.

Richmond

Ted Lasso may feature a fictional AFC Richmond team but was filmed in the real London suburb of Richmond, where fans frequent landmarks such as The Crown & Anchor pub (The Prince’s Head in real life) and Ted’s nearby charming pedestrian street (called Paved Court). Various walking tours are available, though Selhurst Park (used for most of the show’s stadium shots) is in the London Borough of Croydon.

Next, we headed to Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in north London, the city’s newest Premier League stadium where visitors can don a harness to walk across a transparent platform at the top of the stadium, overlooking London and the pitch below. Adventurous fans can also opt to be lowered 42 metres to the pitch.

Stamford Bridge was our last stop. Home to Chelsea FC, one of London’s biggest teams, this historical club offers one of the most popular stadium tours in Europe where fans can tour the museum and take pictures next to the pitch.

On game day, we set out early as advised. Local transport officials recommended separate routes for City and United fans travelling from Manchester to London—not just to reduce road congestion but to prevent flare-ups between rival fans at rest stops along the way.

Team loyalties burn deep and span generations in England. Although Manchester United once dominated the English Premier League, their last win was in 2013. Revered Man U coach Sir Alex Ferguson called City their annoying “noisy neighbours,” when City started winning regularly, and the moniker stuck as they continued to rack up titles in England—including Europe’s coveted

PHOTOGRAPHS: (FROM TOP) COWARD_LION/ i STOCK; COWARD_LION/ STOCK; ALLA TSYGANOVA/ i STOCK

Etihad Stadium

Anfield Stadium

Paved Court

Champions League title in 2023. Excitement—and tensions—were clearly high for this match as we were about to find out.

“We can’t let you in dressed like that,” said the security guard, gesturing at my son’s bright red Manchester United scarf and matching jester cap. It stood out beside the blue of my Manchester City jersey—and the blue gear worn by almost everyone else on that side of Wembley.

At home in Canada, a father-and-son duo dressed to support rival soccer teams can usually sit together with nothing more than a few disapproving glances. But in England, “Red Devils” and “Sky Blues” are separated by vacant stadium sections and teams of security guards. Luckily, Wembley Stadium has a whole outdoor shopping mall. With

my son kitted out in a brand-new grey sweatshirt, we were successfully admitted on try number two.

Once we reached our section, the deafening chants and drums of the Man City fans rang in our ears and blue-andwhite flags waved around us. Thankfully, we reached our seats well before kickoff because City scored its first of two goals within 12 seconds of the opening whistle, as fans in our section leapt out of their seats. Later, when Man U scored its one and only goal, Adrian resisted cheering and opted for a subtle leg-squeeze instead. But it made the experience no less exciting for him.

After the game, I discreetly asked a security guard if my son could have a United flag. He located a security manager, who eventually retrieved one

Book your next European getaway with a CAA Travel Advisor. Visit travelwithcaa.ca to learn more.

For most, the noises of a roaring crowd, a clamorous work environment and even loud music from headphones are all day-to-day occurrences. However, these facets of daily life can put you at risk for Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL). NIHL occurs when the sensory receptors inside the inner ear become damaged, interrupting the signals these receptors send to our brains. While this damage is considered permanent, taking actions to prevent it can make a world of a difference. The first step to being proactive about your hearing health is knowing the signs and sounds to look out for:

Sounds become muffled, as if you’re underwater

Turning up the TV or radio volume beyond a reasonable level Increasing

from the opposite end of the field but warned us to hide it under our City flags and other purchased gear.

“Next time, we have to make it to Manchester,” said Adrian as we exited Wembley Stadium. “But we’re going to Old Trafford—and sitting in the red section.”

I don’t know how long this kind of quality time will continue with my younger son. But if the memories created by this trip extend our game time together, that’s a real win for both of us. CAA

MICHAEL BETTENCOURT has been a journalist for more than 20 years. He is co-author of a book on electric vehicles in Canada, to be published in 2024.

The good news is that it’s never been easier to prevent further damage thanks to the sophisticated, innovative hearing solutions from Connect Hearing. Using your CAA Membership, you can take advantage of Memberexclusive savings such as five years of free batteries with hearing aid purchase, and up to $2,000 off hearing technology*.

Listen up!

If these symptoms seem all too familiar to you, it’s time to take control of your hearing health and visit Connect Hearing for a free hearing test.

Game On

Three organizations are working hard to ensure that Canadian kids benefit from the power of play

By Claire Sibonney

ORGANIZED PHYSICAL activities are so much more than just fun and games. They help children get exercise, make friends, learn teamwork and improve self-esteem and mental health. Yet, according to the latest ParticipACTION Report Card on Physical Activity for Children and Youth, participation in organized sports programs is at its lowest level in nearly a decade.

Many kids in Canada miss out on sports because of financial hardship, gender and racial barriers and lack of access to sports leagues or school programs. That’s where not-for-profit organizations pick up the ball. These inspiring charities work hard to ensure that kids aren’t left sitting on the sidelines.

FAST AND FEMALE

Research shows that 94 percent of women who hold top management positions are former athletes. Sports teach collaboration and help girls build the confidence to become leaders. Yet, by the age of 16, one in three girls who play sports drop out, compared with one out of ten boys the same age.

Fast and Female is a Canadian charity that partners with local organizations to keep girls in the game. It runs events, mentorship programs and educational workshops for a wide range of sports, from cheer and running to wheelchair basketball. In Dartmouth, for example, Fast and Female paired up with the Mic Mac Amateur Aquatic Club for a Champ Chats event, which connected girls with women athletes and role models for a panel discussion, yoga session and physical activity circuit. And in Oro-Medonte, Ont., girls attended a Power Hour workshop led by local role models followed by an opportunity to cycle the trails at Hardwood Ski and Bike.

“Role models are at the heart of what we do,” says

(Above) Children playing double ball, a traditional Indigenous game, at a Spirit North community event. (Opposite page, from top) KidSport Canada CEO Greg Ingalls, left, and Nate Challen, general manager of Sanofi Consumer Health Canada; Fast and Female’s annual Girl’s Run in Canmore, Alta.

Gabriela Estrada, executive director of Fast and Female. The group’s mentors include gold-medal professional athletes as well as doctors, firefighters, nurses and teachers, she notes, all geared to empower girls through sport and physical activity.

SPIRIT NORTH

In the Nordic skiing world, Canadian Beckie Scott made history as the first North American woman to win an Olympic gold medal in cross-country. In recent years, the three-time Olympian, anti-doping advocate and Officer of the Order of Canada has shifted her attention to helping others succeed. In 2009, Scott established Spirit North, a national charitable organization that uses sports and physical activities to improve the health and well-being of Indigenous youth. She was inspired to create the non-profit after a stint as an ambassador for a small ski program in northern Alberta where all the participants were First Nation and Métis.

Scott saw how even such a short visit could impact children by inspiring them through sports. But it wasn’t enough. “Hearing, at the end of the day, ‘When are you coming back?’ was a heartbreaker because you recognize that this is one of the only opportunities they get, and it’s so unfair,” says Scott. “We have this entire population of people living on the margins of society who just don’t have the same access [to sports].”

Reaching 13,000 Indigenous youth in 105 communities across Canada, Spirit North’s activities and programs range from canoeing in Alberta to snowshoeing in Manitoba to hiking in Saskatchewan. Spirit North also teams up with elders, family members, advisors and local educators in various communities to host festival days for kids. Currently, about half of the program’s coaches are Indigenous and the goal is to double that with the help of the organization’s mentorship and training programs.

KIDSPORT CANADA

KidSport Canada provides lower-income families with financial assistance for sport registration fees and equipment costs. Currently, it raises about $9 million annually to help 40,000 children per year by funding opportunities for more than 80 different sports.

“Sport is something that all kids should have access to because it teaches lessons that will make them better people,” says KidSport Canada’s CEO, Greg Ingalls. “Some of those athletes end up becoming Olympians or professional athletes. That’s awesome. But we’re more concerned about creating solid citizens through sport.”

Sport is something that all kids should have access to because it teaches lessons that will make them better people

Since 1993, KidSport has helped nearly one million Canadian children experience the joy of organized sports. One of those kids was Yembeh Moiba, who, at age 6, emigrated from Sierra Leone to Alberta with his mom and five siblings. With the help of KidSport, he earned a football scholarship to the University of Alberta, where he graduated as a chartered accountant. Now Moiba volunteers as the treasurer for KidSport Alberta. “[Using] sport as a social development tool, providing opportunities for kids,” says Ingalls, “those are the things we’re most proud of.” CAA

CLAIRE SIBONNEY is a freelance writer and editor whose work has appeared in National Geographic, Self, Teen Vogue, InStyle and other publications. She also teaches journalism at Centennial College.

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Beyond Books

As a thoroughly modern community hub, the Charlottetown Library Learning Centre represents the future of libraries

By Truc Nguyen | Photograph by Stephen Harris

ONE OF

THE

TOP ATTRACTIONS in the capital of Prince Edward Island these days might well be its new library, which draws about 1,000 visitors a day—no small feat in a city with just under 39,000 residents.

The Charlottetown Library Learning Centre (CLLC) opened in July 2022 downtown, on the renovated ground floor of the mid-century-built Dominion Building. Designed by Charlottetown-based Nine Yards Studio in collaboration with MacKay-Lyons Sweetapple Architects, in Halifax, the 42,000-square-foot centre is more than three times as big as the library it replaced.

At the redesigned space, visitors will find far more than shelves of reading materials, cozy nooks and traditional programming. There’s story time for toddlers and, for adults, workshops on resumé-building and emergency preparedness. The light-filled building also houses a kitchen for cooking programs, a podcast recording studio and a maker space where guests can access and learn how to use 3D printers, sewing machines and even a heat press—all at no charge. Charlottetown residents with PEI Public Library Cards can take advantage of many shared community resources—locals can borrow, for free, a wide range of items, from home and garden tools to e-readers and video game consoles.

“The entire library system has a really extensive ‘library of things’ collection,” notes Krystal Dionne, CLLC’s adult services librarian. “We have skates and snowshoes, light therapy lamps and sleep aids.”

The success of the venue demonstrates how a library can play a central, and important, role in community-building

and improving access to cultural and creative resources.

“The idea of libraries has always been to try to meet the needs of the community,” says Dionne. “And as those needs change, it makes sense to grow and change our offerings and our spaces to better meet those needs.” CAA

The idea of libraries has always been to try to meet the needs of the community

Is there an organization in your community that people need to know about?

Contact us at caamagazine@caasco.ca. We’d love to hear about it!

Adult services librarian Krystal Dionne with borrowable garden tools at CLLC; (below) the library’s bright, welcoming interior.

PHOTOGRAPH: (BOTTOM) COURTESY OF CHARLOTTETOWN LIBRARY LEARNING CENTRE

Rolling into Winter

How to make sure your vehicle is ready for the chilly season

By Benjamin Yong

Illustrations by Jason Ford

WINTER PRESENTS ITS OWN UNIQUE set of challenges when it comes to the safety and security of your vehicle’s occupants, as well as the protection and maintenance of the vehicle itself. And because weather conditions can shift suddenly in wintertime, being prepared is paramount.

As for winterizing your vehicle, the most important thing is regular maintenance year-round, according to Ryan Peterson, manager of automotive services for CAA Club Group (CCG). “If you follow your owner’s manual regularly, you need not worry about the seasons. And if you haven’t had the car checked out thoroughly by a mechanic in a year or more, go do it!”

How you prepare for winter depends on your driving habits and weather conditions. If you hardly leave the city, you won’t need to plan the same way as someone who drives 1,000 kilometres through wilderness. But either way, don’t allow winter to catch you by surprise.

PRE-WINTER PREP

Ensure that your vehicle is in top shape and will make it through the winter without leaving you stranded.

“Have your mechanic put your vehicle up on the hoist, pull the wheels off and check the brakes, suspension, belts, hoses, fluids,” says Peterson. “You want to catch problems now because components, as they wear, become more brittle when the mercury drops.”

Mechanics designated by CAA’s Approved Auto Repair Services™ (AARS) program perform a 139-point inspection and road test and provide a comprehensive report. Or ask your trusted mechanic to do a thorough mechanical inspection ranking the urgency of repairs.

Rustproofing is a good idea to protect against salt damage. Try to get this done before winter sets in. Treating your vehicle in advance allows the rustproofing product to settle into the crevices and seams where corrosion initially builds up.

WHAT TO WATCH FOR

A regular visual once-over is one of the best ways to catch an issue before it becomes a problem—you can actually do this every day before you drive out. This is important yearround and even more so in winter.

“Keep your eyes open for little things, like a leak on the driveway when you’re pulling out,” says Peterson. “It’s the same thing with tires. When you walk up to the car, be mindful of whether one tire looks low in pressure compared to the other tires. Look for any kind of cracking or cuts that can often happen from sidewall damage due to potholes.”

Peterson suggests changing your wipers once a year. That way, you won’t have to deal with a sudden malfunction at an inopportune time. If you regularly drive in extreme ice-andsnow conditions, consider winter wipers, which are made with sturdier frames and thicker rubber.

Check fluid levels at least every two months, year-round, and have on hand a bottle of windshield cleaner rated for extreme cold.

CAA’s Mobile Tire Change

Did you know that CAA Mobile Tire Change provides an at-home wheel-change service for members, seven days a week in select cities? Visit atlantic.caa.ca/ mobile-tire-service for details.

TIRE CARE

Winter tires yield up to 50 percent better traction in snow-and-ice conditions

Because tires lose about one psi of pressure for every 5°C drop, make it a habit to measure pressure frequently— including the spare tire. Be careful not to over- or underinflate, which can cause premature wear and negatively impact performance.

Winter tires yield up to 50 percent better traction in snow-and-ice conditions. Look for the three-peak mountain snowflake (3PMSF) symbol on the sidewall indicating the tire passed specific mediumpacked-snow testing standards.

When considering what tires to buy, Peterson advises making sure the load and speed rating matches the manufacturer’s specs. “Never go under that. You can go above, but you can’t go below. It’s especially important with an EV.” Electric vehicles tend to be much heavier and produce high, instant torque, so the rubber has to be able to meet the tougher demands.

BATTERY CARE

Have your battery checked to ensure it’s operating at full capacity, especially if it’s more than three years old. When the temperature is below approximately –20°C, battery voltage drops significantly. If your local temperature is regularly below –15˚C or thereabouts, consider a block heater, says Peterson. It will warm the engine and oil, so the battery doesn’t have to work as hard at startup. (If you already have a block heater, make sure the cord is in good shape and, while in storage over the summer, hasn’t been chewed by rodents.)

An EV’s battery pack exhibits similar decreases in output in cold environments (for more information on this, see page 35). When the vehicle is plugged in, activating the preconditioning function (if available) heats the battery, allowing it to operate more efficiently, and results in decreased range loss. This preconditioning will also bring the vehicle’s interior to a comfortable temperature and result in less strain on the battery.

CAA Battery Service

Members receive nocharge battery testing. Visit atlantic.caa.ca/battery for details.

A block heater warms the engine and oil, so the battery doesn’t have to work as hard at start-up

SAFETY ON BOARD

Being ready for any scenario is critical, says Nadia Matos, manager of external communications for CAA South Central Ontario. “Stocking your vehicle with winter gear and essentials ahead of time goes a long way in ensuring that no matter what you encounter, you are prepared.”

CCG’s Peterson keeps a winter safety box in his garage, ready to put in the back of his vehicle each season. What you pack in your box will be determined by how far you are travelling and the types of roads you will be travelling on, as well as their level of remoteness. “If you run out of gas, you’re going to get very cold very fast,” he warns. “And we [at CAA] will do everything imaginable to get to you as fast as possible, but if it’s minus 40, there may be delays. You need to make sure you’re safe.”

Here’s what to pack in your vehicle’s winter safety box.

Basic items

• snow brush, ice scraper and shovel

• vehicle owner’s manual

• CAA Roadside Assistance contact information

• windshield fluid (extreme-cold-rated)

• cables and/or booster pack

Emergency essentials

• first aid kit

• lighter and/or matches

• pencil and notebook

• flashlight with extra batteries

• drinking water and food (protein bars, etc.)

• flares, warning triangles or reflectors

Extreme-emergency items

• power bank and cords for charging phones

• hand-crank radio and hand-crank charger

• sleeping bag(s), blanket, boots, hats, mittens (for each passenger)

• freeze-dried meals and fresh water

• mini camp stove (high-tech canister system)

• tarp or cardboard to lay on ice/snow while changing a tire or working outside the vehicle CAA

SNOW, ICE AND EVs

Real-world conditions reveal cold facts about EV battery range

Twice a year, the world’s largest EV range test is conducted jointly by the Norwegian Automobile Federation (NAF) and the digital automotive Motor Magazine (motor.no). Their most recent winter evaluation took place over two days in February 2023 with 29 of the most recent EV models. Each vehicle was driven up to 110 km/h on the same test route—a mix of city, mountain and highway roads. Temperatures ranged between 0˚C and –10°C.

None of the vehicles met the advertised range parameters. In Europe, these are determined using the Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP)—a global standard that measures the levels of pollutants, CO2 emissions and the fuel consumption of traditional and hybrid cars, as well as fully electric vehicles.

In the following chart, STOP indicates the distance each EV travelled before running out of power.

With battery technology continuing to advance, these numbers should continue to improve. However, some range or power loss will always be a given, if you drive in colder regions. Still, EVs have a built-in advantage over gas-powered engines, Peterson points out. “Even at minus 50, an EV still works. You have almost instant heat, and it always works. You just lose some range.”

Tesla Model S Standard

SPONSORED BREAK THE ICE

Get your vehicle winter-ready with WeatherTech®

By Alexis Ramlall

Set yourself up for success on the road this season and prepare your car before the snow falls.

Tires

All-season tires are no match for Canadian winters. Winter tires, made with a specially formulated rubber composition to stay soft and pliable in freezing temperatures provide the right amount of traction, braking and handling with their tread depth and pattern grooves, so you can take on the icy roads and slippery slush.

Windshield Wipers

Visibility on the road is important all-year round, but especially in winter when dark, cloudy or snowy conditions are common. Once your wiper blades start to create streaks on your windshield, it’s time to replace them.

Batteries and Charging System

Interior Protection

Low temperatures can impact your vehicle’s battery, while heaters and defrosters put stress on the charging system. Avoid needing a boost this winter by getting both inspected. CARGO

When winter is all said and done, cleaning your vehicle’s carpets can be a tough task. Investing in quality floor protection can lighten the load by preventing road salt stains and potential mould growth caused by soaked carpets. Protect the floor of your vehicle with the laser-measured WeatherTech® FloorLiner™ or FloorLiner™ HP.

Made from a durable high-density material, the FloorLiner™ is compatible with the vehicle’s existing floor-mat retention hooks. It also features channels that redirect ice, slush and melted snow into a lower reservoir, minimizing fluid movement and keeping your boots dry. The FloorLiner™ HP offers the same features and protection as the original FloorLiner™, but it’s made from a softer rubber-like material and includes antiskid nibs on the bottom to help further minimize movement. The Cargo Liner offers similar protection to your trunk’s interior and features a textured finish to keep cargo from shifting.

All FloorLiners and Cargo Liners are lasermeasured to give you the perfect fit and have a lifetime warranty to protect your car’s interior carpet through even the harshest of weather conditions.

Ready for Winter? Prepare your car for the season and visit WeatherTech.ca to find your fit.

FLOORLINER™ HP

MEMBER REWARDS, OFFERS AND EXCLUSIVE SERVICES

INSIDER

Helping you get ready for winter is a priority for everyone at CAA. On the following pages, you’ll find essential advice and reminders to help you prepare on the road, at home and around the world. There are some fun things to do, too. We’re Canadian after all, so get out there and enjoy the snow!

Safe on the Road

Tips to keep top-of-mind before you take to the road this winter |

AS COOLER TEMPERATURES SETTLE IN, the days get shorter, weather conditions worsen and visibility decreases. Road safety is everyone’s responsibility—drivers, cyclists and pedestrians alike—especially in the winter, when great

Drivers

• Light the way Drivers and motorcyclists should use their full lighting system 30 minutes before sunset and sunrise, and in low-visibility conditions.

• Be on the lookout Watch for pedestrians crossing the road and yield to them at crosswalks, school crossings and crossovers.

• Keep an eye out Mind your blind spots when making turns at intersections.

• Stay focused Minimize distractions, reduce your speed and obey speed limits, especially in residential neighbourhoods.

• Be courteous Exercise caution around pedestrians with mobility needs that may require more time to cross the road.

• Apply the brakes All vehicles should come to a full and complete stop at red lights and stop signs.

By Alexis Ramlall

care and caution should be practised while out on the road. Whether you’re driving, walking or cycling, here are some essential tips for everyone to follow this winter.

Cyclists

• Prioritize visibility Cyclists should wear bright or reflective clothing for extra visibility.

• Lights on Similar to drivers, cyclists should also have the proper lighting on their bikes half an hour before sunset and sunrise, as well as when it’s dark, foggy or cloudy.

• Stay in your lane Cyclists should stay within bike lanes whenever possible and come to a full and complete stop at red lights and stop signs.

• Sharing is caring Be aware of other commuters, public transit buses and other vehicles that may stop frequently.

Pedestrians

• Stay in your place Sidewalks are a designated safe space for pedestrians. If no sidewalk is present, walk on the far-left side of the road.

• Be alert Always be aware of your surroundings and avoid distractions, like using your phone or wearing headphones while crossing the street.

• Follow the flow Pay attention to pedestrian signals and cross the road only at designated locations or marked crosswalks.

• Triple-check Stop, listen and look both ways before crossing and ensure that all traffic has come to a complete stop before you cross the street.

• Be visible Make eye contact with other road users before crossing— never assume that drivers can see you or know your intentions. Pedestrians should wear bright or reflective clothing and/or accessories at night to improve their visibility.

Safety on Four Wheels

Tread carefully when it comes to winter-tire preparation

THERE ARE PLENTY OF FACTORS when it comes to safely navigating roads in wintertime—your vehicle’s technology (like AWD and anti-lock brakes), your comfort and skill as a driver and, of course, winter tires.

All-season vs. winter tires

Yes, the term “all-season” suggests you can use them year-round. Keep in mind, though, that winter tires are made from a softer compound that grips the road better once the temperature drops below 7°C. Another big difference would be the stopping distance and control on ice. All-season tires are made from a harder rubber compound, so they tend to become more solid the colder it gets. Not sure which tires you currently have? Winter tires sport that three-peak mountain snowflake (3PMSF) symbol on the sidewalls; all-seasons feature mud and snow (M+S).

Buy smart

Visit a shop or someone who handles tires on a regular basis to guide you in the right direction. Also consider buying rims for your winter tires to prevent the wear and tear that comes with switching them out.

Don’t wait too long

You should install your snow tires once the temperature is consistently 7°C or colder. Don’t wait until the first snowfall, which is when everybody wants snowtire installation done. You can switch back to your all-seasons in the spring, once the weather is above 7°C consistently.

Check the treads

Treads must be no less than 2/32 of an inch. You’ll find plenty of tips and tricks online about testing the depth with quarters, but to measure accurately, you need a tire depth gauge. Or simply ask the technicians next time you’re getting your tires switched out, and have them check for any cracks, bald spots and missing chunks.

Book your mobile tire change at atlantic.caa.ca/ mobile-tire-service

PHOTOGRAPH: ARTIST GND PHOTOGRAPHY /i STOCK. ICONS: COURTESY OF THE NOUN PROJECT

Making Way for Safety

Legislation makes winter roads safer for motorists and tow truck operators

AS MOTORISTS IN ATLANTIC CANADA are all too aware, inclement weather over long winters leads to an increase in car accidents and roadside assistance calls. And more automobile collisions mean a greater risk of danger, not just for motorists but for first responders like police, paramedics, firefighters and tow truck operators who come to their aid.

For these emergency vehicles, winter delivers a double whammy. Ice, snow and slush—factors that contribute to many of the accidents and breakdowns that they’re responding to—make it harder for other vehicles to slow down and give them space to safely go about their work. Necessary stopping distances can also more than double, so drivers travelling at high speeds might not be able to react in time to safely avoid first responders.

That’s why all Canadian provinces passed the Slow Down Move Over law, which the CAA has long advocated. When you see an emergency vehicle stopped on the highway with its lights flashing—whether a police car or ambulance or a fire truck or tow truck—you are legally required to slow down. If you’re on a divided highway, move over to the farthest lane if it’s safe to do so.

Being aware of emergency vehicles is more challenging during winter, when visibility can be limited.

CAA works hard to make sure both CAA Members and the public are aware of safety protocols for emergency personnel, including tow trucks in Slow Down Move Over legislation, so everyone can stay out of harm’s way while they do their job.

Visit atlantic.caa.ca/slow-down-move-over to learn more.

Staying on Guard

Protect yourself and your belongings

AS THE HOLIDAY SHOPPING SEASON APPROACHES, it’s important to take precautions to safeguard personal belongings and information whether you’re close to home or not. Here are a few tips on how to protect yourself.

At home

• One in four Canadians has been the victim of so-called porch pirates, according to a FedEx survey conducted last year. Ask a family member or trusted friend or neighbour to drop by your home to receive an expected package, or opt for ship-to-store delivery. If it’s an Amazon order, redirect it to an authorized pick-up location.

• Install a smart camera or integrated doorbell camera at the front door and set the device to alert your phone when activity is detected. Many camera products on the market also save recorded footage in the cloud, so users can review it later.

• Be mindful of leaving evidence of purchases out by the curb for garbage or recycling collection. Try to take apart and conceal packaging that would identify contents of a delivery.

Shopping

• Avoid leaving shopping bags unattended in a vehicle. If you have to do more shopping, hide purchases in your vehicle underneath a cargo shade.

• Exercise caution when browsing unfamiliar retail websites. Check that the URL begins with https, which indicates the page encrypts your transmitted data, rather than unsecured “http.” When creating a new account, don’t choose a previously used password.

• Most basic home- and tenant-insurance plans either don’t cover items stolen off the front steps or they could have a deductible that may cost more than the goods themselves. Apply for a credit card that offers purchase protection against lost or stolen merchandise.

Insurance

• Keep a detailed inventory of valuables in the house to track what needs replacing in case you have to submit a claim. Update the list as you purchase holiday gifts. Take photos and/or videos of each room to help with documentation.

• Declare to your insurance provider any new expensive items to ensure that your policy offers sufficient coverage.

Have questions about home insurance? Visit atlantic.caa.ca/ insurance to get a quote or to learn more.

Home Winterization Checklist

CANADIAN WINTERS can be hard on homes. Here are some simple DIY preventive maintenance that owners can do before the frost arrives to help avoid any unpleasant surprises during the colder months.

 Turn off the valve to outdoor water faucets, and then release any residual liquid left in the hose and pipe that might otherwise freeze and burst. Note: if mould is detected, your insurance may not cover the resulting water damage due to negligence. Visit atlantic.caa.ca/insurance for more details.

 Clear out leaves from the eavestroughs, so melting snow can pour off the roof and onto the ground, instead of causing a potential leak somewhere inside.

 Hire a professional to inspect the furnace and identify issues that could lead to heating failure and compromised air quality, including the presence of carbon monoxide.

 Store patio furniture in the garage or cover with a weather-resistant tarp.

 Replace loose or missing shingles to prevent water seepage.

 Leaving for more than four days? Turn off the main water valve and drain the pipes to avoid freezing. Consider installing a temperature-sensor alarm. And if you can arrange it, have someone check your home every day.

Giving Is the Gift

Let CAA make your gift buying a little easier

’TIS THE SEASON FOR GIVING. Make it easy on yourself. Use your CAA Membership to the fullest this season—we’ll help you find just the right gift at the right price. Here are some of our top picks:

For the fashion lover

Who doesn’t love a cozy sweater or sparkly outfit for the holidays? CAA Members save 10% at RW&CO. and 15% off online purchases at East Coast Lifestyle with promo code CAA15. Upgrade your tech game with the latest from The Source, where CAA members can save up to 20% on top brands. From tablets and smartwatches to headphones and accessories, you’ll find everything on your list .

For the sports fan in your life

Save 10% on single-game tickets and merchandise for the Saint John Sea Dogs and 15% on tickets for the Charlottetown Islanders and at the Islanders Team Shop. You can also save $3 on regular-season single-game tickets for the Moncton Wildcats purchased online with promo code CAAMEMBER—plus a 10% discount on merchandise at the Roar Store.

For the person who has everything

Consider gifting an “experience.” How about tickets to a hockey game or the latest theatre production? Added bonus—you can be that person’s plus one and spend some quality time together!

For theatre fans

CAA Membership comes with plenty of perks. At Imperial Theatre, you can save 10% on select tickets (using promo code CAA30) and receive complimentary coat check, too. At Capitol Theatre, you’ll save 10% on select performances purchased by phone or at the box office—and you’ll receive one complimentary drink voucher per ticket purchase.

At Neptune Theatre, CAA Members save 15% on all single-ticket purchases of seats in A and B sections (using promo code 2223CAA). At RCA Theatre, you’ll save 10% on tickets to RCA productions, and at the Confederation Centre of the Arts, you’ll save 10% on select seats to shows when purchasing by phone or at the box office.

For peace of mind

Show you care with that perfect gift. You can buy peace of mind for yourself and your loved ones with a CAA gift membership at atlantic.caa.ca/gift

Learn more at atlantic.caa.ca/savings.

Volts, Not Jolts

Ensure that your vehicle’s battery is winter-ready

By Kate Rae

YOU TURN YOUR CAR’S IGNITION ON and nothing happens. Is there a worse feeling, especially in winter? A battery generally has a lifespan of three to five years, but extremes in temperature both hot and cold can shorten that. Here’s what you can do to prepare your battery for winter and avoid any unwanted surprises.

Use a block heater

If you live in Atlantic Canada, you may be using a block heater. A block heater is a small unit installed on the engine block, which heats it and the oil within, thus reducing the load on the starter. Once the temperature hits about -20°C, plug in the unit, especially with an older vehicle.

Try a battery maintainer

If you drive less in winter or will be away for an extended period of time, consider using a battery maintainer, also known as a tender, which you connect to your battery. It provides a low-voltage charge to keep your vehicle’s battery in peak condition.

Take a listen

Pay attention to the sound your vehicle makes when you start it up. If it sounds different than usual—say, with more slower whirring—get it checked. Notice a dimming of your dash lights or the fan has slowed down a bit? Get your battery and charge system checked.

Keep it clean

If you’re comfortable doing so, pop the hood and examine the battery. You may notice some white powdery buildup on the terminal posts. It can be cleaned off. That’s just the discharge from the battery itself; it’s not acid. Check too if the cables are loose.

On the move

CAA’s Mobile Battery Service will test, replace and recycle your car battery at your home, workplace or even from the side of the road. Delivery and installation are included at no additional cost.

Need a new battery? Have a replacement come to you. atlantic.caa.ca/automotive/battery.html

Here We Grow Again

CAA Atlantic celebrates milestone with 300,000 members

CAA ATLANTIC HAS REACHED a significant milestone of 300,000 members in Atlantic Canada. This achievement is a testament to the unwavering trust and support of the community. A leading member services organization in Canada, CAA Atlantic has added nearly 50,000 new members since 2022.

This strong growth can be attributed to its dedication to providing exceptional service and valuable benefits to members. From roadside assistance to insurance and travel services, CAA Atlantic has become a go-to resource for Atlantic Canadians. Reaching 300,000 in membership showcases the organization’s commitment to meeting the evolving needs of its members and even exceeding their expectations.

With this milestone, CAA Atlantic reaffirms its role as a trusted and reliable partner for the community, as it continues to offer unparalleled customer service and expand its offerings to meet the ever-changing needs of a growing membership.

Looking towards the future, the organization remains focused on serving its members with dedication, integrity and excellence. And now 300,000 members-strong, CAA Atlantic is poised to make an even greater impact in the lives of Atlantic Canadians.

Disney Delights

Walt Disney World is the most Magical Place on Earth!

FIVE CAA TRAVEL ADVISORS from Atlantic Canada visited Walt Disney World Resort in Florida recently— and had a magical time—to share their insider insights on booking Walt Disney World vacations. Here are their top takeaways:

Discover new rides

“Walt Disney World is growing and changing so much that it’s a whole new experience every time,” reports CAA Atlantic Travel Advisor Sarah Best. Many new attractions have been added over the past five years, including (at Disney’s Hollywood Studios) Toy Story Land, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway; and (at Epcot) Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure and Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind.

“All these rides are incredible, but the newest and fastest ride cannot be overshadowed,” says Best. “Tron Lightcycle Run is now the fastest ride at Walt Disney World.” Also new is Disney’s Riviera Resort on the Skyliner route.

Customize your Theme Park Ticket

When purchasing your Theme Park Ticket, first select the number of days and then pick the starting date of the ticket. You can choose from several options, including Disney Water Parks and Sport Option, Park Hopper Option or the Park Hopper Plus Option. Once the pass has been purchased, you can link your pass to your StartYourDisneyExperience.com account and download the app on your smartphone.

CAA Travel Advisor Alexis Kinley recommends purchasing Disney Genie+ to use Lightning Lane entrances, which allows you to bypass the line at many Walt Disney World attractions (prices vary per person per day). “We had the Disney Genie+ for most of the main attraction rides and we waited no longer than five minutes per ride,” says Kinley. “The standard waits were approximately an hour.”

Download the app

My Disney Experience app lets you access maps of each park, directions to attractions and wait times—all in one place. “This app is very user-friendly and easy to navigate,” notes CAA Travel Advisor Brittany Doucette. It can also be used to book dining reservations and make Lightning Lane selections. It’s worth familiarizing yourself with the app before your trip to get the most out of it.

Meet Mickey, Goofy and Ariel

There are three ways to meet Walt Disney World characters: book a character dining experience, make a Genie+ reservation or check the My Disney Experience app for up-to-the-minute information on where and when various Disney characters are greeting guests. If you don’t have the app, check the daily calendar or consult a guest relations cast member.

“I enjoyed the looks on the little boys’ faces as Buzz Lightyear hugged and played with them. It’s an experience they’ll never forget,” says CAA Travel Advisor Michelle MacKenzie. “And the giggles will melt your heart!”

Don’t forget souvenirs

Whether you’re picking up a classic set of Mickey Mouse ears or visiting Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique to try on that special outfit, the souvenir options are endless. “My favourite new souvenir options at Walt Disney World are those relating to Marvel,” confides CAA Atlantic Travel Advisor Shayna Barrett.

She recommends Disney Springs for the best shopping experience and also suggests browsing unique shops within any of the theme parks. “For a lifetime souvenir that offers practical use, the MagicBand+ is a great purchase to add a little ease to your vacation and it doubles as a forever keepsake,” says Barrett referring to the wrist-worn technology that functions as a digital key to unlock experiences around the parks.

Visit travelwithcaa.ca or call 1-800-561-8807 to book your trip today.

7-NIGHT ALASKA DAWES GLACIER

Sept. 15 - 22, 2024

Priced from $1,849* CAD per person

Embark on an unforgettable journey with Celebrity Cruises! Picture watching the stunning scenery go by while enjoying the sports craze pickleball on their beautiful onboard court! This isn’t just an Alaskan cruise, it’s a scenic experience that you simply cannot afford to miss!

MANOR ROYAL TOUR

Oct. 5 - 15, 2024

Priced from $4,899*CAD per person

Want to feel what it’s like to be treated like royalty? Join Royal Irish Tours for the lavish Manor Royal Tour. Stay in Belfast’s top hotel and Ireland’s premier 5-star hotel in Kildare. It’s not just a trip, it’s a memory for life! Contact a CAA Travel Advisor today and start planning your Irish adventure.

Take Care Out There

’Tis the season to be extra mindful of vulnerable road users

AS THE DAYLIGHT HOURS lessen throughout the winter, so too does visibility, particularly with the onset of snow. Whether you’re a pedestrian or driver, don’t forget road safety is a shared responsibility.

Remove distractions

• Pedestrians, even if the street ahead seems quiet, put your phone away and avoid using headphones.

• Meanwhile, drivers, even at a stop, should avoid glancing at their smartphone.

Keep an eye out

• Always make eye contact with other road users, notably at crosswalks. And pedestrians should use the Point, Pause, Proceed rule of thumb.

• Drivers must yield to pedestrians at marked crosswalks, and are required to come to a complete stop at red lights and stop signs.

Be seen

• Pedestrians should wear bright, reflective overwear to be spotted easily.

• Drivers should familiarize themselves with their vehicle’s features and settings to avoid becoming a “phantom vehicle”—an automobile being operated in the dark or low-light conditions without the proper exterior lighting activated:

• Automatic headlights only work if you set them on ‘automatic.’

• A bright dashboard doesn’t always mean that your headlights and tail lights are on.

• Daytime running lights don’t give you enough light to drive safely in the dark or in bad weather.

It can pay—literally—to regularly review your auto insurance coverage. After all, on the journey of life, your driving habits tend to evolve. But is your auto insurance keeping pace? It may be time to shift gears.

Driving fewer than 9,000 km a year?

Are you driving less in winter now, or less in general? It might be time to switch to CAA MyPace®, which allows you to pay a base rate to protect your car, then purchase coverage in 1,000 km increments as you drive.

Forgive and Forget®

With CAA’s Forgive and Forget plan, we help you protect the good driving record you’ve earned over the years. If you are involved in your first at-fault accident, there will be no change in your driving record.

Time for winter tires?

Winter tires give your vehicle up to 50 percent better traction in snow and ice. That’s why CAA offers a discount when you switch your tires.

Already have CAA home insurance?

CAA Members can bundle their CAA Auto and Home Insurance for savings of 15 percent 1 off auto insurance 2, up to 12.5 percent off home insurance, plus complimentary CAA Tire Coverage.

Thinking it’s time to change lanes?

You don’t have to wait until your current policy is up for renewal to cancel and switch.

A licensed CAA Insurance Agent can help. To get started or for a complimentary quote, visit car-insurance.atlantic.caa.ca/auto. 1

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CELEBRATE OUR 20 YEAR PARTNERSHIP FOR

YOUR CHANCE TO WIN BIG!

Swipe your CAA membership card at Coast Tire & Auto Service and be entered to win great prizes all year long.

Monthly prizes include a Coast Tire Gift Certificate or a set of Goodyear tires. The grand prize in December is a $7,500 CAA Travel Voucher to use on your dream vacation! Each time you swipe your CAA membership card and save at Coast Tire you will be automatically entered in all the amazing draws.

Don’t forget, CAA Members always save on parts, service and on Goodyear tires at Coast Tire & Auto Service.

Power Plant

Filiz Koksel’s innovative research on plant-based meat alternatives addresses the twin challenges of climate change and food insecurity

By Truc Nguyen | Photograph by Thomas Fricke

FILIZ KOKSEL LOVES playing with food. The bubbles in bread dough, puffed snacks and breakfast cereals have occupied her scientific attention for years. “I’m fascinated by how bubbles change their shape and size and, at the end, contribute substantially to the end-product quality.”

But it’s not all fun and games for this TurkishCanadian food scientist, researcher and associate professor at the University of Manitoba. Currently, she’s investigating how extrusion technology— the kind used to manufacture many processed foods—can be utilized to make plant protein–enriched snacks, cereals and plant-based meat alternatives.

It’s a timely topic. Koksel understands that a rapidly growing world population requires a shift away from animal protein consumption to protein derived from plants. “Plant-based food products have lower carbon and water footprints,” Koksel points out. Her research team is working on projects related to plant-based meat alternatives and how to add value to industry by-products, such as the spent grain left over from beer-making. One study investigates how texturized vegetable proteins made using extrusion technology could replace, partially, the meat in common foods.

Koksel’s next mission: preparing new food scientists for careers in the Canadian industry and readying them to meet the challenges of the future. “The next generation of food scientists will make more plant-based alternatives accessible to Canadians, for better health and a better environment,” Koksel says. CAA

We’re celebrating Canadians doing good in their communities. Know someone?

Send their story to caamagazine@caasco.ca and they could be featured in an upcoming issue.

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