SEE PAGE 3
BLAIR REGION
Get on board now & save up to $400* per room!
MARCH 2013
ALL ABOARD
Book & deposit no later than 3 / 31
with AAA Travel & Amtrak Vacations ®
COURTESY OF TIM LYFORD
Aug 23–Sept 2
© TYCOON101/FOTOLIA.COM
Vol. 33 No. 3
RAIL JOURNEY FROM CHICAGO TO SEATTLE!
Coach / train / plane adventure peaks at Montana’s Glacier National Park
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XPERIENCING America’s splendor by rail is a must-do milestone on the “bucket lists” of many travelers. To explore beyond the interstates...to escape driving’s drudgery & distractions...to enhance a vacation with the romance and relaxed ambiance of a “rolling hotel” full of opportunities to meet & mingle with interesting folks. These are all hallmarks of an unforgettable train vacation. AAA and Amtrak Vacations® invite you to follow portions of the Lewis & Clark Trail on Amtrak’s Empire Builder from the “Windy City” (Chicago) to the “Emerald City” (Seattle), with a 4-night exploration of the “Crown of the Continent” (Glacier National Park) in between. *And, if you accept this invitation to book & deposit on this adventure by 3/31/13 and you’re a Premier Member,
you’ll save $400 per room! AAA Plus Members save $350, and Basic Members save $325! Board your AAA motorcoach at a Pittsburgh-area pick-up point and relax on the way to Chicago. The real fun begins with an exclusive reception at the iconic Palmer House, a world-class hotel within steps of Chicago’s best attractions. Sleep where every President since Grant has slept! Enjoy a city tour and the can’t-miss Architecture Cruise on the Chicago River.
VACATION FEATURES Motorcoach to Chicago for 2 nights, including a wine & cheese reception, a city tour & an architecture cruise 2 nights on Amtrak’s Empire Builder in a sleeper roomette 4 nights, 4 tours & 1 cruise in Glacier National Park A cross-border visit to Canada’s Waterton Lakes National Park 2 nights in Seattle, including a city tour & the Space Needle 16 meals with gratuities (5 on train without gratuities) Amtrak Vacations® Tour Escort
Start your rail journey with magnificent views of the Mississippi River and glimpses of the glowing night skyline of Minneapolis/St Paul. Awaken the next morning from a restful night in your private sleeping accommodations to cross North Dakota’s plains and traverse the spectacular Gassman Coulee Trestle. Enjoy breakfast and lunch onboard as you skirt the Missouri and cross into Montana’s Big Sky Country to Glacier National Park. This vast ice-carved terrain of serrated ridges, jutting peaks (6 more than 10,000 feet high), waterfalls, dramatic hanging valleys, 50 glaciers, dense forests and more than 200 lakes is one of the world’s most pristine natural environments. Designated a national park (the 10th) in 1910 by President William Howard Taft, the continued on page 6
SEE ONE OF AMERICA’S GREATEST NATURAL LANDMARKS!
Prepare to be Wowed by AAA Club Rewards on AAA.com
Travel | Insurance/Financial | Automotive | Member Savings | AAA.com
DISTRACTED DRIVING’S DEADLY DOUBLE STANDARD
AAA Club Rewards is an exciting new online discount program that significantly expands discounts and savings available to AAA members! This innovative new shopping experience on AAA.com, features deep discounts, limited offers and everyday savings on electronics, home improvement, apparel, entertainment, pet care and more, from approximately 30,000 participating merchants nationwide — including national chains like Kohl’s, Macy’s, Best Buy, Walmart and The Home Depot. In addition to discount offers, you’ll earn reward or WOWPoints on most purchases that you can “burn off” at your favorite participating merchants. Starting with just 200 points, AAA members can redeem their WOWPoints for merchandise on AAA Club Rewards. • WOWPoints are as flexible as cash; • 100 WOWPoints earned = $1.00; • No limit to the points you can earn; • No blackout dates, no restrictions. Registration is completely free — a valid AAA membership and email address are all you need. Why wait any longer? Register online at AAA.com/discounts. Then shop, save and earn on national and local brands, restaurants and retailers.
Live Nation Concert Cash From Hertz Hertz is rocking AAA members with an exciting exclusive offer this spring! For a limited time only, AAA members can save $35 on qualified weekly rentals AND receive $50 Live Nation® Concert Cash® to use online toward the purchase of select concert tickets to over 70 Live Nation venues or artist merchandise at the Live Nation Store. Just book and complete your rental between March 1, 2013 and April 30, 2013 to qualify for this offer. Promotional Code (PC #) 178474. Visit AAA.com/hertz for complete details of this exciting offer.
Get more
when you use your new AAA Member Rewards Visa® card. See page 6 for details.
Visit AAA.com/creditcard or stop by any AAA branch.
It’s Full Steam Ahead with Free Tablet Offer Go rolling on the river onboard the American Queen. The world’s largest steamboat is a showcase of Victorian splendor, with handsomely appointed rooms and six delicately filigreed decks. The whistle blows, the calliope plays, the big wheel keeps on turning in a thrilling blend of Americana, acclaimed cuisine, and showboatstyle entertainment. Plus, AAA members who book and deposit a 7-night or longer American Queen River Cruise by March 15, 2013 will receive a free Google Nexus 7 Tablet. With a stunning 7-inch display and all day battery life, Nexus 7 is the perfect travel companion. AAA members will also receive an exclusive $160 onboard credit per cabin on all 2013 American Queen sailings! SEE PAGE 7
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AAA MOTORIST
MARCH 2013
AAA cautions motorists about the risks of E15
AAA DIRECTORY
A
AAA MEMBER SERVICES • ADDRESS CHANGE triptiks, tourbooks, maps, license 412-363-5100 or 1-800-441-5008
Available only in a handful of locations — for now recent survey by AAA finds a strong likelihood of consumer confusion and the potential for voided warranties and vehicle damage as a result of the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) recent approval of E15 gasoline. More than 95 percent of the gasoline sold in the United States contains up to 10 percent ethanol. Despite objections by auto manufacturers, the EPA officially approved the sale of E15, which contains 15 percent ethanol, last June after receiving a waiver request from producers interested in expanding the use of corn-based ethanol. Currently, E15 is available only in the states of Nebraska, Iowa and Kansas. If and when it does become more widely available, fuel pumps will be clearly marked with black and orange labels to differentiate E15 from more familiar formulations. Unsuspecting consumers using E15 could end up with engine problems that might not be covered by their vehicle’s warranty. Five manufacturers (BMW, Chrysler, Nissan, Toyota and Volkswagen) are on record saying their warranties will not cover fuel-related claims caused by the use of E15. Seven additional automakers (Ford, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz and Volvo) have said that E15 does not comply with the fuel requirements specified in their owner’s manuals and may void warranty coverage.
APPROVED AUTO REPAIR 412-365-7411 or 1-800-233-9733 EMERGENCY ROAD SERVICE 412-362-1900 or 1-800-222-4357 EXPRESS TRAVEL RESERVATIONS
airline tickets, tours, cruises, rental cars
412-363-7283 or 1-800-354-8761
INSURANCE SERVICES: 1-800-207-7947 MEDIA RELATIONS: 412-365-7157 PUBLIC AFFAIRS: 412-365-7242 AAA MOTORIST: 412-365-7017 SAFETY: 412-365-7211 TDD for the hearing-impaired: 412-363-7144
“It is clear that millions of Americans are unfamiliar with E15, which means there is a strong possibility that many motorists may improperly fill up using this gasoline and damage their vehicle,” said John Nielsen, AAA’s Director of Automotive Engineering and Repair. With less than five percent of cars on the road approved by automakers to use the fuel, AAA is urging regulators and the industry to stop the sale of E15 until motorists are better protected. AAA automotive engineering experts believe that sustained use of E15 could result in significant problems, such as accelerated engine wear and failure, fuel-system damage and false “check engine” lights for any
Enjoy additional on-the-road confidence by extending your AAA benefits with...
vehicle not approved by its manufacturer to use E15. The only vehicles currently approved by automakers to use E15 are flex-fuel models, 2001 model-year and newer Porsches, 2012 model-year and newer GM vehicles and 2013 model-year Ford vehicles. The use of E15 is expressly prohibited in heavy-duty vehicles, boats, motorcycles, power equipment, lawn mowers and off-road vehicles. “The sale and use of E15 should be suspended until consumer education efforts are implemented to mitigate problems for motorists and their vehicles,” said Brian Newbacher, director of public affairs for AAA East Central. “Consumers should read pump labels carefully and know their auto manufacturer’s recommendations to help prevent any E15 related problems.” AAA urges fuel producers and regulators to do a better job of educating consumers about potential dangers before selling E15 gasoline. This outreach should include a consumer education campaign and more effective pump labels, among other safeguards.
LOOK FOR THE LABEL — E15 fuel pumps will be marked with this label.
STUDY CONFIRMS PROBLEMS
AAA Plus RV includes all of the benefits of basic AAA and AAA Plus®, and extends emergency road service coverage to other vehicles (beyond a car) such as Motorhomes,Travel/ Boat Trailers, Pickups with Campers and Motorcycles. ®
DEC 31 2011
INTERNET WEB SITE: www.AAA.com
Visit your local AAA office or call our 24-hour TeleService Center to add AAA Plus/RV coverage.
New research released by the Coordinating Research Council (CRC) last January, found that E15, gasoline blended with 15 percent ethanol, would damage millions of post-2001 model year vehicles. The CRC — which is supported by Chrysler, Ford, General Motors, Honda, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Toyota, and Volkswagen —said testing showed E15 could cause erratic fuel-gauge readings and concluded that E15 would result in fuel system failures and cause checkengine alerts.
AAA BRANCH OFFICE LOCATIONS Altoona 1634 Valley View Blvd. ............................. 814-946-1277 Brookville 288 Main St. ................................................. 814-849-5381 Butler 138 Clearview Circle .................................... 724-287-2713 Cranberry The Village Shoppes, 20510 Rt. 19 .......... 724-772-1122 Erie 6660 Peach St. Unit #2 .............................. 814-866-0246 Franklin 102 Sugar Creek Town Center Rd. ........... 814-432-3960 Greensburg Eastgate Shopping Center 5142 Route 30, Suite 135 ......................... 724-834-8300 Grove City 24 Pine Grove Village Dr. .......................... 724-458-8930 Harborcreek 4430 Buffalo Rd. ........................................ 814-897-9508 Hermitage 1749 E. State St.......................................... 724-981-9141 Indiana 1169 Wayne Ave........................................ 724-349-4193 Jamestown (New York) 111 W. Fifth St., Jamestown, N.Y.. ........... 716-488-1981 Kittanning Franklin Village Mall. ............................... 724-543-1924 Lewisburg 530 1/2 North Derr Drive . ....................... 570-524-7455 Lower Burrell/New Kensington Area Crossroads Plaza 2503 Leechburg Rd.................................... 724-339-4440 McKean County (Bradford) 587 South Ave. .......................................... 814-368-3113 Meadville 18939 Park Avenue Plaza Unit #7 ............ 814-724-2247 New Castle 40 East St.................................................... 724-658-8551 Niagara-Orleans 7135 Rochester Rd, Lockport, NY. ............ 716-434-2865 Pittsburgh–Century III Area (Pleasant Hills) 9 Clairton Blvd. (RT 51). ........................... 412-655-6100 Pittsburgh–Downtown 538 Smithfield St. ...................................... 412-338-4300 Pittsburgh–East Liberty/Shadyside 5900 Baum Blvd. ........................................ 412-365-7196 Pittsburgh–Monroeville 2725 Mosside Blvd. .................................... 412-858-4640 Pittsburgh–North Hills Area (Ross Township) 4790 McKnight Rd. .................................... 412-367-7600 Pittsburgh–Robinson Township Robinson Town Centre 1760 Park Manor Blvd. ............................. 412-809-2800 Pittsburgh–South Hills Area (Bethel Park) 160 Ft. Couch Rd. ...................................... 412-833-5203 Rochester 300 Adams St. ............................................ 724-775-8000 St. Marys 1375 Bucktail Rd. ...................................... 814-834-7838 Somerset 110 N. Center Ave. .................................... 814-443-6526 Sunbury 1001 Market Street. .................................. 570-286-4507 Uniontown 111 W. Main St. ......................................... 724-438-8575 Warren 2285 Market St. ......................................... 814-723-6660 Washington 196 Murtland Ave. .................................... 724-222-3800 Waynesburg 184 Greene Plaza, US 21 & I-79 ................ 724-627-3434 White Oak/McKeesport Area Oak Park Mall, 2001 Lincoln Way ............ 412-675-3400
MARCH 2013
AAA MOTORIST
PAGE 3
When it comes to bad driving, it’s always the other guy
It’s do as I say, not as I do on America’s roads Blair Region Official publication of AAA East Central Published monthly (except bimonthly Aug./Sept., Nov./Dec.) by AAA East Central 1634 Valley View Blvd, Altoona PA 16602-6041 USPS 535-650 ISSN 0000-0000 Periodicals Postage Paid at Altoona, PA Postmaster: Send address changes to AAA Motorist Blair Region c/o AAA, 1634 Valley View Blvd Altoona PA 16602-6041 Subscription Rate: $1 included in Primary Membership dues. All others: $2/year. Publisher ............................James J. McGrath Managing Editor ....................... Doug O’Neil Editorial Office 5900 Baum Blvd, Pittsburgh PA 15206-3854 412-365-7017 e-mail: motorist@aaaec.com
AAA EAST CENTRAL Chairman: ................................................Richard S. Hamilton Vice Chairman:....................................... James E. Broome, Jr. Vice Chairman:....................................... Douglas W. Caldwell Vice Chairman:.........................................Mary Lynn Laughlin Vice Chairman:.................................... Martha Hartle Munsch OFFICERS: President: ...................................................James J. McGrath Executive Vice President: ........................... James E. Lehman Treasurer & CFO: ........................................... Michael R. Pratt Secretary: ................................................Robert H. Compton GOVERNING BOARD OF DIRECTORS Glenn B. Bachman, James E. Broome, Jr., Steve D. Bullock**, Douglas W. Caldwell, Charles O. Casto, Edward C. Coaxum, Jr., Robert S. Collins, Robert H. Compton, Jon E. Denney, Debra A. Dinnocenzo, Floyd R. Ganassi**, Richard S. Hamilton, James H. Kanicki, Mary Lynn Laughlin, William Duff McCrady, James M. McDonnell**, Thomas V. McKernan Jr., Martha Hartle Munsch, Gary K. Munsie, Terrence L. Walton** EAST CENTRAL REGION BOARD OF DIRECTORS Debra A. Dinnocenzo, Chairman, Neil D. Bassi, Vice Chairman, Robert L. Anderson, George J. Anetakis, Carol Asam, Christian Asam, Jack A. Barkley, William E. Bierer**, Ellsworth T. Bowser, Louise R. Brown, Peter Burton, Marianne B. Campbell, Charles O. Casto, Hans P.B. Christensen, Michael A. Cochran, Daniel J. Collins Jr.**, Robert S. Collins, Robert H. Compton, Terence Conner, James J. Dodaro, James O. Doersam, Jack G. Ellis, J. Terrence Farrell, Floyd R. Ganassi**, Mona N. Generett, Charles W. Groce , Richard S. Hamilton, Mark Henschen, Luke Howe, David W. Hunter**, Richard Kallenborn, Herbert G. Koenig, Mark S. Mansour, W. Duff McCrady, Martha Hartle Munsch, W. Lee Oswalt, III, Michael Parkes, John D. Petruso, Louis Pomerico, Leonard L. Scheinholtz**, John L. Sellstrom, James C. Stump, Jr., James F. Ward *ex officio **emeritus directors
Blair Regional Board of Directors David E. Burchfied Sr., Ronald J. Glunt, Asbury Lee, W. Lee Oswalt III, Dennis Roland, James G. Williamson, Leon R. Zook
Blair Office: 1634 Valley View Blvd Altoona PA 16602-6041 (814) 946-1277
Copyright ©2013 by AAA East Central. Publication of an advertisement in the AAA Motorist does not constitute an endorsement of the product or service by the AAA Motorist or by AAA East Central, except in the case of products and services which are being offered by AAA East Central.
By Richard Hamilton Chairman, AAA East Central eople are quick to blame “the other guy” for unsafe driving, despite the fact that most admit to practicing many of the same dangerous driving habits themselves. That’s the surprising conclusion of a new report by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. The study found that while motorists are outspoken in their criticism of the risks other drivers take, they tend to minimize or overlook their own bad driving behaviors. More than twothirds (69 percent) of licensed drivers reported talking on a cell phone while driving within the last month, even though nearly nine-in-ten respondents (89 percent) believe other drivers using cell phones are a threat to their personal safety. The distraction data was collected as part of the AAA Foundation’s 2012 Traffic Safety Culture Index, a nationally representative, probability-based survey of the driving public’s attitudes on a broad range of issues. According to a survey, ninety percent of respondents believe that distracted driving is a somewhat or much bigger problem today than it was three years ago. Despite the near-universal disapproval of texting and emailing while driving (95 percent), more than one-in-four licensed drivers (27 percent) reported sending a text or email at least once in the past 30 days. More
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Richard Hamilton than one-third (35 percent) said they read a text or email while driving. Young drivers age 16-24 were even more likely to use mobile devices with more than half (61 percent) reporting having read a text or email while driving in the past month. More than onein-four (26 percent) reported checking or updating social media while driving, regardless of the fact that texting while driving makes you 23 times more likely to crash. Distracted driving may simply be one manifestation of risk-prone driving in general. Researchers at MIT found that motorists who use cell phones while driving are also more likely to
engage in additional dangerous behaviors such as speeding, driving drowsy, driving without a safety belt and sending texts or emails. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that more than 3,000 people are killed and nearly half a million are injured each year in crashes involving distraction. Given the challenges associated with determining the role of distraction in crashes, these figures are likely just the tip of the iceberg. AAA and the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety have long been leading advocates for educating motorists about the risks of distracted driving. AAA recommends that motorists turn off their phone before driving or pull over to a safe place to talk, send texts or use email. Motorists must also know the rules and know they will be enforced. Distracted driving crashes are preventable tragedies and using a mobile phone behind the wheel roughly quadruples crash risk. They impair reaction times and in a critical situation, fractions of a second often determine whether a collision occurs. Experts conclude that about 60 percent of rear end and one third of front end collisions would not happen if a driver reacted just one half a second sooner. Let’s put an end to this deadly double standard. Instead of blaming the other guy, the real key is for every motorist to put down the phone, avoid distractions and focus on the task of driving.
membersonly
AAA helps you save when fuel prices climb Gas prices rising at near record rates
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he U.S. Department of Energy reports that the average household spent nearly $3,000 refueling their vehicles last year, and in 2013, gas prices have been rising at a near record clip. Fortunately, AAA offers several ways for drivers to stretch each tank of gas and find the lowest fuel prices when it is time to fill up. Your driving habits impact your car’s fuel consumption by up to 33 percent. Instead of quick starts and sudden stops, go easy on the gas and brake pedals. Planning your travel, following speed limits, and paying attention to traffic, weather and road conditions will allow your vehicle to operate more efficiently, and ultimately, save you money. Check AAA’s Fuel Cost Calculator before you go — Key in your starting city, your destination and the year, make and model of your vehicle. The AAA Fuel Cost Calculator on AAA. com estimates the amount and cost of gasoline using prices from AAA’s daily, online Fuel Gauge Report. Your actual mileage may vary slightly, but you’ll
have a good handle on the costs. Let AAA find the lowest gas prices — AAA Mobile, our free app for Apple and Android devices, provides motorists with the most current and accurate gas price data available, by drawing on credit card transactions at more than 100,000 stations nationwide. Drivers can find the lowest gas prices, close to home or on the road. AAA Mobile’s GPS technology enables users to quickly locate stations on a map and see the price for all available grades of gasoline. Visit AAA.com/Mobile. Stretch your gas money — Members who pay for gasoline with their AAA Member Rewards Visa® credit card earn double points on gas purchases. In addition to No Annual Fee, cardholders can earn triple points on qualifying AAA purchases, double points on gas, grocery and drug store purchases and one point for every $1 on all other qualifying purchases. Redeem your points for a variety of rewards, including a AAA travel voucher good toward your next vacation, cruise or tour package. Members can apply for the AAA Member Rewards Visa® credit
card at AAA.com/credit card or by calling 1.866.665.3581 and mentioning code VABFFQ.
AAA benefits updated
AAA is constantly reviewing and evaluating membership benefits and services to ensure they provide maximum usage to our members. Over time, certain benefits or services may be updated as part of our overall effort to maintain the lowest possible dues and the highest level of services. Benefit changes scheduled for 2013 are as follows: Effective March 1st, 2013, Vehicle Locksmith services available to Basic members will increase to $60, from $50. Vehicle Locksmith services available to Premier members will increase to $150, from $100. (Premier Home Lockout service remains unchanged at $100.) Additionally, the following member benefits will be eliminated effective December 31st, 2013: Emergency Check Cashing, Auto Theft Reward, Legal Defense Fee Reimbursement, and Trip Interruption Protection (for Basic and Plus membership levels only.)
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AAA MOTORIST
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Glacier National Park Train Adventure park covers some 1.2 million acres. Deer are among the most commonly spotted wildlife, but elk, moose, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, wolves and bears (grizzly & black) are seen. You’ll tour in a 1930s red “jammer” with a canvas roll-top; rebuilt in 2001, the 33-bus fleet plies the park’s primary route, the peak-hugging 49-mile-long Going-to-the-Sun Road. This National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark is open from early June to mid-October; in winter, up to 80 feet of snow cover it at the Continental Divide at Logan Pass! You’ll cross the border into Canada to visit Alberta’s Waterton Lakes National Park, site of the Canadian Rockies’ deepest lakes and the historic Prince of Wales Hotel National Historic Site. The park is part of the Waterton-Glacier Interna-
MARCH 2013
continued from page 1
tional Peace Park, a World Heritage Site. Enjoy 2 nights at impressive, rusticstyle Glacier Park Lodge, built in the early 20th century by the Great Northern Railway on land purchased from the Blackfeet tribe, who named it “Big Tree Lodge”; its 60 immense (36-42 " diameter, 40 ' long) support timbers were probably 500-800 years old when they were cut. The lobby’s massive stone fireplace invites fireside chats, and there’s an outdoor heated pool, a 9-hole golf course, a pitch-n-putt and a day spa on site. Your other in-park home for 2 nights is the Swiss Alpine–themed Many Glacier Hotel on the shores of Swiftcurrent Lake. Its wraparound lakeside balcony offers 180-degree views of the lake, rugged hillsides, 3 glaciers and serrated peaks. A secluded Old World–style ho-
tel featuring rustic and comfortable accommodations, it’s a one-of-a-kind national park lodging experience. Take in the prolonged evening sunset from the lakeside veranda or Interlaken Lounge. After experiencing the park, it’s time to reboard Empire Builder and re-enter civilization in Seattle, where the sophisticated Fairmont Olympic awaits you. This historic hotel provides modern conveniences and attentive personal service in an elegant surrounding. In the heart of the Financial District, with easy access to shopping and local attractions, it’s a perfect base from which to tour the Emerald City’s gems, including lively Pike Place Market (witness some world-renowned “fish tossing”). As a thrilling way to top off this vacation of peaks, ascend the iconic 605-foot-tall Space Needle from the 1962 World’s Fair for breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, bays and islands. All too soon it’s time to fly home from Seattle!
DAVID RESTIVO, NPS
Aug 23–Sept 2 • AAA Member Rate: $4,939
DINNER WITH ROLL — Eating on the go takes on new meaning aboard Amtrak’s Empire Builder from Chicago to Seattle. Savor the ever changing view with your breakfasts, lunches and dinners in the “tasteful” onboard dining car!
Pre-discount rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes motorcoach (Pittsburgh-Chicago), train (Chicago-Seattle), flight (Seattle-Pittsburgh), transfers (hotel/train, hotel/airport), 8-night hotel accommodations, 2-night roomette accommodations on train, 16 meals (5 on train), meal gratuities (except on train), Chicago welcome reception, 4 tours & 1 cruise in Glacier National Park, sightseeing per itinerary, air & hotel taxes and the services of an Amtrak Vacations® tour escort (Chicago-Seattle). Visit AAA.com/travel for complete itinerary. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details.
FORDS & FAUNA — Glacier National Park’s knowledgeable and entertaining red-bus driver-guides are called “jammers” because of the sounds the original vehicles’ gears made shifting on steep roads. Today, the refurbished roll-top roadsters are a fun way to see the park’s flora and fauna, like pikas and bighorn sheep.
Get more
when you use your new AAA Member Rewards Visa® card. Receive a $100 grocery store gift card after qualifying purchases. (students not eligible)
Stock up on rewards with your new AAA Member Rewards Visa credit card. You can earn bunches of points on everyday purchases all year round that can be redeemed for exciting rewards like cash back, gift cards, merchandise and AAA vouchers.
Visit AAA.com/creditcard or stop by any AAA branch.
For information on the rates, fees, other costs and benefits associated with the use of this credit card, visit the website listed above or your AAA branch. This credit card program is issued and administered by FIA Card Services, N.A. Grocery Card Offer. You will qualify to receive a certificate with information and PIN number via mail entitling you to a $100 grocery card redeemable at www.pickyourgiftcard.com for the grocery merchant of your choice after you use your new AAA Member Rewards account to make retail purchase(s) totaling at least $500 (exclusive of any returns and adjustments) within 90 days of account opening. Limit one (1) item per new account. Offer is sponsored by Bank of America. We may substitute an item of equal or greater value and we are not responsible for lost, stolen or undelivered merchandise. This is a limited time offer for new customers opening an account in response to this offer and may be cancelled at any time without notice. Other advertised promotional offers can vary from this promotion and may not be substituted. Federal law prohibits students from receiving a premium. The value of this reward may constitute taxable income to you. Bank of America may issue an Internal Revenue Service Form 1099 (or other appropriate form) that reflects the value of such reward. Please consult your tax advisor, as neither Bank of America, its affiliates, nor their employees provide tax advice. The listed merchants are in no way affiliated with Bank of America nor are the listed merchants considered sponsors or co-sponsors of this program. Uses of merchant names and/or logos are by permission of each respective merchant and all trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Terms and conditions are applied to gift cards/certificates. Please see the merchant gift card/certificate for additional terms and conditions, which are subject to change at merchant’s sole discretion. Merchants are not liable for any actual or alleged claims related to this offer. All logos are registered trademarks. All rights reserved. Must be 18 years or older to participate. A U.S. address is required for delivery. Other restrictions may apply. Visa and Visa Signature are registered trademarks of Visa International Service Association and are used by the Issuer pursuant to license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. AAA is a trademark of American Automobile Association, Inc. ©2012 Bank of America Corporation
AR196174
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AAA MOTORIST
Member Benefits • Exclusive Offers
PAGE 7
1-800-354-8761 • AAA.com/travel
Get a Google Nexus 7 tablet computer when you book & make a deposit on a 7-night-or-longer American Queen river cruise by 3/15/13!
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AAA MEMBER EXCLUSIVE! $160 Onboard Credit per cabin in 2013
he largest steamboat ever built, the American Queen is a gracious and elegant triumph of American ingenuity. Although filled with the newest amenities (including free wi-fi!), her public rooms and private accommodations display the opulence of America’s Victorian era. Glistening woodwork, fresh flowers and antiques adorn interior spaces. Outside, lacy filigree evokes memories of the stately steamers that preceded her and inspired her designers. Be transported not just through America but also through time. And, through 3/31/13, get a Google Nexus 7 tablet computer when you book & make a deposit on a 2013 American Queen cruise of 7 nights or longer at AAA through its travel partner Pleasant Holidays. With a 7-inch display and all-day battery life, the thin & light Nexus 7 is the perfect portable travel companion. With up to 32GB of storage and the option to add mobile data, take and enjoy your favorite content with you...even on American Queen! Imagine sailing on the same waters as Mark Twain. Watch the mighty river “erase” the paddlewheel’s unique “footprints” on its surface; soon, it’s the same broad river behind you as it is in front of you. The short-lived wake is simply a ripple in time — but, for the brief moment you’re there, you’re part of something much larger than yourself. The paddlewheel has its own rhythm, but so does the music of the river as you float through the myriad melodies of blues, gospel, folk, rockabilly, ragtime, Dixieland jazz and zydeco. Sway to the music of Louis Armstrong and Jelly Roll Morton and try your hand at that quintessential river instrument, the calliope. You’ll quickly discover that the river has a rhythm all its own. The rich history of steamboats and the river is reflected in the authenticity of the Queen’s antebellum décor, the family recipes of Southern Chef Regina Charboneau and the familiar smiles of an all-American crew. The Queen is warm, inviting and comforting. She won’t just take you away; she’ll bring you closer together. Enjoy a vacation where community is formed during each voyage...where the rhythm of the past melds seamlessly with the rhythm of today in places like the rocking chairs on the Queen’s Front Porch of America and the mahogany comfort of her Mark Twain Gallery. The past echoes in the calliope music that drifts across the water and in your fellow passengers’ contented smiles. Discover what American Queen steamboatin’ is all about! Contact a AAA Travel Agent now.
SAILINGS INCLUDE... 1-night pre-cruise hotel accommodations Complimentary shore excursions in every port All onboard meals, including wine & beer with dinner, specialty coffees, soft drinks & bottled water Nightly showboat-style entertainment & dancing Lectures by river historians Port charges & taxes
SAMPLE ITINERARY DATES*
SHIP NIGHTS / HOTEL NIGHTS
EMBARK / DISEMBARK
June 1-9 ............... 7 / 1 ....... Memphis / New Orleans June 22–July 5..... 12 / 1 ...... New Orleans / St Louis July 19-27............. 7 / 1 ....... St Louis / Cincinnati Aug 9-22 ............. 12 / 1 ...... Pittsburgh / St Louis Aug 21-31 ............ 9 / 1....... St Louis / St Paul Sept 11-21 ........... 8 / 2 ....... Memphis / Chattanooga Oct 4-12 ............... 7 / 1 ....... St Paul / St Louis Oct 25–Nov 2 ....... 7 / 1 ....... St Louis / New Orleans Nov 16-24 ............ 7 / 1 ....... New Orleans / New Orleans Nov 29–Dec 7 ...... 7 / 1 ....... New Orleans / Memphis Dec 20-28............. 7 / 1 ....... New Orleans / Memphis Dec 27–Jan 4 ........ 7 / 1 ....... Memphis / New Orleans *Ask a AAA Travel Agent about other available itineraries.
To qualify for the Nexus 7 and $160 onboard credit, cruise must be arranged with AAA through travel partner Pleasant Holidays.
Sail from PITTSBURGH to Cincinnati with KDKA Personality JON BURNETT, Aug 1-5. Member Rate: from $2,408 Rate is per person (double occupancy, veranda stateroom), is subject to availability and includes roundtrip motorcoach transportation (from Pittsburgh pick-up points to Pittsburgh wharf and from Cincinnati to Pittsburgh), cruise accommodations, most onboard meals/entertainment, port charges, services of a AAA Tour Manager, onboard cocktail party, in-stateroom welcome bottle of wine and $50 per stateroom shipboard credit. This special enhanced-value cruise is not eligible for the Google Nexus 7 offer or the $160 onboard credit benefit.
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AAA MOTORIST
MARCH 2013
1-800-354-8761 AAA.com/travel
Member Benefits Exclusive Offers
MOTORCOACH CRUISES: PITTSBURGH TO PIER! 2 exciting NEW Grandeur of the Seas cruises with extraordinary NOV 26–DEC 6 Labadee, Haiti Caribbean itineraries, San Juan, Puerto Rico Amalie, St Thomas USVI including 5 relaxing Charlotte Philipsburg, St Maarten AAA Member Rate: from $1,082 days at sea!
Eastern Caribbean Cruise
with Pittsburgh personality Bob Logue Nov 15-23 Independence of the Seas
DEC 14-24 ADDITIONAL 2013 BALTIMORE DEPARTURES
Grandeur of the Seas BERMUDA: 7 nights
MAY 17 • AAA Member Rate: from $1,244
BAHAMAS: 7 nights NEW LISTING!
Basseterre, St Kitts Tortola, British Virgin Islands San Juan, Puerto Rico Labadee, Haiti AAA Member Rate: from $1,024
AUG 2 • AAA Member Rate: from $1,088
CANADA & NEW ENGLAND: 8 nights
SEPT 19 • AAA Member Rate: from $1,115
Avoid potential airport hassles and leave the driving to AAA! Park for free, then relax and ride our convenient “Cruise Express” motorcoach right to the Baltimore waterfront to board your ship. Rates are per person (double occupancy), are subject to availability at time of booking and include roundtrip motorcoach transportation, cruise accommodations/entertainment, most onboard meals and government fees. Ship’s registry: Bahamas. Visit AAA.com/motorcruise for itinerary details & pick-up points.
Roundtrip from Ft Lauderdale ST MAARTEN (pictured): The Dutch and French left their marks on this heavenly slice of tropical delight. Its beaches are some of the most breathtaking in the Caribbean region. ST KITTS: What’s a town square fashioned after London’s Piccadilly Circus doing in the middle of the Caribbean? It’s just one of many surprises St Kitts has in store. SAN JUAN: Step back in time when you stroll Old San Juan’s narrow cobblestone streets lined with brightly hued shops, houses, restaurants and nightspots. LABADEE: Surrounded by beautiful mountain slopes and exotic foliage, Royal Caribbean’s private paradise offers pristine beaches, breathtaking scenery and fun water activities...even an Aqua Park for kids. PLUS 3 FULL DAYS OF CRUISING AT SEA!
AAA Member Rates from $769
ALSO INCLUDES ONBOARD COCKTAIL PARTY $25 SHIPBOARD CREDIT PER STATEROOM Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes cruise accommodations/ entertainment, most onboard meals and government taxes/fees. Ship’s registry: Bahamas.
Ask about available add-on airfare.
MARCH 2013
AAA MOTORIST
1-800-354-8761 AAA.com/travel
PAGE 9
Member Benefits Exclusive Offers THE AMERICAN WEST
Southwestern Canyonlands Eroded for eons by wind and water, the colorful canyons of Arizona, Utah and Nevada captivate all who visit. See the stunning Red Rocks of Sedona, the magnificence of the Grand Canyon, the backcountry of Monument Valley, the hoodoos of Bryce Canyon National Park and the sandstone cliffs of Zion National Park. Enjoy Grand Canyon National Park lodging, guided tour and IMAX Theater. Take an “adventure cruise” through Antelope/Navajo Canyon. Visit Lake Powell and spend 2 fun nights in Las Vegas. 11 meals.
June 12-20 • AAA Member Rate: $2,725
Pacific Coast Enjoy a stunningly scenic journey exploring America’s majestic northern Pacific coastline and its vibrant cities, including Seattle, Portland, San Francisco and more! Along the way, take a sunset dinner cruise on Seattle’s lakes, a dune buggy ride at Oregon Dunes National Park and a jet boat ride on the Rogue River! Visit Mt St Helens, Portland’s Rose Gardens, Multnomah Falls, the Columbia River Gorge, Mt Hood & Timberline Lodge, Redwood National Park, Sonoma’s wine country and much more. 17 meals.
June 16-25 • AAA Member Rate: $3,325
Where the sun sets ...and the fun rises! Rates are per person (double occupancy), are subject to availability at time of booking and include roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, motorcoach sightseeing & admissions as indicated, services of a AAA Tour Manager and more. Ask about available add-on airfare. Visit AAA.com/USA for complete itinerary details.
Yellowstone Experience America’s first national park’s first explorers were called liars when they described its otherworldly features and wildlife. From Salt Lake City, visit Antelope Island State Park. At Yellowstone, head straight for Old Faithful! Visit the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center. Taking a wildlife safari (with sunset picnic) with opportunities for wildlife sightings. Enjoy the “Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone,” the Grand Tetons, the cowboy town of Jackson, a Snake River float trip and the Mormon Tabernacle Choir (schedule permitting). 12 meals.
Aug 5-11 • AAA Member Rate: $1,835
American Majesty From Salt Lake City to Denver, take in some of America’s favorite landmarks in between. Visit Grand Teton National Park, Yellowstone NP (Old Faithful & Mammoth Hot Springs), Devil’s Tower National Monument, Mt Rushmore National Memorial (evening light ceremony), Ft Laramie National Historic Site and the Buffalo Bill Historic Center. Float down the Snake River and ride a Jeep safari through the Black Hills. Hear the Mormon Tabernacle Choir (schedule permitting). See Crazy Horse Monument. 15 meals, including a chuck wagon dinner.
Grand Canyon Adventure Luxuriate in Red Rock Country at the Hilton Sedona Resort & Spa. Take a Pink Jeep backcountry tour. Ride first class on the Grand Canyon Railway from Williams to your national park lodging just a quarter-mile from the South Rim. Visit Glen Canyon Recreational Area and a night at Lake Powell Resort. A tour highlight is your guided half-day float trip on the Colorado River! Motorcoach to the Luxor Hotel on the Strip in Las Vegas. Flirt with Lady Luck, relax by the pool or take in a top-notch show on your free full day in Vegas. 9 meals.
Oct 4-10 • AAA Member Rate: $2,195
Napa Valley & San Francisco So many delights in one tour — from San Francisco’s endless charms to the natural splendor of the Muir Woods redwoods. Cross Golden Gate Bridge to enjoy 5 vineyards (participate in a “Blend Your Own Merlot” event) and 3 nights at Tuscan-style Vino Bella Resort in Napa. Savor an exquisite 4-course dinner on the Napa Valley Wine Train. With your hotel at Fisherman’s Wharf as your base, tour San Francisco’s famous landmarks, cruise by ferry across the bay and enjoy free time for shopping and exploring. 2 meals.
Oct 7-12 • AAA Member Rate: $1,949
Aug 31–Sept 8 • AAA Member Rate: $2,735
Best of Northern California
New Mexico Balloon Fiesta
Explore San Francisco, the redwoods at Muir Woods, Mediterranean-style Sausalito and the wine country of the Sonoma and Napa valleys (and dine on the Napa Valley Wine Train). Ride Amtrak’s California Zephyr to the scenic shores of Lake Tahoe and cruise its crystal-blue waters aboard a paddlewheeler. Venture to Yosemite National Park, then take the Pacific Coast Highway to Monterey, Carmelby-the-Sea, 17-Mile Drive, Big Sur, San Simeon (Hearst Castle), Salinas Valley and Silicon Valley. 14 meals.
Calling all train lovers! Join this multi-train Great American Rail Adventure in the Centennial State. Enjoy unforgettable rides on the Pike’s Peak Cog Railway, the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad and the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. Marvel at the awesome natural rock formations in the Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs, the spectacular landscapes at the Colorado National Monument in Grand Junction and the dizzying height of the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park in Cañon City. 15 meals.
Explore Albuquerque, the Land of Enchantment’s largest city. At the International Balloon Fiesta, witness the mass ascension of hundreds of balloons. Explore landmarks along Route 66, visit Old Town & its Plaza and tour the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center. Ride Sandia Peak’s Aerial Tramway and visit an artisanal winery. See the Balloon Fiesta’s evening “Glowdeo” & fireworks. Explore historic Chimayo village, artistic Taos and charming Santa Fe. Take a guided desert wilderness hike with llamas! 14 meals.
July 25–Aug 2 • AAA Member Rate: $2,859
Sept 14-21 • AAA Member Rate: $2,095
Oct 9-15 • AAA Member Rate: $2,309
Colorado Train Adventure
PAGE 10
AAA MOTORIST
MARCH 2013
1-800-354-8761 AAA.com/travel
f f r r & Su Tu
Member Benefits Exclusive Offers
FUN FOR ALL. ALL FOR FUN.
SM
A unique tour featuring Carnival Fantasy!
Enjoy a 7-night EXOTIC WESTERN CARIBBEAN CRUISE (3 full days at sea) and a 4-night MOTORCOACH TOUR! RICHMOND VA
(1 NIGHT): Experience the charm and character of one of the South’s most historic destinations on a unique canal cruise and dinner in the lively Shockoe Slip District.
CHARLESTON SC
(1 NIGHT): Grace, gentility and gorgeous residential architecture give this historic city a flavor all its own. Indulge in lowcountry cuisine and lovely accommodations.
THEN, BOARD CARNIVAL FANTASY IN CHARLESTON AND SAIL TO...
GRANK TURK, TURKS & CAICOS (1 DAY): Small but packed with scenic punch and historic charm, this oasis of green is set in aquamarine seas ringed by a pristine coral reef. HALF MOON CAY, BAHAMAS
(1 DAY): Fulfill tropical fantasies on this idyllic island where you can play in turquoise seas, ride horses on powdery sand and encounter silky stingrays.
NASSAU, BAHAMAS
(1 DAY): Blessed by balmy breezes and jumping to a bouncy calypso beat, Nassau sizzles with fine beaches, shopping, water sports and fun-filled attractions.
THEN, SAIL BACK TO CHARLESTON AND DISEMBARK...
CHARLESTON SC
(1 NIGHT): In Mt Pleasant, visit the grounds, gardens and buildings of antebellum Boone Hall established in 1681 and gloriously preserved as a working plantation
ASHEVILLE NC
(1 NIGHT): Explore this charming Blue Ridge foothills town known for its literary heritage and picturesque location. Tour Biltmore Estate!
Aug 8-19 • AAA Member Rate: from $1,867 Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip motorcoach transportation, 4-night hotel accommodations, 5 on-land meals, cruise accommodations/entertainment, most onboard meals, government fees, port charges and the services of a AAA Tour Manager (if participation goal is met). Ship’s registry: Bahamas. Visit AAA.com/motorcruise for itinerary details & pick-up points.
ART!
•
FOOD!
•
WINE!
includes 4 nights in a Tuscan villa! The romance of Italy comes to life on this tour. Explore the lakes region your way when you choose between a scenic boat ride on Lake Maggiore or a visit to a local farm for a cheese & wine tasting. Explore the rugged coast and remote fishing villages of the Cinque Terre. Spend 4 relaxing nights in a Tuscan villa. Discover the hilltop town of San Gimignano. Experience medieval life at the Palazzo Davanzati. Visit a winery in the countryside and learn the secrets of Tuscan cuisine. Wander a Florentine food market. Spend 2 wonderful nights in Venice. Explore Lake Orta, one of Italy’s hidden treasures. Travel by boat to your welcome dinner on Isola dei Pescatori. Explore Lucca’s piazzas and medieval streets. These are Italy’s treasures! Special inclusion: A serenaded gondola cruise — with Prosecco! — on Venice’s canals! Experience the benefits of Whisper headsets, designed for better communication between you and your guides. Enjoy regional wines included with every dinner.
Aug 31–Sept 11 AAA Member Rate: $5,610 Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip flights (Pittsburgh-Milan, Venice-Pittsburgh), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, hotel accommodations, guided motorcoach sightseeing, entrance fees, 17 meals, inItaly tour director, air & hotel taxes (subject to change) and vendor travel protection. Visit AAA.com/GoItaly for itinerary and more information. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details.
AAA MEMBER BENEFIT SAVE $50.00 PER PERSON
MARCH 2013
AAA MOTORIST
PAGE 11
1-800-354-8761 AAA.com/travel
Member Benefits Exclusive Offers
YOU’RE INVITED TO... AN EVENING All about
Ireland!
7pm • March 21 • RSVP by 3/14 to 1-800-354-8761 Treesdale Golf & Country Club • 1 Arnold Palmer Dr • Gibsonia PA
SPECIAL BOOKING OFFER THIS NIGHT ONLY!
This year, the people of Ireland are hosting an unprecedented year-long celebration of everything that is unique & great about Ireland. It's called The Gathering. Communities, villages and towns are organizing gatherings, festivals and events to welcome visitors. With the focus on Ireland’s vibrant living culture, heritage and people, it’s a chance to experience Ireland like never before. • Bunratty Folk Park
SAVE $140.00 PER ROOM
Altoona PA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bridgeport WV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Brookville PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Butler PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Columbiana OH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cranberry Township PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . East Liverpool OH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Erie PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Greensburg PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Harborcreek PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Indiana PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kittanning PA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lower Burrell/New Kensington Area PA . . Martinsburg WV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Meadville PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Morgantown WV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . New Castle PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
814-946-1277 304-842-7676 814-849-4000 724-282-8810 330-482-3836 724-772-1122 330-385-2020 814-866-0246 724-834-8300 814-897-9508 724-349-4193 724-543-4244 724-339-4440 304-263-4619 814-724-3157 304-983-6480 724-658-8551
Pittsburgh PA area Century III (Pleasant Hills) . . . . . . . . . Downtown . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . East Liberty/Shadyside . . . . . . . . . . . . Monroeville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . North Hills Area (Ross Twp) . . . . . . . . Robinson Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . South Hills (Bethel Park) . . . . . . . . . . White Oak/McKeesport . . . . . . . . . . . Rochester PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . St Marys PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Uniontown PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Warren PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Washington PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Waynesburg PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Wheeling WV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Weirton WV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
BOOK & DEPOSIT BY 3/28/13 412-655-6105 412-338-4305 412-365-7272 412-858-4640 412-367-7625 412-809-2803 412-833-5060 412-675-3404 724-728-6230 814-781-3003 724-438-8575 814-723-6660 724-225-3600 724-627-3434 304-233-1810 304-748-1616
GENERAL TRAVEL DISCLAIMER: AAA Travel Agency makes every effort to provide accurate, up-to-date prices as of press time and cannot assume responsibility for typographic errors. Rates/offers are per person based on double occupancy, unless otherwise indicated, and are subject to availability and airline/operator changes. International rates/offers are subject to currency fluctuations and additional tax & security charges. Rates that include airfare include all taxes, government fees and surcharges. Additional restrictions may apply. Rates/offers are available at all AAA East Central travel agency locations. For tour details, contact AAA or visit AAA.com/travel. AAA Featured Vacations are specially priced, unique departures; therefore, tour operators, cruise lines and other travel providers often exclude them from additional discounts or specials they offer. AAA Featured Vacations include services provided by third-party tour destination service companies; see your AAA Travel Agent for details. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for more details or visit the air carrier’s website for baggage allowance and fee information.
hot HOME GAMES WITH the PENGUINS!
• Medieval banquet in a 15th-century castle • Cliffs of Moher • Flying Boat Museum • Killarney National Park, including Muckross House • Ring of Kerry drive, including the Skellig Experience & Moll’s Gap • Waterford Crystal tour • Russborough House mansion • Dinner & song at a real pub • Dublin: city tour & free time ...AND MUCH MORE!
Oct 13-20 • AAA Member Rate: $1,399 Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, guided motorcoach sightseeing, entrance fees, 11 meals (including Bunratty Castle medieval banquet/entertainment & Merry Ploughboy pub dinner/entertainment), in-Ireland tour director, hotel luggage handling (1 piece per person), hotel taxes & service charges. Ask about available add-on airfare. Visit AAA.com/GoIreland for itinerary and more information.
®
WATCH ALL of the ACTION from one of the PRIVATE canadian club party suites!
SAVE $170.00
• LEATHER seating • BUFFET • NONALCOHOLIC DRINKS • TV WITH LIVE GAME FEED • ACCESS TO CLUBS LEXUS, CAPTAIN MORGAN & FIRST niagara
PER ROOM
BOOK & DEPOSIT BY 3/28/13
Edinburgh: welcome drink & dinner • Spean Bridge Woolen Mill • Loch Ness cruise • Scottish Highland evening • Culloden Battlefield • Whisky tasting/tour at Blair Athol Distillery • Edinburgh Castle & city tour • Ferry to Northern Ireland • Belfast: city tour, Titanic Center • Dublin: city tour, Book of Kells, canal dinner cruise with live music • Rock of Cashel • Blarney: Castle & Woolen Mills • Killarney: national park “jaunting car” ride • Ring of Kerry • The Skellig Experience • Sneem • Moll’s Gap • River Shannon ferry • Cliffs of Moher (pictured) • Bunratty Castle medieval banquet • AND MUCH MORE!
24: 7pm 1 March Philadelphia Flyers 20: 7pm 2 April Buffalo Sabres
3
Playoff Game First Round
Nov 2-12 • AAA Member Rate: $1,699
aaa member rate $299 per person
Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, guided motorcoach sightseeing, entrance fees, 16 meals (including medieval banquet, canal dinner cruise), in-Ireland tour director, hotel luggage handling (1 piece per person), hotel taxes & service charges. Ask about available add-on airfare. Visit AAA.com/GoIreland for itinerary and more information.
PROGRAMS OPERATED BY CIE TOURS INTERNATIONAL
PAGE 12
AAA MOTORIST
MARCH 2013
1-800-354-8761 AAA.com/travel
Member Benefits Exclusive Offers
ROCKY MOUNTAINEER
The world-renowned, luxurious Rocky Mountaineer train travels by daylight through the wild beauty of Canada’s West. The best way to experience the majestic Canadian Rockies, it offers more than 45 Canadian vacation packages and several unique rail routes — 3 train journeys through British Columbia & Alberta to Banff, Lake Louise, Jasper and Calgary; 1 train excursion from Vancouver to Whistler; and, NEW THIS YEAR, the Coastal Passage rail journey connecting Seattle WA and Vancouver BC to the Canadian Rockies. Choose from many tours, including the 4-day Classic First Passage to the West (AAA Member Rate: from $1,185 per person).
me o c o d s am e r d n o i t Vaca
E V O E R E H W E M O S ASSPORT P R U O Y B A GR OVER AND CROSS LAND TO A GRAND NDERS! WO OF UNIQUE
STAY & PLAY CREDIT!
Book a qualifying rail journey (any vacation of 4 nights or more from the 2013 Rocky Mountaineer brochure) by 3/28/13 and take advantage of up to $800 per couple in added value! Use your Stay & Play added-value credit toward customizing your vacation with your choice of these options:
RAILING
Extra hotel nights in any Rocky Mountaineer destination • Additional tours in the Canadian Rockies •Sea to Sky Climb rail journey to Whistler BC • Additional meals & meal plans • Transfers • Activities, including Jasper Tramway, Whistler Peak 2 Peak Gondola & more • Rocky Mountaineer “Rail & Cruise” packages Offer valid on new 2013 bookings made in USA & Canada between 12/31/12 & 3/28/13. Offer is applicable to any Rocky Mountaineer holiday of 4 or more nights from the 2013 Rocky Mountaineer brochure. Deposits are required at time of booking. Maximum offer value of $400 per adult bonus credit ($800 bonus per couple) is with qualifying holidays of 7 nights or more in GoldLeaf Service. Bonus credit amount varies by package class of service and duration of holiday. Travel during 2013 Rocky Mountaineer summer season between April & October. Applicable to single or double package tour prices; triple room bookings receive a lower per person credit. Qualifying packages can be purchased in any class of train travel or grade of accommodation. Credit must be requested at time of booking and will not be automatically allocated or retrospectively added. Credited option must be selected at time of booking and can only be added to a Rocky Mountaineer package. Amendment fee of $50 CAD per booking will be charged for changes to the use of the credit after booking has been confirmed. US guests will be charged the equivalent amount in USD at time of amendment. Credits can only be used toward the purchase of additional services offered by Rocky Mountaineer; credit cannot be used to upgrade rail service or accommodation and cannot be used against price of core package. Add-on credit values are expressed in CAD and will be converted to USD at time of booking at the exchange rate used for the package booking. US guests must pay in USD. Credit cannot be deferred to a later trip. Offer is not applicable to child prices, 2-day rail only bookings or Group Tour bookings. Not available in conjunction with any other offer. Offer has no cash value and is nontransferable. Offer is capacity-controlled and may be modified, withdrawn or amended without prior notice. Additional conditions apply.
COME GET HA
Canada ranks in the top to “life satisfaction” (overal work, income & relationshi (enjoyment, smiling & laugh happiness survey reported i AAA invites you to f Head north this y some of the g H? Canadian FOREIGN, E ENGLISH RE! SPOKEN HE
AIR & MOTORCOACH ATLANTIC ADVENTURE
Hug the rugged shores of — and never venture far from — the Atlantic Ocean on this exciting exploration of coastal Canada & New England. Witness the influence the sea has on life & land in Massachusetts, Maine, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island. From big cities to tiny villages, experience cultural differences, visit fascinating attractions and taste unique regional cuisines. The combination of spectacular natural beauty, insightful guides and inevitable camaraderie that AAA motorcoach sightseeing tours are known for make this a journey you’ll not soon forget.
July 12-20: Roundtrip from Pittsburgh • AAA Member Rate: $2,439 Boston MA • Portland ME • NB: St John, Reversing Falls Rapids, Fundy National Park PEI: Green Gables, PEI National Park • NS: Cabot Trail, Cape Breton, Alexander Graham Bell site, Anne Murray Centre • NB: St Andrews by the Seas, Kingsbrae Gardens • AND MORE! Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip flights (Pittsburgh-Boston), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, super-deluxe motorcoach (wi-fi, leather seats, video screens, seatback trays, seatbelts), sightseeing/admissions, 17 meals, taxes/gratuities on included items, baggage handling (1 per person), services of a AAA Tour Manager. Visit AAA.com/travel for complete itinerary details. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details.
DRIVING
F
rom storybook lands and magical fairytale settings to the sheer adrenaline rush of adventure opportunities, each of Canada’s regions offers that “little something special.” Whether it’s a vacation for the senses, a relaxing weekend away or a once-in-a-lifetime dream come true, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for! And a great way to do that is through AAA’s travel partner, CANADA à la Carte. CANADA à la Carte offers a wide variety of Independent vacations showcasing the best of
Canada by car & rail, from m cosmopolitan cities. Indepen feature “à la Carte” sights — such as winery tours, wh Rockies trail riding — allow your vacation to suit your in CANADA à la Carte’s ind provide flexibility in your tra you don’t bypass region hig requests, accommodations a cars and/or VIA Rail tickets are pre-booked. Many pack round, and all may be offere to customizing existing pack Carte can help you create y
MARCH 2013
AAA MOTORIST
1-800-354-8761 AAA.com/travel
PAGE 13
Member Benefits Exclusive Offers
! R E D R O B . . . E H T ER
e true
AAA OFFERS LOTS OF WAYS TO EXPERIENCE
CANADA
Experience Canada aboard the elegant, sophisticated ships of Oceania. Its midsize vessels can journey off the beaten path to boutique ports and yet provide all the amenities of larger ships. Overnight stays and late-evening departures FREE FLIGHTS allow you to fully explore each fascinating AND $50.00 IN destination, while exemplary service, gourmet ONBOARD CREDIT cuisine and opulent accommodations ensure your onboard experience is defined by luxury and comfort. Canada & New England ignite in a blaze of color each autumn. A foliage tapestry of fiery reds, brilliant oranges, delicate yellows and exotic purples blankets the land, attracting “leaf peepers.” And the best seat for viewing the drama is on Regatta. Best of all, the backdrop changes daily for the maximum effect of nature’s glory. Opportunities for adventure ashore are as spectacular as the scenery. Tour the Gilded Age mansions in Newport. Ride the funicular to Dufferin Terrace for the best view of Québec City. Marvel at seafaring artifacts in the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic in Halifax and amazing seascapes in Rockland’s Farmsworth Museum. Indoors & out, the show goes on forever.
CRUISING
E ON, APPY!
Sept 12-24: Montréal to New York
5 nations when it comes ll appraisal of life, including ips) and “positive feeling” hing), according to a global in Scientific American Mind. find out for yourself: THE GREAT year and tap into WHITE NOR good feelings TH R E ALLY IS ns enjoy! WARM & WONDERFU L!
majestic wilderness to ndent travel packages seeing and activity options hale watching or Canadian wing you to personalize nterests and budget. dependent vacations avel plans while ensuring ghlights. Based on your are pre-reserved, rental are arranged and activities kages are available yeared with airfare. In addition kages, CANADA à la your own special adventure.
COLORS, COASTS & COVES
Book a CANADA à la Carte Independent Vacation and receive a documentation package (1 per booking) with a personalized itinerary containing driving instructions, maps, brochures and region guides (all items “if applicable”).
Sample 3-night vacations (rates per person) Montréal Explorer • AAA Member Rate: $314 Québec City Explorer • AAA Member Rate: $529 Vancouver Explorer • AAA Member Rate: $383 Victoria Explorer • AAA Member Rate: $742
Québec City QC • St Lawrence River (cruising) • Corner Brook NF • Charlottetown PEI Sydney NS • Halifax NS • St John (Bay of Fundy) NB • Bar Harbor ME • Rockland/Camden ME Gulf of Maine (cruising) • Newport RI
Oct 6-18: New York City to Montréal (reverse itinerary of departure above) AAA Member Rate: from $4,797 (including FREE FLIGHTS!) Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip flights (SEPT: PittsburghMontréal, New York–Pittsburgh) (OCT: Pittsburgh–New York, Montréal-Pittsburgh), roundtrip airport/pier transfers, cruise accommodations/ entertainment, most onboard meals, government fees/taxes and $50 onboard credit per stateroom. Ship’s registry: Marshall Islands. Visit AAA.com/travel for complete itinerary details. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details.
CANADA & NEW ENGLAND
Want to cruise but don’t want to fly? This fall foliage cruise (with FREE ROUNDTRIP MOTORCOACH TRANSPORTATION FROM PITTSBURGH!) is for you. Avoid airport hassles and waiting for your luggage to be unloaded. Park free at your pickup point. Relax and leave the driving to professionals. Ride in comfort from Pittsburgh to the pier at Cape FREE Liberty NJ; be rested & ready to sail on MOTORCOACH Celebrity Summit to Portland & Bar Harbor ME, Halifax & Sydney NS, Charlottetown PEI, Québec City & Gaspé QC. Enjoy 5 full days at sea. Also includes Martini Tasting (2 per stateroom) and Wine Appreciation (1 bottle per stateroom).
Oct 5-19 • AAA Member Rate: balcony staterooms from $2,638 Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes FREE roundtrip motorcoach transportation (Pittsburgh–Cape Liberty NJ), cruise accommodations/entertainment, most onboard meals, government fees/taxes and a AAA Tour Manager to/from NJ. Ship’s registry: Malta. Visit AAA.com/motorcruise for itinerary & pick-up points. Limited motorcoach space.
PAGE 14
AAA MOTORIST
1-800-354-8761 AAA.com/travel
Cruising Hawaii is the best way to catch the
MARCH 2013
Member Benefits Exclusive Offers SEE MORE HAWAII BY CRUISING!
ALOHA SPIRIT
Pride of America
AAA’s 9-night Hawaiian vacation features a 2-night pre-cruise stay in Honolulu, a tour of the USS Arizona Memorial & a 7-night cruise of 4 islands (Oahu, Maui, Hawaii & Kauai). AAA Member Rates Oct 10-19: from $1,721 • Nov 7-16: from $1,774 Rates are per person (double occupancy), are subject to change/availability at time of booking and include hotel/pier transfers, 2 nights at the Marriott Waikiki Beach Resort & Spa, USS Arizona Memorial/Pearl Harbor tour, 7-night cruise accommodations/entertainment, most onboard meals and government taxes/fees. Ship’s registry: USA. Ask about available add-on airfare.
CRUISE NIGHT Royal Caribbean Representative Charlie Kudla presents The World of Royal Caribbean March 20 • 6:30pm Hyatt Place Pittsburgh/Cranberry 136 Emeryville Dr • Cranberry Twp PA
RSVP by 3/13: 1-800-354-8761
eastern mediterranean & greek isles
Explore the fascinating history, unique culture and stunning natural beauty of Italy, Malta, Greece and Turkey. Sail from Rome on Celebrity Silhouette to Venice, Italy, with visits to Naples, Italy; Valletta, Malta; Mykonos, Greece; Ephesus/Kusadasi, Turkey; and Rhodes, Santorini, Athen/Piraeus & Chania/Souda, Greece. Enjoy 2 full days at sea, 2 Martini Tasting Vouchers per stateroom and 1 dinner in a Specialty Restaurant (1 evening, 2 per stateroom).
OCT 19-31 AAA MEMBER RATE: balcony staterooms from $2,169 Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes cruise accommodations/ entertainment, most onboard meals and government fees/ taxes. Ship’s registry: Malta. Visit AAA.com/travel for complete itinerary details. Ask about available add-on airfare.
Even more than a cruise hugging its spectacular shoreline, a comprehensive land journey into the heart of Alaska’s awe-inspiring interior can deepen your understanding and enrich your overall experience of our 49th state. AAA’s July 8-17 Alaska by Land 9-night adventure starts in Fairbanks. An Italian immigrant’s 1902 gold strike coincided with the building of a trading post on the banks of the Chena River — and the Gold Rush to Fairbanks was on! This “Golden Heart City” pulsed once again as a boomtown in the early 1970s during construction of the 800-milelong Trans-Alaska Pipeline. Learn how the Gold Rush affected Alaska’s interior on a tour that includes a visit to the University of Alaska, Fairbanks Museum. Enjoy shopping, walking or dining on your own downtown. Cruise on a sternwheeler to experience the thrill of river travel. Enjoy a salmon bake dinner at Pioneer Park; savor salmon, prime rib and Bering Sea cod and all the fixings. Then fly above it all on an Arctic Circle air adventure! This thrilling 4-hour tour soars over the Brooks Range and crosses the Arctic Circle; the narrated adventure includes a visit to Wiseman and views of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline and Yukon River. Motorcoach to Denali National Park to explore at your leisure or participate in a park service activity. Then enjoy the Denali Education Center’s “Welcome to the Subarctic” talk at Sheldon Center; learn about Denali from the ground up before overnighting in the park and touring it some more the next day. Travel deep into Denali on a full-day Tundra Wilderness Tour, looking for grizzly, moose, caribou, Dall sheep and more; get insights into this vast park’s flora & fauna. Travel to Anchorage, Alaska’s largest city; tour its historic downtown and visit the kennel & home of a 4-time Iditarod Sled Dog Race winner, and learn about the art of mushing dogs. Visit the Native Heritage Center, a gathering place celebrating, perpetuating and sharing Native cultures. Dine in the center’s Athabascan House. Motorcoach to coastal Seward, keeping an eye out along scenic Turnagain Arm for Dall sheep, moose, bear and eagle. Visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center in Portage Valley to see critters up close. Tour along scenic Seward Highway to Begich Boggs Visitor Center; enjoy an award-winning movie, “Voices from the Ice.” Explore Seward on your own; the coastal town is known for scenic views and as gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park. Transfer to Cooper Landing for a 2-hour scenic float on the Kenai River. Drift through Chugach National Forest and Kenai National Wildlife Refuge. At Girdwood, ride the Alyeska Tram from sea level to 2,300 feet. An observation deck provides breathtaking views of majestic mountains, hanging glaciers and often an array of wildlife. Descend and explore Girdwood on your own. Enjoy a farewell seafood buffet dinner.
July 8-17 • AAA Member Rate: $4,979 Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip flights (Pittsburgh-Fairbanks, Anchorage-Pittsburgh), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, 9-night accommodations, motorcoach sightseeing, 16 meals, in-Alaska local guide, services of a AAA Tour Manager (if participation goal is met), Arctic Circle air adventure (small aircraft; group will be staggered; departure is weather-dependent) & more. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details. Visit AAA.com/Alaska for itinerary details.
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1-800-354-8761 AAA.com/travel
Member Benefits Exclusive Offers
HUDSON VALLEY
BOSTON COMMON
PORTLAND
POCONOS
Avoid potential airport hassles and leave the driving to AAA! Park for free, relax and ride our convenient “Cruise Express” motorcoach to NY’s Hudson Valley, Boston MA and the Poconos of eastern PA. And, in the middle of it all, enjoy a relaxing 7-night Canada/ New England cruise on Royal Caribbean’s Brilliance of the Seas! 9/20 .........Travel to Lower Hudson Valley for overnight & dinner on grounds of a historic estate. 9/21 .........Tour a Hudson River Valley landmark. Head to Boston for a special dinner. 9/22 .........Tour Boston and enjoy some time on your own. Board Brilliance of the Seas. 9/22-29 ...Cruise to Halifax NS, St John NB and Bar Harbor & Portland ME. 9/29 .........Motorcoach from Boston to a Poconos resort for lunch, dinner & overnight. 9/30 .........Breakfast. Motorcoach to Pittsburgh.
Sept 20-30 • AAA Member Rate: from $1,948 Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip motorcoach transportation, 3-night hotel accommodations, 7 on-land meals, cruise accommodations/ entertainment, most onboard meals, government fees and services of a AAA Tour Manager. Ship’s registry: Bahamas. Visit AAA.com/motorcruise for itinerary details & pick-up points.
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1-800-354-8761 AAA.com/travel
AAA MOTORIST
MARCH 2013
Member Benefits Exclusive Offers
cheerio, STEELERS FANS! cross “the pond” and BE A PART OF HISTORY! SEE THE Steelers BATTLE THE Minnesota Vikings IN wembley stadium in London, England! travel with YOUR HOST Larry Richert, kdka radio personality, sept 26–oct 1. Enjoy 4 nights at the perfectly located 4-star deluxe Park Plaza Westminster Bridge, just steps from the original Big Ben, Houses of Parliament, London Aquarium, London Eye, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace and restaurants, shops and nightspots. Also included are... Roundtrip Pittsburgh-London flights • Accommodations Roundtrip airport/hotel transfers & hotel/stadium transfers English breakfast daily • 2-day London sightseeing pass Cocktail reception & dinner with Larry Richert Pre-game party (open bar & hors d’ouerves) with Larry Game ticket (Sept 29) • Hospitality staff on-site Taxes & gratuities AAA Member Rate: $3,399 per person (double occupancy) Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details.
BIG BEN X 2!
SPACE IS LIMITED!
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1-800-354-8761 AAA.com/travel LEAVE THE DRIVING TO US!
Member Benefits Exclusive Offers
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.
Cultural Washington DC: May 10-12
AAA Member Rate: $855
Here’s a rare opportunity to step inside the international embassies and impressive house museums of our nation’s capital...and to enjoy dinner & a show at the Kennedy Center, a brunch cruise on the Potomac River and more. 4 meals.
Preakness Stakes: May 17-19
AAA Member Rate: $605
Trot off to Baltimore to experience the thrills of the “second jewel” of Triple Crown racing from reserved grandstand seating and see some of the other landmarks of Charm City. 4 meals.
Put-in-Bay OH: June 4-6
AAA Member Rate: $599
Relax on Lake Erie, America’s “North Coast”! Enjoy a lake cruise, a stay at a lakefront mainland resort and an overnight on South Bass Island at Put-in-Bay. Tour Sandusky’s Maritime Museum, see the Perry Peace Memorial and browse Put-in-Bay’s quaint shops. 5 meals.
Mackinac Lilac Festival: June 9-13
AAA Member Rate: $1,049
Step back in time on northern Michigan’s enchanting no-cars-allowed Mackinac Island during its annual Lilac Festival. Enjoy the laid-back vibe, the Victorianstyle lodging, a horse-drawn carriage ride, lunch & a garden tour at the famous Grand Hotel and more. 8 meals.
Maine Seacoast: June 22-28
AAA Member Rate: $1,309
See the rugged beauty of the Pine Tree State’s coastline, as well as the charming seaside towns that hug it from Portland to Boothbay Harbor to Bar Harbor to Freeport. Along the way, visit lighthouses, enjoy a whale watch cruise, tour Acadia National Park and shop at LL Bean and the Maine State Prison Store. 12 meals.
Finger Lakes Escape: July 8-11
AAA Member Rate: $805
Enjoy ship tours and festivities. Visit the Lake Superior Maritime Center. Ride along Superior’s shores on the North Shore Railroad. See Gooseberry Falls and Split Rock Lighthouse. Includes Chicago and the Wisconsin Dells. 11 meals.
Best of Montréal & Québec: Aug 4-10
AAA Member Rate: $1,885
Savor the fascinating flavors of French Canada in its 2 largest and most popular cities. The walled Old City section of Québec City enchants visitors with its history and charm. Venture into the countryside for a traditional “sugar shack” (where maple syrup is produced) dinner. Montréal hums with urban vitality & diversity; feel its energy as you see its sights. Also visit Ottawa, Toronto and Niagara Falls. 12 meals.
DC & Marine Corps Parade: Aug 9-10
AAA Member Rate: $345
The US Marine Corps Evening Parade is a popular and moving summer tradition in the nation’s capital. Get goosebumps watching precision drills and listening to patriotic tunes. Tour DC landmarks and visit the Smithsonian. 3 meals.
Girls’ Spa Getaway: Aug 16-18
AAA Member Rate: $475
Head to Wilkes-Barre’s Woodlands Inn & Resort with friends or family on this fun-filled girls’ weekend for convenient on-site spa treatments (manicure, pedicure, 45-minute massage included), dining venues, hip cocktail lounges, exciting entertainment venues and more! 3 meals.
“Noah!” in Lancaster: Aug 27-28
AAA Member Rate: $315
Travel to PA Dutch country for a live performance of the biblical story of Noah; visit Kitchen Kettle Village, Central Market, an Amish farm and more. 2 meals.
Chautauqua Wine & Dine: Aug 29-30
AAA Member Rate: $335
Discover the elegance & culture of NY’s Vintage Trail and Chautauqua Institution. Winery visits, mansion tour, lake cruise and more. 5 meals.
Upcoming fall tours!
Explore the spectacular scenery, quaint towns, wineries and elegant homes of this upstate New York region. Visit the Corning Glass Museum, Cornell University, Buttermilk Falls, Sonnenberg Mansion & Gardens, Mackenzie-Childs Estate and Seward House. Cruise on Lake Seneca and enjoy a steamboat dinner cruise on Canandaigua Lake and lunch at Belhurst Castle. 7 meals.
Deep Creek Wine & Art Festival: Sept 6-8
Tall Ships Great Lakes: July 24-30
Michigan Lighthouses: Sept 9-13
Member Rate: $1,095
Cape Cod Adventure: Sept 15-21
Member Rate: $1,195
AAA Member Rate: $1,539
Thrill to the spectacle of international Tall Ships on Lake Superior in Duluth MN.
1-day, fun-day tours!
Pittsburgh Sports Tour: June 14
AAA Member Rate: $89
Treat Dad to a Father’s Day excursion in the City of Champions! Visit the Roberto Clemente and Western PA Sports museums (guided tours), the Strip District (visit sports memorabilia shops and enjoy lunch on your own) and Heinz Field (behind-the-scenes tour).
The Wright Kind of Summer: July 16
AAA Member Rate: $119
Enjoy a summer day exploring 4 Frank Lloyd Wright architectural gems (including Fallingwater) in PA’s scenic Laurel Highlands. 1 meal.
Easy Float on the Yough: Aug 24
AAA Member Rate: $105
Float comfortably & safely down the beautiful, historic Yough River as a Colonial-garbed guide points out scenic sights and the area’s past on this “soft adventure.” Enjoy lunch and free time in scenic Ohiopyle. 1 meal.
Member Rate: $555
Stay lakeside in a condo-hotel with private beach; enjoy a gourmet winepaired dinner and the festival’s tastings, artisans, entertainment & more.
Explore the best of Michigan’s coastline — picturesque small towns, Thunder Bay Resort, an elk preserve, boat cruises, 5 lighthouses and more. This seaside escape features waterfront lodging in Cape Cod and visits to Newport RI; Nantucket, Martha’s Vineyard & Plymouth MA; and more.
Niagara & Beyond: Sept 22-25
Member Rate: $459
Stay in the heart of Niagara Falls, Canada, with guided touring of the falls area, Welland Canal, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Toronto and more!
Gettysburg & the Civil War Trail: Sept 24-27 Member Rate: $775 Visit Civil War sites with guided touring of Harper’s Ferry, Winchester, Cedar Creek, Manassas, Antietam and our most well-known battlefield, Gettysburg.
Discover the Hamptons: Sept 30–Oct 4
Member Rate: $915
Lights & Sights along the Lake: Sept 30
Member Rate: $139
Discover the beauty of Long Island NY with visits to Southampton, Montauk Point, East Hampton & Sag Harbor and ending in Pennsylvania’s Poconos. Explore Lake Erie’s picturesque shoreline, charming Dunkirk and 2 lighthouses with a waterfront luncheon, the Boardwalk Market and more.
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There’s always room at the top in Switzerland High altitude adventure in the land of the Alps
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witzerland may be a neutral country, but it is anything but colorless. Along with the jawdropping scenery this eminently workable amalgam of German, French and Italian cultures gives a whole new meaning to the term diversity. Zürich is Switzerland’s largest city and famous for its gnomes and financial institutions. The Bahnhofstrasse — Zürich’s answer to Fifth Avenue and Wall Street — was built on the site of the old city walls and is lined with upscale boutiques, cafes and those ubiquitous Swiss banks. Much of Switzerland’s heavily creased Alpine territory is best seen by rail. The Rhaetion Railway includes the world famous Glacier, and Bernina Express lines. The engineering equivalent of Hannibal’s passage through the Alps, the Bernina Express takes travelers through scenery that ranges from the blue-tongued glaciers of Piz Bernina, to the palms trees of Tirano, Italy. The Glacier Express runs from St. Moritz and Davos via Zermatt where it brings you face to face with the wondrous Matterhorn or “the mountain,” as it is respectfully called by the Swiss. The little red train literally ties itself in knots as every bend brings a magnificent new vista or a fairytale-like castle perched astride a mountaintop. Zermatt has over 300 days of sunlight per year, and mild, dry weather that the
mous with the jet set that the town has taken the unusual step of registering its name as a trademark in 25 countries. The resort town conjures up glamorous images of the Cresta and horses racing across the snow, but summers here are generally quite leisurely. Lucerne is considered the quintessential Swiss town and its most popular travel destination. Famous for the two medieval bridges spanning the Reuss River, few leave without taking a boat ride on scenic Lake Lucerne, framed by mountains and old growth forests that reach right down to the shore. Visitors can also ride the world’s steepest cog railway up Mount Pilatus with a gradient of 48% and return by a cable car that soars past rugged alpine peaks, divided by verdant green valleys.
HIGH TIMES — The Gornergratbahn on the Findelbachbrücke, against the backdrop of the Matterhorn. Swiss refer to this as their “champagne climate.” The air is so unbelievably pure that it feels nearly as intoxicating as a chilled flute of Pol Roger. Vehicles powered by internal combustion engines have been banned in the village since 1947, and Zermatt’s only traffic jam is a herd of Blackneck goats that pass through the Bahnhofstrasse every morning and evening. From Zermatt visitors can board the
Give Yourself an Upgrade— to the highest level of protection available! Get more from your membership. Upgrade to AAA Premier. With expanded roadside assistance — and a host of other benefits — AAA Premier is a smart choice. To upgrade your membership, call or visit your local AAA office or AAA.com, or call the Member Service Center at
1-800-441-5008
111-year-old cog railway for the 6.5mile journey up Gornergrat Mountain. The Gornergratbahn is Europe’s highest rack railway, climbing past Swiss stone pine and larch forests to an altitude of 10,100 feet. When you reach the top, pause to take in the breathtaking panorama of 29 peaks above 13,000-feet, with the Matterhorn, the Queen of the Alps, right in the middle. St. Moritz has become so synony-
IF YOU GO
Join AAA Travel on an 8-night Alpine Lakes & Scenic Trains tour of Switzerland and Italy, August 16-25, 2013. Highlights of this AAA Member Choice vacation include a Zurich dinner cruise; Golden Pass, Glacier Express and Bernina Pass Scenic Trains; Lake Como, Italy; 2-nights in Zermatt; Saint Moritz, Lucerne and Montreux, Switzerland, and Milan, Italy. FOR MORE INFORMATION
Visit AAA.com/mcv for a complete itinerary, trip details and information.
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Teen drivers must obtain driving privileges in stages Follow these steps for your Pennsylvania Learner’s Permit
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f you, or someone in your household is approaching 16 years of age or older, you’re probably thinking about getting a driver’s license. Before you can be issued a driver’s license, you must first obtain a Learner’s Permit. In Pennsylvania, an initial Learner’s Permit can be issued to any individual, 16 years of age or older, who has never been licensed to operate a vehicle, and is a multi-step process. Step 1: The first thing you need to do is to get a copy of the Pennsylvania Driver’s Manual (Pub 95) and study it. The manual is available from driver education teachers, any PennDOT Driver License Center, or you can visit their website at www.dmv.state.pa.us. Study it thoroughly to make sure you understand all the valuable information inside. Step 2: The next step is to get a physical examination. Take the Non-Commercial Learner’s Permit Application (DL-180) (available at Driver License Centers or on their website at www.dmv.state.pa.us under the Forms and Publications link at the top of the page) to your physician to have the Physician’s Report of Examination section completed. This form may be completed no earlier than 6 months prior to your 16th birthday and is only valid for 1 year from the date of your physical exam. If you are under the age of 18, you will also need to complete form DL-180TD,
to “PennDOT,” in the appropriate amount. Cash will not be accepted. Step 4: After successful completion of the vision screening and Pennsylvania’s written test, a Learner’s Permit will be issued that is valid for one year. This allows you to drive between the hours of 5 a.m. and 11 p.m. with a licensed driver, age 21 or over. If you are under age 18, a six-month waiting period and 65 hours behind the wheel driving experience, including no less than ten hours of nighttime driving and five hours of bad weather driving, are required before taking your road test. FOR MORE INFORMATION
OFF TO A GOOD START — New drivers must have a Learners’ Permit before they can take the wheel. the Parent or Guardian Consent Form (DL-180TD) also available at Driver License Centers or on their website. Proper identification is required. Step 3: When you are ready to be tested, bring the completed form(s) to the Driver License Center of your choice. At this time you will be given a vision screening and a written test, which will test your knowledge of road signs and the rules of the road. You must take the following documents with you (photocopies will not be accepted):
1. A completed Non-Commercial Learner’s Permit Application (Form DL-180). 2. Your completed Parent or Guardian Consent Form (DL-180TD). 3. Proof of your date of birth and identification. Acceptable forms of identification can be found on the reverse side of the Non-Commercial Learner’s Permit Application (Form DL-180). These forms must be originals or certified copies. 4. Your Social Security Card. 5. A check or money order, payable
AAA offers a range of programs that can help teens stay safe on the road, Parents and caregivers can learn more at Keys2Drive, a groundbreaking new website for teens and their parents at www. teendriving.AAA.com.
OFFICE HOURS CHANGING
Beginning April 1st, operating hours will be changing at several AAA Branch locations. New office hours will be Monday through Friday, 9 a.m to 7 p.m.; and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. for the following Pittsburgh Metro locations: • Pleasant Hills • Fort Couch Road • McKnight Road • Monroeville • Cranberry Township • Robinson Towne Center
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Understanding the two main types of Life Insurance How to choose a policy that’s right for you
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he two most popular types of life insurance are whole life and term life. In some cases, whole life may also be called permanent coverage. It encompasses several subcategories, which include universal, traditional, variable universal and variable. Millions of people purchase whole life or term life each year. In 2003, there was only a difference of about 1 million purchases between the two types of products. It is important to remember that life coverage sold to individuals is different than the insurance policies sold to groups.
dies during the predetermined time frame. For example, a person who is 40 and purchases a 30-year policy would produce a death benefit if he or she died at age 68. However, if the individual did not obtain additional coverage and died at age 72, there would be no death benefit. Most terms vary between one and 30 years. Since the policies are simple, they do not offer any other benefits such as cash withdrawals. With term life, there are two main forms of policies, which are decreasing term and level term. Decreasing term policies have dropping death benefits, which are usually based on one-year time increments. These last for the entire life of the policy. For level term, the death benefit remains the same throughout the policy’s term. In the past decade, the most popular type of coverage purchased has been level term. To learn more about these options, discuss concerns with an agent.
Understanding Whole Life Insurance
Whole or permanent life coverage provides a benefit upon the death of the policyholder. There is no term limit, so a policyholder’s beneficiary would receive money whether the insured died at age 50, 80 or even 100. As mentioned previously, there are sub-types of coverage under whole life. In addition to this, each of the subcategory coverage types offer their own variations. With traditional whole life coverage, both the premium and death benefit amount will remain the same for the policy’s duration. As the insured ages, the premium amount per $1,000 of coverage increases. For those who live beyond age 80, these premiums can be very high. However, insurers do not assess higher premiums in later years to
A SOUND INVESTMENT — Millions of people purchase whole life or term life each year. keep up with these rising amounts. The premiums are higher when a person is younger. As the person ages, the premium amounts decrease. Insurers understand that people generally have less income as they age, which is why the policy is designed this way. When the money paid into the policy reaches a certain point, it must be made available
to the insured as a cash value benefit. If the policyholder decides to discontinue the plan, the cash may be withdrawn.
Understanding Term Life Insurance
This is the easiest form of coverage to understand and obtain. Term life only provides a death benefit if the insured
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Trust AAA to steer you right on all your current and future Auto, Home and Life insurance needs. Combining your coverage with one insurance company could make a significant difference in your premium. Call 800.207.7947, or visit AAA.com/insurance for more information or to schedule a comprehensive Insurance review. AAA – your trusted insurance advisor.
Computer-related vision problems are on the rise
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f you are part of the 46 percent of Americans who spend five or more hours a day on a computer or a smart phone, you probably already know that a long day staring at your screen can sometimes lead to tired eyes and headaches. But did you know these issues could also be signs of Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS)? Besides tired eyes and headaches, other symptoms of CVS include double vision, eyestrain and sometimes even neck and shoulder aches. The reason is that our eyes have a harder time focusing on characters on a computer screen. Unlike printed type, computer characters are brightest at the center and lighter on the edges. The eyes jump around as they try to focus, making them tired and affecting other areas of the upper body. Fortunately, the effects of CVS are neither permanent nor damaging to the eye. You can help combat CVS by following a few simple steps: • Get an eye exam before starting a job that requires computer use. • Use a flat-panel monitor or LCD screen that has crisper resolutions. • Place the monitor at eye level about 20 to 26 inches away from you. • Always use the computer in proper light. • Blink more often to keep eyes moist.
• Take breaks from your computer to rest your eyes. • Visit your eye doctor annually to monitor and manage symptoms, unless otherwise recommended by your eye doctor. For some, CVS symptoms can be relieved with computer eyewear or UV coating on your lenses to reduce glare. Talk with your eye doctor to learn about these options. If new glasses are in order, now is the perfect time to visit LensCrafters for The Semi-Annual Sale where you will save 50% off lenses with a frame purchase. PLUS, for a limited time, AAA members get an extra $25 OFF when you Show Your Card & Save ®. Hurry, offer expires 3/31/2013. Visit www. AAA.com/visionsavings for details.
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Hilton Head Island — a tiny, perfect paradise Eco-friendly enclave is for nature lovers, beachgoers and golfers
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outh Carolina’s Low Country is an intriguing patchwork of swamps, floodplain forests, salt marshes and bays. Moss-draped oak and cypress frame the meandering roads and rivers, while isolated seaislands characterize the coast. Located about 45 miles north of Savannah, and 90 miles south of Charleston, S.C., Hilton Head Island is shaped something like a foot, measuring about 12 miles from toe to heel. Its “sole” is a wide expanse of beach that at low tide, extends some 600-feet to the water. This broad ribbon of sand is so firmly packed it’s perfect for jogging, volleyball, skittering about if you’re a crab or a sandpiper, and bike riding. The inlets and shoals around the island are wide, flat and warm — perfect for spotting shore birds and marine life. During the summer pods of bottlenose dolphins gather to feed along the shoreline. Occasionally, the dolphins herd schools of fish against a sand bar or mud bank to trap them in shallow water, a technique known as strand feeding. Marine life study and dolphinwatching excursions are available at several of the island’s public marinas and the Coastal Discovery Museum. Hilton Head is affectionately known as the “Golf Island.” The game has been a Low Country tradition since Scottish immigrants to South Carolina organized America’s first golf club in 1786.
loggerhead sea turtle, which nests here between May and August. Explore “nature’s living room” at the 605-acre Forest Preserve at Sea Pines Resort. Recognized by the Audubon Society as an important birding sanctuary, a maze of boardwalks wind through the old Lawton Rice Field, Boggy Gut, Fish Island Trail and Vanishing Swamp, leading to the 4,000 year-old Indian Shell Ring. In the evenings, visitors and locals can gather for a night of Gullah storytelling and song. Descended from African slaves who worked the rice and cotton plantations, Gullahs are known for their unique cultural traditions and language, a melodic blend of 17th and 18th century English and African dialects.
ON THE LINKS — Harbour Town is one of more than 20 championship courses on the island. More than 20 championship courses are located on the island, seven of which, consistently rank among the nation’s Top 100. Hilton Head also plays host to the RBC Heritage, a PGA Tour event held each April at the Harbour Town Golf Links at the Sea Pines Plantation. Harbour Town is one of architect Pete Dye’s crown jewels and a favorite among PGA Tour pros. The Scottish Links style course was designed in the tradition of Scotland’s great seaside courses, and
scoring well depends on shot making and finesse with accurate tee and approach shots. With a backdrop of the iconic Harbour Town Lighthouse overlooking Calibogue Sound, the 452-yard par four 18th has become one of the most recognized holes in golf. Birdies and eagles are not only found on the fairways and putting greens. You’ll also encounter hundreds of species of birds and a variety of animals and marine creatures, including the rare
HARBOUR LIGHTS
The Harbour Town Lighthouse with its distinctive alternating red and white bands marks the entrance of Harbour Town Yacht Basin and was constructed as more of a landmark than for navigational purposes. Visitors can climb to the top of the 93-foot structure for panoramic views of Calibogue Sound, and Daufuskie Island. FOR MORE INFORMATION
Please see this issue’s Departures Guide or log on to AAA.com/TravelPlanner for great vacation ideas from AAA Travel.
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MARCH 2013
How to avoid buying hurricane-damaged vehicles Superstorm Sandy cars set to flood used-car markets
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he National Insurance Crime Bureau estimates that 230,000 vehicles were damaged in the aftermath of Superstorm Sandy. Many were declared a “total loss” by their insurers and were crushed or sold at salvage auctions, ostensibly for spare parts. A vast number of these flood damaged vehicles will find their way back on the road. It is surprising how well a watersoaked car can be cleaned. Seats, carpets, headliners, and even electronic instruments and controls will often dry out and look fine. However, late model cars and trucks contain a lot of electronic equipment. Exposure to water can harm the delicate circuits and components found in many control systems. Everything may be working fine today, but corrosion and trapped grit may cause multiple failures later on. You may not live anywhere near a flood-affected area but there is a good chance flood damaged vehicles will soon be appearing on private for sales and car lots near you. Scam artists may also try and hide the fact that a vehicle was flooded or declared salvage by moving it from a salvage-title state to a clean-title state, a process known as “title washing.” From there, it may be sold several more times before finding its way to your driveway. To determine whether a car has been submerged in water, look for trac-
should probably walk away. Comprehensive Carfax vehicle history reports are also available at a special discounted rate to AAA members at AAA.com. A detailed history report can be generated on virtually any registered used vehicle in seconds and Carfax offers a $5,000 Clean Title History Guarantee. Beware of late model cars with prices that seem to good to be true. Any vehicle you are thinking of buying should be viewed with a healthy degree of skepticism and a keen eye for detail.
THINGS TO LOOK OUT FOR
AFTER THE FLOOD — Many flood-damaged vehicles will end up back on the road. es of mud in places where cleaning is difficult, such as under the dash, behind panels in the trunk or in corners where the hood, fenders, and cowl join together. Sometimes, mud can be found in the small openings of components such as the car’s alternator and starter motor. Another sign is excessive rust on unpainted metal surfaces, such as supports under the dash or console. Be wary of a strong air freshener scent in a
clean, late model car. It may be covering the smell of mold, which can linger long after a car has been submerged Before you purchase a used car check with the Department of Motor Vehicles to learn what your state’s laws are regarding re-titling used vehicles. You should always ask the seller if you can have a car inspected by a reputable auto technician such as those who participate in AAA’s Approved Auto Repair program. If the seller says no, then you
• Check all gauges on the dashboard to make sure they are accurate, and to look for signs of water; • Test the lights, windshield wipers, turn signals, cigarette lighter, radio, heater and air conditioner to make sure they work; • Check the trunk, glove compartment, and beneath the seats and dash for signs of mud, rust or water damage; • Look for discolored, faded or stained upholstery and carpeting. Carpeting that has been replaced may fit too loosely or does not match the interior color; • Check for a well-defined line, or watermark, and for musty odors resulting from mildew.
aroundtown TIBETAN TREASURES: THE REZK COLLECTION — (through May 11) The Rezk Collection is one of the major collections of Tibetan and Nepalese art in the United States with approximately seventy objects of Tibetan and Nepalese art spanning eight centuries. These artworks range from thangkas (scroll paintings) and block prints, to sculpture, and ceremonial and ritual pieces. Location: The Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art at Altoona, 1210 Eleventh Avenue. The museum is open to the public free of charge. Hours of operation are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 1 to 5 p.m. Saturdays. Contact: www. sama-art.org. NIGHT FEVER, ABBA AND BEE GEES TRIBUTE — (March 9)The Blair County Arts Foundation presents a tribute to Abba & The Bee Gees. This musical flashback features signature hits like “Dancing Queen,” “S.O.S.,” “Mamma Mia,” “You Should Be Dancing,” “Stayin’ Alive,” “Tragedy” and many more! Complete with authentic costumes, this high energy performance takes you back to the pop disco era! Tickets are $35 and the curtain goes up at 8:00 p.m. at the Mishler Theatre, 1208 12th Street, Altoona. Contact: 814.944.9434 or www. mishlertheatre.org.
THE ART AND SCIENCE OF FISH — (March 9) Can you identify Pennsylvania fish? Get to know your fish and how they are adapted for survival. You’ll even learn about an historical way of displaying your catch by turning them into works of art! The time is from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. with a $5.00 fee per participant. Location: Canoe Creek State Park, 205 Canoe Creek Road, Hollidaysburg. Contact: 814.696.6025 for more information. UNCORK THE ALLEGHENIES WINE FESTIVAL — (March 9) The 3rd Annual Uncork the Alleghenies Wine Festival is coming to the Blair County Convention Center with wine tastings, food pairings, specialty vendors, a photo booth, silent auction, live entertainment on the main stage and more. Please bring a designated driver if you plan on tasting the wine. Tickets are $20 advance and $25 at the door and $10 for designated drivers. The times are noon to 4:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the Blair County Convention Center, One Convention Center Drive, Altoona. CHARTER DAY — (March 10) The Pennsylvania Military Museum reopens to the public with free admission on this date to commemorate the granting of the
Charter from King Charles II to William Penn, who founded “Penn’s Woods” in 1681. Museum hours are Wednesday thru Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.; Sunday, noon to 4:00 p.m. Closed Mondays and Tuesdays. Open on all summer holidays. The Pennsylvania Military Museum is located at 602 Boalsburg Pike, Boalsburg, PA. Contact: 814.466.6263 or online at www.pamilmuseum.org. SPRING EASTER EGG HUNT — (March 30) The Friends of Prince Gallitzin State Park will be sponsoring their 6th annual Spring Easter Egg Hunt at Muskrat Beach 2. Kids will be broken in to different age categories and special prizes will be awarded to the lucky children who find prize eggs. The Easter Bunny will also be there for pictures. The time is from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Prince Gallitzin State Park, 966 Marina Road, Patton. Contact: 814.674.1000. MARTHA SPEAKS — (April 2) Martha was an ordinary dog until the day she ate a bowl full of alphabet soup and became literally outspoken! When she correctly answers a trivia question on a radio callin show, she wins an all-expensepaid family vacation. But when the official notice arrives, it contains Martha’s least favorite words: “No
dogs allowed!” Martha’s clever way with words saves the day in this doggone funny new musical based on the delightful Martha Speaks series of books and PBS Kids television series. The curtain goes up at 7:00 p.m. at the Mishler Theatre, 1208 12th Street, Altoona. Contact 814.944.9434 or www.mishlertheatre.org. BRAHMS SYMPHONY NO. 4 — (April 6) Brahms’ final symphony is rich in allusions and a masterpiece of compositional architecture. It will be paired with a one of a kind cello concerto by Brahms’ mentor Schumann, expertly performed by guest artist Ovidiu Marinescu, a conductor and cellist from Romania. The time is at 7:30 p.m. at the Mishler Theatre, 1208 12th Street, Altoona. Contact: 814.944.9434, or www.altoonasymphony.org. MUZZLELOADING AND GUNBUILDERS SHOW — (April 13- 14) Check out muzzleloading firearms, parts, powder horns, knives, hunting bags and associated accoutrements. If the old west calls to you, then Old Bedford Village is the place to be this weekend! Times are Saturday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; and Sunday 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Location: Old Bedford Village, 220 Sawblade Road, Bedford. Contact 814.623.1156 or www.oldbedfordvillage.com.
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