Jamestown nov 2015 by AAA East Central

SEE PAGE 3

JAMESTOWN REGION

Vol. 62 No. 10

LIMITED-TIME PERKS FROM AAA TRAVEL

Get a Visa® gift card (up to $400 in time for ‘Black Friday’ shopping) and onboard credit of up to $400!

RIVER CRUISING 2016 HURRY: Good only through Nov 16!

Viking River Cruises: Exploring the World in Comfort ®

Enjoy unique access to the world’s great cities & regions beyond them

ne of today’s fastest growing “currents” in travel is river cruising — an exceptional touring experience that takes you to (and into) a place in a way that no other cruise can, by docking in the very heart of your destination. Because most river ships host fewer than 200 guests, your vacation is intimate, humanscaled and personal. River cruising, especially with AAA travel partner Viking River Cruises, is simultaneously relaxing, exciting and even educational — in the most enjoyable way. And between now and Nov 16, AAA and Viking® offer perks unavailable on other river lines: Get a Visa® gift card valued at up to $400.00 per stateroom (double occupancy) PLUS onboard credit of up to $400.00 per stateroom (double occupancy) on a new 2016 booking with nonrefundable deposit! (Number of nights determines the actual value of your perks.) You’ll receive your gift card in time for November’s Black Friday sales...and enjoy your onboard credit when you board your river cruise ship in 2016! Because of river cruising’s increasing popularity and smaller-size ships (compared

to ocean-cruising ships), you must book as early as possible. SUPER SLEEK VESSELS Viking’s deluxe river cruise ships glide in style through picturesque valleys peppered with historic castles, verdant vineyards and charming villages and into inviting cities that traditional ocean cruises can’t reach. These elegantly appointed vessels never feel crowded, greatly enhancing your onboard experience. Soak up the never-ending panoply of life unfolding before and beside you; it’s a mesmerizing, relaxing and thoroughly enjoyable way to see the world. Plus, you’ll unpack just once in your elegantly appointed boutique stateroom featuring sumptuous bedding, as well as a stylish bathroom with gleaming fixtures. Vast open-air top decks allow 360-degree views of passing scenery. Large windows and French balconies permit private viewing from the comfort of your stateroom just feet above the river’s placid and serene waters. In 2016, Viking will add 7 new ships to its award-winning fleet; its 6 new Viking Longships® feature river cruising’s first-ever true suite: 2 full-size rooms

with a full-size veranda and French balcony. Cruise Critic chose the entire Viking Longship fleet as 2012’s “Best River Cruise Ship,” the first time the award’s been presented to an entire class of ship! GREAT CITIES, GREAT SIGHTS On an ocean cruise, the ship is often the destination; though elegant, river vessels allow you to better experience a destination rather than being the destination itself. Throughout history, great cities grew along waterways — Paris/Seine, London/Thames, Budapest/Danube. Today, cities continue to embrace the arteries along which they sprouted, and their true hearts are revealed on and around their banks. Witness the timeless connection and interaction between city and river from a watery perspective — landmarks hugging shorelines, vessels ferrying folks from bank to bank, bridges soaring and arcing overhead, couples snuggling on overlooks. Your “floating hotel” docks right in the heart of downtown areas or within easy walking distance; great location and ease of access mean a better cultural experience. continued on page 8

NOV./DEC. 2015 Get Mobilized with the AAA Mobile App

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

ENJOY EFFORTLESS SAVINGS AT AAA DISCOUNTS & REWARDS

AAA Mobile is beautifully responsive and optimized to look and work great on your IOS or Android device. Use it to access Roadside Assistance, and more, all from one integrated app. Our new Service Tracker function takes the anxiety out of waiting for assistance. The app estimates the truck’s arrival time, letting you know when help will arrive. Watch in real time as the responding service vehicle makes its way to you. Members can track the progress of their road service request from the AAA Mobile app regardless of where the request was placed — through the app or the call center. AAA Mobile also makes the perfect travel companion for people on the go. In addition to roadside assistance key features include: • Convenient trip planning with interactive maps and turn-by-turn directions; • Exclusive member discounts at over 164,000 locations; • Mobile battery quotes and instant replacement; (where available) • Locate the AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities and AAA branches nearest you, no matter where you are; • Research and book AAA Diamond Rated hotels; • Find electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. AAA Mobile delivers the total mobile member experience. For more information or to download the AAA Mobile app, visit the AAA Mobile Solutions page at AAA.com/Mobile.

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

Holiday Branch Closures AAA East Central branch offices will be closed on Thursday, Nov. 26 and Friday, Nov. 27 in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday. The Member Service call center will be open on Nov. 27 to assist members from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. at 1-800-441-5008. Branch locations will be open until noon on Christmas Eve and will be closed on Christmas Day, resuming regular business hours on Dec. 26.

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

“Come–From-Away” to Newfoundland Affectionately known as the Rock, Newfoundland is so far east that it occupies its own time zone. Flat-topped mountains hover over spectacular hanging valleys, iceberg-filled fjords and ancient Viking settlements. AAA Travel’s “Wonders of Newfoundland,” June 9-20, 2016, is packed with 12 days of natural wonders, history, culture and Canada’s friendliest people. Book and deposit by Nov. 30, 2015 and enjoy member-level savings of up to $675 per booking. SEE PAGE 9.

PAGE 2

AAA MOTORIST

AAA Memberships are perfect for giving and receiving Finding the right gift is easier for almost anyone on your list

earching for the perfect gift for that persnickety someone on your list? A AAA membership is much more than quality Emergency Roadside Assistance alone. Members are entitled to thousands of discounts from everyday shopping needs to dream vacations. It’s a gift that always fits and never goes out of style, and the AAA membership card is always with you and your loved ones. If you’re shopping for someone who’s always on the go, AAA’s mobile membership feature grants them access to their membership card directly from their phones, request road service with a few taps of a finger and allows them to search for nearby discounts wherever their location. Looking for a great gift for someone close to home, like a son or daughter who just started to drive, or made the move to college? If they are between the ages of 16 and 18 and reside with the primary member (or are enrolled as a full-time student), a Junior Associate Membership is free! Plus, a regular associate membership costs only $25 (or $33 for AAA Plus) per member per year for anyone older than 18 who lives with the primary member. Save some cash for the other gifts on their wish list, without them missing out on any of the perks being a member has to offer.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

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

airline tickets, tours, cruises, rental cars

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

INSURANCE SERVICES: 1-800-207-7947 MEDIA RELATIONS: 412-365-7274 SAFETY: 412-365-7211 TDD for the hearing-impaired: 412-363-7144

AAA BRANCH OFFICE LOCATIONS

THE GIFT THAT LASTS — AAA membership truly is a gift that keeps on giving all year long. They can save big throughout the year on movie tickets, apparel, concert and amusement park tickets and so much more online and in stores. Help an avid traveler reach his or her next destination this holiday season with the gift of travel discounts that are worth far more than the cost of a yearly membership. AAA membership truly is a gift that keeps on giving. With savings on luggage, Hertz rental cars, lodging, vacations, tours and cruises you can satisfy even the most severe wanderlust.

EXPERIENCE THE PREMIER ADVANTAGE

Premier takes your AAA membership to the next level with access to new services and benefits that will give you added peace of mind whether you are at home or on the road. AAA Premier has many added privileges, including all of these exciting services and benefits: • Expanded Emergency Roadside Assistance, including one tow of up to 200 miles to the destination of your choice. • Up to $150 Locksmith and $100 Home Lockout service. • One–Day Complimentary Rental Car when your car is towed in conjunction with AAA covered tow. • 24-hour Concierge Service. • Free delivery of emergency gas, plus the fuel is also free.

PLUS MUCH MORE! To upgrade your membership, call or visit your local AAA office or AAA.com, or call the Member Service Center at

1-800-441-5008

Membership isn’t just a gift for your loved ones, but it also gives you peace of mind. AAA membership covers the individual, not the car, so it’s perfect for drivers and non-drivers. Know the ones you care about are safe on the road, with AAA’s mobile battery service and exceptional Roadside Assistance. Our technicians can provide convenient battery testing and installation. AAA batteries are backed by a six-year limited warranty with a three-year free replacement period. They’ll never have to worry about finding a good mechanic, either. AAA’s Approved Auto Repair program offers quality service at facilities across the country. All Approved Auto Repair shops must pass regular inspections, meet appropriate levels of technical training and certifications and maintain high levels of customer satisfaction. It’s good for their car and for their wallet. One of the fastest growing member benefits is ProtectMyID®. Members can enroll in a free credit monitoring service from Experian®. Just by enrolling, members receive daily credit report monitoring through Experian and alerts when key changes are detected. Enrolled members receive fraud resolution support and identity theft insurance.

A GIFT CARD FOR EVERYTHING

This season, give them the membership card that saves on just about everything. Now through December 31st, we are waiving the $10 enrollment fee on new memberships, plus you can add a second, eligible, household member as an associate member for free! That’s a total savings of $35. And, as an added bonus, we’ll give you a free $10 gift card for every new Primary Gift Membership you purchase. You can choose a gift card from dozens of stores, gas stations or restaurants. See the full-page ad in this edition for more details. Offer valid for new Gift Memberships only. Not valid for renewal.

Altoona 1634 Valley View Blvd. ............................. 814-946-1277 Butler 138 Clearview Circle .................................... 724-287-2713 Cranberry The Village Shoppes, 20510 Rt. 19 .......... 724-772-1122 Erie 6660 Peach St. Unit #2 .............................. 814-866-0246 Franklin 491 Allegheny Blvd, Suite 200 .................. 814-432-3960 Greensburg Eastgate Shopping Center 5142 Route 30, Suite 135 ......................... 724-834-8300 Grove City 24 Pine Grove Village Dr. .......................... 724-458-8930 Harborcreek 4430 Buffalo Rd. ........................................ 814-897-9508 Hermitage 1749 E. State St.......................................... 724-981-9141 Indiana 1169 Wayne Ave........................................ 724-349-4193 Jamestown (New York) 111 W. Fifth St., Jamestown, N.Y.. ........... 716-488-1981 Kittanning Franklin Village Mall. ............................... 724-543-1924 Lewisburg 530 1/2 North Derr Drive . ....................... 570-524-7455 Lower Burrell/New Kensington Area Crossroads Plaza 2503 Leechburg Rd.................................... 724-339-4440 McKean County (Bradford) 587 South Ave. .......................................... 814-368-3113 Meadville 18939 Park Avenue Plaza Unit #7 ............ 814-724-2247 New Castle 40 East St.................................................... 724-658-8551 Niagara-Orleans 7135 Rochester Rd, Lockport, NY. ............ 716-434-2865 Pittsburgh–Century III Area (Pleasant Hills) 9 Clairton Blvd. (RT 51). ........................... 412-655-6100 Pittsburgh–Downtown 538 Smithfield St. ...................................... 412-338-4300 Pittsburgh–East Liberty/Shadyside 5900 Baum Blvd. ........................................ 412-365-7196 Pittsburgh–Monroeville 2725 Mosside Blvd. .................................... 412-858-4640 Pittsburgh–North Hills Area (Ross Township) 4790 McKnight Rd. .................................... 412-367-7600 Pittsburgh–Robinson Township Robinson Town Centre 1760 Park Manor Blvd. ............................. 412-809-2800 Pittsburgh–South Hills Area (Bethel Park) 160 Ft. Couch Rd. ...................................... 412-833-5203 Rochester 300 Adams St. ............................................ 724-775-8000 St. Marys 1375 Bucktail Rd. ...................................... 814-834-7838 Somerset 110 N. Center Ave. .................................... 814-443-6526 Sunbury 1001 Market Street. .................................. 570-286-4507 Uniontown 111 W. Main St. ......................................... 724-438-8575 Warren 2285 Market St. ......................................... 814-723-6660 Washington 196 Murtland Ave. .................................... 724-222-3800 Waynesburg 184 Greene Plaza, US 21 & I-79 ................ 724-627-3434 Wexford-Wexford Plaza 10548 Perry Highway ................................ 724-933-3000 White Oak/McKeesport Area Oak Park Mall, 2001 Lincoln Way ............ 412-675-3400

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

AAA MOTORIST

PAGE 3

Wrap up your holiday season with AAA Discounts & Rewards Savings that pay for the cost of your membership 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 e-mail: motorist@aaaec.com

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

Regional 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 ©2015 by AAA East Central. Publication of an advertisement in the AAA Motorist does not constitute an endorsement of the product or service by the AAA Motorist or by AAA East Central, except in the case of products and services which are being offered by AAA East Central.

By Richard Hamilton Chairman, AAA East Central t’s that most wonderful time of the year. Especially if you don’t mind slogging through slush and snow, or fighting your way through packed shopping malls. Holiday shopping often seems to be more about long lines, crowds, traffic and chaos than the magic of the season. So, if Bedford Falls is beginning to seem more like Pottersville, maybe there’s a better way to shop for your holiday gifts. AAA Discounts & Rewards is an innovative new shopping experience on AAA.com that offers deep discounts, limited-time offers and daily deals on dining, electronics, home, apparel, entertainment, and more from approximately 30,000 participating merchants nationwide. Find major markdowns from national chains like Kohl’s, Nordstrom, Best Buy, Walmart and Lowe’s. It’s just one of the many perks of being a AAA member. It’s simple. The more you use your AAA membership card, the quicker your savings will cover your annual membership. You might just be surprised at how quickly they add up. And AAA makes saving on thousands of items easy. The AAA Discounts & Rewards shopping portal at AAA. com/discounts features an intuitive, easy-to-navigate interface to help you find exactly what you are looking for with just a few simple clicks. Check out some of the enticing

WOWPoints offers where you earn 2X, 10X and even 20X the WOWPoints. Now that’s rewarding!

Save Online and In-store

Richard Hamilton limited-time offers, with low, blow out pricing, or perks like free shipping for the purchases you make from your favorite retailers and brands. Learn what’s trending with our always updated list of the ten most popular buys for both men and women.

Score some WOWPoints If you ever purchase anything through this program, you earn WOWPoints. Yes, it’s that simple! WOWPoints are AAA’s online reward points and 100 always equal $1. They are yours to keep and your WOWPoints will never expire as long as you remain a AAA member! Redeem them anytime. Check out extra special AAA

In addition to savings at over 30,000 online retailers, AAA members can show their AAA membership card at over 100,000 participating retail locations. No clipping coupons or fumbling for lost flyers — all you need to do is show your AAA membership card and save! Plus, visit your local AAA branch for discounts on attraction tickets, travel and more. And remember to download the free AAA Mobile app for places to save, wherever you go. AAA Discounts & Rewards gets you more. More discounts. More rewards. More savings on the items you need from the names you know and the brands you trust. It’s your year-long shopping destination for all your family’s needs. AAA East Central members can access the AAA Discounts & Rewards page from AAA.com/discounts. Feel free to browse through all the offers, however, you must register at the time of transaction. Registration is completely free — a valid AAA membership and email address are all you need. Register online at AAA.com/discounts today. Then shop, save and earn on national and local brands, restaurants and retailers, eye care and even prescription drugs. You’ll be pleasantly surprised at just how much more your AAA membership is worth.

membersonly Upgrade your winter ride with a Hertz rental car With exclusive members-only discounts and benefits

he weather may have cooled off, but deals on car rentals for your winter breaks are just warming up. If this season’s plans take you to a tropical paradise or a winter wonderland, you may be in luck. With Hertz, AAA members have plenty of vehicles to choose from and multiple ways to save! Members receive up to a 20 percent discount on car rentals, free Hertz Gold Plus Rewards membership, plus an array of money-saving opportunities, including special upgrades, dollars-off coupons, and more. Their Member Satisfaction Guarantee is your assurance that the rate and car class, or a higher car class, will be available as reserved. Cruise the coast in one of Hertz’s sleek convertible models, or reserve an SUV or minivan with plenty of space for passengers and their gear. Muscle up with a Dodge Challenger or Ford Mustang from the Adrenaline Collection, or choose a more fuel-efficient hybrid model from their Green Traveler Collection. Hertz now has a great selection of electric cars in its fleet, from the ultra high-tech Tesla

Model S, to the more modest Nissan Leaf, and Chevrolet Spark EV. Your AAA membership card entitles you to exclusive discounts and benefits when renting from Hertz and gets you bonus points for your free Hertz Gold Plus Rewards membership. With Hertz Gold Plus Rewards, you can hit the road faster. When you belong, there’s no stopping at the counter in 40 of the world’s busiest airports, and at more than 1,000 locations worldwide, all you need to do is show your driver’s license, grab the keys and go. Hertz will even keep you up-to-date with your car’s information through Mobile Gold Alerts on your cell phone.

Members earn 1 point per dollar on qualifying rental and service options, with a free weekend day rental starting at 550 points in certain areas. As a AAA member, you will receive at least 675 Hertz Gold Plus Rewards Bonus points with your first Gold rental, good for one free rental day. As part of Hertz Gold Plus Rewards, the car reserved will always be there for you, and you will even have the opportunity to choose a different vehicle on the spot, if you change your mind. Returning your vehicle is just as simple as picking it up with eReturn. All you have to do is fill out the slip on your rental agreement, leave the car and be on your way. Your Hertz CDP #215 is your key to exclusive Hertz savings and benefits. The CDP # is same as your club code, the three digit number that appears on the front of your membership card. Right now, AAA members can receive a free rental day on select dates through January 31, 2016. Find this deal, reserve your car and check out additional savings at AAA.com/Hertz.

PAGE 4

AAA MOTORIST

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

AAA MOTORIST

PAGE 5

PAGE 6

AAA MOTORIST

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

Traveling abroad: Are you covered? Not all health plans cover you outside America

hen it comes to planning a vacation, you probably have the basics covered— from airfare and hotel reservations to rental car bookings. With all the preparation and anticipation for that vacation, it might be easy to overlook another essential item for any trip, travel insurance. Travel insurance does more than just ensure you get your money back if your trip must be canceled unexpectedly. Having travel insurance also covers you for unforeseen medical emergencies you may experience abroad, in places where your own health insurance may not cover you. Before traveling overseas and across borders, here are some points to consider: Review your health insurance – Verify if your health care plan provides coverage outside of the United States. If so, remember to carry both your insurance policy card and a claim form. Some insurance companies will pay for “customary and reasonable” costs, but few companies cover medical evacuation back to the United States. Medical evacuations can often cost more than $10,000 depending on your location and condition. Medicare does not cover you abroad – If you are covered by Medicare, the plan does not provide coverage beyond U.S.

ENDS AT THE BORDER — Seniors should know that Medicare does not cover you outside the U.S. borders. Check with a AAA travel agent to determine a suitable plan for your travel needs. Double check your policy – If you are planning an exciting getaway, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with exactly what your policy covers. For example, are you covered for higher risk activities such as parasailing, mountain climbing or scuba diving? Also, review the policy

to see how payments are made if you require medical care while away. AAA makes knowing you’re covered easy by offering travel insurance through Allianz Global Assistance. Whether it’s a minor setback like lost or damaged luggage, or an issue that requires you to cancel a trip, Allianz provides plans that ensure you are covered. If you or one of your loved ones

becomes ill, you encounter travel delays, your destination experiences an emergency, or any other covered reason, you can cancel your trip and receive a refund back of up to the amount purchased for your trip. A plan with Allianz Global Assistance also ensures you’re covered while on your vacation. If you require emergency medical care while away, you’re covered up to $50,000 on medical and dental costs and up to $1 million for medical transportation with the Family Care with Trip+ plan. Children 17 and younger are covered at no cost under the family plans. With several options to choose from, a AAA travel agent can assist you in choosing the one that’s right for you, whether you are traveling abroad or visiting a domestic amusement park. No matter where you make your travel arrangements, our agents can provide you with a plan for your trip.

GET THE COVERAGE YOU NEED

When you start planning your getaway, make sure you and your travel companions are insured in the event of an emergency. Go to AAA.com/TravelInsurance for additional information on available travel insurance plans through Allianz Global Assistance.

Could your car be the victim of a cyber attack? Technology making new vehicles more vulnerable

utomobiles come packed with about a thousand times more computing power than the Apollo space missions. Computer chips run more than 86 percent of the systems and self-contained embedded systems have been integrated into virtually every aspect of a car’s functioning and diagnostics, including the throttle, transmission and brakes. Cars use computers to park themselves, adjust headlight brightness, or automatically engage the brakes to prevent an impending collision. While advances in technology have resulted in dramatic improvements in safety like electronic stability control (ESC), fuel efficiency, and convenience, increasing computerization also comes with new risks. Motorists have so far avoided the viruses and malware that routinely plague computer users, but could hackers exploit vulnerabilities in these systems to hone in on your car’s location, remotely unlock the doors, start and drive off in your vehicle? Or could some cyber vandals maliciously disable your brakes in the middle of a busy freeway? Until now it was believed that cyber attacks on vehicles were possible only when unauthorized parties had physical access to the car. Now it has been shown that hackers can take control of a vehicle from anywhere, with just a

CATCHING A VIRUS — New cars are more networked, increasing the risks. laptop and an Internet connection. Two years ago, cyber security experts Charlie Miller and Chris Valasek demonstrated they could take control of the steering and brakes in certain makes and models using a laptop connected to the vehicle’s onboard diagnostic port. More recently, they were able to exploit a security hole in Fiat Chrysler’s Uconnect system, to remotely disable the engine, steering and brakes on a

Jeep Cherokee, over the Internet, while having their “selfie” projected on the car’s digital display. Miller and Valasek shared their information with Fiat Chrysler and the company released a software patch to address the vulnerability, which could have potentially affected nearly half a million vehicles. “We feel that as cars become more connected, software security becomes

more important,” said Valasek. U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal and Edward J. Markey recently introduced legislation that would direct the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to establish federal standards to secure our cars and protect drivers’ privacy. The Security and Privacy in Your Car (SPY Car) Act also establishes a rating system — or “cyber dashboard”— that informs consumers about how well the vehicle protects drivers’ security and privacy beyond those minimum standards. Owners would also be allowed to terminate collection of data, unles it affects the safety and maintenance of their vehicles. Today, most car owners don’t even know if their information is being collected and sent to third parties. “Drivers shouldn’t have to choose between being connected and being protected,” said Senator Markey. “We need clear rules of the road that protect cars from hackers and American families from data trackers.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION

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

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

AAA MOTORIST

PAGE 7

Try a little

TENDERNESS

and SAVE 77% on world-famous Omaha Steaks®

The Family Gourmet Feast 2 (5 oz.) Filet Mignons 2 (5 oz.) Top Sirloins 2 (4 oz.) Boneless Pork Chops 4 Boneless Chicken Breasts (1 lb. pkg.) 4 (4 oz.) Omaha Steaks Burgers 4 (3 oz.) Kielbasa Sausages 15 oz. pkg. All-Beef Meatballs 4 Potatoes au Gratin 4 Caramel Apple Tartlets Omaha Steaks Seasoning Packet 40332WMK Reg. $219.91 |

Now Only

ORDER NOW &

SAVE

77%

4999

Plusget get4 4 more Plus more Kielbasa Sausages

Burgers FREE

FREE

1-800-811-7832 ask for 40332WMK | www.OmahaSteaks.com/osfeast68 Limit 1 Family Gourmet Feast per shipment at this price. Your 4 free Kielbasa Sausages will be sent to each shipping address that includes The Family Gourmet Feast (40332). Limit of 1 free box of 4 (3 oz.) Kielbasa Sausages per shipment. Standard S&H will be added per address. Flat rate shipping and reward cards and codes cannot be used with this offer. Not valid with other offers. Expires 12/31/15. ©2015 OCG | Omaha Steaks, Inc.

PAGE 8

AAA MOTORIST

Viking River Cruises

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

continued from page 1

CULTURE, HISTORY, PEOPLE Unlike ocean cruising, rivercruising very often allows you more opportunities (and, often, more time) to fully experience and get an authentic sense of a place. Docking in city centers means

less time for transferring to points of interest. In some places, local entertainers may even board your vessel to present cultural performances. While the complimentary shore excursions deliver the expected and iconic (such

HALLMARKS OF VIKING RIVER CRUISES Exceptional accommodations • Attentive service Enriching daily shore excursions • Engaging cultural enrichment All onboard meals • Complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks at lunch and dinner • Deluxe hotels • Complimentary onboard internet service • In-room “infotainment” system Eco-friendly Viking Longships

as visits to museums and landmarks), Viking goes beyond; its itineraries include meeting real residents via Local Life and Working World experiences; optional Privileged Access experiences open doors to places otherwise difficult to visit. Beyond daytime sightseeing, some passengers opt to go ashore at night to embrace the local nightlife on their own. For example, instead of sipping a cocktail onboard, you might stroll into a centuries-old tavern for a local libation and live entertainment. INTIMACY & WORLD-CLASS CUISINE Compared with ocean liners hosting thousands, on Viking river ships you can expect a quiet and intimate onboard atmosphere, with more space per person. Plus, there’s no need to wait in long lines. And personalized, intuitive, gracious service from veteran crew and staff enhances your experience. All onboard meals are created by Swiss-trained chefs featuring fresh, locally procured ingredients like Provençal lemons, Hungarian paprika and dill from the onboard organic garden. Plus, enjoy complimentary wines with onboard service served in a variety of

settings, including al fresco dining. VALUE FOR YOUR TRAVEL DOLLAR Viking provides great value; its Inclusive Cruising provides a carefree approach to a vacation. When you travel with Viking, there are never any surprises or hidden fees. Just about everything is covered — port charges, Wi-Fi, meals, lectures, activities and shore excursions, as well as hotel accommodations on cruisetour itineraries. Picture yourself in a chair looking out your stateroom window, sitting in the main dining room enjoying a savory meal while peering at gorgeous scenery or simply relaxing in the ship’s lounge. The romance of Europe — combined with the comfort and convenience of being right there in the destination locales — is yours to enjoy when you partake in the unique charms of river cruising with Viking! Take advantage of the strong US dollar now. Viking’s value-packed pricing and AAA’s limited-time perks make international travel more affordable than ever. Check out AAA’s Featured Vacations in the ad on page 10 in this issue’s Departures travel section.

NEW 2016 EUROPEAN ITINERARIES

RIVER CRUISING 2016

Automotive Accessories

Laser Measured

FloorLiner™

FloorLiners™ are available in Black, Tan and Grey for over 900 applications. SPECIAL OFFER! Mention this ad & SAVE

See our full line of automotive accessories at WeatherTech.com

Cargo/Trunk Liner

CargoTech®

Cargo Containment System

WeatherTech.com

800-441-6287

Proudly Designed, Engineered and Manufactured in the USA

Canadian Customers WeatherTech.ca European Customers WeatherTechEurope.com

Grand European Tour & Belgium • Bavaria to Budapest Switzerland to the North Sea • Rhineland Discovery • Castles & Legends Poland, Prague & the Elegant Elbe • Paris, Burgundy & Provence Ask how you can save up $1,000 per couple on all 2016 European river cruises and up to $2,000 per couple on air on select itineraries!

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

AAA MOTORIST

Member Benefits • Exclusive Offers

PAGE 9

1-800-354-8761 • AAA.com/travel

Lighthouses...Iceberg Alley...Gros Morne

WONDERS OF

NEWFOUNDLAND

MEMBERS SAVE! Premium .............. $675 Plus ....................... $650 Classic ................... $625 NEW BOOKINGS WITH DEPOSIT BY 11-30-15. PER ROOM, DOUBLE OCCUPANCY.

The Canadian Maritime province of Newfoundland & Labrador sits on North America’s extreme eastern edge; a bit surprisingly, its capital city, Saint John’s, shares a latitude with Paris and Seattle. With the North Atlantic at its doorstep, Newfoundland is home to Iceberg Alley, among the world’s best places to see “floating fortresses of frost.” And, just off its coast, the meet-up of cool Labrador Current and warm Gulf Stream creates abundant marine life, drawing whales by the thousand and seabirds by the million. One of the world’s friendliest cultures (according to Canada’s Macleans magazine), Newfoundland does seem to boast lots of real and genuine, warm and welcoming, funloving and funny folks — products of a mixed heritage of English, Irish, French and native peoples. In describing their land, their character, their storytelling abilities or their sense of humor, one thing shines through — the way they speak. More varieties of English are spoken here than anywhere else in the world. All this to say that a Newfoundland vacation is like no other. AAA’s “Wonders of Newfoundland” packs 12 days full of spectacular nature, fascinating history, unique culture, traditional cuisine and hospitable Newfoundlanders. Limited to just 24 participants, this guided tour’s smaller size ensures a personal, and unforgettable, experience. Begin your adventure in the provincial capital, a welcoming place of Old World charm and New World elegance; Saint John’s is Canada’s oldest and easternmost city. Tour highlights of the area include Signal Hill, Cape Spear Lighthouse (North America’s easternmost point), Government House, Basilica of St John the Baptist and the nearby quaint fishing village of Quidi Vidi. Cruise to Witless Bay Ecological Reserve, where millions of seabirds gather to nest, then savor a fresh lobster dinner right on the beach. In Trinity Village, relive days gone by during visits to historic buildings, including the Georgian Lester-Garland House and the Green Family Forge, a living-history blacksmith’s museum. At Cape Bonavista, pause at the lighthouse to take in sweeping views; you may even spot an iceberg! Drive along stunning Conception Bay and stop in Brigus, a traditional fishing village. At Cupid’s Cove Archaeological Site, see remnants of the oldest English settlement in Canada; join an expert for a private tour at the Legacy Center, learning about life in the 1600s and enjoying a musical performance. Get your hands dirty during a lesson on archaeology. Enjoy a unique Newfoundland gathering and meal known as a “Jiggs dinner.” Marvel at towering cliffs and tranquil bays where forest meets sea at Terra Nova National Park. The Marine Atlantic Centre features an interactive exhibit introducing you to the region’s marine life. At Longpoint Lighthouse, take in views of Iceberg Alley and keep an eye out for blue-tinted “bergs.” Boyd’s Cove is home to the Beothuk Interpretive Centre, dedicated to revealing the life-style of the indigenous people who dwelled here more than 300 years ago; see their house pits, the only evidence left of these now extinct residents. Enter spectacular Gros Morne National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage site) to delight in its dramatic landscape of magnificent, untouched natural beauty — endless forests, freshwater fjords, picturesque bogs, abundant wildlife and striking cliffs. See the Tableland Mountains (whose rare geology confirmed the theory of continental drift) and, by boat, experience fjords and watch for whales and eagles as you listen to traditional music. Journey along the Viking Trail to L’Anse aux Meadows, where Vikings first made landfall around AD1000. See how Newfoundlanders have adapted to this forbidding landscape and experience firsthand their unique solutions to living under extreme conditions. A visit to a local econo-museum showcases the famous local partridgeberry and bakeapple and how you can make them into jams, sauces and vinegars. Ferry across the Straits of Belle Isle to mainland Labrador; here you’ll learn about the area’s history and the importance of whaling as you pass by colorful fishing villages. Recount the traditions of 16th-century Basque whalers at Red Bay National Historic Site, another UNESCO World Heritage site. Watch for drifting icebergs from Point Amour Lighthouse, visit a 4,200-year-old gravesite and see the remains of a scuttled British warship. Ferry back to Newfoundland for a visit to a mineral-and-stone specialist who reveals intriguing facts about Labradorite, a colorful stone that is claimed to have mystical powers. Finish off your vacation with a magical evening of traditional and original songs from a local trio. Intriguing...mystical...magical: That’s Newfoundland! ATURE

June 9-20 • AAA Member Rate: $5,099

Before-discount rate is per person (double occupany), subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip flights (Buffalo– Saint John’s, Cornerbrook-Buffalo), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, motorcoach sightseeing, 18 meals and more. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details. Passport required.

T IO

PAGE 10

AAA MOTORIST

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

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

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers Get up to $100.00 in perks!

NOW’S THE TIME!

Book & make a deposit by Dec 31 on a 2016 7-night-or-longer air-inclusive Pleasant Holidays vacation to HAWAII, MEXICO or the CARIBBEAN and enjoy:

$50 SAVINGS FROM AAA TRAVEL per room, based on double occupancy • new bookings Nov 1–Dec 31, 2015

PLUS

SIVE THIS EXCLU NEFIT! E MEMBER B

$50.00 CERTIFICATE* toward purchase of optional sightseeing or activity, per booking

*At select Caribbean destinations, a $50 discount may apply (instead of a $50 activity voucher).

Explore & experience the world in a uniquely different way on an intimate, luxurious, value-packed Viking River Cruise. River cruising is a better way to explore. Immerse yourself in local culture. Travel in comfort. Enjoy enriching excursions, regional cuisine, revolutionary eco-friendly ships. And Viking Inclusive Pricing is a great value, enhanced by these AAA member perks, now through Nov 16: ATURE

S N

Get a Visa gift card (up to $400 in time for ‘Black Friday’ shopping) and onboard credit of up to $400! ®

LIMITED-TIME PERKS FROM AAA TRAVEL

T IO

Get a Visa® gift card valued at up to $400.00 per stateroom (double occupancy) PLUS onboard credit of up to $400.00 per stateroom (double occupancy) on a new 2016 booking with nonrefundable deposit! (Number of nights determines the actual value of your perks.) Receive your gift card in time for November’s Black Friday sales...and enjoy your onboard credit when you board your river cruise ship in 2016!

RATES FOR THESE FEATURED VACATIONS REFLECT A $125 MEMBER DISCOUNT! Tulips & Windmills: Netherlands & Belgium................from $3,246 APRIL 3-12: Amsterdam, Hoorn, Arnhem, Kinderdijk, Antwerp, Burges, Ghent, Veere, Rotterdam, Keukenhof Gardens, Amsterdam

Grand European Tour: Danube & Rhine Rivers ..........from $4,136 OCT 8-22: Budapest, Vienna, Krems, Melk, Passau, Regensburg, Nuremberg, Bamberg, Rothenburg, Würzburg, Miltenberg, Koblenz, Cologne, Kinderdijk, Amsterdam

Elegant Elbe: Czech Republic & Germany..........................from $2,974 OCT 15-24: Melnik, Litomerice, Bad Schandau, Dresden, Meissen, Torgau, Wittenberg, Dessau, Magdeburg

Rhine Getaway: Basel to Amsterdam...............................from $2,630 OCT 16-23: Basel, Breisach, Strasbourg, Heidelberg, Rudesheim, Braubach, Koblenz, Cologne, Kinderdijk, Amsterdam

Paris & the Heart of Normandy: France ..............from $2,530 OCT 21-28: Paris, Giverny, Vernon, Rouen, Les Andelys, Conflans, Paris

Romantic Danube: Germany, Austria, Hungary .............from $2,530

OCT 23-30: Nuremberg, Main–Danube Canal, Kelheim, Regensburg, Passau, Krems, Vienna, Budapest

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

AAA MOTORIST

PAGE 11

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

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

LIGHT UP THE HOLIDAYS IN YOUR LIFE

Help make their travel dreams come true this year!

AAA Travel Gift Certificates (in amounts of $200 or greater) are available at all AAA Travel locations. Certificates are redeemable at any AAA East Central Travel Agency toward the purchase of airline tickets, tour packages or escorted tour reservations. Certificates expire 60 months (5 years) from date of issue.

This 13-day vacation has everything you’ve always wanted in a trip to Italy. Enjoy multiplenight stays in Rome, Florence, Venice, the Amalfi Coast and Stresa in the Lakes District. Discover the treasures of Classical and Christian Rome. Walk in the footsteps of the ancient Romans in Pompeii. See the gems of the Renaissance in Florence’s Academy Gallery, including Michelangelo’s “David.” Visit Locarno, Switzerland, and cruise to Isola dei Pescatori, one of the scenic Borromean Islands. A guided walking tour of Venice illustrates how this city gained its wealth and power. Enjoy the magic of the Italian Lakes District in the captivating resort of Stresa. Stop at a winery & farm in the heart of Tuscany to sample local wines and specialities for an included lunch. Sail to enchanting Capri and explore this island paradise. Experience the benefits of Whisper headsets, designed for better communication between you and your guides throughout your tour. Enjoy regional Italian wines with every dinner. ATURE SPECIAL AAA INCLUSIONS — NO EXTRA FEES! “Rome by Night” tour • Vatican museums & St Peter’s CA O TI Tuscan Feast • Serenaded gondola cruise in Venice! VA

TRAVELERS

per room, double occupancy

Book with deposit by Nov 23!

FOR THE

MEMBERS SAVE $400

JAMESTOWN . . . . . . . . . . .716-488-1981 LOCKPORT . . . . . . . . . . . . .716-434-2865

Be a snowbird & escape winter for 28 nights: Rent a furnished Florida “nest” for your family and / or your friends! Just because you don’t own a home in Florida is no reason you can’t be a “snowbird” and live the leisurely life-style of the Sunshine State for 28 nights in 2016. AAA has just what you need: 4-week Saturday-to-Saturday rentals of a roomy furnished vacation home in peaceful Port Charlotte! On the southwest Gulf Coast just 100 miles south of Tampa and Images representative of available homes. Although each home is unique, styles & amenities are similar. 65 miles north of Naples, Port HOME 2016 RENTAL PERIODS & AAA MEMBER RATES Charlotte is a premier ecotourism 175 Rosemary St .............1/2–1/30: $3,925 • 1/30–2/27: $5,269 • 2/27–3/26: $5,405 • 3/26–4/23: $4,409 17499 Poston Ave ..............................................1/2–1/30: $4,275 • 1/30–2/27: $5,719 • 2/27–3/26: $5,785 destination that’s off the beaten 18017 Brazil Ave .................................................................................................................... 1/30–2/27: $5,055 path and free of crowds, yet offers 18106 Lake Worth Blvd ....................................................................... 1/16–2/13: $4,959 • 2/13–3/26: $8,435 Temple Ave ............................................1/30–2/27: $5,269 • 2/27–3/26: $5,405 • 3/26–4/23: $4,409 sailing, boating, fishing, birding, 18239 18279 Caddy Ave .............................................1/30–2/27: $5,719 • 2/27–3/26: $5,785 • 3/26–4/23: $4,825 shopping, dining, arts & more. Rates vary by home selected, are subject to availability at time of booking and include accommodations, taxes & fees and pool heating fee. Visit AAA.com/HomeRentals. Choose from a selection of attractively landscaped homes, and use yours as a base from which to explore the local area’s uncrowded beaches and/or the many attractions within comfortable driving distance. Or just settle in, take advantage of the screened-in swimming pool and laugh at winter back home! Get away from it all...or invite family and/or friends to share some Florida fun with you. These 3-bedroom/2-bathroom (some with 2.5) homes can comfortably sleep 6 (bedding/linens provided). They feature fully equipped kitchens (dishwasher, stove/oven, refrigerator/freezer, microwave) and dining areas for everyone to gather in...screened-in heated pools for swimming, lounging and loafing! Living rooms feature entertainment centers (with cable). Optional weekly cleaning/linen service is available for an additional fee. Imagine not having to shovel snow this winter...and watching the sun set over the Gulf of Mexico instead. Forget about bundling up just to go to the corner store...and slipping into a soothing pool after dining on your patio instead. With AAA’s help, you can look forward to winter this year; contact AAA now! ATURE

amid winter’s off-peak solitude! Begin this unique and awesome off-season adventure in SALT LAKE CITY UT; see Temple Square and witness the awesome power of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir (schedule permitting). Travel to WEST YELLOWSTONE MT, gateway to Yellowstone National Park. Ride private vintage snowcoaches (heated!) to see Firehole Falls, Old Faithful and wildlife. Drive through majestic Grand Teton National Park to JACKSON HOLE WY, where you will ride a sleigh through the National Elk Refuge and visit the National Museum of Wildlife Art. Drive through Snake River Canyon and visit Utah Olympic Park before heading home.

AAA Member Rate: $1,340 ATURE

S N

Jan 23-28 OR Feb 6-11 •

Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, luggage handling (1 bag per person), accommodations, motorcoach sightseeing & admissions (as indicated), 9 meals and taxes. Ask about available add-on airfare. Visit AAA.com/travel for more information.

T IO

Enjoy a

AAA Member Rate: $5,683

YELLOWSTONE IN WINTER

April 25–May 7 •

Before-discount rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip flights (Buffalo-Rome, Venice-Buffalo), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, sightseeing/admissions, accommodations, 20 meals, luggage handling (1 bag/person) and taxes/gratuities for included features. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details. Visit AAA.com/GoItaly.

GENERAL TRAVEL DISCLAIMER: AAA Travel Agency makes every effort to provide accurate, up-to-date prices as of press time and cannot assume responsibility for typographic errors. Rates/offers are per person based on double occupancy, unless otherwise indicated, and are subject to availability and airline/operator changes. International rates/offers are subject to currency fluctuations and additional tax & security charges. Rates that include airfare include all taxes, government fees and surcharges. Additional restrictions may apply. Rates/offers are available at all AAA East Central travel agency locations. For tour details, contact AAA or visit AAA.com/travel. FEATURED VACATIONS are specially priced, unique departures; therefore, tour operators, cruise lines and other travel providers often exclude them from additional discounts or specials they offer. 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.

T IO

PAGE 12

AAA MOTORIST

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

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

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers SPECTACULAR SCENERY! EXCITING ADVENTURES! 1ST-CLASS ARRANGEMENTS!

Ultimate ALASKA Alaska in February? Crazy, right? Make that “crazy awesome”! In today’s lingo that translates into unique, unusual and you-need-to-experience-it-to-believe-it! It’s true: AAA’s Ultimate Alaska tour does depart on Feb 25, right in the middle of Old Man Winter’s reign. But that’s exactly what makes this trip special. This is when true Alaskans reclaim their stunning state from the hordes of tourists who descend upon it in summer. And it’s also the time of a wondrous natural phenomenon — the Aurora Borealis. Begin in Fairbanks in search of the beguiling Aurora Borealis. This natural light display in the sky can vary from barely visible to the naked eye to bright enough to read at night. Visit the Morris Thompson Cultural Center and see the Trans-Alaska Pipeline. Ride the Alaska Railroad, whose cars feature picture windows and open-air vestibules. Keep an eye out for wildlife and views of Mt McKinley. Enjoy an entire day at leisure to explore Anchorage, Alaska’s largest city...or opt to flight-see through the Chugach Mountains...or try dog sledding with an Iditarod musher! Motorcoach via Seward Highway, one of America’s most beautiful highways, past Chugach State Park’s 3,000-foot-high mountains jutting up on your left. On the right, the sprawling flats of Turnagain Arm stretch like a plain to the opposite shores of Cook Inlet. Visit a Wildlife Conservation Center to see wildlife close up and a Sealife Center for an in-depth look above and below the water.

AAA Member Rate: $3,895

ATURE

S N

Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability and includes roundtrip flights (Buffalo-Fairbanks, Anchorage-Buffalo), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, luggage handling, sightseeing transportation/ admissions, 14 meals, services of a AAA Tour Manager (if participation goal is met), in-Alaska guide and hand warmers. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your agent for details. Visit AAA.com/GoAlaska for itinerary.

Feb 25–March 6 •

Spend 2 nights and a full day at leisure at luxurious Alyeska, Alaska’s only 4-diamond resort hotel & restaurant. Nestled in a lush valley surrounded by peaks, hanging glaciers and spectacular ocean views, the Alyeska offers luxurious accommodations and convenient access to the magnificent Alaskan wilderness. Relax at the on-site spa or take advantage of optional activities such as dog sledding, snow machining (Alaskan for “snowmobiling”), flightseeing, downhill skiing or snowshoeing. An included tram ride offers spectacular views of the valley. Back in Anchorage, tour historic downtown and lakes Hood & Spenard. Get a behind-the-scenes tour at the Alaska Zoo. Attend the Mushers’ Banquet for participants (the human ones, at least!) of the world-famous Iditarod Sled Dog Race. Meet 4-time Iditarod champion Martin Buser at his Happy Trails Kennel. Return to Anchorage to visit the Iditarod Headquarters and see firsthand a replica Iditarod Trail station. Next morning, grab a spot along 4th Avenue for the cermonial start of the Iditarod festivities. In the afternoon, catch some cultural opportunities at the Alaska Native Heritage Center. Venture north on your last day, stopping in Wasilla (hometown of Alaska’s former governor) for your day’s on-own lunch items. At Willow, the official Re-Start of the Iditarod Dog Sled Race, watch the mushers and their teams take off on their 1,131-mile journey to Nome.

T IO

&Folklore

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

Irish Pubs SAVE $200.00!

Y UBLE OCCUPANC PER ROOM, DO

ATURE

"Sláinte!"

S N

nBook with no t posi refundable de by Nov 30

T IO

ESCORTED TOUR OPERATED BY CIE TOURS INTERNATIONAL

Cheers!

May 13-22 AAA Member Rate: $1,798

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.

Before-discount rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and 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.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

AAA MOTORIST

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

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

AAA’s escorted “Tropical Costa Rica” tour features ample opportunities to appreciate exotic wildlife and natural wonders.

MEMB SAVE $2E0R0S per room, do uble occupanc

y Book with deposit by Nov 16!

ENJOY UNIQUE INCLUSIONS AT NO ADDITIONAL COST: Guided Walking Tour above the Forest Floor on Hanging Bridges

Guided River Boat Trip in a Covered Canoe

San José • Doka Coffee Estate Guanacaste All-inclusive Beachfront Resort Monteverde Cloud Forest • Selvatura Park Lake Arenal Cruise • Arenal Volcano Cano Negro Refuge • Zarcero Grecia • National Theatre

ADD A JUNGLE ADVENTURE! An optional 4-day/ 3-night after-tour extension to Tortuguero National Park is available. Visit AAA.com/ GoCostaRica for itinerary details and rate.

AAA Member Rate: $2,719 ATURE

Before-discount rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip flights (Buffalo–San José), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, sightseeing/admissions, accommodations, 14 meals and air taxes & fees/surcharges. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details. Visit AAA. com/GoCostaRica for more itinerary information.

March 3-11 •

PAGE 13

T IO

PAGE 14

AAA MOTORIST

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

Congestion sets new records for traveler misery Gridlock wasting billions of dollars and billions of hours

he stock market may be riding a roller coaster but America’s traffic congestion recession is over. Just as the U.S. economy has regained nearly all of the 9 million jobs lost during the downturn, a new report produced by INRIX and the Texas A&M Transportation Institute (TTI) shows that traffic congestion has returned to pre-recession levels. According to the 2015 Urban Mobility Scorecard, travel delays due to traffic congestion caused drivers to waste more than 3 billion gallons of fuel and kept travelers stuck in their cars for nearly 7 billion extra hours — 42 hours per rush-hour commuter. The total nationwide price tag: $160 billion, or $960 per commuter. Findings in the Urban Mobility Scorecard are drawn from traffic speed data collected by INRIX on 1.3 million miles of urban streets and highways, along with highway performance data from the Federal Highway Administration. Washington, D.C. tops the list of gridlock-plagued cities, with 82 hours of delay per commuter, followed by Los Angeles (80 hours), San Francisco (78 hours), New York (74 hours), and San Jose (67 hours). Traffic congestion isn’t just a bigcity issue. Cities of all sizes are experiencing the challenges seen before the start of the recession — increased traf-

GOING NOWHERE FAST — Congestion robs people of their most valuable commodity — time. fic congestion resulting from growing urban populations and lower fuel prices. The average travel delay per commuter nationwide is more than twice what it was in 1982. For cities of less than 500,000 people, the problem is four times worse than in 1982. “Our growing traffic problem is too massive for any one entity to han-

dle — state and local agencies can’t do it alone,” says Tim Lomax, report co-author and Regents Fellow at TTI. “Businesses can give their employees more flexibility in where, when and how they work, individual workers can adjust their commuting patterns, and we can have better thinking when it comes to long-term land use planning.

This problem calls for a classic ‘allhands-on-deck’ approach.” Recent data from the U.S. Department of Transportation shows that Americans have driven more than 3 trillion miles in the last 12 months. That’s a new record, surpassing the 2007 peak just before the global financial crisis. Report authors say the U.S. needs more roadway and transit investment to meet the demands of population growth and economic expansion, but added capacity alone can’t cure congestion problems. Solutions must involve a mix of strategies, combining new construction, better operations, and more transportation options as well as flexible work schedules. The report predicts that without more assertive approaches on the project, program, and policy fronts urban roadway congestion will continue to get worse. By 2020, and with a continued good economy, annual delay per commuter will grow from 42 hours to 47 hours. Nationwide, total delay will increase from 6.9 billion hours to 8.3 billion hours, and total cost of congestion will jump from $160 billion to $192 billion. FOR MORE INFORMATION

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

People worse drivers than their self-parking cars AAA finds cars park faster and more precisely than humans

mericans say they are not ready to give up control even as automakers increasingly integrate self-parking features into new vehicles. According to a new survey from AAA, nearly 80 percent of American drivers are confident in their parallel parking abilities and only onein-four would trust this technology to park their vehicle. Despite this, AAA testing found self-parking technology outperformed unassisted drivers in four key areas. “Autonomous features, such as active park assist, are rapidly being introduced into new vehicles, yet American drivers are hesitant to let go of the wheel,” said John Nielsen, AAA’s managing director of Automotive Engineering and Repair. “While the vast majority of Americans say they would not trust self-parking technology, AAA found these features performed well in tests and warrants consideration of new car buyers.” In partnership with the Automobile Club of Southern California’s Automotive Research Center, AAA tested self-parking features on five vehicles: a 2015 Lincoln MKC, a 2015 MercedesBenz ML400 4Matic, a 2015 Cadillac CTS-V Sport, a 2015 BMW i3 and a 2015 Jeep Cherokee Limited. Compared to drivers that manually parallel parked with the aid of a standard back-up camera, AAA found:

NO HANDS — The vast majority of Americans say they don’t trust self-parking technology.

•

Drivers using self-parking systems experienced 81 percent fewer curb strikes. Self-parking systems parallel parked the vehicle using 47 percent fewer maneuvers, with some systems completing the task in as little as one maneuver. Self-parking systems were able to park a vehicle 10 percent faster.

•

Self-parking systems were able to park 37 percent closer to the curb. While the tested self-parking systems performed well and parked quicker and more accurately than an unassisted driver, the technology is not without flaws. AAA found that some systems parked the vehicles exceedingly close to the curb, leaving wheels and tires vulnerable to scratches and costly repairs.

“AAA recommends that drivers leave six-to-eight inches between the vehicle and the curb when parallel parking,” warned Nielsen. “With some systems leaving as little as a half-inch buffer, AAA urges automakers to increase this distance to prevent vehicle damage.” “AAA’s testing found that self-parking technology outperformed manual parking in number of curb strikes, number of maneuvers, speed and accuracy,” said Megan McKernan, manager of the Automobile Club of Southern California’s Automotive Research Center. “While Americans report feeling confident in their parallel parking abilities, this technology proves there is room for improvement.” To add insult to injury BMW recently demonstrated its Remote Valet Parking Assistant, a new autonomous system that’s capable of driving itself into a multi-story garage and parking — with no driver. When it’s time to leave drivers can summon their vehicle with a smart watch. No timetable has been set as to when, or if this technology will make it into production. FOR MORE INFORMATION

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

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

AAA MOTORIST

PAGE 15

Avoiding Identity Theft during the holiday season Someone is searching for a one-of-a-kind item — your identity

eason’s greetings! It’s the most wonderful time of the year – for identity thieves. You may feel pressured to get online or race to the mall to start checking gifts off your list, but being careless with your identity may mean months of recovery time. Before you do anything, take a deep breath, set a budget and plan a strategy that will assure your financial well-being. Worry less about holiday fraud by taking these protective steps: Be aware of camera phones. If you are paying at a register or restaurant, or banking at an ATM, watch for people fidgeting with their phones. They could be trying to snap a picture of your card. Look all around before making a purchase. Keep an eye on your cards. Whenever you hand a credit card to a waiter, clerk or cashier, pay attention to where it goes and for how long. Card skimming or copying of your card information commonly occurs at retail stores, gas stations and restaurants. Shop with a slim wallet. Remove everything except one credit card and your driver’s license. Carrying multiple credit cards, a passport, Social Security card and other items increases your risk of identity theft. Remind cashiers to check IDs. Write “check photo ID” on the back of your credit card. This is an effective way to

ing purchases online. It makes it easier to detect wrongful charges if they occur. Shop at secure sites. When shopping online, choose companies that provide transaction security protection and that have strong privacy and security practices. Secure sites have a URL that begins with “https” instead of “http” in the address bar, or they may display an icon of a locked padlock. Use a secured connection. Never, ever shop online using a public Wi-Fi network. They are typically unsecured, making it much easier for thieves to capture your personal information. Shop on recognized sites. More people bargain-shop on unfamiliar sites during the holidays. Don’t make purchases on sites you don’t recognize just because the price is right, especially if they don’t have a phone number or physical address. They might be part of a phishing scam to capture your credit card number.

SHOP SMART — Use a single credit card for making online purchases. get clerks to check credit or debit cards with photo identifications. Watch out for pickpockets. To avoid being pickpocketed, tuck your purse under your arm, keep your wallet in your front pocket, and don’t set your purse or wallet down where someone else may grab it. Use a credit card when shopping

online. When possible, select credit cards over debit cards when shopping online. For that matter, use a credit card when shopping in stores, too. Credit cards protect you against fraudulent charges under the Federal Fair Credit Billing Act. Designate an online card. Use one credit card only for when you’re mak-

FOR MORE INFORMATION

The holiday season should be delightful, not frightful. For an added sense of security, AAA offers identity monitoring to members with enrollment in ProtectMyID®, a full-service provider of identity theft detection, protection and fraud resolution. To learn more, visit AAA.com/protectmyid or call 1-877-440-6943.

Winter weather can wreak havoc on battery power This winter don’t give your car battery the cold shoulder

he onslaught of winter weather means a few things to homeowners, like replacing furnace filters, cleaning gutters and finishing up the fall yard work. This changing of the seasons is a good time to make sure your car’s battery is ready for the freezing temperatures ahead. Damage caused by intense summer heat can cause corrosion and fluid evaporation, leaving you with a battery that’s in less than optimum condition. When checking your battery, the first signs of corrosion are often a powdery residue around the terminals and battery casing. You can take care of this yourself with a mixture of water and baking soda and a wire brush, to clear away noticeable corrosion from the cable and terminals. If the battery caps are removable, check the fluid level monthly, ensuring the proper amount of fluid is present. Inspect the battery for any cracks and fluid leakage. A cracked or leaking battery requires an immediate replacement. Be sure to wear protective goggles and rubber gloves and avoid direct contact with corrosive deposits and battery acid. Many new cars now require a steady flow of electricity to control fuel delivery, ignition systems, transmissions and other components to keep the car run-

WE COME TO YOU — AAA batteries are delivered and installed on the spot. ning smoothly. Each of these relies heavily on your car’s battery. Serpentine belts are another integral part of the car’s charging system. If the belt is not working properly, the battery will not charge and other electrical components of the car will fail to work. Colder temperatures also decrease a battery’s cold cranking amps capacity and put more strain on the battery. Older batteries face particular trouble in

winter months, as the lower temperatures limit the ability to hold a charge. As a battery loses its effectiveness, you may notice the interior lights start dim, or a clicking noise when turning the key. The motor will also turn over more slowly when starting the vehicle. If your vehicle displays any of those symptoms, or is more than three years old, it may be time for a replacement. A AAA technician can test your bat-

tery, perform a replacement and get you back on the road no matter where you are. As part of our legendary Roadside Assistance, a AAA battery is guaranteed to meet or exceed your vehicle’s specifications, and comes with a six-year limited warranty with a three-year free replacement period. There’s no charge for the installation, and we’ll safely recycle your old battery for free. AAA Battery Service is provided through Roadside Assistance, with convenient access available through the AAA mobile app. Receive an instant battery quote, check the status of your service call and view your membership card all within the app. Being a AAA member saves you time and money, with a typical savings of about $30 off of regular retail pricing per battery, a breakdown doesn’t have to break your wallet.

TAKE CHARGE

If you suspect your car’s battery isn’t up to par, more information on AAA’s mobile Battery Service can be found at AAA.com/AAABatteryService or by calling 1-800-AAA-HELP. From the webpage, click “Battery Prices” for an instant quote.

PAGE 16

AAA MOTORIST

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

AAA MOTORIST

PAGE 17

Cyber strategies for secure online shopping AAA Member Rewards Visa® now offers ShopSafe®

redit cards make holiday shopping more convenient. They are also one of the safest ways to handle finances, especially when shopping online. Still, a little precaution is required. Take these steps to avoid scam artists: Shop secure websites. The key here is Secure Sockets Layer, or SSL, which uses encryption technology to scramble the information you send to an online merchant. An “s” after “http” in the address bar of your browser indicates the website is secure. Note: You may not see the “s” until you actually move to the merchant’s order page. Understand privacy and security policies. Review an online merchant’s data security practices, which are often explained in a privacy policy or security policy. Look for online merchants who are members of programs such as TRUSTe (truste.org), Verisign (verisign. com) or BBBonline (bbbonline.org), which set guidelines for privacy-related best practices. Shop from home. Public computers and networks expose your shopping to additional dangers, including use of key logger software that captures your login information and credit card number. Your credit card information can even be stolen when using your laptop on a public wireless network. Use a credit card. You’re protected under the federal Fair Credit Billing Act and you have the right to dispute

to complete your purchase and enter credit card information, just sign in to your aaanetaccess Online Banking Account to access the ShopSafe feature. You then enter the spending limit you want for the transaction (don’t forget to include all applicable taxes and shipping and handling charges), and the expiration date (the expiration date can be for one transaction or recurring transactions up to 12 months). The ShopSafe feature will then generate a temporary 16-digit account number which you can use to complete your transaction. For those sites that require a three-digit security code, ShopSafe will generate that code as well. Sign in to your aaanetaccess Online Banking account now and choose “Use ShopSafe” from your Account Activity screen and stay safe while shopping.

NO EXTRA CHARGE — ShopSafe® adds an extra layer of protection. charges and withhold payment during a creditor investigation. Make sure your credit card is a true credit card and not a debit or ATM card, which are not protected by federal law to the same extent as credit cards. Check statements. Print and save copies of your orders and check your credit card statement carefully after making Internet purchases. Identity thieves sometimes make a low-dollar “test charge” to see if the card works, and then strike weeks or months later. Secure Online Transactions with

ShopSafe®. A security-focused benefit of the AAA Member Rewards Visa® is ShopSafe. It lets you create a temporary 16-digit credit card number each time you make an online transaction. Use it just like your actual credit card number; it links directly back to your real AAA credit card account and the merchant never knows it’s not your actual account number. ShopSafe numbers are accepted anywhere your credit card is accepted. Here’s how it works. Shop online as you normally do. When you are ready

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

Coco’s Steakhouse, and superb dinner high atop Skylon’s Revolving Dining Room overlooking the Falls. Ask about our Niagara Attractions Package... From $129* CAN PP/DB.

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

Two nights from $154*PP Coco’s Steakhouse, and a superb din overlooking the Falls. Ask about ou

The AAA Credit Card Program is issued and administered by Bank of America, N.A. ShopSafe is a registered trademark of Bank of America Corporation.

SAFE, CONVENIENT & REWARDING

With the AAA Member Rewards Visa® credit card, you are never alone. There is someone to assist you with any matter regarding your account 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. For information about the card or to apply, call 866-665-3581 or visit AAA.com/creditcard.

PAGE 18

AAA MOTORIST

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

•

AAA MOTORIST

PAGE 19

PRIVACY STATEMENT

AAA East Central •

Your privacy is important to us AAA East Central and its affiliates are proud to have been providing top-quality AAA member services, benefits and products for more than 110 years. We greatly appreciate and value the trust that you and more than 2.7 million other AAA members, customers and consumers have placed in us. We will protect that trust by respecting the privacy of all of our members and nonmember customers/consumers.

Gathering information In order to provide you with the services, benefits and products that you want from us, and to insure that you receive the very best services and benefits and the highest quality products, we collect the following personal information about you: • Information we receive from you, such as information you give us orally or in writing on applications (including membership applications) or other order forms; • Information about your transactions with us, our affiliates or others; and • Information we receive from an outside source, such as a consumer reporting agency. In addition, if you visit our Internet web site at www.AAA.com, the web server automatically recognizes and records information about your Internet usage, such as the referring (immediate preceding) web site, Internet workstation address, date and time of log-in/ log-out, site pages visited, time spent per page, files downloaded and search criteria used. If, during your visit to our web site, you voluntarily provide person-ally identifiable information such as an e-mail address, information to complete or submit an application or form online or other information (such as survey information or content of e-mail), we will collect such information. To better serve you, we may use a feature of your Internet browser called a “cookie” (an entry placed in a file on your computer’s hard drive or in your browser memory) to enhance your browsing experience and to permit you to request data and conduct business transactions through the web site. You should also be aware that other online retailers, partners, third-party Internet sites and third-party services accessible through our web site have separate privacy and data collection policies and practices which are independent of and may be different from our policies and practices. Please be alert for, and be sure to review, such separate policies and practices when you encounter them as you move between the links of our web site.

Handling of gathered information In the course of our normal service and business operations, we use and may share or disclose all of the information that we collect, as described above. However, since some of the information we gather and share or disclose is not publicly available, we take care to insure that your nonpublic personal information is protected from unauthorized access or use. We restrict access to nonpublic personal information about you to those employees who need to know that information in order to provide services, benefits and products to you. Where we select and use agents and service/product provider partners to deliver or offer services, benefits and products to you or to us, we restrict access to nonpublic personal information about you to such persons and firms who commit to properly use and protect your nonpublic personal information. We maintain physical, electronic and procedural safeguards that comply with applicable federal regulations to guard your nonpublic personal information. We do not share or disclose your non-public personal information in violation of any applicable law or regulation.

Sharing information among our Affiliates and Partners In the course of our normal service and business operations, or when we think it may benefit you, we may disclose all of the information that we collect, as described above, within our family of AAA-affiliated companies and business lines. Our family of AAA-affiliated companies and business lines includes AAA East Central, AAA Ashland County, AAA Massillon Automobile Club, AAA Travel Agency, AAA East Central Insurance Agency, Inc., Ohio Motorists Holding Company, Ohio Motorists Life Insurance Company, Auto Club Driving Schools, Inc., AAA Kentucky Driver Training Center, Inc., Tri-State Foundation for Safety and Education, Inc., Ohio Motorists Safety Foundation, and Automobile Club of Southern California and its affiliates/ subsidiaries, including Interinsurance Exchange of the Automobile Club, Automobile Club of Southern California Life Insurance Company, Auto Club Casualty Company, Auto Club Indemnity Company, Automobile Club Inter-Insurance Exchange, Auto Club Family Insurance Company, ACSC Management Services, Inc., Club Exchange Corporation, Auto Club Insurance Holdings, LLC, Auto Club Insurance Company of Florida, AAA Club Services, LLC, Auto Club Enterprises, Automobile Club of Missouri, Alabama Motorists Association, Inc., AAA Northern New England, Tidewater Automobile Association of Virginia, Incorporated, AAA Texas, LLC, AAA New Mexico, LLC, AAA Hawaii, LLC, Pleasant Travel Holding Company, LLC, Pleasant Holidays, LLC, and Hawaii World, LLC. The sharing of information among affiliates is permitted by law. Some of our affiliates may receive personal health care information (such as information received from medical or health care providers) or consumer credit information (such as information reported by a consumer reporting agency). Such affiliates do not share such personal health care information or credit information with our other affiliates.

AAA Travel Agency

We may disclose all of the nonpublic personal financial information we collect (other than consumer credit information) as described above to companies that perform operational services related to your membership and/or transactional accounts with us. We may disclose all of the nonpublic personal financial information we collect (other than consumer credit information) as described above to companies that perform marketing services on our behalf or to other financial institutions with whom we have joint marketing agreements. The sharing of nonpublic personal financial information with these types of companies is permitted by law.

Sharing information with Third Parties From time to time, we may allow nonaffiliated companies to extend offers of products and services to AAA members and nonmember customers/ consumers when we feel that such products and services might be of special value or of particular interest to you. We may disclose nonpublic personal information about you to the following types of third parties: • Financial service providers, such as banks & bank holding companies, depositary & thrift institutions, credit unions and other consumer lenders; securities broker-dealers; investment companies; financial & investment advisers; insurance companies & agents; and others that offer financial products and services to consumers; • Nonfinancial companies such as airlines, cruise lines, hotels & resorts, car rental companies and other travel vendors; retailers; direct marketers; and others that offer goods and services to consumers; and • Others, such as the American Automobile Association, Inc. and other nonprofit organizations. We may also disclose nonpublic personal information about you to nonaffiliated third parties as required or permitted by law.

Your preference/opt-out rights If you prefer not to receive future AAA special value-added offers and notifications of products, services and special savings opportunities from us or our joint marketing partners, you may direct us not to send or contact you with such offers or savings opportunities. (If you are a AAA member, you will continue to receive the AAA Motorist/Traveler publication and annual membership renewal information and billing statements.) If you prefer that we not disclose non-public personal financial information about you to nonaffiliated third parties, you may opt out of those disclosures – that is, you may direct us not to make those disclosures (other than disclosures required or permitted by law). An opt- out request by any member on a membership account, or by any party on a joint transactional account, will apply to all Primary and Associate Members on the membership account, and to all parties on the joint account, within the same household. If you wish to exercise one or both of the preference and opt-out rights described above, you must do so in writing by filing a AAA Marketing Preference/Disclosure Optout Form with us. To request that a copy of the AAA Marketing Preference/Disclosure Opt-out Form be sent to you, write to: AAA Member Records, 5900 Baum Blvd, Pittsburgh PA 15206-3854. We will continue to respect your privacy even after your AAA membership or other relationship with us ends. Please note, however, that AAA is a national association of independently chartered local AAA motor clubs and organizations. If you relocate to a AAA service territory assigned to a AAA club or organization other than AAA East Central, your AAA membership may be transferred to such other AAA club or organization. Such other AAA club or organization will have its own separate privacy and data collection policies and practices which are independent of and may be different from our policies and practices. Such separate policies and practices will govern the future handling and disclosure of your personal information. © 2015 AAA East Central ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

PAGE 20

AAA MOTORIST

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

Celebrity is making waves around the Caribbean Make this fall and winter your seasons in the sun

here’s something about the Caribbean that draws us like shells to a beach. Sun-washed islands are set like steppingstones across a tranquil turquoise sea. And no one knows this sunny stretch of islands better than Celebrity Cruises. Seven of their award-winning ships will be plying the Caribbean this fall and winter with more ways to enjoy the Caribbean’s relaxed vibe. Beginning in November, Celebrity Equinox will sail 10- and 11-night Ultimate Caribbean voyages roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale. The 10-night departures sail on Fridays requiring just over one weeks’ vacation. Ports of call include Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; Basseterre, St. Kitts; Bridgetown Barbados; and Philipsburg, St. Maarten. St Thomas’ breathtaking panorama of beaches gives way to pastel dwellings sheltered against a background of emerald hills. Charlotte Amalie, the capital, was named after the Queen of Denmark and colorful Danish warehouses now house the world-famous duty free shops and boutiques. St. Kitts is a small, sombrero-shaped island with cloud-fringed Mount Liamuiga as its crown. A 32-mile road circles the island and passes timeless colonial towns and palm-fringed beaches. Romney Manor is a restored estate house originally built by Thomas

MORE SUN, MORE FUN — Celebrity will be sailing to 27 Caribbean destinations this fall and winter. Jefferson’s brother on the slopes of a dormant volcano. Barbados mingles British Colonial traditions with a Calypso beat. Local attractions include Crane Beach, with its smiling crescent of pink sand, Andromeda Botanic Gardens, and Bathsheba Beach, with giant mushroom-shaped rocks carved by the sea. St. Maarten is the smallest island in

the world shared between two nations — France and the Netherlands. People move freely between both sides and the only real evidence of a border is a sign on a mountain road that curves above a sun-struck bay. Celebrity Cruises is known for its comfortably sophisticated, upscale vacation experiences with personalized service and exceptional dining. The

2,850-passenger Equinox incorporates a series of brand defining features including larger, more intuitive staterooms with spacious baths, and a half-acre Lawn Club with real, growing grass. A full 85 percent of the 1,426 staterooms include verandas. For longer more indulgent itineraries, Celebrity’s 11-night sailings travel deep into the Southern Caribbean. Ports include George Town, Grand Cayman; Cartagena, Colombia; Colón, Panama; Puerto Limon, Costa Rica; and Cozumel, Mexico. Once a favored destination for wealthy travelers from around the world Colón is best known as the gateway to the Panama Canal. Visitors can watch huge ships being lifted 85 feet through the Gatun Locks, or visit historic Fort San Lorenzo, once the lair of 17th century buccaneer Henry Morgan. Cartagena’s historic center preserves one of the finest examples of Spanish Colonial architecture in the New World. The nearly 7-miles of walls that enclose the Old City, took over 200-years to complete.

IF YOU GO

Please this month’s Departures Guide, log on to AAA.com, or see your AAA Travel Agent for special member values on Celebrity Cruise vacations.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

AAA MOTORIST

PAGE 21

The twelve days of holiday travel How to save during that most wonderful time of year

here are a few times in life when it pays to be a pennypinching “Scrooge.” For the millions of Americans crowding airports and highways this holiday season, booking travel is one of them. AAA estimates more than 60 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more from home to visit friends or family or just to get away. The expenses that come with holiday travel can quickly add up; however, there are moneysaving strategies that can help revelers celebrate the holidays without going into the red. See a deal? Take it. Pricing and availability will become even more limited as the holidays draw near, as this holiday season is expected to be one of the busiest in recent years. If you see a good rate, don’t hesitate. ‘Tis the season to be jolly. Start your visit early. Take advantage of lower prices on airfares by departing before December 17 and avoid peak-season crowds. Silver bells are ringing. Many of the top hotels in big cities like New York and San Francisco offer some of their best deals of the season because business travel is virtually nonexistent and leisure bookings are way down. Spend Christmas Eve in style for less. Dreaming of a White Christmas? Start Celebrating Now. Take a last-minute ski break when many ski resorts are

SANTA ON THE SAND — Sick of the North Pole? Head South. empty and offer pre-season lift ticket pricing and hotel rates. You’ll also save more throughout the season by avoiding peak weekend dates and hitting the resorts Sunday through Thursday, when hotel rates tend to be lower. Sick of the North Pole? Head south. Escape to the Caribbean on a lastminute vacation within the next week

AAA offers tips for international travelers

hether travelers are planning an off-season trip this fall, a holiday getaway, or a dream winter escape, now is the ideal time to plan an international vacation, according to the experts at AAA Travel. In addition to warm-weather destinations in Mexico and the Caribbean, European cities like London, Rome, Paris and Dublin top AAA’s list of the most popular international travel destinations. “Travelers heading to Europe will enjoy favorable currency exchange rates, making now an excellent time to plan a trip overseas,” notes Jim Lehman, president AAA East Central. “Unique experiences such as river cruising are incredibly popular as well, as travelers look for opportunities to immerse themselves in a destination’s local culture while enjoying a hasslefree vacation experience abroad.” Here are some suggestions for travelers from AAA travel agents: Plan ahead to make sure travel plans are not delayed by the passport application process. It can take up to six weeks to get a new passport, so allow plenty of time to secure the necessary documents. Some countries require that a traveler’s passport be valid for at least six months beyond the dates of the

trip. Passport photos can be obtained at select local AAA offices. For travelers planning to drive overseas, an International Driving Permit (IDP) may be required. An IDP is also recommended as an additional source of identification. AAA is one of only two private entities in the U.S. authorized by the Department of State to issue IDPs. Refer to the U.S. Department of State’s current list of travel advisories and register all international travel plans with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). This makes it easier for the local embassy or consulate to contact you in case of an emergency. Travelers should notify their bank and credit card companies’ before traveling internationally to let them know what countries the card will be used in to avoid service interruptions. Use a chip-embedded credit card with EMV technology, a more secure system already widely used Europe, and now being adopted in the U.S. When traveling internationally, avoid exchanging foreign currency at the airport or train station as kiosks there often charge high exchange rates or service fees. Check with a travel agent or bank to exchange currencies before an international vacation.

to relieve stress while working on your tan. Now is a fantastic time to save on last-minute resort vacations, as demand and prices are down and some hotels offer deep discounts on off-peak season pricing. If you can’t get away now, plan for January when post-New Year deals abound. Cross paths with Santa. Take to the

airways on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day and save. Airfares can be significantly lower for flights on the actual holiday. Treat yourself. Gift yourself a welldeserved holiday treat and take a vacation in the New Year. It’s a wrap. Gift wrapped boxes can be opened by security so avoid checking wrapped gifts with checked baggage. Pack your wrapping paper and decorate gifts at your destination or ship them in advance. Ring in the New Year. Fly on New Year’s Eve or New Year’s Day when airfare prices are substantially lower than peak holiday dates. Don’t forget the trimmings. Be sure to factor in cost of travel to and from the airport, parking, checked baggage fees and airport purchases. These costs can impact your holiday budget. Consider an alternate route. It’s always a good idea to check prices for all of a city’s nearby airports. Expanding your options can yield lower airfares, just be sure to factor in additional transportation costs of getting to alternate airport.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Please see this issue’s Departures Guide or your AAA travel agent for special values on winter vacations.

Reach for the sky with AAA Plus ®

Upgrade your membership to AAA Plus® and experience a higher level of benefits! Extend your benefits for even more driving security Benefit

Basic Membership

AAA Plus® Membership

Towing

Back to the AAA station that comes to your rescue or Anywhere up to 100 miles. up to 3 miles to a destination of your choice.

Emergency Road Service When Out of Gas

Free delivery of emergency gas. Member will be charged for fuel at current pump price.

Free delivery of emergency gas. Fuel is free.

One service vehicle and one driver.

Two service vehicles and two drivers (if needed) at no extra charge.

Off-Road Rescue Service Lock & Key Service

Free service call (to gain entry) and up to $60 for Free service call (to gain entry) and up to $100 for locksmith charge. Towing benefit applies if necessary. locksmith charge. AAA Plus towing benefits applies if necessary.

When AAA Emergency Road Service is not Available

Reimbursement according to published limits

Get more out of your membership! Visit your local AAA office, AAA.com, or call the Member Service Center at 1-800-441-5008

Full amount reimbursed for covered AAA services (as long as costs are based on commercial rates.)

PAGE 22

AAA MOTORIST

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

Southwest Florida’s islands in the sun Set your watch to island time on the Lee Island Coast

nspoiled barrier islands, exotic wildlife and lush subtropical foliage are still plentiful on Southwest Florida’s Lee Island Coast. A favored destination for Floridians, as well as for visitors from around the globe, travelers will find miles of uncrowded beaches and more than a million acres of wetlands and wildlife sanctuaries. Sanibel and Captiva form part of a necklace of barrier islands that stretches along the gulf coast. They’re connected to the mainland by a lift bridge and causeway and to each other by a blinkand-you’ll-miss-it bridge at Blind Pass. The “out island” atmosphere persists despite the mere three miles separating Sanibel and Captiva from Fort Meyers. More than 40 percent of the land mass has been preserved as wildlife sanctuaries like the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge. Near sunset, flocks of roseate spoonbills darken the sky over Wildlife Drive. Brown pelicans dive for their daily ration of fish and dolphins delight in the spectacular sunsets. During the winter, millions of deepwater shells are carried onto the beaches by offshore winds and strong underwater currents. Shellers are usually out in force before dawn, scouring the beaches for sand dollars, alphabet tulips and the rare junonia.

ISLAND STYLE — Shelling at Cayo Costa State Park. According to legend, the name “Captiva” came from the women held captive during the days of Jose Gaspar, a pirate who plundered the gulf waters during the 1700s. A white ribbon of beach stretches five miles to Redfish Pass at the island’s northern tip. Nearby Cabbage Key is one of a chain of barrier islands that shelter

Charlotte Harbor and Pine Island Sound. In the 1930s, mystery writer Mary Roberts Rinehart helped her son erect the property at Milemarker 60 on the Intra-coastal Waterway that is now the Cabbage Key Inn & Restaurant. The views across sound are memorable and the burgers so tasty they inspired Jimmy Buffett to compose

local community programs. Time: 12:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. For information call 716-680-1317. Location: Grape Discovery Center, 8305 West Main Road, Westfield. ‘TIS THE SEASON HOLIDAY EXHIBIT — (November 26 to January 16, 2016) The Fenton History Center’s annual holiday celebrates American holiday traditions of past and present in the mansion of NY State Governor Reuben E. Fenton (18651868). The elegant 1863 mansion is adorned with fresh greenery, holiday decorations, and an upside down Christmas tree. Candlelight tour of the mansion and exhibit are available on Saturday evenings in December. Closed Sundays. For more information, visit fentonhistorycenter.org. Location: Fenton History Center, 67 Washington Street, Jamestown. CHRISTMAS IN ELLICOTTVILLE — (November 27-29) Christmas in the historic 19th-century village of Ellicottville is truly a holiday wonderland. As night falls, white Christmas lights come on and the three-story-tall Christmas tree is lit. Throughout the weekend, activities will include Christmas carolers, a live reindeer, breakfast with Santa, horse and wagon rides, interactive children’s activities and fire truck

rides with Santa. For information, visit ellicottvilleny.com. Location: Washington Street, Ellicottville. JAMESTOWN CHRISTMAS PARADE — (December 4) Kick off the holiday season at Jamestown’s Christmas parade with over 200 units, preparade entertainment, the giant tree lighting at Tracy Plaza, fireworks, snowball drop and a special appearance by Santa Claus. The festivities begin at 6:30 p.m. For information, visit jamestownrenaissance.org. Location: Third Street, Jamestown. MIRACLE ON MAIN STREET — (December 5) Santa comes to town with workshops and fun times for kids, caroling, the official Village holiday tree lighting in the park with refreshments, Festivals Fredonia’s Annual Give Back Donation Presentation and more. Craft show 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and gingerbread decorating workshop (fee) 12 p.m. to 3 p.m., crafts for the kids, pictures with and letter writing to Santa 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. Event runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For information, visit festivalsfredonia.com. Location: Barker Commons/Main Street. WINTER LIGHTS AT AUDUBON — (December 11-12, 18-19) A halfmile of trail is lit up with interactive LED lights that you can control--you have to experience it to believe

“Cheeseburger in Paradise.” Patrons have plastered the walls with autographed dollar bills — a custom which has generated at least $70,000 worth of George Washington wallpaper. The tradition began when a thirsty fisherman taped a bill to the wall, insuring a cold drink the next time he stopped by. John F. Kennedy and Ernest Hemingway are among those who have left their mark, and so can you, if you can find the space. Cayo Costa State Park lies just off of North Captiva Island and is accessible by private boat or one of the passenger ferries. Beachcombers will find nine miles of soft, white sandy beaches, pine forests, oak-palm hammocks, and mangrove swamps. The island is home to four species of sea turtles and West Indian manatees, which can be seen swimming in the canals. Bottlenose dolphins can often be spotted wave surfing and frolicking offshore. Each one has its own personal whistle as distinct and recognizable as any human voice.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

See this issue’s Departures Guide, or visit AAA.com/travel to learn more Florida vacation ideas from AAA Travel.

aroundtown HARVEST CELEBRATION WEEKENDS — (November 6-8, 13-15) Two weekends celebrating the fall harvest will feature sampling of autumn fare paired with inspired wine choices. A food and wine sample pairing at each winery. Your ticket includes wine tasting, gift, booklet with all of the recipes of the foods in the tasting, a Lake Erie Wine Country wine glass and a $5 voucher. Tickets are $35 per person; all tickets pre-sold. Time: Noon to 5 p.m. For tickets and information, visit lakeeriewinecountry.org. Location: Lake Erie Wine Country Wineries, North East, PA to Silver Creek, NY. TCA TOY TRAIN SHOW — (November 14) Presented by the T.C.A. Upstate New York Chapter. Experts will be available to appraise your trains. Buy, sell, trade and view! The time is from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Jamestown Erie Gateway Train Station, 211-217 W. Second St. Contact: 716-483-3041. HOLLY TOUR OF HOMES — (November 22) This holiday tradition includes a tour of homes beautifully decorated for the holidays, light dessert and entertainment at the First United Methodist Church on East Main Street in Westfield. Sponsored by the Westfield Women’s Organization, tickets are $10 and proceeds benefit

it! The building is open with hot chocolate and snacks. Time: 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. For information, visit jamestownaudubon.org. Location: Audubon Nature Center, 1600 Riverside Road, Jamestown. THE NUTCRACKER — (December 20) Live, in high definition via satellite from Moscow’s Bolshoi Ballet, the performance will enchant the whole family. Tchaikovsky’s sumptuous music accompanies Clara as she journeys through the land of Snow and Sweets. Time: 1 p.m. For information and tickets, visit fredopera.org. Location: Fredonia Opera House, 9 Church Street, Fredonia. NEW YEAR’S EVE AT HOLIDAY VALLEY — (December 31) Ring in the New Year’s at Holiday Valley. Ski until 10 p.m. If you’re an intermediate skier or better, you can join in the torchlight parade--meet at the bottom of Cindy’s lift at 11 p.m. A Holiday Valley Groomer’s Parade starts around 11:15 p.m. followed by the torchlight parade at 11:30 p.m. and a fireworks show. The first floor of the Holiday Valley Lodge features a family-friendly party with music, drink specials (and mocktails), holiday fun food and cheer. For information, visit holidayvalley. com. Location: 6557 Holiday Valley Road, Ellicottville.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

AAA MOTORIST

PAGE 23

Follow the sun to the Mayan Riviera Come in from the cold at this tropical paradise

exico’s Riviera Maya is a little more than an hour’s drive south of Cancun, but light years away in terms of tone and temperament. Mayan ruins, underground rivers and cenotes — mysterious limestone grottos filled with limpid pools — occupy this 100-mile stretch of the Yucatan peninsula. The quiet coastline is sheltered by the Great Mesoamerican Reef, which extends all the way from Punta Nizuc to the Bay of Islands in Honduras. The water is legendary for its clarity and blinding white beaches lap romantic Mexican villages like Puerto Morelos, known as the “Jewel of the Caribbean.” Compared with hot spots like Cancun the pace is generally slower and the atmosphere more laid back. Even more appealing are the dozens of all-inclusive resorts. Some cater specifically to couples or families, and they can be large or small, modern or traditional. What they all have in common is that food and drinks, accommodations, activities, taxes, and tips are typically included in one pre-paid price leaving you completely free to enjoy your stay. Centuries ago, Mayan emperors built fabulous cities on the Yucatan Peninsula with elaborate pyramids, observatories and huge calendars made of stone. Tulum is the only Mayan city built next to the sea, which provides a spectacular

BLUE HEAVEN — The Riviera Maya has some of the world’s best beaches. backdrop for its well-preserved ruins. Vestiges of the walled city’s castle and temple are decorated with symbols of the god of bees and Venus, guardian of the coast. Playa del Carmen is the area’s fastest growing city and the area’s top destination for shopping, dining and nightlife. After a day at the beach, visitors can

take an evening stroll along the Quinta Avenida. By day it’s packed with people browsing the shops and boutiques. By night roving musicians entertain diners in the restaurants and bars. Shoppers can bargain for authentic Mexican handicrafts, silver, and Mayainspired art in the Mercados, while diners will find everything from fresh

seafood to traditional Mayan cuisine with dishes like Cochinita Pibil, suckling pig baked in banana leaves with a rich annatto sauce. Xel-Ha is the largest natural aquarium in the world and one of the best snorkel sites on the continent. Sculpted out of the limestone coast, this National Park is a breeding ground for countless species of fish. The interlocking lagoons are fed by subterranean freshwater springs and by the Caribbean Sea, providing a perfect environment for marine life. The Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve extends over 1.3 million acres on the coast. Recognized as UNESCO Site in 1987, you can kayak between mangroves through narrow canals, climb an ancient pyramid, or silently float in the crystalline quiet of a cenote. The Maya first settled in this area in the fifth century A.D. and there are more than 20 archaeological sites within the reserve. Watch the sunrise here and you’ll understand why the ancient Maya named this place Sian Ka’an, which means, “where the sky is born.”

IF YOU GO

Please this month’s Departures Guide log on to AAA.com, or see your AAA Travel Agent for more information about allinclusive resort vacations to Mexico.

CHILLY MOUNTAIN LANDSCAPES WARM FUZZY GLOVES HIGH-ALTITUDE THRILLS

go EXPLORE

Visa TravelMoney® Card Visit participating AAA offices for more information or to purchase a Visa TravelMoney®Card

Accepted at merchants and ATMs where Visa debit cards are accepted, you will feel comfortable knowing the card is not linked to any of your accounts and can be replaced in as little as 24 hours. Cards issued by MetaBank™, Member FDIC, pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. Terms and conditions apply.

PAGE 24

AAA MOTORIST

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015