SEE PAGE 3
JAMESTOWN REGION
Vol. 60 No. 8
GET A $200 DICK’S SPORTING GOODS GIFT CARD! See page 6.
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
H
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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 6
Jackson Hole Snowmobile Adventure
Feb 8-14
JACKSON HOLE SNOWMOBILE ADVENTURE continues on page 6
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2013
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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
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AAA MOTORIST
Getting straight A’s in back-to-school traffic safety
Parents, children and motorists can all make streets safer
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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
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It’s not the device, it’s the distraction Jamestown Region Official publication of AAA East Central Published monthly (except bimonthly Aug./Sept., Nov./Dec.) by AAA East Central 111 West Fifth St., Jamestown NY 14701-5035 USPS 002-112 ISSN 0898-4158 Periodicals Postage Paid at Jamestown NY Postmaster: Send address changes to AAA Motorist Jamestown Region c/o AAA, 111 W. Fifth St., Jamestown NY 14701-5035 Subscription Rate: $1 included in Primary Membership dues. All others: $2/year.
Publisher.....................................James E. Lehman 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 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
New study confirms that hands-free is not risk-free By Richard Hamilton Chairman, AAA East Central 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
D
Richard Hamilton 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
membersonly
*ex officio **emeritus directors
Regional Board of Directors Susan V. Abdella, Gordon W. Black, Hans P.B. Christensen, Alison Churchill, Charles Heinz, Bradley E. Long, Dennis H. Lundberg, Samuel P. Price Jr., Philip E. Ruslink, John L. Sellstrom, Beverly Ungerer
Jamestown Office: 111 W. Fifth St. Jamestown NY 14701-5035 (716) 488-1981
Notice to AAA Members regarding AAA Insurance Services: Due to Statutory restrictions, AAA East Central is prohibited from offering products and services to AAA members residing in the State of New York.
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.
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.
Go play and get pumped with AAA Member Rewards Visa® Get $25 off theme park tickets and a $50 gas card
S
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.
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AAA MOTORIST
AAA MOTORIST
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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 (Buffalo–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.
Understanding today’s high-tech engines
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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.
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ew engine technologies used in the latest cars may require drivers to rethink car care so that they get the most from their engines. J.D. Power and Associates forecasts that in the next four years, the number of vehicles with gasoline direct injection engines (GDI) will more than triple. First used in the now legendary 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL, GDI engines can now be found in entrylevel models like the Hyundai Accent. Conventional port injected engines squirt fuel into a port just outside the cylinder where it is drawn into the combustion chamber by air. Direct injection technology places the fuel injector directly into the combustion chamber, allowing for greater power and efficiency. These direct fuel injectors are subject to much greater heat and pressure. With a standard port injector the pressure is around 40 psi. A direct-injection injector can easily reach 3,000 psi. They are also very sensitive to fuel quality, so it is more important to use high quality fuels and keep the filters clean. The main benefit of GDI is that lighter, smaller engines produce comparable power and performance while consuming less fuel and emitting less
CO2. The downside is that some direct injection engines are prone to carbon build-up on the valves, reducing fuel economy and performance. Eventually these deposits can dislodge and damage other components such as turbochargers and catalytic converters. With advanced engine technologies becoming more prevalent, car owners are looking for the best way to care for and maintain their cars. Shell surveyed 450 automotive mechanics from across the country to gather practical advice on how consumers can best care for their vehicles to increase longevity and protect performance. Here are some of their tips: • It may sound simple, but changing oil at manufacturer-suggested intervals is important. • The same is true when it comes to replacing essential fluids. Make sure it’s done on a timely basis by following your vehicle manufacturer’s recommendation. • Vehicle owners should always use the grade of gasoline recommended by the manufacturer. Cadillac’s 3.6 liter direct injected V6 engine for example, runs fine on regular fuel while, competing cars from Infiniti and Lexus, require premium.
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
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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!
AAA MOTORIST
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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!
JAMESTOWN . . . . . . . . . . .716-488-1981 LOCKPORT . . . . . . . . . . . . .716-434-2865 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.
DOUBLE DELIGHT FROM AAA & RCI!
2 vacations in 1
Nov 9-19 • AAA Member Rate: $1,699
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.
Italy’s Charming Hill Towns
Tuscan & Umbrian Countryside 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.
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 (Buffalo–Rome, Florence/Pisa–Buffalo), 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. AAA Member Choice Vacations© door-to-door transfer service not available on this departure.
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AAA MOTORIST
1-800-354-8761 AAA.com/travel
Member Benefits Exclusive Offers
GO WILD! Spectacular South Africa AAA MEMBER BENEFIT SAVE $200.00
APRIL 24–MAY 9 INCLUDES AAA TOUR MANAGER WITH YOU THROUGHOUT AFRICA!
PER PERSON
28 MEALS AAA MEMBER RATE $8,439
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 Buffalo, 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.
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
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1-800-354-8761 AAA.com/travel
Member Benefits Exclusive Offers
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.
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AAA MOTORIST
Travel to the hill towns of Umbria and Tuscany Following the road less traveled in Central Italy
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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
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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
PAGE 13
A summer road trip with all the Wright “stuff” Following the footsteps of America’s favorite architect
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lanning a family road trip this summer? Why settle for the same old beach run or theme park pilgrimage. Discover the genius of America’s favorite architect with attractions that are truly unique to America. Even if you don’t know a cupola from a pergola, chances are you know about Frank Lloyd Wright. The architect created some of the most visually striking buildings in the country, including the Guggenheim Museum in New York City, the Monona Terrace Civic Center in Madison, Wisconsin, and the SC Johnson campus in Racine. Through spring 2014, SC Johnson — known for products such as Windex, Ziploc and Glade — will feature “Usonia” a new, free exhibit at the company’s SC Johnson Gallery: At Home with Frank Lloyd Wright. Usonia is the term used to describe Wright’s vision for practical, yet beautiful homes for the middle-class. Usonian homes used less expensive, native construction materials, emphasized a strong visual connection between the interior and exterior, and used design to facilitate more energyefficient heating, cooling and lighting. Visitors can also tour also the SC Johnson campus, including the Wrightdesigned Administration Building. Constructed between 1936 and 1939, the building features Wright’s interpre-
HOUSE BEAUTIFUL — Fallingwater’s cantilevered design was inspired by pine branches. tation of the streamlined Art Deco style popular in the 1930s. Wright used over 200 different curved “Cherokee red” bricks to create the sweeping curves of the interior and exterior. Among the building’s most memorable features are the “bird-cage” elevators, and the white “lilly pad” columns in the Great Workroom. The Midwest is a bounty for Frank Lloyd Wright devotees, boasting numerous examples of his architectural genius. Taliesin in Spring Green,
Wisconsin was Wright’s summer home, and where he designed such masterpieces as the Guggenheim. Started in 1911, the home implemented some of Wright’s concepts about organic architecture, incorporating local limestone for chimneys, stone piers and sand from the nearby Wisconsin River in the stucco walls. Frederick C. Robie House in Chicago, is considered one of the most important buildings in American architecture. Completed in 1910, the house show-
cases Wright’s mastery of the Prairie style of construction and foreshadows his rise as the forefather of architectural modernism. A rich tapestry of buildings from architects like Louis Sullivan, Henry Hobson Richardson and Frank Lloyd Wright, give Buffalo an uncommon historical distinction. The Darwin D. Martin House, is one of the largest of Wright’s Prairie-style homes, with graceful sweeping lines and a spacious interior. Many architectural critics consider it to be one of Wright’s best works. Fallingwater is the supreme example of Frank Lloyd Wright’s concept of organic design, which promotes harmony between man and nature. The precariously placed masterpiece is perched above a waterfall on Bear Run, near Farmington, Pennsylvania. A poll of members of the American Institute of Architects voted it “the best all-time work of American architecture.” THE TOP TRAVEL TOOLS
AAA.com was recently named as Best Online Road-Trip Planner by ShopSmart magazine, from the publisher of Consumer Reports. Use the TripTik Travel Planner at AAA.com to map out your adventure, including points of interest, with round-trip directions, or explore the AAA TourBook guides, available through AAA offices and online at AAA.com.
Make your move with Penske Truck Rental Penske has some good advice for DIY movers
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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
Automotive engineers trading calipers for 3-D glasses Virtual reality projections bring Ford prototypes to life
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he room where Ford cars of tomorrow are fine-tuned appears slightly incongruous at first glance. Large white walls form a three-sided box with projectors throwing images on to each wall and the ceiling. Mounted in the middle is a dummy car interior. However, once you climb into the car seat and slip on 3-D glasses framed with motion detectors, the screens instantly melt into a hyper-realistic virtual world where you find yourself immersed in the computer-simulated interior of a new car. Ford Motor Company calls it Computer Automated Virtual Environment (CAVE) or 3-D CAVE and it has changed the way cars are designed and refined. Rather than building multiple real-world vehicle prototypes — a time-consuming and resource-intensive process — Ford uses the 3-D CAVE to test and refine thousands of details of new car designs from the size and position of a cup-holder to rear-window visibility. “We can now conjure up a car in the digital world, and then actually get in and experience it,” said Michael Wolf, a Ford virtual reality supervisor. “We still rely on the know-how and imagination of our prototype engineers to bring designs accurately to life, but now
windscreen wiper effectiveness on the Focus; to maximize roominess for rear passengers; and to minimize reflections that can affect the view through windows and of information displays. Realtime global illumination scenarios could allow engineers to analyze how interior lighting and reflections change through the course of the day and according to changing weather conditions. “The CAVE makes it so much quicker and easier to analyze designs,” said Wolf. “For example, to manufacture three different front pillar design examples and fit them to a prototype vehicle could take 10 days. The same project could be completed in just one or two days using our virtual reality simulator — and also saves physical resources.”
LIVING IN A CAVE — Ford uses the 3-D CAVE to test and refine thousands of details of new car designs. they have at their disposal a much more sophisticated tool to do so.” Engineers using the 3-D CAVES in Dearborn and Cologne, Germany, sit in a dummy car interior as vehicle 3-D simulations are projected onto the ceiling and three surrounding walls. Wearing special polarizing glasses and monitored by a motion-detecting infra-red system, they interact with the virtual vehicle by, for example, determining the reach to
rear view mirrors or to place bottles into door pockets. The CAVE uses an animated external environment with pedestrians and cyclists to help engineers assess visibility of the outside world from inside the car. It also enables engineers to access and compare at the push of a button multiple designs — including vehicle interiors produced by other manufacturers. Ford used the CAVE to optimize
$5; $3 for seniors on Friday; free for children under 14. Event runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day at the Chautauqua County Antique Equipment Assoc. Grounds, 4578 Cemetery Road, Stockton. For more information, call 716.595.3485 or visit www.ccaea.net. KC & THE SUNSHINE BAND AND THE VILLAGE PEOPLE — (August 23) What happens when the “Founder of the Dance Revolution” and the “Kings of Disco” share the stage? You get an evening of singing and dancing for the entire family! Tickets are $40 each, and seating is Concert starts at 8:15 p.m. at Chautauqua Institution Amphitheatre, 1 Ames Avenue, Chautauqua. For more information, visit www.ciweb. org or call the Box Office at 716.357.6250. FINDLEY LAKE HARVEST FESTIVAL — (August 30-September 1) Come celebrate Findley Lake’s biggest weekend! With live music, crafts, antiques, kids’ activities, fireworks and more - it’s fun and food for everyone. Free admission. Event location: around the Gazebo in downtown Findley Lake. For more information, visit www.findleylakeinfo.org. BEMUS BAY POPS LABOR DAY FINALE— (August 31) The 2013 Bemus Bay Summer Concert Series comes to an exciting end with two musical acts and a fireworks show.
Time Traveller, a Moody Blues tribute band, and Bemus Bay Pops Symphonic Orchestra unite for an unforgettable evening of music. The concert starts at 6:30 p.m. Event location: Bemus Bay Pops Floating Stage, 61 Lakeside Drive, Bemus Point. For more information, visit www.bemusbaypops.com. DUNKIRK HERITAGE FESTIVAL — (September 7-8) The Dunkirk Heritage Festival celebrates the many different heritages that make the City of Dunkirk so great. There will be food, music, crafts and displays representing various backgrounds, including Polish, Italian, Puerto Rican, Irish, German, African American and more. Event location: downtown Dunkirk. For more information, visit www.visitdunkirk.com. FESTIVAL OF GRAPES — (September 21-22) Celebrate the annual grape harvest with grape stomping, wine tasting, and delicious grape products for sale. There will also be live music, crafts, games, and a Grand Parade on Sunday with the Festival of Grapes Princess. Event location: the Village of Silver Creek. For more information, visit www.silvercreekny.com/grapefestival/. JAZZ AT CHAUTAUQUA — (September 19-22) Jazz at Chautauqua has become one of the foremost jazz festivals in the Northeast. More than 30 musicians will provide over
MORE 3-D
For those occasions when only a physical component will do, Ford uses 3-D printing to form complex shapes and designs that would previously have required many man-hours and resources to produce manually or through machining. FOR MORE INFORMATION
Visit AAA.com for information on all things automotive including tips on buying, operating and maintaining a vehicle.
aroundtown FENTON OLD-FASHIONED DAY — (August 10) Under the beautiful trees in Walnut Grove watch demonstrations or try your hand at old-time crafts. Learn about daily life in the 19th century. There will be many crafts and games for kids, a variety of food vendors, modern crafters, and much more. Free admission. Event runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Event location: Fenton History Center, 67 Washington St., Jamestown. For more information, call 716.664.6256 or visit www.fentonhistorycenter.org. AMERICA’S GRAPE COUNTRY WINE FESTIVAL — (August 10-11) Join artisan food producers, handmade craft vendors and wineries as they proudly display their wares at this festival. There will be plenty of live music with a headline concert by Emerson Drive. Event features wine sampling sales and educational wine seminar, so don’t forget your designated driver. Event location: Chautauqua County Fairgrounds, 1089 Central Avenue, Dunkirk. For more information, call 800.965.4800 or visit www.agcwinefestival.com. CHAUTAUQUA COUNTY ANTIQUE EQUIPMENT ASSOC. SHOW — (August 16-18) The 39th annual CCAEA show features a full weekend of antique farm equipment demonstrations, tractor pulls, gas engines, log hewing, flea market, food and so much more! Admission:
30 hours of music between Friday and Sunday afternoon. Some of the world’s most renowned mainstream jazz artists assemble for a weekend of memorable music celebrating the great composers of the 1920s to 1940s. Event location: Athenaeum Hotel, 3 South Lake Drive, Chautauqua. For more information, visit www.jazzatchq.com or call 877.426.8056. BLUE AND GRAY 2013 — (September 21-22) Members of the 9th Cavalry NY volunteers and the 155th NY Volunteers will be encamped at the Fenton Mansion and welcoming the community to learn about the Civil War and the life and times of the Union Soldier. Event runs Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Sunday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Event location: Fenton History Center, 67 Washington St., Jamestown. For more information, call 716.664.6256 or visit www.fentonhistorycenter.org. APPLE FESTIVAL —(September 29) Learn about pioneer life and celebrate the apple harvest at the Busti Apple Festival. Historical demonstrations include spinning and weaving, quilting, candle making and more. Bakery items will also be available for purchase. Event runs from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission: $3. Event location: Busti Historical Society, 3443 Lawson Road, Jamestown. For more information, visit www.townofbusti.com/apple.html.
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Self-driving cars may yield future safety benefits Active safety technology reduces human error
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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!
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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