Apr erie 2016 by AAA East Central

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WESTERN ERIEPENNSYLVANIA REGION

Vol. 17 63 No. 4 1

EUROPE & AMERICA your way!

Allianz Global Assistance Wins Prestigious Award

Whatever your travel style, Trafalgar handles all of the planning for you

AAA anywhere, anytime with the AAA Mobile App

With our free AAA Mobile app, members can enjoy their favorite time- and money-saving AAA services, such as Roadside Assistance, member discounts, maps, gas prices, driving directions, and more right from the palm of your hand. Book hotel rooms, rental cars, and flights right from your mobile device. Plus, the app’s TripTik® Travel Planner provides interactive maps, turn-byturn navigation, and guides to points of interests, campgrounds, and more. Save time and money with the Cheapest Gas feature. Gas station details include updated prices for all available grades of gasoline, and you can sort stations alphabetically or by distance. The app updates prices seven times a day and provides turn-by-turn navigation to the nearest or cheapest station through Apple Maps. New functionality now enables Apple Watch owners to quickly and easily find the nearest gas station or the cheapest fuel using the AAA Mobile App. Get the free AAA Mobile App now to get access to these and other great features. For more information or to download the AAA Mobile app, visit the AAA Mobile Solutions page at AAA.com/Mobile or Text APP15 to 99000 and you’ll receive a link to download the app. AAA Mobile delivers the total mobile member experience.

Wherever your vacation dreams reside, Trafalgar & AAA Travel can take you there!

perfectly designed vacation is one on which you’ll never have to think way too much or be overstressed. Easier said than done? No, easy as can be! — when you trust AAA Travel and its preferred travel partner Trafalgar to do the legwork for you. Experience Paris’ joie de vivre or Vegas’s exciting latenight vibe all the while knowing your coming week’s activities are already awaiting you. Fully enjoy yourself, knowing that a professional guide and your fellow travelers will be ready tomorrow with prearranged sightseeing or other activities, freeing you from in-the-moment researching or reserving landmarks, lodging or transportation. Behind the scenes, Trafalgar takes care of everything: With concierge-style service, you don’t need to read a map, pick the right hotel, book restaurants or carry your own luggage. Trafalgar even takes care of check-in, porterage and all local taxes, ensuring a seamless, stress-free vacation. Every Trafalgar trip is meticulously planned by a team of experts who, with their indepth knowledge and experience, passionately create un-

JANUARY APRIL 2016

Travel | Insurance/Financial | Automotive | Member Savings | AAA.com

TEXTING AND WALKING CAN SPELL TROUBLE

forgettable vacations. Traveling with a knowledgeable professional escort who provides valuable context for the landmarks and scenery you’re seeing as you see it; who provides assistance in navigating the transportation, sightseeing and lodging arrangements while on tour; and who makes personal the cultures and customs of the places you’re visiting is an invaluable element of a Trafal-

gar guided vacation. And now, only between April 1 & April 30, members save $100.00 on any 7-nightor-longer 2016 Trafalgar European or American vacation (restrictions apply). Choose from Trafalgar’s 7 distinctly different trip styles: Country Explorers: Explore one country in detail, for a deeper appreciation of the destination’s people and culture. continued on page 19

Limited-time offer exclusively from AAA East Central

Receive $100.00 off any 7-night-or-longer 2016 Trafalgar vacation! New bookings with deposit April 1-30, 2016. Savings per room, double occupancy.

Year-round exclusive AAA Member Benefit from Trafalgar

Book a Trafalgar vacation with AAA & receive a $40.00 credit toward Optional Experiences while on vacation. See a AAA Travel Agent for details. Benefit is valid per guest. Not applicable on all itineraries; conditions apply. For details, call or visit a AAA Travel office.

AAA’s preferred travel insurance provider, Allianz Global Assistance, was named best travel insurance provider overall at the recent 2016 Travvy Awards. Based on votes from more than 39,000 travel agents, the Travvys are known as the “Academy Awards” of the industry and recognize the highest standards of service excellence. “Most trips go off without a hitch,” said Jim Lehman, president AAA East Central, “but if something happens, you want to be prepared. AAA members are in great hands with TripAssist travel insurance products and 24/7 Member Care assistance for AAA Vacations handled by Allianz.”

Free Junior Associates — Priceless Protection for Teens If your teen has reached driving age, don’t let them go it alone. AAA members can extend their AAA coverage for dependents age 16 to 18, with a free Junior Associate membership. They’ll carry their very own AAA card, and are entitled to AAA benefits and services including 24/7 roadside assistance, exclusive savings at AAA Discounts & Rewards, AAA Mobile solutions and more. Members can add Junior Associates by calling or visiting their local AAA office or, by clicking on aaa.com/JuniorAssociate. (All Associate Members must reside at the Primary Member’s address, and proof of age may be required).

Forget the Stamp with AutoPay With AutoPay, you can avoid late payments and a lapse in your AAA membership. You’ll still receive a paper bill, and you can update your membership prior to making a payment. The credit or debit card you leave on file will be charged the amount of the bill. Any payments from your card will be debited 10 to 15 days before your renewal date. Simply logon to your account at AAA.com and select “Enroll” under Billing Information, or call the Member Service phone number on the back of your membership card to sign up.

Follow Us on Facebook Frequently posted topics include: AAA.com website features, travel specials, online discounts, gas price information, safety tips, car care advice and upcoming events. Visit Facebook.com/AAAEastCentral to start following AAA East Central today.

PLEASANT HOLIDAYS’ TROPICAL TEMPTATIONS

Dreaming of an exotic beach vacation to Hawaii, Punta Cana, Cancun or Florida? Pleasant Holidays makes tropical dreams come true with affordable beach vacations that fit your budget. Find your place in the sun with Pleasant Holidays and AAA Travel. Book and deposit between April 1-30, 2016 and AAA members can save $100 per room on 7-night packages and $50 per room on 4 to 6-night packages. SEE PAGE 9.

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AAA MOTORIST

Trust AAA Approved Auto Repair Know a quality repair facility when you see one

pril is Spring Car Care Month and now is the time to get your vehicle in shape before things really start to heat up for the summer driving season. People are keeping their cars longer and it’s more important than ever for drivers to develop a trusted relationship with a professional auto repair facility. The best time to look for a repair facility is before you need one. AAA has identified a network of Approved Auto Repair (AAR) facilities that include new car dealerships, franchise operations and national chains, and independent garages. These shops all meet AAA’s strict quality standards and display the AAA logo. AAA created the AAR program more than 40 years ago to help motorists find highquality automotive service. Today, there are approximately 8,000 AAR facilities across North America. When you see the AAA Approved Auto Repair sign, you’ll find highly trained technicians, a wide range of professional repair services and guaranteed workmanship. And while hundreds of repair facilities apply for the AAR rating each year, fewer than half are able to meet AAA’s rigid criteria. The AAR approval process is tough. AAA ensures each facility has the right tools and equipment to provide a wide range of repairs. They must also adopt staff training qualifications and insurance guidelines. Finally, AAA surveys

APRIL 2016

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: 412-365-7274 SAFETY: 412-365-7211 TDD for the hearing-impaired: 412-363-7144

AAA BRANCH OFFICE LOCATIONS

SIGN OF QUALITY — There are approximately 8,000 Approved Auto Repair facilities across North America. customers about their satisfaction with the facility. Once approved, AAR shops are visited quarterly, re-inspected annually and monitored for customer satisfaction to ensure compliance with AAA standards. AAA Service Specialists, who all have an Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification, along with an extensive industry background, conduct stringent reviews of each facility.

Facilities that display the AAA Approved Auto Repair sign can be counted on to do a good job. In addition to the added peace of mind that comes with AAA approval, AAA members receive the following benefits at AAR shops: • All repairs, parts, labor, and components are guaranteed for 24 months or 24,000 miles under normal operating conditions. • Get priority service with Roadside Assistance to a AAA Approved Auto Repair facility with prompt vehicle evaluation within 60 minutes of AAA tow arrival and assistance in obtaining alternate transportation. • Enjoy a 10% discount (up to $50) upon member request on regularlypriced parts and labor through the AAA Discount and Rewards® discount program. • Written Estimate – You will be provided a written estimate of the cost of all work to be performed on your vehicle. The final cost may not exceed the estimate by more than 10 percent unless authorized by you in advance. • The return of replaced parts if requested. • Free Maintenance Inspection – On request, when having paid repair work done by an AAR facility, your vehicle will be inspected at no charge for those items that most frequently contribute to roadside breakdowns. • If a AAA member is unsatisfied with the service or repairs received at a AAA Approved Auto Repair facility, the facility has agreed to accept the decision instructed by AAA in order to correct the member’s concern.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Visit AAA.com/repair to learn more about AAA’s Approved Auto Repair (AAR) program and locate a facility near you.

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 491 Allegheny Blvd, Suite 200 .................. 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 Wexford-Wexford Plaza 10548 Perry Highway ................................ 724-933-3000 White Oak/McKeesport Area Oak Park Mall, 2001 Lincoln Way ............ 412-675-3400

APRIL 2016

AAA MOTORIST

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Distractions can be deadly for motorists and pedestrians Digital distractions are placing walkers and drivers at risk Erie Region Official publication of the Erie Region of AAA East Central Published monthly (except bimonthly Aug./Sept., Nov./Dec.) by AAA East Central 6660 Peach St., Unit #2, Erie PA 16509-7710 814-866-0246 USPS 0178-440 ISSN 109-77554 Periodicals Postage Paid at Erie PA Postmaster: Send address changes to AAA Motorist Erie Region c/o AAA, 5900 Baum Blvd Pittsburgh PA 15206-3854 Subscription Rate: $1 included in Primary Membership dues. All others: $2/year.

Publisher.....................................James E. Lehman Managing Editor ............................Douglas O’Neil Editorial Office 5900 Baum Blvd, Pittsburgh PA 15206-3854 e-mail: motorist@aaaec.com

AAA EAST CENTRAL Chairman ................................................ Richard S. Hamilton Vice Chairman.........................................James E. Broome, Jr. Vice Chairman............................................... Gregory E. Grim Vice Chairman..........................................Mary Lynn Laughlin Vice Chairman..................................... Martha Hartle Munsch OFFICERS: President ....................................................James E. Lehman Executive Vice President ............................... Thomas J. Ashley Secretary .................................................. Robert H. Compton Treasurer .......................................................Robert S. Collins GOVERNING BOARD OF DIRECTORS Glenn B. Bachman, Neil D. Bassi, James E. Broome, Jr., Steve D. Bullock**, Charles O. Casto**, Edward C. Coaxum, Jr., Robert S. Collins, Robert H. Compton, Jon E. Denney, Debra A. Dinnocenzo, Gregory E. Grim, Richard S. Hamilton, James H. Kanicki, Mary Lynn Laughlin, William Duff McCrady, James M. McDonnell, Thomas V. McKernan Jr., Martha Hartle Munsch, Gary K. Munsie**, Terrence L. Walton** EAST CENTRAL REGION BOARD OF DIRECTORS Neil D. Bassi, Chairman, Robert S. Collins, Vice Chairman, Christian Asam, Jack A. Barkley, William E. Bierer**, Ellsworth T. Bowser**, Peter Burton, Michael A. Cochran, Daniel J. Collins Jr.**, Robert S. Collins, Robert H. Compton, Debra A. Dinnocenzo, James J. Dodaro, 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, Jacob N. Skezas, James C. Stump, Jr., James F. Ward **emeritus directors

Regional President ......................... David R. Poor Regional Board of Directors Peter Burton, Harry G. Gorton, Ernest L. Lake, David R. Poor, William C. Sennett, William J. Stroh, Herman C. Weber Jr.

Erie 814-866-0246 6660 Peach Street, Unit #2 Harborcreek 814-897-9508 4430 Buffalo Rd

Copyright ©2016 by AAA East Central. Publication of an advertisement in the AAA Motorist does not constitute an endorsement of the product or service by the AAA Motorist or by AAA East Central, except in the case of products and services which are being offered by AAA East Central.

By David R. Poor President, Erie Region alking is not just good for your health it’s also the single most overlooked component of our urban transportation system. One quarter of all trips in the United States are less than one mile so the potential for increased walking — along with reducing road congestion and greenhouse gas emissions — is enormous. Yet for many walkers the streets have become increasingly mean. According to data from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) pedestrians account for 15 percent of crash deaths with injuries and fatalities showing a steady rise in the past five years. Pedestrians are not getting hurt walking into each other. They are tripping over curbs, bumping into lampposts and colliding with motor vehicles. Victims include a disproportionate number of children, seniors, and more recently young people using smartphones, but nearly everyone is a pedestrian at some point during the day. Poor pedestrian and driver behaviors often contribute to the problem. Motorists frequently fail to yield the right-of-way at intersections, while pedestrians routinely cross mid-block, or ignore “Don’t Walk” signals. Alcohol involvement — either by the driver or the pedestrian — is a factor in nearly half of all pedestrian fatalities. According the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety’s newly released Traffic Safety Culture Index, nearly 87 percent

David R. Poor of drivers engaged in at least one risky behavior while behind the wheel within the past month. About 45 percent report going 10 mph over the speed limit on a residential street, and more than 2 in 3 (70 percent) report talking on a cell phone. Nearly 1 in 3 (32 percent) admit to sending a text or email, while 39 percent) admit to running a red light. Motorists are quick to blame “the other guy” for bad driving, despite practicing many of the same dangerous behaviors themselves. Over 80 percent view distracted driving as a bigger problem than three years ago. Drivers are required to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians crossing streets in marked or unmarked crosswalks in most situations. They should

be especially vigilant around intersections when a pedestrian is in their path. Pedestrians need to focus on walking safely — without distractions — just as motorists must concentrate on the task of driving. Walkers who use cell phones have been shown to be twice as unaware as those who do not, a phenomenon known as inattentional blindness. Cell phones, hand-held devices, headphones, or anything that takes your eyes, ears, or mind off the road is a distraction. And any of these have the potential to distract you at the exact moment that you need to be alert. Pedestrians should observe the following safety tips: • Put down the phone. Smartphones and electronic devices may be ubiquitous, but they take your eyes and your attention off of the road. • Don’t wear headphones while walking. Your ears can tell you a lot about what is happening around you. • Wait until you reach your destination before calling or texting. If you have to text or make a call while walking, stop and find a safe location. • Never assume that a driver will yield right of way. Make every effort to make eye contact with the driver before entering the roadway. • Be a role model. Speak up if you see your friends and family distracted. It could save their life. Together we can make significant strides in improving pedestrian safety without sacrificing mobility. It may just be a matter of standing on our own two feet.

membersonly CARFAX makes it easier—and safer—to buy a used car Members save up to 40% on CARFAX Vehicle History reports

ith the most comprehensive vehicle history database in North America, millions of consumers trust CARFAX® to provide them with vehicle history information. CARFAX has more than 91,000 data sources and billions of records, including every U.S. and Canadian provincial motor vehicle agency, as well as auto auctions, fire and police departments, collision repair facilities, fleet management and rental agencies. Using the unique 17-character vehicle identification number (VIN), CARFAX Vehicle History Reports™ are available on all used cars and light trucks, model year 1981 or later. Every CARFAX Report contains information that can impact a buyer’s decision. Some types of information that a CARFAX Report may include: • Title information, including salvaged or junked titles • Flood damage history • Total loss accident history • Odometer readings

•

Lemon history Number of owners • Accident indicators, such as airbag deployments • State emissions inspection results • Service records • Vehicle use (taxi, rental, lease, etc.) AAA Classic and AAA Plus® members save 20% off the retail price when they purchase CARFAX vehicle history reports — ordered online at AAA.com/CarfaxReport. •

Classic/AAA Plus Benefits -- Save 20%

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AAA Premier® members are entitled to one FREE vehicle history report per member per membership year. To request a free report, Premier members must call AAA Premier Member Services at 1-866-511-7736. Subsequent reports are available at 40% off the retail price and can be ordered online.

AAA Premeir Benefits after FREE -Save 40%

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Although CARFAX doesn’t promise to have every repair or accident record available on every vehicle, or always know if the vehicle has been in an accident, or had its odometer rolled back; it does give great ownership information for consumers to check before deciding to purchase a used vehicle. AAA still recommends that prospective purchasers have the vehicle checked out by a reputable facility like those that participate in AAA’s Approved Auto Repair program. Don’t waste your time looking at clunkers with a hidden past. Start your search at AAA.com/CarfaxReport and filter your results by one-owner cars, accident history, service records, and more.

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AAA MOTORIST

APRIL 2016

AAA MOTORIST

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Putting the bite on your homeowners insurance Bone up on reducing your risk of a pet liability claim By Robin Jones irst, the good news: The number of homeowners insurance claims nationwide arising from dog bites decreased 4.7 percent between 2013 and 2014, according to the Insurance Information Institute. Now, the bad news: The cost per claim increased from $27,862 to $32,027, up 14.9 percent, likely due to increased medical costs and higher settlements, judgments, and jury awards. And that’s not all: Claims related to dog bites and other dog-related injuries made up one-third of all homeowners liability claims in the U.S. in 2014. The total cost: $530 million. That means many insurers are more cautious when providing policies for households with dogs. But that doesn’t mean you have to find Fido a new home to get homeowners (or renters or condo) coverage. If you have a dog, you can take these steps to reduce your risk. Do make sure you’re informed. Insurance policies vary when it comes to dogs. So be certain you know how much liability coverage you have (it’s typically between $100,000 to $500,000, but you may want to consider higher limits); whether the insurer has a “one-bite” policy (in other words, may cancel your policy after a second bite); and that your policy covers damages for which you may be legally liable (usually medical bills, time off work, pain and suffering, and property dam-

BAD DOGGY — Dog bites account for one-third of all homeowners liability claims. age for anyone your dog injures). In some states, insurers might cap liability related to dog bites; some may exclude coverage for certain types of dogs; or might exclude dog bite coverage altogether. Also, your insurer may view other dog-related losses, such as knocking someone to the ground, in the same way. Don’t hide from your insurer the fact that you have a dog. You could be at risk if there are policy contract exclu-

sions related to dog liability and you are unaware because you didn’t reveal you had a pet. Along the same lines, don’t forget to update your insurance if you get a new or an additional dog— issues could arise if your policy isn’t current. Some insurers even exclude and/or limit liability coverage on all domestic pets, including dogs or certain breeds of dog. Do enroll your dog in an obedience course. Some insurers require this. But

even if they don’t, it’s a good idea. Think of it as preventive care: If your dog is well behaved and obeys your commands, it’ll be less likely to bite or jump on people. Try to provide your dog with opportunities to socialize with people and other dogs; this will help it learn to be friendly, rather than aggressive, with strangers who approach. Don’t let your dog interact with people unsupervised. You know your dog best. As long as you’re present, you can tell a friend or stranger to stop doing that thing that annoys your dog before your dog reacts. You can also wrangle your dog and help it settle down if it’s getting too aggressive. Also, if your dog spends part of the day unsupervised in your yard, secure your fence so that it can’t escape. Do keep a medical file on your dogs. In the event that your dog bites someone, producing current vaccination records is essential.

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.

APRIL 2016

AAA MOTORIST

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Cities of Light — Sailing from Paris to Prague Travel Europe’s original highways on Viking River Cruises

hen lovers dream of the City of Light, Johnny Mercer’s classic “April in Paris” reminds them that spring can be the perfect time to explore the city’s fabled sights. Paris is a city so ingrained in our romantic imaginations that any visit becomes an excursion into “la vie sentimentale”. The story of Paris begins with its birthplace on the Île de la Cité. The small island in the River Seine is where you’ll find the flower market, and the gothic spires of Notre Dame. The river divides the Paris into its two constituent parts and the Pont Neuf — the city’s oldest bridge — has seen the entire history of Paris flow by. The Left Bank is older and home to Musée d’Orsay, Saint-Germain-desPrés and the gold-ribbed dome of Les Invalides. The Eiffel Tower was erected for the 1889 Universal Exposition and still attracts over 6 million visitors year. Across the river L’Arc de Triomphe straddles the Champs Elysées, where the streets converge in a massive starshaped pattern. A cluttered Mountmarte is topped by the bleached white parapets of the Sacré-Coeur. And there’s no more comfortable way to explore Paris than aboard a Viking River Cruise. Viking’s “Cities of Light” is a glorious 12-day journey that includes two nights each in two of Europe’s most fabled cities, Paris and

BLUE HIGHWAY — The spires of Notre Dame overlooking the River Seine. Prague, plus a scenic river cruise along the Moselle, Rhine and Main Rivers. Discover the romance of Paris, and drink in the vineyard-clad hillsides of Germany’s Middle Rhine. Ponder the ruins of 12th century Heidelberg Castle and fall in love with the graceful spires of Prague. Taking their names from Norse mythology, Viking’s Longships are marked by a sophisticated design and state of the art amenities. They feature 190 staterooms with more full-

size rooms and full-size verandas than other European river cruise vessels. Viking’s chefs are schooled in the finest European culinary traditions and menus are seasoned with local specialties. Then there’s practical side — the ease of traveling aboard a “floating hotel,” unpacking and packing just once. Travelers will also appreciate the value. Most are priced in dollars and all-inclusive pricing typically includes accommodations, all onboard meals, daily, guided shore excursions and more. Sail

into the very heart of destinations like Paris then walk right off the ship into the center of town. A magical city of bridges, cathedrals and gold-pleated domes, Prague’s timeless silhouette is mirrored in the Vltava River. Often compared with Paris, strolling around Wenceslas Square really does remind you of the Champs Elysées. Completing the illusion is a miniature version of the Eiffel Tower built for the 1891 Prague Exposition that overlooks the town. It’s a city meant to be walked and most of the important sights can be covered in a leisurely two-hour stroll. The famed Astronomical Clock in the Old Town Tower with its bell tolling skeleton, and 12 apostles circling the clock face, was constructed in 1410. The 600-year-old Charles Bridge links Old Town to Prague Castle and the Mala Strana or Lesser Town. The 1,700foot long stone bridge incorporates 16 arches, and a sculpture gallery with 28 statues of the saints. Across the Vltava River, Prague Castle rises majestically above the red tile roofs and copper cupolas of St. Nicholas Cathedral.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Please see your AAA Travel professional, or log on to AAA.com/cruises for more European river cruise vacations

Don’t get soaked buying a flood-damaged vehicle Thousands end up flooding used car markets

ou may not live anywhere near a flood-affected area but AAA advises car buyers that flood-damaged vehicles may show up for sale as early as one week after a major storm. If you’re in the market for a used car, that “sweet deal” you’re considering may be a flooddamaged car offered up by a dishonest dealer or owner. A flood-damaged vehicle is one that has been completely or partially submerged in water with damage to the body, engine, transmission or other mechanical components. Typically, the owner or dealer makes cosmetic repairs, moves the vehicle out of the state for resale, and “washes” the title, effectively omitting all evidence of flood or vehicle reconstruction from the title. Flood water is a corrosive mix of water and dirt. Beyond the obvious damage it does to upholstery and carpeting, it works its way into every seam and crevice of a vehicle. Unsuspecting buyers may find themselves with difficult and expensive repairs, the cost of which may exceed the car’s value. There’s also a threat to their safety when driving. Buyers now need to know the signs of flood-damaged vehicles. Here are some tips to avoid a dangerous purchase:

Before agreeing to the sale, have the vehicle completely inspected by a reliable mechanic. This is the best protection against a purchase you could later regret. Look inside the trunk, spare tire compartment, glove compartment and dome lights for evidence of moisture, silt, rust or corrosion. Do a sniff test. A damp or musty odor in the interior or trunk is a frequent warning sign, as is new carpeting or upholstery in an older car. Check the engine for water damage or moisture. The engine, transmission and drivetrain — along with the fuel, brake and power steering systems — are the most vulnerable to flood damage. Unless these components are completely cleaned of dirt, increased wear and premature failure will result. Examine all areas for signs of rust, including the underside of the vehicle, brake rotors/drums, door hinges and seat springs. Many parts of a car are difficult to clear and dry because they are hard to access. Door locks, window regulators, wiring harnesses, heating and air conditioning components and other small devices are tucked away in hidden spaces. These items may work okay right after a flood, only to fail at a later date due to contamination by dirty water.

Look for dried mud or dirt under the dashboard and luggage/floorboard carpet, inside the glove box or in air vents. Perform a diagnostic check of all electrical systems. Look for brittle wire casings, rust or corrosion. Engine computers, sensors, sound systems and other electronic devices are vulnerable to corrosion and oxidation problems even months after being flooded. In general, be wary of someone trying to sell a vehicle below its market

value and research the vehicle’s history before making a purchase.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) maintains a free database (nicb. org) where consumers can check for flood damage using vehicle information numbers (VINs). The National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVTIS) allows consumers to check a vehicle’s history at vehiclehistory.gov.

Breathtaking! This isNiagara Falls! Two nights from $159* CAN PP/DB including meals... 2 full breakfasts, dinner at

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Call Now! 1-800-263-9393 holidayinnniagarafalls.com Niagara Falls, Canada *Rates are per person, double occupancy. Prices valid Sun. to Thurs. Holidays, weekends higher. Tax extra. Free parking. Rates valid Oct. 12, 2015 to May12, 2016. Child add-ons, whirlpool suites, gift certificates also available. *Subject to exchange rates. Visit www.holidayinnniagarafalls.com for details.

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AAA MOTORIST

APRIL 2016

Travel to where the west is still wild Experience the majesty of the American West

he untamed spirit of the American West lives on. Travelers can retrace the footsteps of the pioneers from South Dakota’s Black Hills, all the way to Salt Lake City and Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. The Lakota Indians called them “Paha Sapa” or “hills that are black.” The Black Hills emerge out of the Great Plains and spread over a vast portion of western South Dakota and into Wyoming. The pine clad hills are bisected by narrow valleys, mining camps, ghost towns and spectacular rock formations. Sculptor Gutzon Borglum’s vision for Mount Rushmore was no less than “the formal rendering of the philosophy of our government into a granite on a mountain peak.” Borglum began drilling into the 5,725-foot mountain in 1927 and the today, the four faces of Mount Rushmore loom more than a thousand feet over visitors. Not far from these heads of state a monument to one of the greatest Indian warriors is slowly emerging out of a mountain. When completed the Crazy Horse Memorial will stand over 560-feet high, 640-feet long and will be the largest sculpture in the world. Once the most lawless town in the west, Deadwood is now a national historic landmark with carefully restored Victorian storefronts. At one time

ically across a valley floor. Directly to the north is Yellowstone Park, the nation’s largest National Park. Spilling across the borders of Wyoming, Montana and Idaho, the park’s 2.2-million acres straddle the Continental Divide. Here, the relentless forces of nature fuel the world’s largest concentration of geothermal activity, including the park’s more than 300 geysers. Located 50-miles east of Yellowstone, Cody Wyoming was named after its founder “Buffalo Bill” Cody. The Buffalo Bill Historical Center, examines and interprets the life of this legendary figure, and the times in which he lived, with seven distinct institutions under one roof. These include the Buffalo Bill Museum, the Cody Firearms Museum, the Plains Indian Museum, and the Whitney Gallery of Western Art.

UP JUMPED THE DEVIL — Devil’s Tower rises 1,267-feet above the meandering Belle Fourche River. Deadwood averaged one murder a day and visitors can pay their respects at Mount Moriah Cemetery, the final resting place of Calamity Jane and Wild Bill Hickok, shot in a Deadwood saloon. Devils Tower National Monument looms 1,267-feet above the meandering Belle Fourche River and was declared the nation’s first national monument in 1906. Prominently featured in the

1977 film Close Encounters of the Third Kind, the origins of this nearly vertical monolith remain a mystery to this day. The 42-mile Teton Park Scenic Loop connects two of America’s last wild places, Yellowstone and Wyoming’s Grand Teton National Park. The Teton Range erupts like a jagged row of teeth over the serene valley known as Jackson Hole, while the Snake River winds errat-

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Experience some of the West’s most famous attractions during AAA’s American Majesty escorted tour, September 3 10, 2016. Wonder at magnificent Mt. Rushmore and Crazy Horse National Monuments. Enjoy the Wild West atmosphere of Cody, Wyoming, and Deadwood, South Dakota and a Wildlife Jeep Safari. For more information see your AAA Travel Agent or visit AAA.com.

Save some green with the AAA Green Car Guide It’s easy being green at AAA.com/greencar

s unprecedented levels of pollution choked our nation’s largest cities in the early 1970s, Los Angeles became the poster child for America’s air pollution problem, with over 100 Stage 1 smog alerts in just one year. Nineteen seventy also marked the first Earth Day celebration, when 20 million Americans rallied for a healthy, sustainable environment. The public outcry over dangerous smog levels led to the passage of the U.S. Clean Air Act of 1970. Since that time there has been a dramatic improvement in urban air quality despite a steady increase in the number of cars per capita and an increase in the annual miles driven. Los Angeles has not experienced a Stage 1 smog alert since 2003. April 22 will mark the 46th anniversary of Earth Day — a time for each of us to renew our commitment to earthfriendly practices even though for most of us, cars are an indespensable fact of life. There are two really good reasons to consider a green car: to save money and to save the planet. Reducing automotive emissions and boosting fuel economy offer huge benefits for society, including improvements to the environment, public health, and energy security. According to the EPA cars and

ALL CHARGED UP — The 2015 Tesla Model S P85D Performance is the toprated Green Car. light trucks are responsible for 17 percent of all greenhouse gas emissions. And even with lower gas prices, buying a high-MPG car is still the most effective way to spend less money on fuel. But car buyers looking for fuel efficiency, low emissions, and solid driving performance are often confronted by unfamiliar terminology and a bewildering array of choices in terms of fuels and technologies. AAA’s Green Car Guide — produced

annually by the Automobile Club of Southern California’s Automotive Research Center Consumers — is designed to help consumers make informed choices about hybrids and low emission vehicles. Developed by the Automobile Club of Southern California’s Automotive Research Center (ARC), it not only defines what a green car is, but explains the differences between various types so potential buyers are able to determine which green

car best matches their lifestyle. “The Green Car Guide is a resource for car buyers and enthusiasts seeking information on fuel-efficient vehicles and low-emission technologies,” said ARC Manager Megan McKernan. “It provides consumer-friendly data and real-world evaluations to help car buyers make informed choices.” ARC engineers and specialists evaluated the more than 80 green vehicles in the guide in 13 categories (including emissions, mpg, acceleration, handling, interior noise, ride quality, cargo capacity and value. The guide lists vehicle specs, test scores, data and observations in a summary of the car and lists their strengths and weaknesses. The online version of AAA’s Green Car Guide has been significantly redesigned and enhanced to improve the user experience and visual appeal. The updated website features quick-search links that show top-rated vehicles by characteristic, comparisons of selected vehicles and enriched content.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

To view the Green Car Guide online or to download the PDF version visit www.AAA.com/greencar.

AAA MOTORIST

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APRIL 2016

Member Benefits • Exclusive Offers

1-800-354-8761 • AAA.com/travel

All that’s missing from a perfect beach vacation in Florida, Hawaii, Cancun or Punta Cana is...

YOU!

These hotspots are the coolest places to be this summer!

SAVE UP TO $100.00 © sellingpix / Fotolia.com

on Pleasant Holidays packages from AAA! 4-6 nights: $50.00 • 7+ nights: $100.00 SAVINGS PER ROOM, DOUBLE OCCUPANCY. NEW BOOKING WITH DEPOSIT APRIL 1-30, 2016. REDEEM COUPON ONLY AT AAA EAST CENTRAL TRAVEL AGENCY LOCATIONS. RESTRICTIONS MAY APPLY.

Enjoy an exclusive AAA Member Benefit — a $50.00 certificate* toward the purchase of optional sightseeing or activity. *Per booking. At select Caribbean destinations, a $50 discount may apply (instead of a $50 activity voucher).

Crowne Plaza Hollywood Beach Hotel

Aston AstonWaikiki WaikikiBeach BeachHotel Hotel

Grand Bahia Principe Coba

Hotel Riu Bambu

Hollywood FL

Honolulu HI

Cancun MX

Punta Cana DR

The Crowne Plaza Hollywood Beach Hotel is an upscale resort both warm and stylish in appeal. More than a resort, it's a unique place where you can hit the beach, bask in the sun and explore Fort Lauderdale. A relaxing sanctuary where contemporary comforts and an array of thoughtful services have made us one of the top-rated hotels on Hollywood Beach. This prime address puts you just steps from the sand and a stop for both the Hollywood Beach Trolley and the Water Taxi, making it easy to explore the surrounding vibrant neighborhood and nearby Fort Lauderdale. Soak up the sun at the large infinity-edge pool. Get in a workout at the fitness center. Complimentary high-speed wireless internet service throughout the hotel keeps you connected. Schedule an in-room massage from Renewal Spa, located next to the hotel, or visit the Spa to enjoy its full menu of treatments and services.

The Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel puts you at the pulse of paradise and exudes a hip Hawaiian sense of place. Hang loose in a modern resort atmosphere — from colorful surfboard-studded lobby to retro Tiki’s Grill & Bar. Most rooms open to full or partial ocean views and feature private lanais for soaking up the scenery. Take full advantage of its surf, sand and sun surroundings across from world-famous Waikiki Beach; it’s within walking distance of endless diversions — shopping, dining, entertainment, cultural activities and attractions like the Honolulu Zoo, Waikiki Aquarium and Kapiolani Park. Popular services are included under a daily amenity fee: a beach bag filled with beach accessories (valued at $90+) including sunprotection supplies, in-room high-speed WiFi, in-room PlayStation®3 (play DVD movies & games from a DVDNow kiosk in the lobby), Keurig coffee maker, daily newspaper, fitness center access and more.

The all-inclusive Grand Bahia Principe Coba is a secluded resort nestled in a coastal paradise with everything your family needs. Nearby millennia-old Mayan ruins offer a window into an ancient world, and palm-lined Caribbean beaches allow you to unwind under the sun. “All-inclusive” entitles you to all of this and more: mini-bar; organized games & activities; access to paddle surfing, tennis, snorkeling, catamarans, kayaks, bicycles; aerobics/dancing classes; unlimited local drinks, beer & soft drinks in hotel's bars; 24-hour American-food snack bar; hotel buffet; lounge chairs, umbrellas, towels; entertainment for adults & children; soccer, basketball, volleyball, boogie boards; gym; free entrance to & drinks at La Rancherita nightclub; and local taxes & tips. Family rooms have an assigned concierge to take care of you. Also enjoy many amenities at the nearby Grand Bahia Principe Tulum.

The all-inclusive beachfront Hotel Riu Bambu sits in the heart of a tropical green space with unbeatable views of turquoise waters; Punta Cana’s beaches are considered some of the world’s most beautiful. A component of a larger complex, this resort shares various facilities and amenities with Riu Palace Punta Cana, Riu Palace Macao, Hotel Riu Palace Bavaro and Hotel Riu Naiboa. If you crave relaxation, you’ll find the perfect facilities here, including 2 freshwater pools, a solarium terrace, Jacuzzis, a gym, a sauna and a wellness center (Renova Spa in Hotel Riu Palace Bavaro). Dominican cuisine’s bold flavors and colors reflect African and Spanish influences; enjoy it (and other fare) in several buffet-style and themed restaurants. Enjoy all-day entertainment programs for adults and children, or try out a wide range of activities and sports as a family or couple or with friends.

Aug 2-9: $750

June 1-8: $1,428

June 2-9: $972

June 1-8: $967

The vacation packages shown here are samples for the specific dates shown; many other destinations, hotel properties and travel dates are available. Please consult with a AAA Travel Agent. Before-discount AAA Member Rates are per person (double occupancy), are subject to availability at time of booking and include roundtrip flights from Pittsburgh, roundtrip airport/hotel transfers and hotel accommodations. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details.

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AAA MOTORIST

APRIL 2016

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

Taste of Scotland & Ireland

IRISH

GOLD

SCOTLAND HIGHLIGHTS

IRELAND HIGHLIGHTS

• Glasgow city tour

• Titanic Belfast

• Loch Ness scenic cruise

• Dublin: Book of Kells at Trinity College, canal dinner cruise

• Distillery whiskey tasting • Spean Bridge Woollen Mill Your on-tour host

PAUL STEIGERWALD

• Ferry from Scotland to Ireland

• Blarney Castle & Woollen Mills

• St Andrews: “Home of Golf”

• Killarney, Ross Castle, Ring of Kerry, Sneem, Moll’s Gap

• Evening of Scottish cuisine & entertainment • Edinburgh Castle & city tour

• Cliffs of Moher, Bunratty Castle • Galway, Clonmacnoise

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AAA Member Rate: $1,789 ATURE

AAA Member Rate: $2,468

AAA Travel Agency is the official travel agency of the Pittsburgh Penguins.®

Sept 19-30 •

Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, 18 meals, sightseeing, hotel luggage handling (1 bag per person), professional local tour director in Scotland & Ireland. Ask about available add-on airfare. Passport required. Tour operated by CIE International. Visit AAA.com/Go Ireland for itinerary & details.

Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, 13 meals, motorcoach sightseeing, hotel service charges & luggage handling (1 bag per person), a Pittsburgh Penguins® logo gift and professional tour director in Ireland. Ask about available add-on airfare. Passport required. Tour operated by CIE International. Visit AAA.com/travel for itinerary and more information.

Aug 2-10 •

Dublin • Clonmacnoise • Galway • Connemara • Catamaran cruise of Killary Harbour • Kylemore Abbey • The Burren • Watch sheepdogs at work • Cliffs of Moher • Killarney • Ring of Kerry • Skellig Experience • Sneem • Moll’s Gap • Muckross House • Blarney Castle • Blarney Woollen Mills • Waterford

It makes perfect sense that a tour of Ireland hosted by Paul Steigerwald, the play-by-play announcer for Pittsburgh Penguins® telecasts, includes a visit to the storied Stone of Eloquence at Blarney Castle! In addition to offering you a chance to acquire the “gift of gab” by kissing the fabled stone, AAA’s “Irish Gold” escorted tour is a golden opportunity to experience the invaluable charm, beauty and fun of the Emerald Isle.

• See dogs herd sheep

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1-800-354-8761 AAA.com/travel

APRIL 2016

AAA MOTORIST

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1-800-354-8761 AAA.com/travel

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

Celebrity Cruises Limited-time Special Offer TAKE YOUR PICK OF ANY 2 OF THESE PERKS: • Classic (nonalcoholic) Beverage Package for 2, beverage gratuities included (value: up to $924 per stateroom) • Unlimited internet for 2 (value: up to $299 for 1 internet account) • Free gratuities for 2 (value: up to $230 per stateroom) • $300 onboard credit per stateroom, double occupancy

Get ALL 4 PERKS when you book a suite! Get an ADDITIONAL $100 ONBOARD CREDIT for any 2016 verandah stateroom booking of 9 nights or longer during April. Book & deposit between April 1 & May 1, 2016, on any cruise sailing between June 2016 & May 2017.

The Wonders of China featuring the Yangtze River

Meet and learn calligraphy from a master of this ancient art. Explore Old Town Shanghai and its tranquil Yuyuan Garden. Marvel at the terracotta warriors unearthed at Xian. Discover the Shanghai Museum’s cultural treasures. Take a relaxing 4-night cruise on the Yangtze River. Walk along the legendary Great Wall of China. See a giant panda in its natural environment! Ride a high-speed (260+ mph) MagLev train! Enjoy an amazing acrobatics show. RELAXED ITINERARY! Day 1: overnight flight Days 2-4: Shanghai Days 5-8: Yangtze River cruise Days 9-10: Xian Days 11-12: Chengdu Days 13-15: Beijing NO SINGLE-NIGHT STAYS!

16 days April-November 2016 AAA Member Rate from $2,899 per person, double occupancy Ask about available add-on airfare.

Moderate physical activity (walking); a blend of longer & shorter days with leisure time

Ask about exclusive AAA member discounts at time of booking.

CULINARY HIGHLIGHTS! Enjoy a home-cooked lunch with a family in their hutong (oldstyle neighborhood) residence Savor Peking duck, noodles and dumplings. Partake in a traditional tea ceremony. 34 INCLUDED MEALS!

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AAA MOTORIST

APRIL 2016

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

AAA.com

to the

Book & deposit April 1-22 and get

$200 off per person!

AUSTRALIA

GLACIERS

NEW ZEALAND Steamship cruise, farm life tour

Great Barrier Reef

Phillip Island Little Penguin colony

Winery tour & tasting

Glass-bottom boat ride

Christchurch

Overnight in Mt Cook National Park

Daintree Rainforest/

Tranz-Alpine Express train ride

Herding/shearing demo

Mossman Gorge, meet Aboriginals

Franz Joseph Glacier

Dine with a NZ Family

Uluru/Ayers Rock, Champagne toast

Queenstown, gondola to dinner

Sydney & Opera House

Alice Springs, Aboriginal drummers

Milford Sound cruise

Koala Park & Opal Collection

Dreamtime tour, bush dinner

“Middle Earth” touring

Sydney Harbour dinner cruise

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Avoid potential airport hassles: Motorcoach to & from your cruise! Park for free, then relax on AAA’s convenient “Cruise Express” motorcoach right to your ship!

Unique add-on options — including a camel ride, a jet boat ride and a night out in Sydney — are also available. Talk to your AAA Travel Agent for rates and availability.

AAA Member Rate: from $9,344

Before-discount rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes flights (Pittsburgh-Cairns, Sydney-Pittsburgh, plus flights in Australia & New Zealand), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, hotel luggage handling (1 bag per person), taxes/gratuities/government fees for included features, 31 meals and a professional guide in Australia & New Zealand. AAA Member Choice Vacations® door-to-door transfer service is unavailable on this departure. ATURE Visit AAA.com/GoAustralia for complete itinerary and important pretravel information. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; CA O contact your travel agent for details. Passport required. TI FE

TRAVEL WITH SOMEONE YOU TRUST.®

Melbourne, Opal Centre

Research & book travel arrangements from the comfort of your home – 24/7.

Cairns, catamaran ride

Oct 17–Nov 6 •

FLIGHTS RENTAL CARS HOTELS

OUTBACK

Linking you & your next vacation!

From the

Grandeur of the Seas — from Baltimore MD

Bermuda & the Bahamas .............July 21-30 ........... from $1,415 Canada & New England ...............Sept 1-10 ............ from $1,141 Canada & New England ...............Oct 13-22 ............ from $1,094 Southeast & the Bahamas ............Nov 12-21 .............. from $969 Coastal USA & the Bahamas ........Jan 14-23 ............... from $945 Coastal USA & the Bahamas ........Feb 4-13 ................. from $935 Coastal USA & the Bahamas ........March 18-27 .......... from $945 The Bahamas.................................April 17-24............. from $815 AAA MEMBER RATES are per person (double occupancy), are subject to availability at time of booking and include roundtrip motorcoach transportation, cruise accommodations/entertainment, most onboard meals and taxes, fees and port expenses of up to $383.10 per person. Passport required. Ship’s registry: Bahamas. Visit AAA.com/motorcruise for details & PA pick-up points.

Be among the first to cruise on Anthem of the Seas! Get $50 shipboard credit! Sail roundtrip from Cape Liberty NJ to New England & Canada. Cruise includes a 1-night before-cruise hotel stay near the pier. Boston MA • Portland & Bar Harbor ME • Saint John NB • Halifax NS • Plus 3 days at sea

Sept 7-17 •

balcony staterooms from $2,250

AAA MEMBER RATE is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip motorcoach transportation (Pittsburgh–NJ), 1-night pre-cruise hotel stay (NJ), cruise accommodations/entertainment, most onboard meals, $50 shipboard credit per stateroom and taxes/fees/port expenses of $468.52 per person. Ship’s registry: Bahamas. Visit AAA.com/motorcruise for itinerary details & Pittsburgh area pick-up points. Passport required.

Royal Caribbean International Cruise Vacation Planning Events Special Event-only Offers Travel Agents On-site April 6: 7-9pm WEXFORD AAA

Wexford Plaza • 10548 Perry Highway

April 12: 7-9pm CRANBERRY AAA

Village Shoppes of Cranberry • 20510 Route 19

RSVP NOW! 1-800354-8761

1-800-354-8761 AAA.com/travel

AAA MOTORIST

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1-800-354-8761 AAA.com/travel

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

LEAVE YOUR CAR AT HOME!

Car-free, carefree adventures ATURE

APRIL 2016

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Rates are per person, are subject to availability at time of booking and include roundtrip motorcoach transportation from the Pittsburgh area, accommodations (for multiday tours, based on double occupancy), sightseeing/admissions, taxes/gratuities for included features, baggage handling (for multiday tours), meals as indicated and the services of a AAA Tour Manager. Visit AAA.com/USA for complete itinerary details and pick-up points.

NIAGARA SUMMER ESCAPE: Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario

CRUISING THE CHESAPEAKE: Annapolis, St Michaels, Baltimore MD

Escape to this charming Canadian resort village. Top-notch theater, coupled with elegant lodging and fine food & wine, makes this an ideal summer retreat. Visit a winery and stay at the full-service Prince of Wales Hotel. Attend a matinee of “Our Town” at the Royal George Theater (gold-level seats). Enjoy a dinner cruise aboard a paddle wheeler and see Fort George, Fort Niagara and sunset over Lake Ontario. Stop at Niagara Falls for lunch and free time on the way home! Passport required. 6 meals.

Tour Annapolis — Maryland’s colonial-flavored capital and home of the US Naval Academy; then cruise into Chesapeake Bay from the City Dock. The next day board a well-appointed yacht for another cruise — from Annapolis to the quaint Eastern Shore town of St Michaels and its Chesapeake Maritime Museum. Motorcoach to Baltimore for free time at its Inner Harbor waterfront district; while there, you may want to browse shops, visit the National Aquarium or tour the USS Constellation. Enjoy a cruise tour of Baltimore Harbor. 3 meals.

July 7-9 •

AAA Member Rate: $789

Aug 15-17 •

MACKINAC ISLAND MI includes Dearborn, Frankenmuth

CHAUTAUQUA HOUSE & GARDEN TOUR Chautauqua NY

In Dearborn, visit the Henry Ford Museum and explore Greenfield Village. Visit Edsel Ford’s luxurious estate. Cross Mighty Mac Bridge and ferry over to Mackinac Island, a charming and car-less Victorian-era village. Tour the island’s sights by horse-drawn carriage and visit Fort Mackinac. Enjoy the renowned luncheon buffet at the Grand Hotel and then free time in town to visit its unique shops. Leave the island to enjoy the many delights of the Bavarian-flavored village of Frankenmuth, home of Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland. 8 meals.

Travel to the famed Chautauqua Institution, a premier summertime destination. Every other year, the Bird Tree & Garden Club presents an exclusive home & garden tour highlighting quaint cottages and gardens that capture the essence of summer. Lunch is included at the historic Athenaeum Hotel. 1 meal.

June 12-16 •

AAA Member Rate: $1,129

MAINE SEACOAST: Portland to Acadia

June 12-18 •

AAA Member Rate: $1,669

See the rugged beauty of Maine’s spectacular coastline. Overnight in Cromwell CT, stop at Portland Head Lighthouse and explore seaside Portland. From Boothbay Harbor, the boating capital of Maine, search for humpback, fin and minke whales on a 3-hour cruise. Enjoy free time in Boothbay before visiting the Maine State Prison Store and moving on to Bar Harbor. Tour Bar Harbor and marvel at the magnificent beauty of Acadia National Park. Visit West Point and overnight at Hotel Thayer on the way home. 12 meals.

July 12 •

AAA Member Rate: $155

Explore 2 of architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s works in the Laurel Highlands (Duncan House at Polymath Park Resort and Fallingwater). Enjoy lunch at Tree Tops restaurant and dinner at the historic Summit Inn. 2 meals.

NAVAL AIR STATION OCEANA AIR SHOW Virginia Beach & Norfolk VA Sept 7-12 •

ON THE ROAD WITH THE PIRATES!

AAA Member Rate: $185

THE WRIGHT KIND OF SUMMER Laurel Highlands PA

Aug 21 •

AAA Member Rate: $665

AAA Member Rate: $999

Enjoy 5 nights and beach time at an oceanfront hotel on Virginia Beach’s boardwalk. Visit Cape Henry Lighthouse, get a behind-thescenes tour of Naval Station Norfolk and cruise Norfolk Harbor. Visit Nauticus and see the MacArthur Memorial. Highlight of the tour is the Naval Air Station Oceana Air Show, including the world-famous Blue Angels! 10 meals.

May 12-15 •

CHICAGO CUBS

AAA Member Rate: $1,165

Visit historic Wrigley Field. Downtown lodging puts you steps away from city sights. Tour several sports venues and the Chicago Sports Museum. Enjoy food & comedy at Tommy Gunn’s Garage “speakeasy” and reserved seating at Wrigley’s Budweiser Patio, featuring unlimited ballpark food & beverages. 6 meals.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS

July 15-17 •

AAA Member Rate: $679

Tour monuments and memorials. Attend a rooftop reception at your hotel (views of the Capitol!). Enjoy time to explore on your own. After a picnic, take your reserved baseline seat and root for the Pirates. Visit National Harbor; shop, browse, dine and/or ride the towering Capital Wheel on your own. 4 meals.

CINCINNATI REDS...AND LOUISVILLE KY Sept 14-17 •

AAA Member Rate: $785

2 nights in Louisville: Churchill Downs, the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory and Evan Williams Distillery. Continue on to Cincinnati: city tour, unlimited buffet in the Smokehouse Party Barn as you watch the game at Great American Ball Park. Also visit Newport KY. 6 meals.

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Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

GENERAL TRAVEL DISCLAIMER: AAA Travel Agency makes every effort to provide accurate, up-to-date prices as of press time and cannot assume responsibility for typographic errors. Rates/offers are per person based on double occupancy, unless otherwise indicated, and are subject to availability and airline/operator changes. International rates/offers are subject to currency fluctuations and additional tax & security charges. Rates that include airfare include all taxes, government fees and surcharges. Additional restrictions may apply. Rates/offers are available at all AAA East Central travel agency locations. For tour details, contact AAA or visit AAA.com/travel. 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. 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.

PIRATES HOME GAMES: Get a seat & more!

SOLD OUT Dodgers SOLD OUT

Cardinals Saturday June 11 @ 7:15pm

• Pirates baseball cap • Autographed baseball • Outfield box seat • Behind-the-scenes PNC Park tour • Pre-game food & drink • Watch batting practice if it takes place

Zambelli Fireworks

Friday June 24 @ 7:05pm Free Shirt Friday (first 20,000 fans)

Nationals Saturday Sept 24 @ 7:05pm FanJam Post-game Concert

Travel Tumbler (first 20,000 fans)

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AAA Member Rate $99 per person per game

AAA: The preferred travel agency of the Pittsburgh Pirates

See 2 games & stay at a beachfront hotel!

ATURE

• 4 nights at the iconic beachfront Hilton Caribe • Luggage handling at hotel • Exclusive private open-bar cocktail reception with Pittsburgh Pirates® President Frank Coonelly • Roundtrip transportation to/from San Juan Airport, hotel & games • Tour of historic Old San Juan • Tour of the distillery at the Casa Bacardí Visitor Center • On-site “Esoteric Sports” host

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AAA Travel is the preferred travel agency of the Pittsburgh Pirates ®

AAA Member Rate: $2,659 per person, double occupancy

Single, triple and quad rates available on request Full payment due at time of booking

FREE National Park Vacation Planning Night THURSDAY, APRIL 28 @ 6:30PM Treesdale Golf & Country Club • 1 Arnold Palmer Dr, Gibsonia PA

Full payment due at time of booking.

Follow the May 28–June 1 box seat for 2 games with Pirates • Reserved the Florida Marlins — May 30 & 31 to San • May Roundtrip Pittsburgh–San Juan flights Juan PR! • 2 checked bags per person

You’re invited to AAA Travel’s

Learn more about American Majesty, “Mighty 5” and other AAA tours.

Cubs Saturday July 9 @ 7:15pm Reds Saturday Aug 6 @ 7:05pm Brewers Saturday Sept 3 @ 7:05pm

Take your next vacation in one of America’s amazing national parks!

Century III (Pleasant Hills) . . . . . . . . . .412-655-6105 Downtown . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .412-338-4305 East Liberty/Shadyside . . . . . . . . . . . . .412-365-7272 Monroeville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .412-858-4640 North Hills (Ross Twp) . . . . . . . . . . . . .412-367-7625 Robinson Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .412-809-2803 South Hills (Bethel Park) . . . . . . . . . . .412-833-5060 Wexford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .724-933-3000 White Oak/McKeesport . . . . . . . . . . . .412-675-3404 Rochester PA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .724-728-6230 St Marys PA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .814-781-3003 Uniontown PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .724-438-8575 Warren PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .814-723-6660 Washington PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .724-225-3600 Waynesburg PA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .724-627-3434 Wheeling WV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .304-233-1810 Weirton WV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .304-748-1616 PITTSBURGH PA AREA

Altoona PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .814-946-1277 Bridgeport WV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .304-842-7676 Butler PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .724-282-8810 Columbiana OH. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .330-482-3836 Cranberry Township PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .724-772-1122 East Liverpool OH. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .330-385-2020 Erie PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .814-866-0246 Greensburg PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .724-834-8300 Harborcreek PA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .814-897-9508 Hermitage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .724-981-9141 Indiana PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .724-349-4193 Kittanning PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .724-543-4244 Lower Burrell/New Kensington Area PA . . .724-339-4440 Martinsburg WV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .304-263-4619 Meadville PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .814-724-3157 Morgantown WV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .304-598-7470 New Castle PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .724-658-8551

RSVP: 1-800-354-8761

1-800-354-8761 AAA.com/travel

APRIL 2016

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1-800-354-8761 AAA.com/travel

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

Fly to Las Vegas and settle into your centrally located casino hotel. An evening Pink Jeep® tour lets you experience the dazzling excitement of the Strip in a unique way. Enjoy a full day to explore everything Vegas has to offer. Travel on to Lake Powell and your lakeside hotel; enjoy a dinner cruise. Appreciate the spiritual aspect of Navajo territory and the photographic beauty of Antelope Canyon on a guided off-road tour. Enjoy 2 nights in a lodge at the Grand Canyon. Ride the Grand Canyon Railway to Williams. At Sedona, take a Pink Jeep® tour to see majestic red rock formations. 12 meals.

OUT Aug 15-21 • $1,859 YELLOWSTONE EXPERIENCE: SOLD June 20-26

Our first national park’s first explorers were called liars when they described its otherworldly geysers & bubbling mudpots and its free-ranging bison, elk, moose, bears & wolves to folks back east. Begin at Salt Lake City and travel through scenic Idaho to Yellowstone National Park. Enjoy Old Faithful & many other natural landmarks and visit the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center. A Wildlife Safari includes a picnic dinner. Also enjoy Grand Teton National Park, the cowboy town of Jackson, a Jenny Lake cruise, a Mormon Tabernacle Choir performance (choir schedule permitting) and more! 12 meals.

GRAND CANYON TOP TO BOTTOM: Aug 14-20 • from $3,109: includes flights

Enjoy 2 days in Sedona in the heart of Red Rock country. Explore the area’s unique backcountry on an exciting Pink Jeep® tour. Depart from Williams on a First Class excursion aboard Grand Canyon Railway to the Grand Canyon. Visit overlooks on a motorcoach tour along the South Rim. Spend 2 nights within the national park and only a quarter-mile from the rim! Enjoy a full day to explore the canyon on your own. Travel via off-road vehicle to the floor of the canyon and enjoy lunch along the Colorado River. End with 2 nights in Las Vegas on the Strip! 10 meals.

SOLD OUT3 Sept 3-10 • $3,239: includes flights AMERICAN MAJESTY: Aug 27–Sept

Celebrate the 100th year of the National Park Service by roaming the home of the buffalo and discovering America’s wide-open spaces and iconic landmarks. Start in Salt Lake City and witness a Mormon Tabernacle Choir broadcast performance (choir

S N

T IO

schedule permitting). Travel past Great Salt Lake, through Logan Canyon and beside Bear Lake. At Grand Teton National Park, take a scenic float trip on the Snake River. Visit Old Faithful, Mammoth Hot Springs and other Yellowstone National Park sites. Enjoy historic Cody, the Buffalo Bill Center and a chuckwagon-style dinner. Marvel at Devil’s Tower, feel the Old West at Deadwood and enjoy the scenic Black Hills, Mt Rushmore and Crazy Horse Monument. After a Wildlife Jeep® Safari at Custer State Park to see buffalo (and more), end at the inspirational Mt Rushmore Evening Lighting Ceremony. 13 meals.

Get this guidebook AND $75 to celebrate 100 years of the National Park Service “MIGHTY 5 & MORE” CELEBRATION SOLD OUT Oct 11-19 October 18-26 • $3,845: includes flights

Commemorate the centennial on a tour of some of the USA’s best parks. After a night in Las Vegas, travel past Lake Mead and Hoover Dam, visit Kingman’s Route 66 Museum and marvel at the Grand Canyon. Enter Navajo Nation; $22.95 value stop at a trading post. See Lake Powell Published and Antelope Canyon. Enjoy a scenic by National Geographic cruise, then a 4WD tour of Monument Full color Valley. Experience Navajo culture. Time 272 pages for the “Mighty 5”: See natural arches in Maps, facts Arches NP. Dine at a dramatically located & photos lodge on the Colorado River. A Jeep® tour of Canyonlands NP reveals its beauty. Ride a jet boat on the Colorado. See petroglyphs at Capitol Reef NP, the fairyland hues of Bryce Canyon NP and the 2,000-foot-high stone towers of Zion NP. 16 meals.

1 BOOK PER ROOM, DOUBLE OCCUPANCY

NEW BOOKINGS APRIL 1-30

Popular vacations to other US West destinations – flights included!

BEST OF NORTHERN CALIFORNIA July 21-29 • $4,379

So many delights in 1 tour — from the endless charms of San Francisco to the natural splendor of the redwoods at Muir Woods to the opulence of Hearst Castle. Cross Golden Gate Bridge, enjoy the Mediterranean ambiance of Sausalito, sample wines at Napa Valley vineyards, savor lunch aboard the Napa Wine Train. Ride Amtrak’s scenic California

AAA MEMBER RATES are per person, double occupancy, are subject to availability at time of booking and include roundtrip flights from Pittsburgh (except YELLOWSTONE EXPERIENCE, which is a landonly package), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, meals as noted, hotel luggage handling (1 bag per person), sightseeing per itinerary, taxes/gratuities for included features, services of a AAA Tour Manager (upon arrival at destination, if participation goal is met). Visit AAA.com/USA for more information. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details.

BRIGHT LIGHTS/BIG CANYONS: May 22-30 • from $2,895: includes flights

ATURE

ENJOY THE BEAUTY OF THE AMERICAN WEST! Celebrate 100 years of the National Park Service!

APRIL 2016

Zephyr to Lake Tahoe. Visit the ghost town of Virginia City NV. Dine & dance on a riverboat paddlewheeler. Marvel at Yosemite’s wonders. Explore coastal Carmel, Big Sur and Monterey. 14 meals.

SAN FRANCISCO FLEET WEEK Oct 6-10 • $2,589

Discover the many pleasures of the City by the Bay and enjoy excursions beyond to Muir Woods, Sau-

salito, the Marin Headlands, Treasure Island and the vineyards and wineries of Napa Valley. Enjoy ample free time in San Francisco to explore on your own and to participate in the Fleet Week festivities — you can choose to interact with sailors; tour amphibious carriers, destroyers and cruisers on the waterfront; and visit the festival Center on Marina Green for its Navy displays, live music and food trucks. Board a sternwheeler for a luncheon cruise during the Fleet Week Air Show featuring the Blue Angels! 7 meals.

AAA MEMBER RATES are per person, double occupancy, are subject to availability at time of booking and include roundtrip flights from Pittsburgh, airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, meals as noted, hotel luggage handling (1 bag per person), sightseeing per itinerary and taxes/gratuities for included features. Visit AAA.com/USA for more information. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply.

AAA MOTORIST

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

AMTRAK & Northern National Parks

MEMBERS SAVE! Premium ..... $150 Plus ............$100 Classic ........... $75

Aug 8-17 AAA Member Rate: $3,799

Before-discount rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip airport/ hotel transfers, hotel accommodations, 15 meals, Amtrak train (roomette accommodations, Seattle to Glacier National Park), motorcoach sightseeing, taxes on included items and Amtrak Vacations tour escort. Ask about available add-on airfare.

Some of the USA's most beautiful national parks & a ride on Amtrak's Empire Builder!

ATURE D

NEW BOOKINGS WITH DEPOSIT BY 4/30/16. PER ROOM, DOUBLE OCCUPANCY.

AT I O Seattle WA Amtrak Empire Builder Glacier National Park C

Big Sky Circle Tour Going to the Sun Road Glacier Park Lodge

Yellowstone National Park Upper & Lower Loop Grant Village Lodge

Grand Teton National Park Jackson Hole WY Salt Lake City UT

Get a $50.00 Disney Gift Card (per room, double occupancy) from AAA Travel when you book and make a deposit on a Walt Disney World® Resort vacation package of 5 nights or longer by April 30, 2016.

1-800-354-8761 AAA.com/travel

APRIL 2016

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AAA MOTORIST

1-800-354-8761 AAA.com/travel

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Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

Reflections of Italy

MYRTLE BEACH

Explore a land rich in history, culture, art and romance.

BEACHFRONT CONDO-HOTELS

a top drive destination of AAA East Central members 4+ nights at any of 4 top-rated luxury properties

Rome • Colosseum • Assisi Perugia • Siena • Florence Chianti Winery • Venice Murano Island • Milan

North Beach Plantation®  The Caribbean Resort & Villas  Compass Cove® Oceanfront Resort  The Breakers Resort 

AAA GUARANTEES THE BEST AVAILABLE RATES! GAS CARD OF UP TO $100 AND 2 AAA BEACH TOWELS

MEMBERS SAVE! Premium .... $600 Plus ............$550 Classic ......... $525 NEW BOOKINGS WITH DEPOSIT BY 4/26/16. PER ROOM, DOUBLE OCCUPANCY.

Oct 26–Nov 4 or Nov 7-16 •

AAA Member Rate: from $4,149

Before-discount rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes flights (Pittsburgh-Rome, Milan-Pittsburgh), roundtrip ATURE airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, hotel luggage handling (1 bag per person), 13 meals and a professional guide in Italy. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel CA O TI agent for details. Passport required.

ASK ABOUT OTHER DEPARTURE DATES; discount not available.

San Antonio Holiday

FREE when you book & make a deposit April 1-30 on a stay of 4 nights or longer

1 card, 2 towels per booking. Based on stays between 5/21/16 — 9/10/16. Restrictions apply.

BEST OF BOTH WORLDS Condo space AND hotel amenities

You don’t live in one room at home; why live that way on vacation? Condo-hotels, among travel’s best-kept secrets, combine the spaciousness of condos and the amenities of hotels. They feature 2 to 5 bedrooms, multiple bathrooms, full kitchens, washers & dryers, dining areas, common living areas, balconies and numerous TVs. Enjoy the flexibility of eating meals or snacks at anytime and watching a variety of TV shows by different family members in different rooms. You get the 24/7 security of high-rise buildings with lobby checkin and amenities such as maid service, Wi-Fi and on-premises maintenance. Choose from 4 beachfront properties perfect for small or large families, multigenerational families (kids, parents and grandparents) and friends/neighbors vacationing together. Summer’s coming — call now!

MEMBERS SAVE! Premium .....$350 Plus ........... $300 Classic ......... $275 NEW BOOKINGS WITH DEPOSIT BY 4/30/16. PER ROOM, DOUBLE OCCUPANCY.

LIMITED AVAILABILITY: Call the number below now for rates & dates. This vibrant and inviting Texas city has been called the American Venice; its lovely River Walk meanders through downtown, glowing with Christmas lights and decorations. Soak up the spirit of the season and experience the Tex-Mex take on the holidays. You'll also visit the Alamo, Mission San Jose, Bandera (“Cowboy Capital of the World”), the LBJ Ranch, Germanflavored Fredericksburg (the heart of Texas Hill Country), Sandy Oaks Olive Orchard (site of your spectacular farewell dinner with local wines) and El Mercado (Mexican-style marketplace). Enjoy a traditional cowboy barbecue at a dude ranch!

Dec 12-16 •

AAA Member Rate: from $1,899

ASK ABOUT OTHER DEPARTURE DATES; discount not available.

Before-discount rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes flights (Pittsburgh-San Antonio), roundtrip ATURE airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, hotel luggage handling (1 bag per person) and 6 meals. Additional airline fees CA O TI for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details. FE

APRIL 2016

AVAILABLE ONLY BY CALLING AAA AT 1-800-354-8761

PAGE 18

AAA MOTORIST

APRIL 2016

Wow! It’s good to be a AAA member With exclusive members-only savings from Hertz

arming temperatures beckon with sunshine, open roads and adventure around every turn. AAA preferred partner Hertz, makes road trips more affordable with up to 20% discounts and an array of member benefits that will save your travel budget for the things you really want to do. Plus, for a limited time, enjoy savings of additional 15% off weekly rentals when Promotional Code #106746 is included in your reservation. This offer is valid for rental pickup between April 15 and June 30, 2016. One of the benefits of AAA membership is the special package of savings available when you rent from Hertz. Exclusive AAA member benefits include free unlimited mileage on most rentals. Families receive free use of one child, infant or booster seat, a savings of $13.00 per day and there’s no charge for an additional driver, a savings of $13.50 per day if that driver is a AAA member and meets standard rental qualifications. Members can rent a NeverLost GPS for just $6.99 per day; save 50 percent off SIRUS XM radio fees; and 10 percent off the Fuel Purchase Option. Purchase a tank of gas from Hertz at local prices and eliminate the hassle of rushing around trying to find a gas station before returning your car! Hertz has over 2,700 locations off-air-

THE POWER OF GOLD — AAA members are entitled to free Hertz Gold Plus Rewards membership. port, bringing the car rental experience to your doorstep. You’ll find affordable leisure rates on quality, low-mileage vehicles with many features. Hertz also provides Convenient Customer Pickup and Return Service if you live within 15 minutes of the neighborhood location. Hertz’ free Gold Plus Rewards® loyalty program means AAA members can fast forward their car rental experience. Just show your license and pick-up your keys at the designated Gold counter at

over 4,000 locations worldwide. Choose a car you like better on the spot with Hertz Gold Choice® and enjoy expedited drop-off with eReturn. Receive vehicle updates or select an upgrade right from your phone with Mobile Gold Alerts. You’ll earn one Hertz Gold Plus Rewards® point for every qualifying U.S. dollar spent on Hertz rentals and optional services worldwide. After their first Gold rental, AAA Classic and Plus

members collect enough Hertz Gold Plus Rewards Bonus Points, for one free rental day. AAA Premier members, earn points good for two free rental days. Hertz is transforming its locations worldwide in a complete rethinking of what a car rental location and experience should be. It’s all part of their commitment to provide customers with the most technologically innovative and sustainable products and services available. The Hertz Green Traveler Collection features eco-friendly hybrid, electric and compressed natural gas vehicles that are good for the environment and easy on the wallet. It’s good to be a AAA Member, so go ahead with your vacation plans! Contact your local AAA travel office, visit AAA.com/hertz or call 800-6543080 to reserve your Hertz vehicle!

YOUR KEY TO HERTZ SAVINGS

Your Hertz CDP # is your key to exclusive Hertz savings and benefits. The CDP # 215 the same as your club code, the three digit number that appears on the front of your membership card. With exclusive members-only discounts and benefits. The Hertz system will automatically assign the best rate available within the chosen channel of distribution at the time of reservation.

School’s out: Tips for moving kids home from college Penske Truck Rental offers a course in Moving 101

illions of students shift their belongings back and forth from colleges and universities each year and students will soon begin their annual trek back home. Moving is never any fun, but there are things you can do to make it easier for everyone involved. Whether you’re a senior or a sophomore, the experts at Penske Truck Rental have a curriculum to help make you or you college-age student make the move home: Select the right truck — Most families find that a 12-foot or 16-foot truck best meets their needs. But you never know – kids these days have a lot more stuff than their parents did way back when. Are they living in a dorm room or offcampus apartment? The difference can mean a lot when it comes to finding the right-size truck. To begin your search, go online to PenskeTruckRental.com and take a look at Penske’s truck size chart. Or, let Penske’s Truck Wizard program guide you to the right size. Trucks are different — They’re taller, wider and weigh 10 times more than the average car. They require more stopping distance. There are certain bridges that are too low for Penske trucks. Watch out for low-hanging tree branches and building overhangs. Blind spots will also be completely

A MOVING EXPERIENCE — Penske Truck Rental is AAA’s preferred provider for consumer truck rentals. different. Take the opportunity to familiarize yourself with the truck’s switches and gauges and adjust the side mirrors. To protect your belongings, park in well-lit areas and padlock the rear door. If you can, try to move on a weekday — weekends are always the busiest moving days. It’s also a good idea to reserve early, to ensure availability. Most colleges end their semesters around the

same time. Keep in mind your reservations are guaranteed. Use of accessories is important — Boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap and hand trucks are key tools for the do-ityourself move. There’s no need to visit multiple websites and stores: you can find everything on the Penske website. Loading — Load the heaviest items on the truck first. When you’ve got a

sturdy base of the heaviest items, you can start stacking on top. Most Penske trucks have flat floors, allowing you to pack more things. The floors are also non-slip and wooden, preventing spills and sliding cargo. If you end up packing or unpacking after dark, the truck’s translucent roof and interior lights will let you see what you’re doing. Pack a go bag — With most belongings packed tightly away, create a travel bag for moving day to keep important paperwork, credit cards, identification, change of clothes, a GPS device, drinks and snacks close at hand. Once you hit the road, you’ll drive safely and in comfort. All of the company’s household rental trucks include either a CD player or MP3 plug-in. Trucks are also equipped with automatic transmission, antilock brakes for safer stops, air conditioning, power steering, rear roll-up door and dual-faced mirrors for better vision. FOR MORE INFORMATION

AAA members save 12% off the daily rental rate and the discount can be increased up to 20% when reservations are made online at AAA.com/penske. Reservations can be made online or by calling 877-222-7924. Additional terms and conditions may apply.

APRIL 2016

Trafalgar

AAA MOTORIST

Visit your local AAA Travel or call 1-800-354-8761.

continued from page 1

Sample tour: 10-day Best of Hawaii: from $3,006 (June 17, with early-payment discount). Dramatic scenery is just one of the highlights on this trip that takes in the best of vibrant Waikiki, exotic Kailua-Kona and the stunning Kaanapali Beach. Honolulu, Pearl Harbor, Kona, Keauhou Bay, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Hilo, Maui. Regional Explorers: Explore a region in 2 or more countries. Whether it’s the Alps or the Mediterranean, your journey of discovery is sure to be as in-depth as it is enjoyable. Sample tour: 16-day Spain, Morocco & Portugal: from $3,775 (Nov 27). The Moorish influence on the culture of Spain, Portugal and Morocco is clear throughout this journey, but the differences that make each country so distinctive also stand out. Madrid, Granada, Costa del Sol, Fez, Marrakesh, Casablanca, Rabat, Tangier, Seville, Lisbon, Fátima, Salamanca. At Leisure: Stay for 2 to 6 nights in each destination and rarely depart earlier than 9am, ensuring you have free time to relax. Sample tour: 10-day Greek Island Hopper: from $2,495. Mykonos & Santorini are the islands of choice, with 3 nights on each to soak up the laid-back island life-style of 2 of Greece’s favorite hot spots. Athens, Mykonos, Santorini. Family Experiences: Designed so all the family can explore Europe to-

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gether, you’ll enjoy a mix of discovery and fun. Trafalgar makes it seamless and easy for you, so everyone is happy. Sample tour: 10-day Castles & Kilts: from $3,050 (June 16). Castles, crown jewels and Harry Potter — this classic family experience introduces the history, mystery and magic of England, Wales and Scotland. London, Oxford, Bristol, Bath, Llangollen, Ruthin Castle, Liverpool, Chester, Tatton Park, Lancaster, Hadrian’s Wall, Edinburgh. Cruise, Rail & Combinations: Sometimes different ways of travel suit a destination and reveal it in unique and inspiring ways. Whether that’s a cruise of the Greek Islands or a journey on the Bernina Express, these trips give you a different perspective. Sample tour: 15-day Contrasts of Canada: from $6,864 (July 11, with early-payment discount). An epic exploration, east meets west on this grand trip across Canada, taking you coast to coast on VIA Rail’s renowned train, The Canadian. Vancouver, Victoria, Chemainus, Squamish, Whistler, Sun Peaks, Rocky Mountain National Park, Banff, Lake Louise, Jasper, Toronto, Niagara Peninsula. Hidden Journeys: Enjoy less-visited places, such as Rocamadour, a medieval French town clinging to a cliff, in smaller groups up to 26 guests. Sample tour: 10-day Secrets of Rockies & Glacier National Park: from $3,605 (May 19, with early-booking

AAA Member Benefit: d ar $40.00 credit tow es nc rie pe Ex l na tio Op while on vacation. See a AAA travel agent for details.

discount). The glaciers, national parks and laid-back cities of western Canada are just some of the highlights on this adventure. Calgary, Fort McLeod, Waterton Lakes National Park, Glacier National Park, Lake Louise, Athabasca Glacier, Jasper, Icefields Parkway, Banff. Special Interest: Vacations that focus on a particular theme or interest, from Celtic filmscapes to gastronomic delights. Sample tour: 10-day Flavors of Italy: from $2,803 (with early-booking discount). Chianti in Tuscany, prosciutto in Parma, Bolognese in Bologna, this “foodie” trip explores the traditions of cuisine and wine at their origin, providing an in-depth taste of a nation. Rome, Chianti Wine Region, San Gimignano, Florence, Tuscan Life-style Experience, Pisa, Parma, Bologna, Venice (canal cruise, secret walking tour).

Discoveries — Another Option: Perfectly planned, these vacations move effortlessly from one country and iconic sight to the next. Featuring different inclusions, they are the ideal way to explore the diversity of Europe on one trip. Ranging from 9 to 31 days, they offer you a different style of travel. Sample tour: 9-day Delights of London & Paris: from $3,035 (with earlybooking discount). From Big Ben to the Eiffel Tower, with Shakespeare’s Stratford-upon-Avon and Stonehenge in between – this trip gives you the delights of London and the south of England, along with the top sights in Paris. London, Windsor, Oxford, Stratford-upon-Avon, Bath, Stonehenge, Paris, Versailles. All AAA Member Rates are land-only, per person, based on double occupancy. Ask a AAA Travel Agent for details.

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AAA MOTORIST

APRIL 2016

Protect yourself and your pet: Be A.W.A.R.E. Save on pet prescriptions with AAA Prescription Savings

f you’ve ever searched online for prescription pet medicines, you’ve likely seen attention-grabbing promises of convenience and lower prices. Are these claims always true? Many online pet pharmacies are reputable but some are not. Illegal online pharmacies may sell medicines that are counterfeit, outdated, mislabeled, or incorrectly formulated. The medicines may not contain the actual drug or contain incorrect amounts. Some may not work as well if the product is old (expired) or has been stored in conditions that were too hot, cold, or humid. Others may not have the proper directions for use. Worse yet, you may not be able to get your money back if dissatisfied. If you want to purchase pet prescription medicines online, protect yourself by being online pharmacy A.W.A.R.E. A— Ask Your Veterinarian. Ask if an online pharmacy is appropriate for your pet and for your situation. W—Watch for Red Flags. Be careful if the pharmacy doesn’t require a vet’s prescription for a prescription medicine—they’re breaking the law and robbing you and your pet of the protection provided by a veterinary physical exam. Online questionnaires or consults are no substitute for a prescription from a veterinarian. Be leery if there’s no licensed pharmacist available to answer questions,

BEST FRIENDS FOREVER — Members save an average of 26 percent with AAA Prescription Savings. if the pharmacy website is not based in the U.S. or its physical business address, phone number or other contact information is missing. Beware if the pharmacy’s not licensed by the State Board of Pharmacy where the business is based. If it operates in the U.S. you can check their licensing on the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP) website (nabp. net). If the pharmacy’s prices are dramatically lower than your veterinarian’s or

other pharmacy prices, it’s probably too good to be true. A—Always Check for Pharmacy Accreditation. Many good online pharmacies follow strict licensing laws and are also accredited by a program called Vet-VIPPS (Veterinary-Verified Internet Pharmacy Practice Sites). It’s a voluntary accreditation program created by the NABP. Member pharmacies are licensed in the states from which they ship drugs and have successfully passed reviews, annual re-accreditation and

on-site surveys every three years. R—Report Problems and Suspicious Online Pet Pharmacies. If your pet has a problem with a medicine bought online, contact the manufacturer. You can also report problems directly to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM) by calling 1-888-FDA-VETS or emailing AskCVM@fda.hhs.gov. E—Educate Yourself. The best defense against illegal online pet pharmacies is education. For more information about buying pet medicines online, visit the FDA’s website at fda. gov/AnimalVeterinary or call 1-240402-7002. With 32 million AAA members owning at least one pet, AAA Prescription Savings is designed to help reduce costs for AAA members and their family pets when prescriptions are not covered by insurance. FOR MORE INFORMATION

AAA can help with prescriptions for your pet. Just ask your vet to write a prescription that you can fill at a pharmacy that participates in the AAA Prescription Savings program and present it to your pharmacist with your AAA membership card. It’s that easy to save on prescriptions for every family member — whether they have two feet or four. For information, visit AAA.com/prescriptions or call 1-866222-7283.

New AAA study reveals the perils of potholes Pothole damage costing U.S. drivers $3 billion annually

t’s that time of year again when rain, ice and changing temperatures mark the arrival of pothole season. Potholes are as much a springtime ritual as dandelions and every year we get a bumper crop. Potholes are caused by cracks in the road surface that allow water to seep underneath. When the water freezes these cracks become larger and when the ice melts it creates a void. Traffic rolling over the weakened area causes the surface layer to crumble and cave in forming a pothole. AAA responds to more than four million calls for flat tire assistance a year, many the result of pothole encounters. Now a new study from AAA Automotive Engineering reveals that pothole damage has cost U.S. drivers $15 billion in vehicle repairs over the last five years, or approximately $3 billion annually. “In the last five years, 16 million drivers across the country have suffered pothole damage to their vehicles,” said John Nielsen, AAA’s managing director of Automotive Engineering and Repair. “The problems range from tire punctures and bent wheels, to more expensive suspension damage.” The severity of the damage depends on a combination of factors such as tire diameter, hole depth, length of the hole

A GOOD CROP — Hazardous potholes often seem to pop up overnight. and vehicle speed. The wrong combination can cause enormous problems. Longer potholes typically cause the most damage and pothole impacts are amplified when chassis parts are worn. “On average, American drivers report paying $300 to repair pothole-related vehicle damage,” notes Nielsen. While it may be more easily said than done, avoiding a pothole is the best way to control damage. Drivers

need to remain alert, scan the road and increase following distances behind the vehicle ahead. If hitting a pothole is inevitable, it is critical that drivers slow down, release the brakes and straighten steering before hitting the pothole. Motorists should never brake during pothole impact because a locked wheel will suffer more damage than a rolling one. To minimize vehicle damage, AAA

urges drivers to ensure tires are properly inflated and have adequate tread depth, as they are the only cushion between a pothole and the vehicle. The AAA survey revealed that twothirds of Americans are concerned about potholes on local roadways, especially older drivers and those with lower and middle incomes. AAA urges state and local governments to fully fund and prioritize road maintenance to reduce vehicle damage, repair costs and driver frustration. With over one-third of 2015 model year vehicles missing a spare tire, drivers affected by pothole damage could find themselves in a rut. The tire inflator kits have replaced the spare tire in millions of vehicles over the last 10 model years are ineffective as even a temporary fix for pothole damage. AAA has called on automakers to put consumer interests first and halt the elimination of spare tires in new models. DON’T BE LEFT FEELING FLAT

AAA responds to over 30 million requests for emergency road service each year, AAA members can request assistance at (800) AAA-HELP, by visiting AAA.com/RoadsideAssistance or via the AAA Mobile App.

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Get swept away on Labadee and CocoCay Adventures abound on Royal Caribbean’s private islands

he best Caribbean adventures await at Royal Caribbean’s exclusive private destinations, Labadee, Haiti and CocoCay, Bahamas. These secluded escapes offer guests unique experiences of every kind, whether they are looking for action and adventure, a tranquil beachside hideaway surrounded by lush tropical landscapes, or anything in between. A longtime favorite port of call for guests sailing on select Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries, Labadee is a 260-acre wooded peninsula on the mountainous and secluded northern coast of Haiti. Discovered in 1492 by Christopher Columbus, Labadee was the home of the original “boucaniers” sailors who hunted wild cattle, and sold the “boucans” or dried meat to passing ships. When times got tougher, they eventually turned to piracy. With five distinct neighborhoods Labadee is brimming with an action packed variety of features and activities. Guests soar 500 feet above the beaches on the Dragon’s Breath Flight Line, which at 2,600 feet is the longest zip line in the world over water. The Dragon’s Tail Coaster is a thrilling high-speed ride through 2,232 feet of tropical flora and rock formations. The heart-racing Dragon’s Splash Waterslide, is an exciting 300 foot long saltwater slide, while Arawak Aqua Park features

PERSONAL PARADISE — Labadee features five spectacular beaches and the Dragon’s Breath Flight Line. floating trampolines, inflatable iceberg shaped slides, water seesaws and more. Labadee also offers a variety of water activities ranging from snorkeling and kayak adventures, to banana boat rides. Those looking for a more relaxed adventure can soak up the sun on five spectacular beaches. Get an authentic taste of the local culture with daily

folkloric shows, a native marketplace and an artisan’s market. CocoCay is a 140-acre island located in the Bahamas’ Berry Island chain between Freeport and Nassau. The tropical oasis, previously known as Little Stirrup Cay, is exclusive to Royal Caribbean guests. With white sandy beaches, lush greenery and translucent

waters, CocoCay is the perfect spot to do everything or nothing at all. Take a dip in Caylana’s Aqua Park, a fun-filled floating playground for kids of all ages complete with floating sand castle, in-water trampolines and a log roll. Water sports include snorkeling, waverunners, kayaking, banana rafts, and scuba diving. Soar 400 feet above the island for an unforgettable bird’seye view on a parasailing adventure. CocoCay is an eco-certified private destination awarded a Gold-Level EcoCertification by Sustainable Travel International, for its environmentallyfriendly activities and tours. Guests can explore the island through eco-tours, including a guided nature walk that ends in a secluded beach or leisurely kayaking and snorkeling adventures. Those who prefer to combine their strolling with shopping can get back to civilization Caribbean-style at the Straw Market. This authentic re-creation of a Bahamian village is complete with cottages and artisan huts. Local artists showcase a bounty of crafts and memorabilia, while hair braiders offer new island style “dos”.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Please see this month’s Departures Guide or log on to AAA.com for great vacation ideas from AAA.

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Choosing the right tire is as easy as ABC How to read the writing on the sidewall

uying new tires can be confusing. There’s a bewildering array of choices and unfamiliar terminology. Fortunately there’s a lot of good information right where you need it — on the tires. All tires have information printed on their sidewalls indicating size, type, load, and speed ratings through a standardized set of numbers and letters like: P215/65R-15 95H. P stands for passenger tire, 215/65 is the width and aspect ratio of the tire, while R designates a radial tire. The number 15 indicates the wheel size, while 95 is the load index and H stands for the speed rating. The higher the load index, the greater the load a tire can support. A 95 load index for example, means the tire can carry approximately 1521 lbs. The speed rating is the speed a tire was designed to be driven over an extended period of time. Ratings range from M – 81 miles per hour, to Y – 186 mph although not quite in alphabetical order. An H or 130 mph rating for example is higher than a U or 124 mph rating. Most tire companies do not recommend downgrading the speed rating from your original equipment tires. If a tire is rated for safe performance in mud and snow, it will be noted on the sidewall with an M/S, M+S or M&S symbol.

AS EASY AS ABC — Manufacturers are required to grade tires under the Uniform Tire Quality Grading system (UTQG). In addition, the U.S. Department of Transportation requires each manufacturer to grade its tires under the Uniform Tire Quality Grading system (UTQG) and establish ratings for tread wear, traction, and temperature resistance. This grading system provides guide-

lines for making relative comparisons when purchasing new tires. Treadwear grades indicate a tire’s relative wear rate. The higher the number, the longer it should take for the tread to wear down. A tire grade of 400 should wear twice as long as a tire grade of 200.

$20 per adult/child pair for nonmembers; additional guests are $7. Advance reservations and payment required. Time: 10 a.m. to noon. For information and reservations, call 814-453-3743. Location: expERIEnce Children’s Museum, 420 French Street, Erie. EVENING WITH MARK RUSSELL — (April 13) When it comes to comedy, timing is everything. For political satirist and comedian Mark Russell, his return to Meadville couldn’t have been timed better; he’s in Meadville less than two weeks before Pennsylvania’s primary, so there will be plenty of fodder for him. Proceeds will go toward costs of free programming and other Crawford County Historical Society events. Time: 7 p.m. Cost: $25. For tickets and information, call 814333-1258 or visit baldwinreynolds. org. Location: Allegheny College, Ford Chapel, North Main Street, Meadville. MARIENVILLE MINSTREL SHOW — (April 15) With a theme of Campfire Songs, the 2016 Minstrel Show will have something for everyone! Songs, skits, jokes and soloists; the evening will provide good family fun for all. Time: 7 p.m. For information, call 814-927-8218 or visit forestcounty. com. Location: East Forest School, 120 Birch Street, Marienville. PETS EXPO — (April 15-17) Faithful friends come first at “Pets on the

Bay,” an event that promotes responsible pet ownership and compassionate caring for all animals. Activities include nutrition, obedience, agility, pet rescue/adoption, micro-chipping and the general well-being of pets. Be entertained and amazed by the Muttley Crew Flying Dogs, a Frisbee dog team that has been a hit at many NFL, NBA and WNBA halftimes. Cost: Adults $7, Seniors (60+) $6, children 10 and under are free. Hours: Friday noon to 8 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. For information, call 814-8067664 or visit petsonthebay.com. Location: Bayfront Convention Center, 1 Sassafras Street Pier, Erie. JOHN MELLENCAMP — (April 17) The multiple Grammy Award-winner and Rock and Roll Hall of Famer is set to resume the critically acclaimed Plain Spoken tour in support of his newest record featuring ten, stunningly elegant and soul-searching Americana gems. Special guest is Carlene Carter, a third generation member of the illustrious Carter Family. Time: 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $99.50-$49.50. For tickets and information, call 814-452-4857 or visit the erieevents.com. Location: Warner Theater, 811 State Street, Erie. HOLY GHOST TENT REVIVAL — (April 21) Characterized as “explosively intoxicating,” Greensboro, NC’s

Traction grades rate a tire’s ability to stop on wet pavement and is graded as AA, A, B, and C from best to worst. Most passenger car tires are rated A, while B, and C ratings tend to be found on light truck tires. Temperature grades reflect a tire’s resistance to heat. Sustained high temperatures such as driving long distances in hot weather can cause a tire to deteriorate, leading to blowouts and tread separation. Tires are graded as A, B, or C with an A rating signifying the coolest running tire. That does not mean C rated tires are unsafe. All tires should perform safely and reliably when driven at the speed limit, but higher graded tires will give you a greater margin of safety. Although this rating system can be very helpful when buying new tires, it is no guarantee. Factors such as personal driving style, type of car, road quality and tire maintenance habits all have a significant influence on your tire’s performance and longevity.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Visit AAA.com for information on all things automotive including tips on buying, operating and maintaining a vehicle.

aroundtown MARY POPPINS — (April 8-24) One of the most popular Disney movies of all time is capturing hearts in a whole new way; as a practically perfect musical! Bert, the jack-of-all trades, introduces viewers to England in 1910 and the troubled Banks family. Young Jane and Michael have sent many a nanny packing before Mary Poppins arrives on their doorstep. Time: Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. Cost: $14-$16. For tickets and information, call 814-3378000 or visit theacademytheatre. org. Location: Academy Theatre, 275 Chestnut Street, Meadville. NATIONAL TRANSIT OPEN STUDIOS — (April 9) Meet and watch over 20 artists at work in their studios: creating stained glass, jewelry, photography painting and more. Time: noon to 5 p.m. Free. For information, call 814-676-5303. Location: National Transit Building, 206-210 Seneca Street, Oil City. JEDI ACADEMY TRAINING — (April 10) Join Hans Cliff for a magical training show to become an official Jedi Knight. Complete levels of training that include making a light saber to take home, creating an R2 Unit craft, and enjoying Star Wars-inspired snacks. Meet Storm Troopers, Darth Vader and Jedis, too. Every child gets a Jedi Training Certificate to take home. Cost: $16 per adult/child pair for members;

Holy Ghost Tent Revival cannot be categorized into any popular genre. The band melds brass with banjo, guitar, bass, drums and keys and this six-piece ensemble boasts an eclectic mash of instruments and styles—a musical alchemy all their own. Free. Time: 7 p.m. For information, call 814-393-1270. Location: Rhoads Student Center, Clarion University-Venango Campus, 1801 West First Street, Oil City. MONSTER JAM — (April 22-23) The stars of Monster Jam are the biggest performers on four wheels: monster trucks! The 12-feet-tall, 10,000pound machines bring audiences to their feet as they race and rip up a custom-designed tract full of obstacles to soar over or smash through. Monster Jam provides entertainment for both young and old. Time: Friday at 7:30 p.m., Saturday 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Cost: For tickets and information, call 814-452-4857 or visit monsterjam.com. Location: Erie Insurance Arena, 809 French Street, Erie. ROBIN TROWER — (April 29) Influential rock guitarist found fame as a member of Procol Harum, before embarking on a successful solo career with classic albums like Bridge of Sighs. Showtime is at 8 p.m. at the Warner Theater, 811 State Street, Erie. Tickets available at the Erie Insurance Arena box office or by calling (814) 452-4857.

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Savor the sweet life in Italy this year Love, Italian style is a many splendored thing

taly is a feast for the senses, and no one is immune to its charms. No other place melds the sunny splendors of the “Bel Paese” (beautiful country) with its vast patrimony of art, architecture, culture and history. Then there’s the legendary Italian zest for living well — their unbridled passion for good food and wine. There are as many ways to experience Italy as there are coins in the Trevi Fountain. Tuscany is a region blessed equally by the genius of nature and man. Olive groves and vineyards meander up rolling green slopes where hill towns glow golden in the evening sun. Florence the capital is the cradle of the Italian Renaissance. Michelangelo’s David stood for centuries in the Piazza Signoria, and is now safely ensconced in the Accademia Gallery. Piazza Signoria and Boboli Gardens offers extraordinary views from the towering belvedere. The Uffizi Galley houses the treasures of the Medici and is home to masterpieces like Botticelli’s Birth of Venus and Leonardo da Vinci’s Adoration of the Magi. Italy’s famed Amalfi Coast is crowned by the city of Sorrento set atop some of the Mediterranean’s most breathtaking cliffs. Bring your camera and comfortable shoes to immortalize the stunning panoramas that will unfold before you. The Path of the Gods in Salerno is a

PICTURE PERFECT — Boboli Gardens offers extraordinary views of Florence. 3-hour trek along a trail overlooking the Almafi Coast, which also offers a magnificent view over Conca dei Marini. Ride the ferry across the Bay of Naples to the enchanted Isle of Capri. A celebrated retreat since Roman times, it’s famous for the Blue Grotto, a sea cave where the sunlight imparts an otherworldly blue glow to the water. The villa of the Swedish doctor Axel Munthe, offers magnificent views over the Bay of

Naples and Vesuvius. Positano is Amalfi’s most picturesque town. Sun bleached houses in subtle shades of pink, peach, and ochre stack up like dominoes on steeply terraced streets. With its marble palazzi, gilded mosaics and shimmering liquid streets Venice is the Adriatic’s “Bride of the Sea.” Ride a vaporetto through the canals to the Byzantine Basilica, the Doge’s Palace and

St. Marks Square. Climb to the top of the Belltower of St. Mark’s to the spot where Galileo demonstrated his telescope for the Doge in 1609. Immortalized by Lord Byron the “Bridge of Sighs” connected the Doge’s prisons with the Inquisitor’s chambers. Legend has it the name was inspired by the sighs of condemned prisoners. And all roads still lead to Rome. The Baths of Caracalla mark the beginning of the Appian Way, littered with monuments like the Circus of Maxentius. The Arch of Titus stands watch over the Forum and offers sweeping views of the ruins that cover Palatine Hill. Spring arrives early and by April, the parks and gardens are overflowing with flowers. Once a cardinal’s private estate Villa Borghese is an oasis of formal gardens, lakes, and winding pathways in the middle of the city. Savor la dolce vita on the Via Veneto, or linger over cappuccino in one of Piazza Navona’s outdoor cafés. Piazza de Spagna gives way to the Spanish Steps, perhaps the most romantic rendezvous in the city that gave romance its name.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

For more information on vacationing in Italy log on to AAA.com or visit your AAA Travel Agency.

AAA members save on gifts for moms & grads Savings that could pay for the cost of your membership

other’s Day and graduation season are just around the corner and now is the best time to save on gifts for the moms and grads in your life with AAA Discounts & Rewards. This innovative shopping experience on AAA.com features deep discounts, limited-time offers and everyday savings on dining, electronics, home, apparel, entertainment, pet care and more, from participating merchants nationwide — including national chains like Kohl’s, Nordstrom, Best Buy, Crate & Barrel, Macy’s, Walmart, The Home Depot and more. Save on everything from shopping and dining, to attractions, travel and even prescription medications. Discover great deals on the names you want and the products you need — all at unbeatable values. It’s just one of the many perks of AAA membership. AAA Discounts & Rewards makes it easy to start saving right away, thanks to the site’s intuitive, easy-to-navigate interface. View the latest specials and currently trending offers right on the Discounts & Rewards home page. Search for a retailer by name, or browse by category to find the perfect present. Save online and in-store — In addition to savings at over 30,000 online retailers, AAA members can show their AAA membership card and save at over

PREPARE TO BE WOWED — Save cash and earn WOWPoints at AAA Discounts & Rewards. 100,000 participating retail locations. No clipping coupons or fumbling for lost flyers — all you need to do is show your AAA membership card! Plus, visit your local AAA branch for discounts on attraction tickets, travel and more. And remember to download the free AAA Mobile app on your smartphone or tablet for places to save, wherever you go. Earn while you save — Wouldn’t it

be great if you could be rewarded for your purchases — even when shopping for others? AAA WOWPoints are AAA’s online reward points — just like the loyalty points you get from credit cards or airlines. They are yours to keep and your WOWPoints will never expire as long as you remain a AAA member! Redeem them anytime. Check out extra special AAA WOWPoints offers where

you can earn 2X, 10X and even 20X the WOWPoints. Now that’s rewarding! Qualifying purchases must be made through the Discounts & Rewards program. Kickstart the savings — 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. Then shop, save and earn on national and local brands, tickets, travel, restaurants and retailers. AAA Discounts & Rewards gets you more. More discounts. More rewards. More savings on the items you need from the names you know and the brands you trust. It’s your year-long shopping destination for all your family’s needs. You’ll be pleasantly surprised at just how much more your AAA membership is worth.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Your AAA card isn’t just for roadside assistance. With over 100,000 places to save, it could help pay for the cost of your membership. For more information on AAA Discounts & Rewards, visit AAA.com/Discounts.

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