Erie aug sept by AAA East Central

SEE PAGE 3

ERIE REGION

Vol. 14 No. 8

GET A $200 DICK’S SPORTING GOODS GIFT CARD! See page 14.

Discover & enjoy a

E C N E I R E P X PEAK E amid winter’s off-peak solitude!

They’re hot & cool: Unique vacations showcase US parklands of fire & ice

OT! aptly deOOL! is what scribes the most folks expopularity claim when of AAA’s Yelthey recall their experience of AAA’s lowstone in Winter escorted tour...as well Jackson Hole Snowas the park’s incredible mobile Adventure! natural phenomena Perhaps the only — geysers, mudpots thing that can beat and vents. You’ve seen the excitement and exhilaration of snowthem in photographs mobiling is snowmoor on TV, but seeing biling through the this national park’s natural splendor of iconic sights in person America’s mountaincan be a life-altering ous West around Jackand humbling experison Hole, Wyoming! ence. They’re not just Whether you’re a as good as you’ve imag- HOT-SELLING COOL EXPERIENCES — Each of ined; they’re better... these popular adventures reveals the splendors of novice or a seasoned and more so in winter! America’s West not seen at other times of the year. snowmobiler, this activity-filled vacation is It may be the best season to take in Yellowstone’s many natural won- for lovers of adventure and natural beauty. Stay 6 ders. Hordes of summer tourists disappear and, ex- nights in Jackson Hole, a truly Western town that’s cept for hibernating bears, wildlife viewing is at its the perfect jumping-off point for exploring Grand peak. The park’s a magical landscape of frozen wa- Teton and Yellowstone national parks. Enjoy guidterfalls and grazing bison under an incredible star ed snowmobile rides on 3 days, as well as a full day canopy. Rising steam clouds turn nearby aspens of snowcoach touring in Yellowstone and a full day in Jackson Hole to do as you wish. into “ghost trees” shrouded under a veil of frost. HOT also describes the $200 Dick’s Sporting Another COOL aspect of this trip is the $200 Goods gift card members get when they book & de- Dick’s Sporting Goods gift card members get when posit by Aug 31. Use it for hats, gloves, etc. they book & deposit by Aug 31. Use it for hats, Experience the solitude and splendor of this vast gloves, etc. winter wilderness for yourself. AAA’s 5-night adYour snowmobiling adventure starts with a ride venture kicks off in Salt Lake City, where seating in the Gros Ventre Mountain Range — a great ophas been arranged at Temple Square to hear the portunity to view wildlife. Follow trails framing Mormon Tabernacle Choir. A scenic drive brings Jackson Hole Valley and enjoy incredible views of you out of the Wasatch Mountains past Great the Tetons. Along the way, sightings of elk, deer, Salt Lake and Ogden, Utah’s original settlement. moose (almost always visible among the willows Entering Idaho, pass the doomed town of Rex- along the Gros Ventre River), coyote and bighorn burg, destroyed in 1976 when Teton Dam burst, sheep (on the slopes above you) are common. Eat and the Island Park Region, renowned for its trout lunch in a private homestead cabin accessible only

Yellowstone in Winter

Feb 1-6

YELLOWSTONE IN WINTER continues on page 14

Jackson Hole Snowmobile Adventure

Feb 8-14

JACKSON HOLE SNOWMOBILE ADVENTURE continues on page 14

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2013

AAA Discounts & Rewards on AAA.com

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

IT’S NOT THE DEVICE, IT’S THE DISTRACTION

AAA Discounts & 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 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.

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Add 3-Bureau Monitoring, Credit Score & ChildSecure.SM

Save with 2014 Enjoy® Coupon Book

AAA members can purchase the 2014 Enjoy® Coupon Book for $30.00, including shipping and handling. The book contains hundreds of “two-for-one” and “50% off” discounts on dining, sporting events, golf, theatres and much more. Discounts are valid thru November 1, 2014. Call 412.481.9460, Monday thru Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Mention “AAADIRECT” and $10.00 from the sale of each book will be donated to Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh’s Free Care Fund.

Say Aloha to Hawaii with Pleasant Holidays The Aloha State welcomes travelers with stunning beaches and swaying palms. And Pleasant Holidays makes Hawaii accessible to almost anyone with a full range of rental condominiums to fit every budget and taste. AAA members who book a Pleasant Holidays Hawaiian Condo vacation before August 31, 2013 will save with exclusive member level discounts. (New bookings only for travel between Sept.1, 2013 and March 31, 2014. Other restrictions apply). SEE PAGE 7

PAGE 2

AAA MOTORIST

Getting straight A’s in back-to-school traffic safety

Parents, children and motorists can all make streets safer

he new school year is about to begin and AAA East Central reminds motorists to slow down and watch out for school-age pedestrians. AAA’s annual School’s Open–Drive Carefully! campaign encourages motorists and students to be alert near school zones, bus stops, playgrounds and residential areas, especially during the times when children are coming to, and from school. Kids are vulnerable for several reasons: • They are small and less visible to motorists; • It is more difficult for children to judge traffic situations, because their peripheral vision is about one third narrower than an adult; • Children do not always possess the capability to make sound judgments; • Children can be easily distracted, especially when around other kids. In short, kids are not adults—and it’s up to drivers to compensate for these differences. AAA advises motorists to follow these safety tips: • Slow down near schools and in residential areas. A national survey of speeding in school zones found that two-thirds of drivers exceed the posted speed limit during the 30-minute period before and after school; • Drive with your headlights on during the day, so children and other drivers can see you; • Look for clues such as AAA School Safety Patrollers, school buses, bicycles and playgrounds that indicate

AAA DIRECTORY INTERNET WEB SITE: www.AAA.com AAA MEMBER SERVICES • ADDRESS CHANGE triptiks, tourbooks, maps, license 412-363-5100 or 1-800-441-5008 APPROVED AUTO REPAIR 412-365-7411 or 1-800-233-9733 EMERGENCY ROAD SERVICE 412-362-1900 or 1-800-222-4357 EXPRESS TRAVEL RESERVATIONS

airline tickets, tours, cruises, rental cars

412-363-7283 or 1-800-354-8761

INSURANCE SERVICES: 1-800-207-7947 MEDIA RELATIONS: 412-365-7157 PUBLIC AFFAIRS: 412-365-7242 AAA MOTORIST: 412-365-7017 SAFETY: 412-365-7211 TDD for the hearing-impaired: 412-363-7144

AAA BRANCH OFFICE LOCATIONS

BE CAREFUL OUT THERE — Children are small and less visible to motorists and can be easily distracted, especially around other kids. children could be in the area; • When backing out of a driveway or leaving a garage, watch out for children walking or bicycling to school; • Scan between parked cars and other objects for signs of children. The majority of child pedestrian fatalities occur at non-intersections. Contributing factors include a child’s tendency to dart into the street without looking for oncoming traffic; • Use extra caution in bad weather; • Understand the laws and obey them

when sharing the road with school buses. Learn the flashing signal light system school bus drivers use to alert motorists of pending actions: Yellow flashing lights indicate that the bus is preparing to stop to load or unload children. Motorists should slow down and prepare to stop their vehicles. Red flashing lights and extended stop arms indicate that the bus has stopped, and that children are getting on or off. Motorists must stop their vehicles and wait until the red lights stop flashing, the extended stop sign is withdrawn, and the bus begins moving before they can start driving again. Before children go back to school or start school for the first time, it is essential that adults and children know traffic safety rules. Teach your kids to be traffic-wise: • Keep away from parked cars, because it makes it difficult for approaching drivers to see you; • Never cross in the middle of the block; • Stop and look in all directions before crossing; • Listen to traffic helpers — safety patrollers and crossing guards are there to help you; • If there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic, in single file, as far away from the road as possible; • Be extra careful in bad weather — drivers may not see you; • Wear white or light-colored clothing after dark. Parents, kids and motorists alike working together to keep our streets and sidewalks safer means we all get straight A’s in back-to-school traffic safety. This year, the AAA School Safety Patrol is celebrating its 93rd anniversary. As the largest safety program in the world, the AAA School Safety Patrol equips students with the skills and resources needed to ensure children commute to, and from school safely. Today, the program includes over half a million members in 30,000 schools.

Altoona 1634 Valley View Blvd. ............................. 814-946-1277 Butler 138 Clearview Circle .................................... 724-287-2713 Cranberry The Village Shoppes, 20510 Rt. 19 .......... 724-772-1122 Erie 6660 Peach St. Unit #2 .............................. 814-866-0246 Franklin 102 Sugar Creek Town Center Rd. ........... 814-432-3960 Greensburg Eastgate Shopping Center 5142 Route 30, Suite 135 ......................... 724-834-8300 Grove City 24 Pine Grove Village Dr. .......................... 724-458-8930 Harborcreek 4430 Buffalo Rd. ........................................ 814-897-9508 Hermitage 1749 E. State St.......................................... 724-981-9141 Indiana 1169 Wayne Ave........................................ 724-349-4193 Jamestown (New York) 111 W. Fifth St., Jamestown, N.Y.. ........... 716-488-1981 Kittanning Franklin Village Mall. ............................... 724-543-1924 Lewisburg 530 1/2 North Derr Drive . ....................... 570-524-7455 Lower Burrell/New Kensington Area Crossroads Plaza 2503 Leechburg Rd.................................... 724-339-4440 McKean County (Bradford) 587 South Ave. .......................................... 814-368-3113 Meadville 18939 Park Avenue Plaza Unit #7 ............ 814-724-2247 New Castle 40 East St.................................................... 724-658-8551 Niagara-Orleans 7135 Rochester Rd, Lockport, NY. ............ 716-434-2865 Pittsburgh–Century III Area (Pleasant Hills) 9 Clairton Blvd. (RT 51). ........................... 412-655-6100 Pittsburgh–Downtown 538 Smithfield St. ...................................... 412-338-4300 Pittsburgh–East Liberty/Shadyside 5900 Baum Blvd. ........................................ 412-365-7196 Pittsburgh–Monroeville 2725 Mosside Blvd. .................................... 412-858-4640 Pittsburgh–North Hills Area (Ross Township) 4790 McKnight Rd. .................................... 412-367-7600 Pittsburgh–Robinson Township Robinson Town Centre 1760 Park Manor Blvd. ............................. 412-809-2800 Pittsburgh–South Hills Area (Bethel Park) 160 Ft. Couch Rd. ...................................... 412-833-5203 Rochester 300 Adams St. ............................................ 724-775-8000 St. Marys 1375 Bucktail Rd. ...................................... 814-834-7838 Somerset 110 N. Center Ave. .................................... 814-443-6526 Sunbury 1001 Market Street. .................................. 570-286-4507 Uniontown 111 W. Main St. ......................................... 724-438-8575 Warren 2285 Market St. ......................................... 814-723-6660 Washington 196 Murtland Ave. .................................... 724-222-3800 Waynesburg 184 Greene Plaza, US 21 & I-79 ................ 724-627-3434 White Oak/McKeesport Area Oak Park Mall, 2001 Lincoln Way ............ 412-675-3400

AAA MOTORIST

PAGE 3

It’s not the device, it’s the distraction Erie Region Official publication of the Erie Region of AAA East Central Published monthly (except bimonthly Aug./Sept., Nov./Dec.) by AAA East Central 6660 Peach St., Unit #2, Erie PA 16509-7710 814-866-0246 USPS 0178-440 ISSN 109-77554 Periodicals Postage Paid at Erie PA Postmaster: Send address changes to AAA Motorist Erie Region c/o AAA, 5900 Baum Blvd Pittsburgh PA 15206-3854 Subscription Rate: $1 included in Primary Membership dues. All others: $2/year.

Publisher.....................................James E. Lehman Managing Editor ............................Douglas O’Neil Editorial Office 5900 Baum Blvd, Pittsburgh PA 15206-3854 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 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, Carol Asam, Christian Asam, Jack A. Barkley, William E. Bierer**, Ellsworth T. Bowser**, Peter Burton, Marianne B. Campbell, Charles O. Casto, Michael A. Cochran, Daniel J. Collins Jr.**, Robert S. Collins, Robert H. Compton, James J. Dodaro, Jack G. Ellis, Floyd R. Ganassi**, Mona N. Generett, Charles W. Groce , Richard S. Hamilton, Mark Henschen, Luke Howe, Richard Kallenborn, Herbert G. Koenig, Mark S. Mansour, W. Duff McCrady, Martha Hartle Munsch, W. Lee Oswalt, III, Michael Parkes, John D. Petruso, Louis Pomerico, Leonard L. Scheinholtz**, James C. Stump, Jr., James F. Ward *ex officio **emeritus directors

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

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

Copyright ©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.

New study confirms that hands-free is not risk-free By David R. Poor President, Erie Region river distraction is not a recent phenomenon. It’s been around since 1903 when an inventor named Mary Anderson created the windshield wiper. Critics feared the rhythmic motion would lull drivers into a trance but by 1913, windshield wipers were standard equipment on most cars. Ten years ago, smart phones were rare; today about 234 million Americans use mobile devices. Now a brave, new world of integrated voice-driven communications is transforming your vehicle into a rolling portal for voice, data and social media. The challenge facing motorists, regulators and automakers, is thinking more intelligently about their benefits and risks. Educating motorists about responsible use will be crucial. Hands-free technologies have been shown to cause dangerous levels of cognitive distraction — even when drivers keep both hands on the wheel and their eyes on the road. A new study commissioned by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found that driver reaction time slows as the mental workload and distractions increase. Brain function is compromised and less time is spent scanning the road ahead. As a result, visual cues are missed and drivers may not see objects directly in front of them. University of Utah researcher David Strayer, a nationally recognized expert in cognitive distraction, used cameras, a “detection-response-task” device and

David R. Poor an electroencephalographic-configured skull cap to measure brainwaves, and eye movement to examine the mental workload on drivers attempting to multitask. Using established aviation psychology and performance metrics research protocols, drivers engaged in common behind-the-wheel tasks ranging from listening to an audio book or talking on the phone, to listening and responding to voice-activated emails. Voice-to-text devices for example, were found to be a greater driver distraction than talking on a hand held cell phone. His findings support a growing body of evidence that hands-free is not risk free. Increased mental workload and cognitive distractions can lead to a type of tunnel vision or “inattention

blindness” where motorists don’t see potential hazards directly in their path. Based on this research, which constitutes the most in-depth analysis to date of mental distractions behind the wheel, AAA wants to limit the use of voice-activated technology to core driving-related tasks until their effects are more clearly understood. In April, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), released distraction guidelines encouraging automobile manufacturers to limit the distraction risk connected to integrated, hands-free and voice-driven communications systems. The guidelines establish specific criteria for devices requiring drivers to take their hands off the wheel or eyes off the road. Among their recommendations are limiting the time a driver must take his or her eyes off the road to perform any task to two seconds at a time and twelve seconds total. Functions like text messaging and Internet browsing would be disabled unless the vehicle is stopped and in park. These guidelines are strictly voluntary, but carmakers almost always comply with them because they tend to signal the government’s intentions for future rule making. AAA wants lawmakers and industry to strike the right balance between high-tech innovation and public safety. Without a sophisticated understanding of seemingly helpful technological advances, we may find ourselves facing significant public safety issues down the road.

membersonly Go play and get pumped with AAA Member Rewards Visa® Get $25 off theme park tickets and a $50 gas card

ummer vacation season is in full swing, and one of the most important items to consider is your financial security. Whether you’re traveling at home or abroad, AAA Member Rewards Visa® provides extra protection and rewards that other payment options simply can’t match. And because you’re a AAA member, the AAA Member Rewards Visa® has no annual fee! And now when you get approved for a AAA Member Rewards Visa® credit card at your local AAA branch we’ll help you go play at your favorite theme park! Get $25 off theme park tickets purchased on the spot with your new credit card. Then get pumped with a $50 gas card after making at least $100 within the first 90 days (students not eligible). But hurry! This limited time offer expires August 31, 2013. With the AAA Member Rewards Visa® credit card you earn genuine rewards for the things you buy everyday. Use it to book your vacation and

you 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. There’s no maximum on the amount of cash back you can earn, and your rewards will be there for as long as your account remains open. Points can be redeemed for a AAA travel voucher good for your next vacation, including a cruise or tour package. Other travel related benefits include: • Travel and emergency assistance 24 hours a day, 365 days a year; • Car rental collision damage waiver; • Lost-luggage reimbursement; • Common carrier travel accident insurance, automatic travel accident death and dismemberment insurance, up to $500,000. Member Rewards benefits are not just limited to travel. Cardholders can redeem points for a variety of rewards, including:

Cash — Enjoy the freedom of choice with cash rewards–including the option to have cash deposited directly into your account. Gift Cards — Beginning at 3,500 points, the Member Rewards gift card collection provides a wide assortment of popular retailers, restaurants, and entertainment. Merchandise — Reward yourself with name-brand merchandise including electronics, sporting goods and more, starting at 2,500 points. AAA Approved Auto Repair — Make sure your car gets you where you’re going with vouchers for purchases at any AAA approved facility. Offer valid for AAA Member Rewards Visa credit card applicants approved at a AAA branch 7/1/13 to 8/31/13 only. Theme park tickets must be purchased with a new AAA Member Rewards Visa credit card account at time of approval to receive discount and $25 minimum purchase required. For information about the rates, fees, other costs and benefits associated with the use of the AAA Member Rewards Visa credit card, visit www.AAA.com/ creditcard.

PAGE 4

AAA MOTORIST

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AAA MOTORIST

Learning the ABC’s of insuring your home The importance of replacement cost vs. market value

o one is immune to the threat of losing their home due to any number of possible hazards. A recent survey found that most homeowners are seriously underinsured. Marshall & Swift/Boekch (MSB), a leading insurance data services company, found that 66 percent of homeowners had inadequate coverage by an average of 18 percent. That works out to $36,000 for a typical $200,000 home. While few people would willingly choose a policy with a $36,000 deductible, that is the net result of being underinsured. The market value of what your home would sell for is very different from the replacement cost coverage to properly insure the rebuilding of a home. Market value takes into consideration the land value, depreciation and other market factors while the replacement cost simply reflects the cost to rebuild a home. For example, identical homes in two different neighborhoods could have a significant difference in market value, but actually replacing those homes — rebuilding them in place using similar construction methods and materials — would essentially cost the same for both. Reviewing the features of your home with your agent is very important, as homes with features such as crown molding, hardwood floors and tile cost more to rebuild. The quality of kitch-

PROTECT YOUR INVESTMENT — Most homeowners are seriously underinunderin sured. (Photo Courtesy Blu Homes.) ens and bathrooms add significantly to rebuilding costs. These and other factors, including total square footage, determine the home’s replacement cost. This is the amount you should insure your house for; sometimes referred to as “Coverage A” in your homeowner’s policy. Separate structures or “Coverage B”, refers to any structure that is on your property, but not attached to your main house. Examples of separate structures include: • Detached garage

• Fence • Garden shed • Detached in-law unit • Retaining walls • Swimming pool • Outdoor kitchen Most homeowner policies automatically include separate Coverage B coverages that equals 10 percent of the amount of insurance on the main house (Coverage A). If the number and value of separate structures are significant, such as a detached living quarters, a separate valuation should be done for

each to determine if extra coverage is needed. Your homeowner’s policy will automatically include personal property coverage known as “Coverage C” that can equal 50 percent to 75 percent of the Coverage A amount. If you have higher value items, discuss an additional amount of coverage with your agent. Jewelry, guns, coins and computers, business typically have policy sublimits and also should be discussed with your agent. Be sure to take a detailed home inventory taking photographs and recording serial numbers. Knowing the value is part of good financial planning and risk management. What you are doing is protecting what you have as well as the investment in your home. Shortchanging yourself only creates problems when a claim occurs.

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.

AAA MOTORIST

Member Benefits • Exclusive Offers

PAGE 7

1-800-354-8761 • AAA.com/travel

Get more...for less than you may imagine

An incredible CONDO in Hawaii is a definite “CAN DO” at AAA, thanks to Pleasant Holidays

s it possible to improve upon perfection? The folks at AAA Travel think so. They can enhance your perfect vacation to America’s own slice of paradise by introducing you to the pleasures of staying in a condominium instead of a traditional hotel/motel room or bed & breakfast. Fully furnished condo accommodations can be the ultimate “interior” complement to your “exterior” experience of the Aloha State. While Mother Nature made Hawaii the spectacular outdoor setting it is, AAA and Pleasant Holidays can offer you an indoor environment worthy of such a location. What’s “more perfect” about a condo? Condos offer more benefits than other types of similarly or higher priced lodging. Many condos offer the physical comforts (cleanliness, comfort, decor) and personal services (daily housekeeping, room service, concierge) found in hotels, plus creature comforts that give you that intangible “home away from home” feeling — expanded living space, fully equipped kitchens and your own washer & dryer. And many condos even cost less per night than most hotels. A unique aspect of condos is living space; there’s a lot more of it. Couples or families traveling together can often share a multibedroom unit and split the costs. Separate from the bedroom(s), a condo’s ample living space affords opportunities for privacy as Book & deposit well as family by 8/31/13. togetherness. The see next page for details freedom to spread out is especially appreciated by families with children. While kids nap or play in a bedroom, adults can enjoy the separate living area. Multi-bedroom condos generally have more than one bathroom, often larger than their hotel counterparts. Closets and dressers larger than those in hotels allow you to fully unpack — no more piling luggage, shopping bags and shoes in a corner. All in all, at the end of each day, it’s like coming back to your own

MEMBERS SAVE!

Premier: $100 Plus: $75 Basic: $50

home, rather than to a cramped hotel room. Unlike hotels, condos usually feature fully equipped kitchens with dishes, glasses, flatware, cookware and full-size appliances. If you care to, you can prepare some of your meals and eat in your own dining area (or on the lanai, which most condos have). It’s a great way to economize. Forget about searching for a restaurant, making reservations, getting there, parking and tipping. Be as casual or as formal as you like. Make and serve only the foods you love. Linger around the table for as long as you like. Eat whenever you wish (24-hour access!). Even if you don’t cook, use the refrigerator for store-bought foods and the microwave or oven for restaurant leftovers. Condo kitchens save you time and money. The convenience of having a washer & dryer in your condo allows you to bring fewer clothes and easily freshen them during your stay (without having to find and pay a dry-cleaner). Imagine returning home and not having to wash your clothes! The 4 Hawaiian condos described here are located on the waterfront (3 are beachfront) and feature fully equipped kitchens, daily housekeeping service and laundry facilities (3 inside the condos); they represent just a few of the many Pleasant Holidays properties you can research and book on AAA.com.

Oahu — The Gathering Place Waikiki’s only beachfront condominiums, the studio and 1-bedroom units at Castle Waikiki Shore offer stunning panoramic views of one of the world’s most famous beaches. Step right onto the white sandy beach, or stroll to nearby shops, restaurants and nightspots. Or just relax on your lanai. Amenities include CD/DVD/MP3 players, grocery delivery service, kids’ program, lanais and laundry facilities. Maui — The Valley Isle Kaanapali Alii’s beachfront 1- and 2-bedroom suites will appeal to friends on vacation and families. These air-conditioned condos amid the great hotels of Kaanapali Resort near Whalers Village and Lahaina offer spacious living in elegantly furnished surroundings. Amenities include a private oversize continued on next page

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AAA MOTORIST

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

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

An incredible condo in Hawaii? AAA can do! continued from previous page

lanai/balcony, kitchen, CD/DVD player, washer/dryer, grocery delivery service, kids’ program, nightly entertainment, pool/Jacuzzi®, tennis, inroom wi-fi, wired internet, fitness center, daily maid service, BBQ facilities, among many others.

Kauai — The Garden Isle Named in the “Top 10 Most Romantic Getaways” by USA Today, the oceanfront Castle Poipu Shores lies within the world-famous Poipu Beach Resort area on the Garden Isle’s sunny south shore. Find your lounge chair on the sun deck and watch the blue surf crash into black lava rock. Choose from 1- and 2-bedroom condominium suites. All are individually decorated with beautiful island-style furnishings and artwork. They’re spacious, with breathtaking ocean views and private lanais. Fullyequipped kitchens, washer/dryer, highspeed internet connection and a list of other amenities make life even easier at your Kauai accomodations. If you want exercise, Poipu Beach Resort offers tennis, golf, mountain biking and horseback riding right nearby. Afterward, explore nearby Poipu Shopping Village or historic Koloa Town for dozens of Kauai restaurant options from local favorites to fine dining. Hawaii — The Big Island Mauna Lani Point is a gated community that sits on 19 oceanfront

acres of the Kohala Coast and overlooks the special signature hole of a championship golf course. Each spacious and graciously appointed unit features amenities and services such as air conditioning, kitchen, lanai/ balcony, CD/DVD player, daily maid service, pool/Jacuzzi®, wired internet, golf, BBQ facilities and grocery delivery service. Golf lovers will revel in challenging play at the Francis H I’i Brown North & South courses, featuring a magnificent scenic backdrop of emerald-green fairways contrasted against black fields of lava. The perfect Hawaiian condo is the one that best fits your travel budget & style and enhances the rest of your vacation experience outside your accommodations. Stay on one island for your entire vacation...or combine stays on 2 or more islands. All of the tools necessary to book your condo, air tickets, rental cars and even optional excursions & activities can be found at AAA.com. What could be more perfect?

DON’T MISS THE BOAT: MEMBERS SAVE 1 OF 3 WAYS! Premier: $100 • Plus: $75 • Basic: $50 PER ROOM...NEW BOOKINGS ONLY

Valid on air-inclusive Pleasant Holidays condo vacations of 5 nights or more for travel between 9/1/13 & 3/31/14. Book & deposit through 8/31/13!

CONVENIENT MOTORCOACH CRUISING FROM PITTSBURGH Avoid potential airport hassles. Motorcoach to your cruise! Park for free, then relax & ride AAA’s convenient “Cruise Express” motorcoach to Baltimore to board Grandeur of the Seas! 2014 CARIBBEAN Jan 21-31 • from $1,029

San Juan, Puerto Rico Tortola, British Virgin Islands Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas USVI Philipsburg, St Maarten 5 full days at sea

2014 BERMUDA May 23-30 • from $1,225

2014 BERMUDA Oct 10-16 • from $885

King’s Wharf, Bermuda 3 full days at sea

King’s Wharf, Bermuda 2 full days at sea

2014 NEW ENGLAND & CANADA Oct 16-24 • from $1,076

2013 CARIBBEAN Nov 26–Dec 6 • from $1,082

2014 CARIBBEAN Feb 18-28 • from $1,132

2014 BAHAMAS June 27–July 4 • from $1,244

Labadee, Haiti; San Juan, Puerto Rico Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas USVI Philipsburg, St Maarten 5 full days at sea

Port Canaveral, Florida CocoCay, Bahamas Nassau, Bahamas 3 full days at sea

2013 CARIBBEAN Dec 14-24 • from $1,024

2014 CARIBBEAN March 18-28* • from $1,132

2014 BAHAMAS Aug 8-15 • from $1,144

2014 CARIBBEAN Nov 11-21 • from $1,094

Basseterre, St Kitts Tortola, British Virgin Islands San Juan, Puerto Rico; Labadee, Haiti 5 full days at sea

Labadee, Haiti; San Juan, Puerto Rico Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas USVI Philipsburg, St Maarten 5 full days at sea

Port Canaveral, Florida CocoCay, Bahamas Nassau, Bahamas 3 full days at sea

Labadee, Haiti; San Juan, Puerto Rico Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas USVI Philipsburg, St Maarten 5 full days at sea

Portland & Bar Harbor, Maine Saint John, New Brunswick Halifax, Nova Scotia 3 full days at sea

AAA MEMBER RATES are per person (double occupancy), are subject to availability at time of booking and include roundtrip motorcoach transportation, cruise accommodations/entertainment, most onboard meals and government fees. Ship’s registry: Bahamas. Visit AAA.com/motorcruise for itinerary details & Western Pennsylvania pick-up points.

*WEST VIRGINIA MOTORCOACH from Morgantown & Bridgeport available for the March 18, 2014, departure.

DON’T MISS THE BOAT — VISIT AAA.COM / MOTORCRUISE

AAA MOTORIST

PAGE 9

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

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers Edinburgh • Spean Bridge Woolen Mill • Loch Ness cruise • Highland evening • Culloden Battlefield • Blair Athol Whickey Distillery • Edinburgh Castle • Ferry to Northern Ireland • Belfast: Titanic Center • Dublin: Book of Kells, canal dinner cruise • Rock of Cashel • Blarney Castle & Woolen Mills • Killarney: “jaunting car” • Ring of Kerry • Skellig Experience • Sneem • Moll’s Gap • River Shannon ferry • Cliffs of Moher (pictured) • Medieval banquet • AND MORE!

Italy’s Charming Hill Towns

Tuscan & Umbrian Countryside

Nov 9-19 • AAA Member Rate: $1,699

mcv Take the road less traveled

Cincin! Rome • Orvieto • Spoleto Bevagna • Montefalco Assisi • Florence • Siena Monteriggioni • Volterra San Gimignano • Montalone Feb 28–March 10 AAA Member Rate: $4,249

These are included! • Cooking class in a 16th- century Umbrian farmhouse • Home-cooked meal with a local family in Umbria • Sample local sausage, wine & cheese in a hill town, the “Balcony of Umbria” • The Guarnacci, 1 of the most famous Etruscan museums

Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip flights (Pittsburgh–Rome, Florence/Pisa–Pittsburgh), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, hotel luggage handling (1 per person), 16 meals, air & hotel taxes (subject to change) and in-Italy guide. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details. Visit AAA.com/GoItaly for details.

PROGRAM OPERATED BY CIE TOURS INTERNATIONAL

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.

Catch the ALOHA SPIRIT AAA’s special 9-night Hawaiian vacation features a 2-night pre-cruise stay in Honolulu, a tour of the USS Arizona Memorial and a 7-night Pride of America cruise featuring 4 islands (Oahu, Maui, Hawaii & Kauai).

Jan 9-18: from $1,705 Jan 30–Feb 8: from $1,809 Feb 27–March 8: from $1,809 Rates are per person (double occupancy), are subject to 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.

PAGE 10

AAA MOTORIST

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

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers 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 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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. 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.

DOUBLE DELIGHT FROM AAA & RCI!

2 vacations in 1 Travel B uc k et Li st Cru ise the Car ibb ean's exo tic isle s... and "do it in sty le"!

AAA has just what you’re looking for! Join Pittsburgh tv & radio personality BILL CARDILLE for an out-of-the-ordinary eral 14-night cruise vacation that combines sev ones: lesser visited islands with more popular OS ARUBA • CURACAO • GRENADA • BARBAD THOMAS ST LUCIA • ANTIGUA • ST MAARTEN • ST

sh and luxurious Best of all, you'll do it all aboard the styli Celebrity Eclipse. You’ll enjoy dinner 1 night in a specialty restaurant (2 guests per stateroom), martini tasting vouchers (2 per stateroom) and an onboard cocktail party!

Feb 22–March 8 AAA Member Rate: from $2,190 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: Malta. Ask about available add-on airfare.

New Orleans

Western Caribbean

3 DAYS / 2 NIGHTS

8-DAY / 7-NIGHT CRUISE

City tour, including Katrina-impacted sites Mississippi River cruise on the steamboat Natchez Louisiana swampboat tour Mardi Gras World Demonstration & dinner at the New Orleans School of Cooking

Serenade of the Seas $25.00 per person onboard credit Cozumel, Mexico George Town, Grand Cayman Falmouth, Jamaica 3 full days at sea

MARCH 27–APRIL 5 • AAA MEMBER RATE: from $1,499 Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip airport/hotel/pier transfers, 2-night hotel accommodations/taxes/service charge/baggage handling (1 piece per person), 5 meals (on land), cruise accommodations/entertainment, most onboard meals, government fees and services of a AAA Tour Manager (if minimum-participation goal is met). Ship’s registry: Bahamas. Visit AAA.com/travel for more details. Ask about available add-on airfare.

AAA MOTORIST

PAGE 11

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

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

Big Ben

GO WILD!

PIGSKIN SkyscrapSe& rS

Spectacular South Africa

& the

steelers

Big apple in The

AAA MEMBER BENEFIT SAVE $200.00 PER PERSON

APRIL 24–MAY 9 INCLUDES AAA TOUR MANAGER WITH YOU THROUGHOUT AFRICA! 28 MEALS AAA MEMBER RATE $8,439

STEELERS vs JETS Oct 12-14 • AAA Member Rate: $899

Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability and includes roundtrip motorcoach from Pittsburgh, a reserved-seating football game ticket, 2-night hotel accommodations in Midtown Manhattan, The Ride (a unique interactive multimedia motorcoach touring experience), Top of the Rock (Rockefeller Center’s observation deck), a pre-game cocktail and the services of a AAA Tour Manager. Single, triple and quad rates available. Visit AAA.com/Steelers for motorcoach pickup points and itinerary details.

Johannesburg • Soweto • Blyde River Canyon • 3 Rondavels • Bourke’s Luck Potholes • Kruger National Park • Port Elizabeth • Knysna • Oudtshoorn • Stellenbosch • Cape Winelands • Cape Town • Victoria Falls • Zambezi Cruise Before-discount rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability and includes roundtrip flights from Pittsburgh, roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, sightseeing per itinerary, accommodations, in-country guide, meals as indicated, government taxes/fees and AAA Tour Manager (if minimumparticipation goal is met). Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details. Visit AAA.com/GoAfrica for complete itinerary and important pre-travel information. AAA Member Choice Vacations© door-to-door transfer service not available on this departure.

Feel like a local at friendly pubs full of the craic — Ireland’s unique mix of news, gossip, fun, entertainment and enjoyable conversation!

&Folk

Irish Pub

April 25–May 4 AAA Member Rate $1,499

Tour

Tour Dublin, taking in St Stephen’s Green, Georgian squares, O’Connell Street, Famine Memorial and more. Visit the Guinness Storehouse and enjoy a pint of Ireland’s beverage. • Meet the owners of a working beef/sheep/horse farm. Enjoy tea & scones and learn about country living. • Tour medieval Kilkenny, then explore it some more on your own. • Visit the House of Waterford Crystal; watch craftsmen transform molten glass into elegant tableware. • Climb Blarney Castle’s ramparts to kiss the “Stone of Eloquence.” • Browse or shop at Blarney Woolen Mills...or visit a pub instead! • Circumnavigate the spectacularly scenic Dingle Peninsula and sample the local brew at Dingle Brewing Company. • Sit down to dinner & traditional entertainment (including step-dancing) in Kate Kearney’s Cottage in Killarney. • Ferry across the Shannnon to view the Cliffs of Moher. • Stop in Galway on the way to Connemara’s hills, lakes and open country. • Overnight in attractive Westport. • Cross over to Achill Island and see the Deserted Village (remains of nearly 100 stone cottages abandoned around the time of the Famine). • Tour Kilbeggan Distillery and enjoy an Irish coffee. • Enjoy storytelling at Dublin’s oldest pub, the Brazen Head. • Spend a full day on your own in Dublin, utilizing your included vouchers for an open-top bus tour and a visit to the Old Jameson Distillery.

"Sláinte!" Cheers!

Includes roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, motorcoach sightseeing, itinerary attraction admissions, local taxes, hotel service charges & baggage handling (1 bag per person), walking-tour audio headsets, 15 meals (including Kate Kearney’s Cottage Irish Night, “Food, Folk & Fairies” dinner show at Brazen Head Pub and 3 table d’hote dinners) and in-Ireland professional guide & driver. Ask about available add-on airfare.

PAGE 12

AAA MOTORIST

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

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

RACE INTO AAA FOR YOUR FREE TURBO PLUSH TOY!

Watch Turbo from DreamWorks Animation and there’s a good chance you’ll be caught up in the tale of an ordinary character with extraordinary dreams. In the case of Turbo, now in theaters, it’s a lowly garden snail with visions of racing in the Indianapolis 500. AAA Travel is all about dreams too — including making vacation dreams to“America’s Vacation Capital” (Orlando, Florida) come true. Complete & clip the coupon below; bring it your local AAA Travel Agent, who will prepare a FREE quote on an Orlando getaway package that suits your interests, travel style and budget. In return, you’ll get a FREE Turbo plush toy for the little speedster in your life!

And you can get a FREE Turbo plush toy with any Orlando vacation quote!

Hurry in: Turbo offer ends 8/31/13. NAME (PLEASE PRINT LEGIBLY)

STREET ADDRESS

CITY

STATE

ZIP CODE

DAYTIME TELEPHONE NUMBER (WITH AREA CODE)

EMAIL ADDRESS

AAA AGENT (OFFICE USE ONLY)

ACTUAL SIZE: APPROX 9" X 11"

WHILE SUPPLIES LAST. ONE PER HOUSEHOLD.

AAA MOTORIST

PAGE 13

1-800-354-8761 AAA.com/travel LEAVE YOUR CAR AT HOME!

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.

l l a C t Las ! l l a F for Niagara & Beyond: Sept 22-25 AAA Member Rate: $459

Stay in the heart of Niagara Falls, Canada, and tour the falls area, Welland Canal, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Toronto and more! 6 meals.

Pennsylvania Grand Canyon: Oct 3-4 AAA Member Rate: $375

Enjoy northwest Pennsylvania’s spectacular foliage and natural landmarks from the comfort of a motorcoach, aboard the Tioga Central Railroad and even on a horse-drawn covered wagon! 3 meals.

Rail to Rail in West Virginia: Oct 9-11 AAA Member Rate: $509

Two scenic railroad excursions are the highlight of this fun-filled fall adventure that also features resort lodging, Blackwater Falls, an entertaining Branson-style show & more. 6 meals.

Gettysburg Address Commemoration: Nov 17-19 AAA Member Rate: $499

Attend a moving re-enactment of Gettysburg’s 1863 Soldiers National Cemetery dedication and a reading of President Abraham Lincoln’s historic address. Attend the 150th anniversary of these events, which include a prominent keynote speaker (to be announced); past speakers have included Harry S Truman, Adlai Stevenson, Sam Donaldson, Sandra Day O’Connor, Ken Burns and Steven Spielberg. Also included are visits to the Military Park Visitor Center, dinner at Dobbin Tavern, guided 2-hour battlefield tour, living history presentation featuring “Abe Lincoln,” the Hall of Presidents & First Ladies and more. 5 meals.

1-DAY FUN-DAY TOURS!

Lights & Sights along the Lake: Sept 30 Member Rate: $139

Ò HAPPY HOLIDAYSÓ TOURS Holidays in Branson MO

Nov 13-18 • AAA Member Rate: $1,099

Enjoy the “Live Music Show Capital of the World” as it puts on its holiday best at 5 included holiday shows. IncludeTitanic Exhibit, Branson Lights tour, Fantastic Caverns, Indianapolis Motor Speedway, 9 meals & more.

Biltmore & Smoky Mountain Christmas Dec 2-6 • AAA Member Rate: $905

Tap your toes at holiday shows in Pigeon Forge TN: “Country Tonite” & “Christmas at the Opry.” Experience the splendor of Asheville NC’s Biltmore Estate at an exclusive on-premises dinner and on 2 guided tours (1 candlelit, 1 behind-the-scenes). 8 meals.

Christmas Shows of Lancaster & Hershey Dec 4-6 • AAA Member Rate: $525

Learn about the holiday traditions of Pennsylvania’s Amish Dutch. See “The First Noel,” “Christmas in Chocolatetown” and “Miracle of Christmas.” Enjoy the drivethrough Sweet Lights display, the National Christmas Center and shopping. 6 meals.

Oglebay Lights

Dec 5 • AAA Member Rate: $115

Begin your holiday season countdown with a jaunt to Wheeling’s Oglebay Resort for its famed 6-mile-long Festival of Lights. Also enjoy a dinner show in Wilson Lodge, the Oglebay Institute’s Glass Museum, Hilltop Shops, model railroad & more. 1 meal.

Grand Illumination & Virginia Plantations Dec 6-10 • AAA Member Rate: $965

History & holidays convene in colonial Williamsburg’s unique spectacle of candlelight, bonfires & fireworks; stay on-site and savor a tavern dinner. Enjoy a light display during an overnight in Richmond. See 3 plantations, Yankee Candle Co, Jamestown Settlement, a Newport News light display, Christmastown at Busch Gardens. 7 meals.

Ohio Country Christmas Dec 7 • AAA Member Rate: $145

Escape to Ohio’s Amish country for delicious homemade specialties, handmade gift items and warm hospitality — with take-home gifts from a variety of stops! 1 meal.

Greenbrier Holiday Grandeur Dec 9-11 • AAA Member Rate: $795

Delight in the elegance of one of America’s finest resorts, in White Sulphur Springs WV. Enjoy tasteful accommodations, superb cuisine and countless amenities. 4 meals.

Pittsburgh Holiday Houses of Worship Dec 10 • AAA Member Rate: $89

Explore Lake Erie’s picturesque shoreline, charming Dunkirk, 2 lighthouses, a waterfront luncheon, the Boardwalk Market and more. 1 meal.

Step inside and enoy some of the city’s most impressive churches & buildings, with lunch at the equally impressive Church Brew Works. An annual sell-out! 1 meal.

Western Maryland Rail & More: Oct 17 AAA Member Rate: $159

Mansions of NY & Newport at Christmas

Enjoy the views from the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad on your ride from Cumberland to Frostburg. Visit the site of Fort Cumberland and an Underground Railroad “stop.” 2 meals.

A-haunting We Will Go!: Oct 26 AAA Member Rate: $129

This “spooky” eastern Ohio excursion features a guided Lisbon Cemetery & Funeral Walk and a riding tour of Spruceville Ghost Town. 1 meal.

Dec 13-18 • AAA Member Rate: $1,215

Visit 6 of the most famous and opulent homes in New York’s Hudson River Valley and in Newport RI (America’s Yachting Capital). Tour the State Capitol building on an overnight at a PA country inn. Tour the US Military Academy at West Point. Enjoy upscale historic lodging throughout the tour. 10 meals.

New York City Holiday

Dec 16-18 • AAA Member Rate: $645

Get a holiday taste of the Big Apple; enjoy guided touring, a hotel a stone’s throw from Times Square, a city lights tour with an Upper West Side dinner, orchestra seating at Radio City’s “Christmas Spectacular” featuring the Rockettes. 1 meal.

PAGE 14

AAA MOTORIST

Yellowstone in Winter

Jackson Hole Snowmobile Adventure

continued from page 1

fishing. Cross over Targhee Pass into Montana and the park gateway town of West Yellowstone. Since most park roads close in winter, luxury snowcoaches are the way to go. Relax in a warm, comfortable cabin while seasoned guides share their knowledge as you glimpse Yellowstone’s wildlife. “A huge ram,” noted one past passenger, “was lying on a ledge looking straight down; it seemed like he was staring right at us!” You may even get into a “buffalo jam” when a herd decides the snow is too deep and the easiest way to travel is on a plowed road! See Firehole Falls, a spectacle of color and motion that emerges from 800-footthick lava flows, send up clouds of mist, giving birth to dozens of rainbows. Marvel at Old Faithful, the park’s most celebrated geyser, erupting about every 90 minutes, spewing 3,700-8,400 gallons of boiling water in an unforgettable towering plume that can reach 180 feet high. Follow the 42-mile Teton Park Scenic Loop linking Yellowstone with Grand Teton National Park to the south, where the Teton Range erupts like a row of dragon’s teeth over Jackson Hole. Now you’ve got a choice: Wildlife lovers will not want to miss the National

Elk Refuge, where a horse-drawn sleigh by snowmobile. brings you into a sprawling valley where Travel through Grand Teton Nathousands of elk gather for their winter tional Park on your way to a full day range. “They weren’t frightened, and of snowcoach touring in Yellowstone we drove right up to them,” said one National Park. Relax in the comfort guest. “We took wonderful photos; and and warmth of your customized snow the money is used to feed the elk.” This vehicle as you visit Lewis Falls, Lewis is followed by the National Museum of Canyon, West Thumb and Old FaithWildlife Art, a stunning collection of ful. After witnessing an eruption and 2,300 original works. exploring on your own Or, for an additional at Old Faithful, return Get a $200.00 fee, opt to enjoy a fullby snowcoach to West day snowmobile tour Thumb and out the Dick’s Sporting into the mountains to park’s south entrance Goods Gift Card Granite Hot Springs; back to Jackson Hole. for all-weather gear! after being the trail, Enjoy a full day on relax in soothing wayour own to explore Book & deposit ters amid snowcovered Jackson Hole has to ofby 8/31/13. peaks and enjoy a barfer. Your guide can as1 PER ROOM becue lunch. sist with arrangements On your last full day, for optional activities journey into rugged Snake River Can(more snowmobiling, skiing at Jackson yon, surrounded by soaring peaks. Near Hole Ski Resort, cross-country skiing, Park City in Utah, “go for the gold” on dog sledding, snow shoeing, etc), or you a tour of the site of the 2002 Winter can explore the shops, restaurants and Olympics, cradled in the embrace of galleries in this iconic Western town. the Wasatch Mountains. That evening, Then experience the beauty and soliyou’ll be welcomed back to civilization tude of the remote Grey’s River area with a farewell dinner in Salt Lake City. south of Jackson Hole. Your tour takes This “hot” adventure always sells out you up into the Wyoming Range for unfast; call AAA Travel at 1-800-354-8761! forgettable scenery and exciting snow-

continued from page 1

mobiling in snow fields at the base of these mountain giants. Take a break at midday and enjoy a hot lunch at the secluded Box Y Lodge. Be sure to bring your swimsuit, because you’re in for a real treat — a fullday snowmobile tour in the mountains east of Jackson with Granite Hot Springs as your destination. After following an easy 11-mile groomed Forest Service trail, relax and soothe your muscles by soaking in the 106-degree natural hot spring waters and enjoying a poolside barbecue lunch, all the while surrounded by majestic snowcovered mountains. It’s an experience to remember! Don’t miss this “cool” adventure; call AAA Travel at 1-800-354-8761!

SNOWCOACHING

Feb 1-6 • AAA Member Rate: $2,085

Feb 8-14 • AAA Member Rate: $1,865

Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip flights (Pittsburgh–Salt Lake City), airport/hotel transfers, luggage handling (1 bag per person), accommodations, motorcoach sightseeing & admissions (as indicated), 9 meals, services of a AAA Tour Manager (if minimum-participation goal is met), taxes, gratuities for guide & driver. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details. Visit AAA.com for more information.

Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, 10 meals, entrance fees (parks/attractions/ activities), 3 days of guided snowmobile touring with instruction, all necessary equipment (helmet, gloves, snowsuit, boots, etc), 1-day guided snowcoach Yellowstone tour, tips for bellmen & included meals. Minimum age to operate snowmobiles in the National Forest is 14; must be accompanied by a parent. Ask about available add-on airfare. Visit AAA.com for more information.

where will

[ YOUR SAVINGS ] take you?

Whether you’re saving for that special vacation, a rainy day or a brighter tomorrow — count on AAA Deposits to help you achieve your goals. Online Savings Account Earn over 5x the National Savings Average1

0.70%

APY2

For Money Market Balances under $100,000 As of 07/16/2013

Money Market Account Convenient cash access with a competitive rate

Open an account today!

AAA.com/Deposits See all our current rates

CD and IRA CDs Preferred Member Rates on 12-, 24- and 60-month CDs 1-800-347-7056 U.S.-based Banking Specialists available 24/7

Mention offer code: A120415

National Average APYs based on specified product types of top 50 U.S. banks (ranked by total deposits) provided by Informa Research Services, Inc. as of 07/16/2013. Although the information provided by Informa Research Services, Inc has been obtained from the various institutions, the accuracy of this information cannot be guaranteed.

Annual Percentage Yield (APY). APY applies to personal accounts only. Advertised Money Market Account rate is valid as of 07/16/2013 and subject to change daily without notice. Rate may change after account is opened. Fees could reduce earnings on the account. Money Market Discover Bank rate increases to 0.80% for balances over $100,000. Money Market Accounts must have an average daily balance of at least $1,500 beginning on the third statement cycle; otherwise, a monthly minimum balance fee will be charged.

No Street Signs? No Mile Markers? No Problem. AAA members have another reason to feel safer on the road. If you need roadside assistance and call from your GPS-enabled mobile phone, AAA will rescue you – even if you aren’t sure where you are. When you call for help, AAA and AT&T or Sprint location-based technology will work together to find you, so AAA can get to you as quickly as possible. Activate the FREE AAA FindMeSM service today by going to AAA.com/FindMe. Any vehicle. Anytime. Anywhere.

Recreated PMS

AAA MOTORIST

PAGE 15

Self-driving cars may yield future safety benefits Active safety technology reduces human error

he emergence of self-driving cars is one of the most important advances in automotive technology. Autonomous cars can dramatically increase safety because they could in theory eliminate human error caused by distractions. They also could offer expanded mobility options for people who cannot drive, due to age or medical conditions. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recently released a new policy on vehicle automation. In a non-binding recommendation, NHTSA said that while semiautonomous features could save lives, driverless cars should not be permitted on the roads, except for the purpose of testing. NHTSA defined five levels of automation from No-Automation (Level 0) to Full Self-Driving Automation (Level 4) where the driver will provide destination or navigation input, but is not expected to be available for control at any time during the trip. NHTSA says it has no current plans to prescribe technical regulations about how self-driving cars should perform, calling this kind of regulation “premature” — for now. The report also includes guidelines and recommendations for states related to licensing, testing and regulation of autonomous or self-driving vehicles.

NO HANDS — This autonomous Audi TTS successfully made the grueling climb up Pikes Peak. NHTSA has been conducting research on a broad range of crash avoidance technologies such as electronic stability control systems, lane departure and forward collision warning systems. The agency has identified three main areas of focus in support of more advanced automated systems: Human Factors Research — Developing requirements for the driver-vehicleinterface (DVI) systems to ensure that drivers will be able to safely transition from automated to non-automated vehicle operation.

Electronic Control System Safety — Support the agency’s development of appropriate safety standards. The agency will also continue research on cyber security, with the goal of developing an initial baseline set of requirements. System Performance Requirements — Development of any potential technical requirements for automated vehicles. “The path outlined by NHTSA should help provide guidance for the industry and policy-makers to facilitate responsible deployment,” said Brian Newbacher, director of public affairs for

AAA East Central. “AAA will work to help motorists understand these technologies, their potential benefits and responsible use as this technology is further developed,” he added. Some experts predict cars with limited self-driving capability could be on the road as early as 2020, but many carmakers say their goal is not necessarily a car that drives itself, but one that enhances the skills of the driver. AAA supports continued advancement in computer, global positioning services (GPS), communication, and vehicle technologies leading to the development, testing, and use of vehicles capable of supplementing driver control. “Self-driving cars have been a visionfor decades,” notes Newbacher, “but it will be a major paradigm shift for our transportation system if they finally arrive.” TICKETING A DRIVERLESS CAR

State laws providing for the regulation of autonomous vehicles have been adopted in three states (California, Florida, and Nevada) and D.C. In 2013, similar legislation has been considered in at least 13 additional states. These laws typically define ‘autonomous vehicles’ and create a legal, safety, and/or liability framework for the testing and operation of the technology.

Protect Your Identity FREE! As one of America’s fastest-growing crimes, identity theft is cause for concern. That’s why we’re introducing a whole new level of protection exclusively for AAA Members!

tart protecting yourself today with ProtectMyID® Essential, a complimentary gift just for AAA members that includes Daily Credit Monitoring of your Experian® Report, your current Credit Report, Lost Wallet Protection and Fraud Resolution Support. Or, gain an additional layer of protection when you upgrade to ProtectMyID Deluxe, the most robust protection against identity theft that helps you rest easier with a variety of advanced tools: • Comprehensive Daily Monitoring checks all three national credit bureaus—Experian, Equifax® and TransUnion®— for new credit cards, loans, delinquent payments and more. • Experian Credit Report and Score lets you review your personal credit information to catch inaccuracies, potential fraud and suspicious activity even sooner. • Lost Wallet Protection helps cancel and reorder lost or stolen credit, debit and medical insurance cards minimizing losses associated with identity theft.

FACTS:

Identity fraud affected 12.6 million consumers in 2012 or 5.26% of U.S. adults, according to Javelin Strategy & Research, a California firm that studied identity theft threats. Having increased by 50%, from 0.82% of all adults in 2011 to 1.22% in 2012, New Account Fraud (NAF) poses a growing threat to consumer identities. Monitoring of credit reports can help detect many of these cases, as 57% of NAF cases involved the establishment of new general-use and store-branded credit cards.

• ChildSecureSM Closely monitors children’s personal information, and alerts you if someone applies for credit or opens credit accounts in their names. • Dedicated Fraud Resolution Support Highly-trained agents are available to walk you through each step of resolving identity theft—from beginning to end. Start protecting yourself today with the special members-only price of just $8.95 a month. To register for your FREE subscription to ProtectMyID® Essential or to upgrade to ProtectMyID Deluxe simply go to AAA.com/ProtectMyID or call 1-877-440-6943.

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AAA MOTORIST

Travel to the hill towns of Umbria and Tuscany Following the road less traveled in Central Italy

nown as the “green heart of Italy,” Umbria’s many charms derive from its effortless fusion of art and nature. Olive groves and vineyards meander up rolling green hills studded with cypress, and hill towns glow golden in the evening sun. The ancient Etruscan town of Orvieto, with its famous Duomo, is a masterpiece of Italian Gothic architecture. St. Patrick’s Well, a 203-foot-deep marvel of medieval engineering, was built for a pope. It features two spiral staircases that wind around the well yet never intersect, with 248 steps down to the water. Visitors can take a fascinating tour of the Underground City, a labyrinth of caves and tunnels buried deep beneath the town. Like most Umbrian towns, Spoleto clings to a rocky promontory in the foothills of the Apennines. The town is dominated by the imposing Rocca Albornoziana — a former papal fortress and prison — that can be seen from anywhere in town. Diners will want to sample the Umbrian black truffles and sausages that this region is famous for. Mystical Assisi is perched among the clouds of Mount Subasio. Much loved by St. Francis, the town is still enclosed by medieval ramparts. St. Francis’ Basilica is renowned for its fresco paintings depicting the life of the patron saint of animals.

Torre Grossa, the tallest remaining tower, which looks down over the vineyards and poppy fields of the Elsa Valley. Siena is best known for Il Palio, the frenzied horse race that takes place each year in the shell-shaped Piazza del Campo. It’s also one of Italy’s most well preserved medieval towns, filled with fine examples of Gothic architecture and surrounded by the vineyards of Chianti. The breathtaking views from the Torre del Mangia, are unchanged from the days when they were painted by Renaissance masters.

IF YOU GO

THE MEDIEVAL MANHATTAN — San Gimignano is known as the town of beautiful towers. Traveling from Umbria through southern Tuscany brings you to Florence, one of the world’s great historic cities. The jewel of the Italian Renaissance is crowned by the Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore, known locally as Il Duomo. Giotto’s 14th century Campanile is said to be the most beautiful bell-tower in the world. Michelangelo’s David stood for centuries in the Piazza Signoria, Florence’s town hall since 1322. A copy now occupies the same location, while the origi-

nal has been safely moved indoors. San Gimignano, known as the “town of beautiful towers,” was built on the ruins of an ancient Etruscan settlement. Located about 35 miles south of Florence, E.M. Forster used it as the model for the fictional town of Monteriano in his 1905 novel, “Where Angels Fear to Tread.” Video gamers will recognize it as the locale for Assassin’s Creed. Seventytwo medieval towers once dominated the scenic walled city, and fourteen are still standing. Visitors can climb the

AAA Travel’s Umbrian & Tuscan Countryside tour departs February 28, 2014. Highlights of this 11-day AAA Member Choice Vacation include Rome, Orvieto, Spoleto, Bevagna, Montefalco, Assisi, Florence, Siena, Monteriggioni, Volterra, San Gimignano, a cooking class, olive oil factory and winery tours, and a home-hosted dinner. Tour includes roundtrip air, motorcoach transportation, accommodations, 16-meals, sightseeing per the itinerary and hotel taxes, baggage handling and in-Italy guide. FOR MORE INFORMATION

Please see this issue’s Departures Guide or visit AAA.com/vacations for more European escorted vacation ideas.

Royal Caribbean cruises from the Crescent City Let the good times roll aboard Serenade of the Seas

ultry, precocious and cool, New Orleans is as gaudy and appealing as a string of Mardi Gras beads. A wildly improvised serenade of sights, sounds and tastes where legends seem to collect like driftwood along the levees. Visitors can revel amid the Old World charm of the French Quarter, or explore the leafy Garden District on a streetcar named Desire. Andrew Jackson’s statue presides over Jackson Square, underneath the shadow of St. Louis Basilica, the country’s oldest cathedral. Framing the square are the red brick Pontalba apartments constructed around 1850, and trimmed with delicate, filigree cast iron balconies. Bourbon Street is the carnival that never leaves town, where the spirit of Mardi Gras permeates the raucous clubs and bars 365-days a year. Just one block over, Royal Street is much more sedate, housing many of the city’s upscale restaurants and boutiques. New Orleans is the birthplace of jazz and the best spots for live music are on Frenchmen Street in the Faubourg Marigny neighborhood just below the lower edge of the Quarter. The Big Easy has added another moniker in recent years: cruise destination. The Port of New Orleans not only offers a convenient and affordable departure point, it’s also a great place for a pre or post cruise vacation. Royal Caribbean’s Serenade of the Seas

1769 it maintains much of its historical patrimony. Visitors can choose between a variety of shore excursion options in both Ocho Rios and Montego Bay, or take a romantic banana boat ride on the Martha Brae River. Stingray City is the Cayman Islands’ most popular attraction. Spellbound visitors wade in less than four feet of water, while scores of rays perform a spectacular underwater ballet around your feet. Grand Cayman’s famed Seven Mile Beach begins just north of George Town and runs the length of West Bay Road. On the more remote stretches, the only footprints in the sand will be your own.

IF YOU GO

FRENCH QUARTER — Jackson Square, underneath the shadow of St. Louis Basilica. will offer seven-night Western Caribbean itineraries from New Orleans from December, through April 2014, visiting Cozumel, Mexico; Falmouth, Jamaica; and George Town, Grand Cayman. With nearly three acres of exterior glass the newly renovated Serenade of the Seas was designed to bring the sea, sun and coastal scenery indoors. Serenade also offers an impressive span of activities, including Royal Caribbean’s signature rock-climbing wall, a sports

deck and a Solarium pool. Located about twelve miles off the coast of Cancun. Cozumel is known as the Aquarium of the Modern World, famous for its spectacular coral formations and exceptional water clarity. The temperate seas, silky sand beaches and verdant jungle appear to be unchanged since they were ruled by the Mayan empire more than 1,000 years ago. Falmouth is often compared with Colonial Williamsburg. Founded in

Join AAA Travel for a 3-day/2-night New Orleans adventure followed by a 7-night Western Caribbean cruise aboard Royal Caribbean’s Serenade of the Seas. Highlights of the March 27-April 5, 2014 cruise/tour includes a Louisiana swamp boat tour, Mardi Gras World, and a Mississippi River cruise on the steamboat Natchez. Ask about available add-on airfare. FOR MORE INFORMATION

Please see this issue’s Departures Guide or log on to AAA.com/travel for special values on New Orleans and Royal Caribbean cruise vacations.

AAA MOTORIST

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Walt Disney World Resort gears up for fall fun Princess Fairytale Hall among new Magic Kingdom attractions

s the weather cools down this fall, entertainment at Walt Disney World Resort heats up with new experiences offering guests a chance to marked by festivals, special events and other nonstop fun. Here’s a look at what’s in store. The 18th annual Epcot International Food & Wine Festival kicks off September 27 and runs until November 11. More than 270 Disney chefs and culinary stars from across the country will participate in this epicurean extravaganza. The 46-day culinary event — named one of the “Best Food and Wine Festivals” on the Travel Channel website — also rocks the park with top musical acts like the Go-Gos, Smash Mouth and 38 Special during daily Eat to the Beat! pop concerts. Traditional flavors with a twist will pair with beers, meads and Scotch at the new Scotland Marketplace, while in Future World, the iconic Ocean Spray Cranberry Bog will return for a third year to introduce families to the cranberry’s rich agricultural heritage. Authentic Taste seminars, HGTV home-entertaining presentations and most event experiences are included with regular Epcot admission. Visitors can also book special festival programs like Mixology Seminars, Culinary Demonstrations and the Party for the Senses grand tasting events. Princess Fairytale Hall will be the

BOGGED DOWN — The Ocean Spray Cranberry Bog is returning to the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival. new home for Disney princesses to meet their loyal subjects in the Magic Kingdom. The castle-like entrance will feature walls of stone and stained glass windows opening up into a large gallery — an airy space with a high ceiling — where portraits of the Disney princesses adorn the walls. A Fall 2013 opening is slated for Princess Fairytale Hall as the largest expansion project in the history of Magic Kingdom continues.

When it’s time for their royal audience, guests will proceed to one of four elegantly finished chambers to meet their favorite Disney princess. Each chamber accommodates up to two Disney princesses. The Seven Dwarfs Mine Train will join the New Fantasyland lineup of fun in 2014. This fall, the Magic Kingdom plays host to the ultimate trick-or-treating neighborhood as Mickey’s Not-So-Scary

Halloween Party returns for twenty three special nights from September 10 to November 1. Entertainment features the twice nightly “Mickey’s Boo-To-You Halloween Parade,” led by the infamous Headless Horseman, followed by “HalloWishes,” a green and orange fireworks display complete with a rogue’s gallery of Disney villains. The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror at Disney’s Hollywood Studios always welcomes “drop-ins” with even more pulse-racing surprises and unexpected frights for guests who step into that infamous service elevator — if they dare. Also, guests won’t want to miss their Disney characters dressed in their Halloween best. Not to be left out, guests are invited to dress up in favorite Halloween costumes for trick or treating and more from 7:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. for 23 select nights.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

AAA members receive special lodging programs at selected hotels, preferred parking at the theme parks when they purchase a select AAA vacation package or pre-purchase select theme park tickets at AAA. See your AAA Travel Agent or log on to AAA.com/Disney for special member values on Disney Vacations.

Make your move with Penske Truck Rental Penske has some good advice for DIY movers

ew jobs, new relationships, going off to college — these are just a few reasons people have for moving. Millions of Americans move every year and most are pleasantly surprised at how much they can save by moving themselves. If you’re planning a move this year, Penske, which has been renting out moving trucks to do-it-yourselfers for more than 40 years, offers some advice. For most moves, a moving truck is a must. Even if you’re just moving across town, multiple trips can be exhausting — not to mention the gas you’ll use. Reserve your truck at least two weeks in advance of moving day — Penske guarantees a truck for every reservation. A 12- or 16-foot truck works for moving a few large items or the contents of a small condo or apartment. For guidance on larger moves and which truck to choose, visit www.PenskeTruckRental. com. Pack in increments. Start early to avoid the stress of last-minute rushing. It’s OK to leave a box open in case you need something you’ve packed inside it; it’s much easier to tape a box shut on moving day than it is to pack at the last moment. Buy sturdy boxes in a variety of sizes, along with foam and bubble wrap to protect fragile items. You’ll also need a

create a sturdy base, then start stacking on top. Moving trucks are taller, wider and heavier than the passenger vehicles and require more distance to stop. Be extra careful driving your moving truck, especially after it’s loaded. Be aware of low-hanging tree branches and building overhangs, and use caution when cornering. Finally, create a travel bag for moving day and keep important paperwork, credit cards, identification, a change of clothes, beverages and snacks close at hand. Do-it-yourself movers can pick up a free moving guide at any Penske Truck Rental location, which now includes more than 430 Home Depot stores or find more moving tips at www. PenskeTruckRental.com.

HANDLE WITH CARE — Penske Truck Rental offers do-it-yourself movers cost-effective, safe and stress-free moves. good supply of packing tape and markers for sealing and labeling boxes. Make sure you have moving blankets and hand trucks on moving day to make the process easier. Purge before packing. It’s much easier to throw away, donate, sell or give away items that you don’t need than it is to pack them and move them. As a rule of thumb, if you haven’t used something

in the past 12 months — or it’s still packed in a box from the last time you moved — you can probably get rid of it. Label boxes as you pack. First, list the room that the contents belong in, and, if necessary, a few details such as “glass,” “fragile” or “dishes.” As you load the truck, try to keep boxes from each room grouped together. Load the heaviest items onto the truck first to

MEMBERS SAVE UP TO 20%

Whether you need a truck for moving across the country or down the street, Penske Truck Rental offers significant savings for AAA members. Save 12% on one-way & local truck rentals and 12% off moving supplies and accessories. Offer only applicable to daily fixed rate and any mileage charges. Book online and save up to 20% on one-way rentals at PenskeTruckRental.com.

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AAA MOTORIST

Can your car take the heat this summer? How to help your cooling system keeps its cool

ost of us are aware of the rigors of winter driving, but there’s a natural tendency to slack off during the summer. To ensure your car keeps its cool you’ll want to understand a few things about what keeps a vehicle working optimally in the heat. Regular service is important to keep your cooling system in top operating condition. Coolant — Maintaining the proper engine coolant level is vital. If the fluid level is low, allow the vehicle to cool completely, then slowly add a 50-50 mix of coolant and water to the reservoir to bring it up to its proper level. Coolant’s active ingredient is glycol, which is toxic to people, pets, wildlife and groundwater, so clean up any coolant spills or radiator boil-overs. Over time, coolant can become contaminated, so the system should be flushed and replenished periodically as recommended by the manufacturer. Coolant should also be tested yearly for acid content Radiator — Check for any leaks or corrosion in or on the radiator. Radiator hoses and connections should also be examined for leaks. Clamps that may have become loose should be tightened or replaced. Check under the cap of your radiator for crystallized residue formed around the top or on the cap. It’s a sign of restricted air-flow that may lead to overheating. If the rubber seal on the

nectors. If the ends are soft and feel mushy, or are cracked or ballooning they should be replaced. Any cracks from decay in the hoses in your airconditioning compressor could spell trouble. Oily substances found near the joints where the hoses meet parts indicate a leak. Even the smallest leak at a joint can shut down your air-conditioning system. Refrigerant — If your A/C system freezes or cycles on and off repeatedly it may be low on refrigerant due to a leak. Leaks should be fixed immediately, because if the system continues to run, it can damage the compressor. Air conditioning repairs are best left to professionals who have the specialized equipment. It is also illegal to release refrigerant into the air. HFC-134a, the most common refrigerant, is a greenhouse gas about 1,400 times as potent as carbon dioxide.

PLAY IT COOL — Summer temperatures can shorten the life of virtually every key engine part. radiator cap is damaged, the cap should be replaced. Never check the radiator or coolant when the engine is hot. Serpentine Belts — Over time, contaminants like road grit, salt and water, along with slight misalignments result in wear of the belt’s rib surface. Excessive wear leads to increasing slip that can

cause belt squeal, reduce performance of the alternator, water pump, A/C or power steering and can damage these critical components. If the belt breaks, the vehicle will lose all of its peripheral devices. Hoses — Most hoses fail from the inside out. Squeeze hoses near the con-

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Visit www.AAA.com to locate the AAA Approved Auto Repair facility nearest you. Approved Auto Repair facilities also can be quickly found using the AAA Mobile app, a free download for iPhone and Android at the AAA Mobile solutions page at AAA.com/mobile.

aroundtown INTERNATIONAL CLOWN DAY – (August 10) Celebrate International Clown Day at the Erie Zoo with the Erie Jolly Jesters. There will be face painting, contests, clown parade and fun for all. The time is from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Erie Zoo, 423 West 38th Street, Erie. Contact: 814-864-4093. CELEBRATE ERIE — (August 15-18) Celebrate Erie is a four-day summer street festival held in downtown Erie. The event features free access to local art museums, displays and demonstrations from local artists, street vendors, and entertainment and activities designed to encourage the arts. This year’s musical performers include Bret Michaels and Lonestar. For more information, visit www.celebrateerie.com. BLOCK PARTY — (August 22, 29) Go dancing in the streets in downtown Erie with live music, and outdoor cafés on Thursday nights for the Bud Light Block Parties. Streets will be closed to traffic from 7:00 p.m. to midnight for the festivities. Contact: 814-455-3743. OLD TIME COUNTRY MUSIC FESTIVAL & COUNTRY FAIR — (August 24-25) A celebration of bluegrass, folk and American music and dance. There will be musical workshops, along with a petting zoo, more than

UNDER SAIL — See the Flagship Niagara and other ships at the Tall Ships festival in Erie. Photo courtesy of VisitErie. 60 craft and food vendors and more. Event location: Crook Farm, 476 Seward Avenue, Bradford. Admission: $4; free for children under 12. For more information, visit www.bradfordlandmark.org. AVIATION GALA & OPEN HOUSE WEEKEND — (August 24-25) View of variety of classic and modern cars and planes. There will be a charity plane pull, a visit by the Tuskegee Airmen, food and craft vendors, and more. Free admission and parking. Event runs Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Event location: Erie International Airport, Tom Ridge Field, Erie. For more information, visit www.erieairshow.com. ERIE COUNTY FAIR — (August 26-31) The Erie County Fair features

everything from midway rides to wine tasting to magic shows. The fair’s big concert this year features Emerson Drive and Craig Campbell on Thursday, August 29. Event location: 13993 Route 8 & 89, Wattsburg. For more information, visit www. wattsburgeriecountyfair. com. WATERFORD COMMUNITY FAIR – (September 2-7) Features children’s activities, entertainment, music, rides, commercial vendors selling their wares, a wide variety of food and attractions. Waterford Community Fairgrounds, 13012 South Route 19, Waterford. For more information visit www.waterfordfairpa.org. TALL SHIPS ERIE — (September 5-8) Come see nine tall ships from around the world at this incredible four-day event. Tour the ships, or watch the amazing Parade of Sail. Events take place on the Port of Erie. There will also be live entertainment throughout the event. For more information, visit www.flagshipniagara.org. EDINBORO HIGHLAND GAMES & FESTIVAL — (September 6-8) Experience a wide variety of music at several venues, the haunting sounds of pipe bands, food, athletics, dance, kids games and an array

vendors. Traditional Highland Games competition on Saturday. Event location: Edinboro University and downtown Edinboro. For more information, visit www.edinboro. edu/events/highlandgames. “SPAMALOT” — (September 12October 5, select dates) Full of medieval merriment and based on the cult classic Monty Python and the Holy Grail, the Tony awardwinning musical retells the legend of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table. Featuring a bevy of beautiful show girls, cows, killer rabbits, and French people, this ‘no-holds-barred smash hit’ raises silliness to an art form. Event location: Erie Playhouse, 13 West 10th Street, Erie. For more information showtimes and tickets, visit www. erieplayhouse.org. NORTH EAST WINEFEST — (September 27-29) Part street fair, part arts festival, part music festival, part harvest festival, today’s WineFest hosts an average of 20,000 visitors from Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Ontario, and beyond who come to sample the best wines from the North East region. Event locations: North East’s Gibson, Gravel Pit and Heard Harvest Parks. For more information, visit www.nechamber.org.

AAA MOTORIST

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AAA MOTORIST