Neo by AAA East Central

SEE PAGE 3

Vol. 107 No. 3

NORTHEAST OHIO REGION

MEMBERS SAVE! Premier ... $350 Plus............ $325 Basic ..........$275

Meet these Celtic ‘Cousins’

New bookings with deposit March 1-31, 2015. Savings are per room, double occupancy.

t one location, a mere 12 miles separates Ireland (home to Ireland and Northern Ireland) from Britain (home to Scotland, England and Wales); the geographic proximity of these 2 islands facilitated the spread of Celtic culture from the Scottish Highlands to Ireland’s Atlantic shores. That shared heritage — and the isles’ spectacularly rugged coastlines, dewy peatlands, emerald-green meadows and heather-carpeted hills — forged the unique temperament of today’s Scots and Irish. A native journalist wryly notes: “We have periods of happiness and contentment, but we count on our deep sense of cynicism and gloom to get us through them.” You’ll no doubt encounter such charmingly selfdeprecating humor, a genuinely inviting hospitality and an effusively friendly welcome on AAA’s Sept 19-30 “Taste of Scotland & Ireland” escorted tour. It’s a comprehensive combination of sights and experiences revealing and embracing the character of 2 destinations very popular with AAA members. Equally popular are the savings members enjoy if they book & deposit by 3/31/15 — as much as $350.00 per room (double occupancy), depending on the level of AAA membership!

Land of Thistle & Haggis Begin in Scotland’s largest metropolis, Glasgow, where 1 of its 3 pro soccer clubs is called Celtic (say Keltic, not Seltic). Enjoy a tour of the city center, which first flourished in Victorian times from shipbuilding and international trade. Drive around George Square and its ornate City Chambers, then visit historic

BLARNEY CASTLE, IRELAND Provand’s Lordship, Glasgow’s oldest house (1471); originally part of a hospital, it’s been extensively restored. Afterward, share a welcome drink before dinner with your tour director and travel companions. Travel along Loch Lomond, renowned for unsurpassed beauty, into the fabled Highlands and through the deep and narrow valley at Glen Coe, a National Scenic Area notorious for the massacre of the Clan Macdonald by the Clan Campbell in 1692. Continue through Fort William to Spean Bridge Woollen Mill, which offers quality Scottish-made goods. At Fort Augustus, embark on a Loch Ness cruise, keeping eyes open for “Nessie,” the BUNRATTY CASTLE world-famous cryptid (a IRELAND creature or plant whose suggested existence has not been verified by the scientific community). Following this fun & fabled “hunt,” journey to either Inverness or Nairn for the night. At Blair Athol Distillery in Pitlochry see how whisky (an anglicisation of the Gaelic uisce/uisge, meaning water) is distilled; and — the best part? — is that you get to sample some! Duly fortified, continue to St Andrews, known as the “home of golf” (1754) and for Scotland’s oldest university (~1410); spend some time exploring on your own before heading to Edinburgh and your gracious manor house hotel, set on 1,000 acres with 2 golf courses and spa facilities a few miles from the city. Savor a dinner of excellent Scottish cuisine (definitely not haggis, the national dish — a savory pudding of sheep offal simmered inside the animal’s stomach or, more likely these days, a sausage casing) followed by continued from page 16

MARCH 2015 Monitor and Protect Your Identity with ProtectMyID®

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

PUTTING THE BRAKES ON TRAFFIC FATALITIES

One of the fastest growing crimes in the country, identity theft is an increasingly important concern. AAA now offers identity theft monitoring services to members provided by ProtectMyID®, a part of Experian®. Enrollment in the free ProtectMyID Essential program offers daily monitoring of your Experian credit report, among other valuable resources. Some simple steps members can take to help protect their identity include: passwordprotect everything, and never share your password; keep personal files private and out of easy access; shred preapproved credit card offers or other documents containing personal information; and stay on top of your credit report information. Go the extra step and get peace of mind today by enrolling in ProtectMyID, which helps protect you by detecting signs of fraud and helps you resolve them. To enroll now call 1-877-440-6943 or visit www.AAA.com/idtheft. *Identity Theft Insurance underwritten by insurance subsidiaries or affiliates of American International Group, Inc. Refer to the actual policies for complete terms, conditions and exclusions of coverage.

Auto Pay Saves You Time & Money We understand you’re busy and the last thing you need worry about is being stranded without a valid AAA membership. With AAA East Central’s Auto Pay annual renewal option, you’ll never have to worry about your membership benefits lapsing. Sign up, and your membership renewal will automatically be charged to your credit card or debit card each year. We’ll even send you a reminder before billing your card. And for a limited time, save $10 on next year’s membership renewal when you enroll in Auto Pay at AAA.com/renew, or at any AAA East Central branch office. Auto Pay automatic renewal can be added to your membership at any time, regardless of your membership expiration/renewal date. You’ll rest easy knowing your AAA membership is always there providing uninterrupted service. And, you always have the option of canceling at any time. For more information, visit or call your local AAA East Central Branch office, or call the AAA Member Services Center at 1.800.441.5008 or 412.363.5100 in Pittsburgh.

AAA Mobile Battery Services Passes 1.5 million AAA Mobile Battery Service reached a significant milestone in 2014, making its 1.5 millionth battery replacement last October. AAA serves members’ battery needs with the right equipment, proper full system testing and friendly, informed battery technicians. AAA Battery Service vehicles carry batteries compatible with 90 percent of all cars, SUVs and light trucks on the road. The high-quality AAA branded battery comes with a 72-month warranty, including 36-months free replacement, and members receive a discount. If your vehicle won’t start and you suspect your battery may be the problem, count on AAA to turn battery problems into solutions. AAA Battery Service is available from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. 7-days a week. To verify AAA Battery Service availability in your area, call our toll-free number: 1.800.222.4357, or visit AAA.com/battery for details.

Celebrity and AAA Travel Are Making Waves in the Caribbean There’s something about the Caribbean that draws us like shells to a beach. And no one knows this sunny stretch of islands better than Celebrity Cruises. Set sail on the ultimate Caribbean Cruise this fall aboard Celebrity Equinox. This November 20-30 sailing calls in at St. Thomas, St. Kitts, Barbados, Dominica and St. Maarten. Book and deposit this Featured Vacation and take advantage of add-on roundtrip airfare to Ft. Lauderdale for just $199! But hurry space is limited. SEE PAGE 7.

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AAA MOTORIST

Pack the card that pays when you travel It’s safe, convenient and very rewarding

You’ll never run out of ways to redeem your points, either. Turn points into AAA Vouchers you can use at AAA branches for membership renewal, AAA travel agency services, car rentals, airfare, cruises, and attraction tickets, or that new set of luggage. Or, redeem your points for one percent cash back or Gift Cards redeemable at more than 100 national retailers and restaurants — from the Olive Garden and Panera Bread to Bath & Body Works and Best Buy.

Plus, Safety on the Road The new AAA Member Rewards Visa credit card is packed with safety features, too. On the road, enjoy $500,000 in common carrier travel accident

AAA MEMBER SERVICES

TripTiks, Tourbooks, Maps, Address Change, AAA Plus

APPROVED AUTO REPAIR: 216-606-6332 aar@aaaec.com

AUTO BUYING SERVICE: 800-446-7433 DRIVER IMPROVEMENT PROGRAMS: 216-606-6121 EMERGENCY ROAD SERVICE: Cuyahoga County: 216-606-6000, ers@aaaec.com Ashland, Ashtabula, Geauga, Huron, Lake, Lorain, Portage, Mahoning, Stark, Trumbull, and Tuscarawas: 800-AAA-HELP

INSURANCE AGENCY: 216-606-6194, 800-343-4851 insuranceservices@aaaec.com

More Ways to Earn

More Ways to Redeem

AAA DIRECTORY

800-441-5008 membersvccntr@aaaec.com

assport? Check. Itinerary and flight information? Check. Hotel confirmation? Check. While you’re at it, don’t forget to bring along another important travel “tool” — the AAA Member Rewards Visa® credit card. It’s a valuepacked credit card that simply makes travel more rewarding — with outstanding earning power on everyday purchases, no annual limits on how many points you can earn, plus plenty of opportunities to earn double, even triple points. TRIPLE points for all of your qualifying AAA and travel purchases (airline tickets, car rentals, cruises, vacation packages and more), or any other purchase at AAA; DOUBLE points for gas, grocery, and drug store purchases; ONE point for each dollar on all other retail purchases. Best of all, there are no tiers, no limits on the number of points you can earn*. Plus, you can combine points from multiple AAA Member Rewards Visa accounts!

MARCH 2015

MOTORIST, Northeast Ohio Region: 216-606-6700 motorist@aaaec.com

PUBLIC AFFAIRS: 216-606-6702 PUBLIC RELATIONS: 216-606-6712 TRAFFIC SAFETY PROGRAMS: 1-800-845-0375 TRAVEL AGENCY: 800-354-8761 www.AAA.com

Northeast Ohio AAA Offices ALLIANCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 330/823-9820 TRAVEL AGENCY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 330/821-2323 2322 South Union Ave., 44601

A REWARDING EXPERIENCE — A credit card is safer than carrying cash when traveling internationally.

ASHLAND . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 419/289-8133 TRAVEL AGENCY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 419/289-2222 1074 Commerce Parkway, 44805

insurance. Lose your card? It’s no problem with overnight card replacement. You’ll also have around-the-clock fraud protection and zero liability for fraudulent credit card purchases. To learn more about rates, fees, and other costs and benefits associated with the use of this card, please call 866665-3581or apply online at AAA.com/ CreditCard.

ASHTABULA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 440/997-5586 TRAVEL AGENCY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 440/998-1008 2835 North Ridge Rd. East 44004

* Earn 1 point per dollar of new net retail purchase transactions (qualifying purchases less credits, returns, and adjustments) (“Net Purchases”) charged to the card each billing cycle. Earn 2 points per dollar (consisting of 1 base point and 1 bonus point) for Net Purchases made with the card at any eligible gas, grocery or pharmacy retail merchant categories as

designated by us. Eligible merchants and their associated Merchant Category Codes (“MCC”) are the following: (a) Gas Stations (MCC codes 5541 and 5542); (b) Grocery Stores (MCC codes 5411, 5422, 5441, 5451, 5462, and 5499); and (c) Pharmacy Stores (MCC codes 5122 and 5912). Purchases made at merchants that do not process transactions under these codes will not qualify to receive double points. Earn 3 points per dollar (consisting of 1 base point and 2 bonus points) for Net Purchases made with the card through any participating AAA Club, when AAA is the merchant of record, or at eligible retail travel merchant categories as designated by us. Eligible travel Merchant Category Codes (“MCC”) are the following: (a) Airlines (MCC codes 3000-3299, and 4511); (b) Car Rental Agencies (MCC codes 3351-3441, and 7512); (c) Hotels, Motels, Inns and Resorts (MCC codes 3501-3999, and 7011); (d) Cruise Lines (MCC code 4411); and (e) Travel Agencies and Tour Operators (MCC Code 4722). Purchases made at merchants that do not process transactions under these codes will not qualify to receive triple points. Rewards begin at 2,500 points for merchandise, 5,000 points for cash and AAA reward vouchers and 15,000 points for air. Other restrictions apply. Complete details accompany new account materials. This credit card program is issued and administered by Bank of America, N.A. Visa and Visa Signature are registered trademarks of Visa International Service Association and are used by the Issuer pursuant to license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. AAA is a trademark of American Automobile Association, Inc. ©2014 Bank of America Corporation

BUY $50 VISA GIFT CARD FOR JUST $4.95

Now through April 30, when you apply for AAA Member Rewards visa card at any AAA East Central branch office location, you have the opportunity to purchase a $50 Visa gift card for only $4.95! See a store associate for details.

INDEPENDENCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 216/606-6300 TRAVEL AGENCY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 216/606-6080 5700 Brecksville Rd. 44131 LAKE COUNTY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 440/974-0990 TRAVEL AGENCY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 440/205-9090 6980 Heisley Rd., Mentor 44060 LYNDHURST . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 440/473-0700 TRAVEL AGENCY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 440/473-0747 5356 Mayfield Rd. 44124 MAHONING COUNTY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 330/726-9083 TRAVEL AGENCY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 330/726-0622 1275 Boardman-Canfield Rd., Boardman 44512 MASSILLON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 330/833-1084 TRAVEL AGENCY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 330/833-1084 1972 Wales Rd, 44646 MIDWAY MALL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 440/324-2090 TRAVEL AGENCY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 440/324-3423 1839 Midway Mall, Elyria 44035 NORWALK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 419/668-1622 TRAVEL AGENCY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 419/668-1622 275 Benedict Ave. Norwalk 44857 PORTAGE COUNTY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 330/296-3406 TRAVEL AGENCY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 330/296-3406 2641 Rte. 59, Ravenna 44266 SOLON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 440/248-9000 TRAVEL AGENCY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 440/248-1808 34050 Solon Rd. 44139 STRONGSVILLE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 440/783-3395 TRAVEL AGENCY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 440/783-3396 17220 Royalton Rd. 44136, Borders Plaza TRUMBULL COUNTY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 330/652-6466 TRAVEL AGENCY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 330/652-6466 937 Youngstown-Warren Rd., Niles 44446 TUSCARAWAS COUNTY TRAVEL AGENCY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 330/343-4481 1112 Fourth St., New Philadelphia 44663 . . . . . . . 330/343-4481 WESTLAKE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 440/788-3102 TRAVEL AGENCY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 440/788-3103 149 Market St., Crocker Park, Westlake 44145

MARCH 2015

AAA MOTORIST

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Putting the brakes on traffic fatalities Northeast Ohio Region Official publication of AAA East Central Published monthly (except bimonthly Aug./Sept., Nov./Dec.) by AAA East Central 5700 Brecksville Road, Independence, OH 44131 216/606-6225 ISSN 0030-0985 Periodicals Postage Paid at Cleveland, OH and additional post offices Postmaster: Send address changes to AAA Motorist Northeast Ohio Region P.O. Box 6150 Cleveland, OH 44101 Subscription Rate: $1 included in Primary Membership dues. All others: $2/year. Publisher ................................James E. Lehman Managing Editor ....................... Douglas O’Neil Business Manager ............... Sherry A. Madison Editorial Office/Advertising Inquiries 5700 Brecksville Road, Independence, OH 44131 216/606-6704 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 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, Pamela C. Fritz, Gregory E. Grim, Richard S. Hamilton, James H. Kanicki, Charles J. Kelly** , Mary Lynn Laughlin, William Duff McCrady, James M. McDonnell, Thomas V. McKernan Jr., Martha Hartle Munsch, Gary K. Munsie** 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, Mona N. Generett, Charles W. Groce , Richard S. Hamilton, Mark Henschen, Luke Howe, Richard Kallenborn, Herbert G. Koenig, Mark S. Mansour, W. Duff McCrady, Martha Hartle Munsch, W. Lee Oswalt, III, Michael Parkes, John D. Petruso, Louis Pomerico, Jacob N. Skezas, James C. Stump, Jr., James F. Ward *ex officio **emeritus directors

OHIO MOTORISTS REGION BOARD OF TRUSTEES James H. Kanicki, Chairman, Audrey T. Cole, Vice Chairman, Keith Boales, Thomas G. Brick**, Steve D. Bullock, Edward C. Coaxum, Jr., Gary S. Cowling**, Jon E. Denney, Richard S. Hamilton, John B. Hexter, James H. Kanicki, Mary Lynn Laughlin, John D. Leech**, Khai H. Lim, Marvin E. Montgomery, Peter C. Ohlheiser, Sara E. Stashower *ex officio **emeritus directors 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.

Traffic deaths continued to decline in 2013 By Richard Hamilton Chairman, AAA East Central t may not feel like it on your morning commute, but our roadways have never been safer. Newly released statistics from the U.S. Department of Transportation reveal the number of passenger vehicle occupants dying in car crashes in 2013, fell to their lowest number on record. The downside is that 32,719 people still lost their lives on America’s roads, many of them needlessly. Over the past decade, traffic fatalities have plummeted 25 percent and much of the credit goes to better vehicle design, active safety technologies like electronic stability control (ESC), and advances in medical care that have made crash injuries more survivable. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, (IIHS) your chances of dying in a crash in a late-model vehicle have fallen by more than a third in just the last three years. High-tech collision avoidance and mitigation systems may be changing the way we drive, but seatbelts remain the single most effective occupant safety device. Among fatally injured passenger vehicle occupants in 2013, almost half (49 percent) were unrestrained. Thirty-four states experienced reductions in overall traffic fatalities, led by Ohio with 132 fewer fatalities, Kentucky with 108 fewer, and Pennsylvania with 102 fewer. These numbers reflect the longstanding efforts by AAA and a broad coalition of safety-driven individuals and organizations to inform the

Richard Hamilton public, and pass meaningful legislation such as impaired driving countermeasures, full implementation of graduated driver licensing systems and primary seatbelt requirements. Much progress has been made, but it only serves as a reminder of the magnitude of the problem that remains. On average, almost 90 people lose their lives each day — and more than 250 are injured every hour — due to factors like speeding, impaired driving, or not using child restraints. Too many drivers flout traffic and safety laws; the impact of legislation is often limited by specifics; and there remains an urgent need to improve our highway infrastructure and reduce congestion.

Impaired driving — especially by habitual offenders — remains a serious public health issue. While the number alcohol-impaired-driving fatalities decreased by 2.5 percent between 2012 and 2013, they still accounted for a staggering 31 percent of all traffic fatalities. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that in 2013, 3,154 people lost their lives and another 421,000 were injured in distraction-related crashes. Driver distraction diverts your eyes from the road, takes your hands off the wheel, and reduces your concentration on the task of driving. Text messaging can do all three simultaneously, which is why it’s so deadly. Beyond the terrible human tragedy are the enormous economic losses and emotional costs. The U.S. Department of Transportation’s most recent estimate pegs the annual economic cost of crashes at $277 billion dollars. These include medical, emergency and police services, property damage, lost productivity, and quality of life, among other things. A number of factors, such as state traffic laws, emergency trauma care, weather and topography influence traffic deaths and injuries, but perhaps none is more important than changing driver behavior and altering the current culture of complacency. No one should accept as inevitable, the fact that nearly 33,000 Americans will perish on our highways each year. Even one life lost is one too many.

membersonly

Moving home from college made easy

Penske offers a course in moving 101

illions of students shift their belongings back and forth from colleges and universities each year and many will soon begin their annual trek back home. Moving is never easy but there are things you can do to make it better for everyone involved. Whether you’re a senior or a sophomore, the experts at Penske Truck Rental have a curriculum to help make you or you college-age student make the move home: Don’t wait — Springtime and graduation weeks are peak moving times for both students and families living near or around campus. Reserve a truck before they’re all rented out — at least two weeks prior to your move. For most students, a 12- or 16-foot truck is a perfect fit for contents of a college residence or small off-campus apartment. If you can, try to move on a weekday — weekends are always the busiest moving days. Pack in increments — Start early to avoid the stress of last-minute rush-

ing. It’s OK to leave a box open in case you need something you’ve packed inside it. Pack smart — Bring home only what you need. Before you toss something consider donating any useable items to fellow students or various charities. Load your heaviest items on the truck first to create a sturdy base, then start stacking on top. Boxes, packing tape, bubble pack, moving blankets, and hand trucks are also essential to keeping your belongings safer and making your move easier. Think safety — A moving truck is taller, wider and heavier than cars or SUVs. So, drive a bit slower and take extra care when making turns, driving under overhangs or near low tree branches. Penske offers 24/7/365 emergency roadside assistance in case you have a problem. Make it fun — Keep a positive attitude during the move — play music, spring for pizza after all the work is done and don’t let frustration get to you. Penske moving trucks have CD

players, radios, air conditioning and cell-phone outlet chargers — all the things necessary for a comfortable, enjoyable ride. Go green and save green — Save on expenses and be kinder to the environment by moving together with someone from your area. Check with your residence life office on campus to help find someone to share the load. Pack a go bag — With most belongings packed tightly away, create a travel bag for moving day to keep important paperwork, credit cards, identification, change of clothes, drinks and snacks close at hand. Whether you need a truck for moving across the country or down the street, Penske Truck Rental offers significant savings for AAA members. Save 12 percent on one-way & local truck rentals and 12 percent off moving supplies and accessories. Offer only applicable to daily fixed rate and any mileage charges. Book online and save up to 20 percent on one-way rentals at PenskeTruckRental.com.

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AAA MOTORIST

MARCH 2015

AAA MOTORIST

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AAA MOTORIST

MARCH 2015

A crash course in post-collision protocol Stay calm and follow these steps after an accident By Robin Jones ustin Lin’s first auto accident was, fortunately, a minor one. While waiting in line to leave the high school parking lot, Lin inched forward just a bit too far—and bumped the car in front of him. He motioned the other driver to the side of the parking lot, where they examined both cars for damage (they didn’t see any) and exchanged phone numbers. Then Lin handed his insurance card to the other driver, and she drove away with it. “I had no idea what to do,” says Lin, who was 16 at the time. “I just did what I’d heard other people say to do.” Lin’s inexperience may have caused him to skip a few steps in the post-accident protocol recommended by many insurers. But even veteran drivers can get frazzled and forget to record crucial information. Here’s a quick guide on what to do after a collision. 1. Assess the situation Before you do anything else, take a deep breath. Then ask yourself these questions. First: Are you injured? If you or anyone else is hurt, call 911 immediately. Second: Is your car operable? If so, drive to the side of the road or to a safe place so that you don’t block traffic and cause another accident. If your car is so badly damaged that it can’t be moved, turn on your emergency flashers and

KEEP YOUR COOL — Even veteran drivers can forget crucial information. stay in the car until help arrives. Third: Should you call the police? “It’s always a good idea to call 911 following an accident,” says Armando Garcia, community outreach officer for Santa Ana CHP. “However, if there are no injuries, only property damage, the parties involved can agree to just exchange information and leave the scene.” 2. Gather information Once you get to a safe place, and if you feel comfortable doing so, start exchanging information. Get

the names, driver’s license numbers, addresses, and phone numbers of any drivers involved. Record the color, make, model, year, license plate number, and registered owner for each vehicle, and get the names and phone numbers of any passengers or witnesses. Then, get the names and policy numbers of the drivers’ insurance companies. If it is more convenient, take photos on your phone capturing all the necessary information. Lastly, give the same information about yourself to other drivers.

Next, gather information about the accident scene. Sketch out the positions of the vehicles. Note the location, time, and weather and road conditions. Use your cell phone to photograph the scene and the cars involved, even if there’s no apparent damage. If the police come to the scene, write down the officers’ names, badge numbers, and jurisdiction, and ask them how your insurance company can get a copy of the police report, if one is filed. 3. Call your insurance company Determining fault is best left to an insurance professional, so don’t admit fault and call your insurance company as soon as possible, even from the accident scene. When you get home, write a detailed account of the collision and download the photos you took. This information will be useful during the claims process and could help if you end up involved in a court case.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Trust AAA to steer you right on all your current and future Auto, Home and Life insurance needs. Combining your coverage with one insurance company could make a significant difference in your premium. Call 866.802.8210, or visit AAA.com/insurance for more information or to schedule a comprehensive Insurance review.

MARCH 2015

AAA MOTORIST

Member Benefits • Exclusive Offers

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1-800-354-8761 • AAA.com/travel

This “Ultimate Caribbean” cruise on Celebrity Equinox just got better — with add-on roundtrip airfare for just $199!

• $50 per stateroom shipboard credit

• In-stateroom bottle of wine

ATURE

• Onboard martini tasting

Add-on roundtrip airfare from Pittsburgh while seats last: $199 per person (limited to 2 passengers per stateroom; other restrictions may apply) D

Modern Luxury

10-night cruise accommodations on Celebrity Equinox roundtrip from Ft Lauderdale to St Thomas, St Kitts, Barbados, Dominica and St Maarten

This year, Thanksgiving may have you feeling extra grateful —for spending this typically cold-weather holiday on a guaranteed-warm-weather Caribbean cruise vacation and for taking advantage of roundtrip airfare to Ft Lauderdale for just $199! While the space lasts, you can book this Nov 20-30 sailing at AAA Travel and save big by adding this extra-special air rate to your getaway. Sail to popular St Thomas and St Maarten, as well as to the lesser visited gems of St Kitts, Barbados and Dominica. And, onboard, you’ll enjoy $50 shipboard credit, martini tasting, an in-stateroom bottle of wine and all the comforts of Modern SM Luxury. Airy spaces with all the right tasteful details. Restaurants where design is just as important as cuisine. Intuitive service with a keen eye for detail. Doing as much (or as little) as you choose. More than you expected? Celebrity Cruises believes every moment of your vacation should be measured by just how far it takes you from ordinary. That’s Modern LuxuSM ry — and you’ll experience it SM on Equinox, which captures the very essence of premium cruising. Even more so after her recent dry dock where she was enhanced with new amenities, some not available on any other

T IO

Nov 20-30 •

ship in the fleet. Enjoy craft beers and comfort food in the new Gastrobar. Or fresh, frozen cocktails on the pool deck at Slush. Shimmering in sophistication from bow to stern, she’ll exceed your expectations as soon as you step aboard. Delight in your choice of 10 exceptional dining venues. Relax in chic and spacious accommodations. Be surprised to feel grass beneath your feet at the Lawn Club as you sail out to sea. With every imaginable comfort, along with Celebrity’s unrivaled guest services, you are bound for an unsurpassed experience no matter your destination. With 1 staff member for nearly every 2 guests, Celebrity’s personal service anticipates your every need. Unobtrusively. Intuitively. Feel restored and relaxed — effortlessly. In your stateroom, out by the pool, in the Canyon Ranch SpaClub,® anywhere at all, at anytime, Celebrity’s onboard family goes the extra mile to ensure every aspect of your cruise turns out just the way you want it.

AAA Member Rate: from $1,745

Balcony rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip airport/pier transfers, 10-night cruise accommodations/entertainment, most onboard meals, government taxes/fees ($356.62) and $50 shipboard credit per stateroom. Ship’s registry: Malta. Ask about discounted add-on airfare (roundtrip from Buffalo, Cleveland, Columbus, Louisville, Philadelphia or Pittsburgh) available for a limited time. Visit AAA.com/travel for complete itinerary and important pre-travel information.

Modern Luxury

Upgrade from a balcony to a Concierge Class stateroom for $100 per person! Personalized concierge service • in-room sparkling wine on arrival • in-room flowers & fruit & evening hors d’oeuvres delivered daily • luxury bedding • pillow menu • personalized stationery • tote bag • umbrella for onboard use • private bar (custom-stocked for a fee) • massage showerhead • plush robes • oversize towels • salon-quality hairdryer • a selection of shampoos/lotions/soaps • express luggage delivery • early embarkation/disembarkation • priority seating in main dining room & specialty restaurants • make-up/turndown service • expanded room service menu (24 hours) • shoeshine valet Balcony enhancements include a table for 2, cushioned chairs and high-power binoculars for onboard use.

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AAA MOTORIST

MARCH 2015

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

Glacier Discovery CHICAGO to SEATTLE

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers BOOK BY 3/31/15:

SAVE $300 PER ROOM, DOUBLE OCCUPANCY, WITH DEPOSIT

Retrace portions of the Lewis & Clark Trail on Amtrak’s Empire Builder from the “Windy City” to the “Emerald City” and explore the “Crown of the Continent” in between! Begin in Chicago; take a city tour before boarding Empire Builder at magnificent Union Station. Start your rail journey with Mississippi River views and glimpses of the Twin Cities skyline. Enjoy breakfast and lunch onboard as you cross into Montana to Glacier National Park. Tour in a 1930s “jammer” with a canvas roll-top; rebuilt in 2001, these vehicles climb Going-to-the-Sun Road. Cross into Canada to visit Waterton Lakes National Park, part of the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, a World Heritage Site. Enjoy 2 nights at Glacier Park Lodge. Your other in-park home for 2 nights is the Swiss-themed Many Glacier Hotel on Swiftcurrent Lake. Reboard the Empire Builder for Seattle. See the city’s many gems, including lively Pike Place Market. Cap it all off with an ascent of the iconic Space Needle for breathtaking views!

GLACIER NP

GLACIER NP SEATTLE

Glacier National Park Discovery Aug 1-10 •

AAA Member Rate: $3,935

Before-discount rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip hotel/train transfers, 2-night train roomette accommodations (Chicago-Seattle), 7-night ATURE hotel accommodations, 17 meals, meal gratuities (except on train), welcome reception, 4 tours & 1 cruise in Glacier National Park, sightseeing per itinerary, hotel baggage handling (1 per person), hotel taxes and services of an Amtrak Vacations® tour escort (Chicago-Seattle). Visit AAA.com/ CA O TI travel for complete itinerary. Ask about available add-on airfare.

Up to $100 onboard credit on these AAA Vacations sailings! ®

AAA Vacations® Celebrity Cruises sailings entitle you to priority check-in and up to $100 shipboard credit per stateroom. All AAA Vacations cruises feature AAA’s 24 / 7 Member Care Assistance Service and 24-hour Best-Price Guarantee. ®

Be sure to ask a AAA Travel Agent about all available offers and promotions when you choose a AAA Vacations® Celebrity Cruises departure.

AAA VACATIONS® AMENITIES

DATE

6-2-15 6-5-15 6-9-15 6-14-15 6-21-15 7-3-15 7-3-15 7-4-15 7-5-15 7-10-15 7-15-15 7-24-15 7-25-15 7-25-15 7-26-15 7-31-15 8-1-15 8-7-15 8-8-15 8-8-15 8-9-15 8-21-15 8-22-15 9-10-15 9-11-15 9-11-15 9-13-15 9-14-15

NIGHTS

11 7 12 13 7 12 7 7 7 10 12 7 14 7 7 7 13 7 14 14 7 10 12 8 10 11 14 10

SHIP

ITINERARY

Equinox Solstice Silhouette Eclipse Infinity Silhouette Solstice Equinox Infinity Reflection Silhouette Solstice Eclipse Equinox Infinity Solstice Equinox Solstice Eclipse Silhouette Infinity Reflection Silhouette Constellation Reflection Solstice Eclipse Silhouette

Italy & Greek Isles: Barcelona to Piraeus Alaska: Roundtrip from Seattle British Isles: Roundtrip from Amsterdam Scandinavia & Russia: Roundtrip from Southampton Alaska: Roundtrip from Vancouver Scandinavia & Russia: Roundtrip from Amsterdam Alaska: Roundtrip from Seattle Western Mediterranean: Barcelona to Piraeus Alaska: Roundtrip from Vancouver Eastern Mediterranean: Roundtrip from Civitavecchia British Isles: Roundtrip from Amsterdam Alaska: Roundtrip from Seattle Scandinavia & Russia: Roundtrip from Southampton Italy & Mediterranean: Civitavecchia to Barcelona Alaska: Roundtrip from Vancouver Alaska: Roundtrip from Seattle Italy & Greek Isles: Roundtrip from Barcelona Alaska: Roundtrip from Seattle Scandinavia & Russia: Roundtrip from Southampton British Isles: Roundtrip from Amsterdam Alaska: Roundtrip from Vancouver Eastern Mediterranean: Roundtrip from Civitavecchia Scandinavia & Russia: Roundtrip from Amsterdam Eastern Roman Empire: Civitavecchia to Istanbul Eastern Mediterranean: Roundtrip from Civitavecchia Alaska: Seattle to Vancouver Canaries & Azores: Roundtrip from Southampton Western Mediterranean: Roundtrip from Civitavecchia

Offers available only on AAA Vacations® departures. Combinable with AAA Member Benefits; ask a AAA Travel Agent or visit AAA.com/travel for details/restrictions.

PRIORITY CHECK-IN*

ONBOARD CREDIT**

YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES

$100.00 $50.00 $100.00 $100.00 $50.00 $100.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $100.00 $100.00 $50.00 $100.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $100.00 $50.00 $100.00 $100.00 $50.00 $100.00 $100.00 $50.00 $100.00 $100.00 $100.00 $100.00

*does not grant priority boarding **per stateroom

MARCH 2015

AAA MOTORIST

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Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

Beijing

INTRO to CHINA AN ESCORTED EXPERIENCE

Walk on the GREAT WALL! Enter the FORBIDDEN CITY! Explore one of the world’s most important capitals and meet BEIJINGERS at home & in school!

SAVE $200! New bo

okings w deposit: March 1-ith 31 PER ROOM, DOUBLE OCCUPAN CY

EXTRA-SPECIAL HIGHLIGHTS include... • A traditional PEKING DUCK DINNER in one of Beijing‘s best restaurants renowned for the preparation & presentation of this world-famous delicacy • An up-close & personal FAMILY-HOME VISIT & HOME-COOKED MEAL in one of Beijing’s ancient and fast-disappearing hutong neighborhoods, with an opportunity to question and interact with your hosts

ATURE

• An entertaining KUNG FU ACADEMY VISIT & DEMONSTRATION by its students — whom you may meet afterward and try your hand at learning a move or two!

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• A traditional, interactive & fun “HOTPOT“ DINNER, where spearing & dipping your meats & veggies in a tabletop “vat“ of broth makes for a very social experience!

Enjoy the comfort & security of an escorted experience — a comprehensive, informative & personal look at this rapidly growing city and an in-depth introduction to its fascinating culture. See landmarks & learn customs for nearly a week; then enjoy an entire day independently exploring & indulging your interests — art, history, cuisine, shopping, photography, parks & zoos — it’s all up to you, with suggestions, advice, directions, etc, from your expert in-China local guide! Marvel at ancient & modern, urban & rural, rich & poor, simple & sophisticated, serene & chaotic. Beijing’s unique combination of seemingly contradictory elements may well change your understanding of this city & nation...and provide moving memories that last a lifetime.

Sept 17-24 •

AAA Member Rate: $3,425

Before-discount rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip flights (Pittsburgh-Beijing), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, 12 meals, in-China guide, sightseeing/admissions, baggage handling (1 per person), driver & escort gratuities, AAA Tour Manager (if minimum-participation goal is met) & government taxes/fees. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details. Visit AAA.com/GoAsia for itinerary.

4 UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITES — THE GREAT WALL AT BADALING, THE IMPERIAL PALACE (FORBIDDEN CITY), THE SUMMER PALACE AND THE TEMPLE OF HEAVEN TIANANMEN SQUARE • 2008 SUMMER OLYMPICS SITE • LAMA BUDDHIST TEMPLE • HUTONG MARKET VISIT, HOME VISIT & HOME-COOKED MEAL • BELL & DRUM TOWERS TEA CEREMONY JADE FACTORY • PEDICAB RIDE • KUNG FU DEMONSTRATION & STUDENT INTERACTION • TRADITIONAL PEKING DUCK & HOTPOT DINNERS • & MORE!

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Oct 19-31 •

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AAA Member Rate: $5,779

Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip flights (Cleveland-Rome, Milan-Cleveland), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, hotel accommodations, guided motorcoach sightseeing, entrance fees, 20 meals, in-Italy tour director and air & hotel taxes (subject to change). Visit AAA.com/Italy for itinerary and more information. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details.

Car-free, carefree adventures

ATURE

____________________________________________________________

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

11 nights of everything you’d want in a trip to Italy! Multiplenight stays in Rome, Florence, Venice, the Amalfi Coast and Stresa. Treasures of Classical and Christian Rome. Pompeii. Gems of the Renaissance in Florence, including Michelangelo’s “David.” Locarno, Switzerland. Cruise to Isola dei Pescatori, one of the Borromean Islands. Walking tour of Venice. The Italian Lakes District. Sample wines & specialities at a Tuscan winery & farm. Enchanting Capri. Special inclusions: “Rome by Night” tour...Vatican museums & St Peter’s...a family-style Tuscan feast...and a serenaded gondola cruise in Venice!

MENTOR .......................... 440-205-9090 NEW PHILADELPHIA......... 330-343-4481 NILES .............................. 330-652-6466 NORWALK........................ 419-668-1622 RAVENNA ........................ 330-296-3406 SOLON ............................ 440-248-1808 STRONGSVILLE ................ 440-783-3396 WESTLAKE ....................... 440-788-3103

ALLIANCE ........................ 330-821-2323 ASHLAND ........................ 419-289-2222 ASHTABULA ..................... 440-998-1008 BOARDMAN ..................... 330-726-0622 ELYRIA ............................ 440-324-2090 INDEPENDENCE ............... 216-606-6080 LYNDHURST ..................... 440-473-0747 MASSILLON ..................... 330-833-1084

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

LEAVE YOUR CAR AT HOME!

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

SPRING IN HOLLAND MI

CAROL BURNETT AT CHAUTAUQUA

Explore this Dutch-themed town. See tulips (weather-dependent), windmills, wooden shoes and more. Visit artsy Saugatuck and ride along Lake Michigan’s dunes. Visit Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, where magnificent artwork is displayed throughout the beautiful gardens. Includes Nelis’ Dutch Village, Windmill Island Gardens, Saugatuck Dune Rides, Fredrick Meijer Gardens tram tour, 4 meals (including a Holland Princess dinner cruise) and more.

See this legend, icon and comic genius at Chautauqua Institution. Share in the joy, history and aura of this amazing woman — in person with video clips and stories galore. Will she open the show with an impromtu question-&-answer session with the audience? Will she perform her trademark Tarzan yell? Find out with us! Includes reserved seating for show, walking tour of Chautauqua Institution, Tom Ridge Environmental Center, 3 meals (including lunch at the famous Athenaeum Hotel) & more.

May 11-13 •

AAA Member Rate: $599

”JOSEPH“ & MORE IN LANCASTER PA June 5-7 •

AAA Member Rate: $499

Sight & Sound Theatre brings back one of its most popular shows, “Joseph,” to Lancaster. Since 2010, more that 10 million guests have enjoyed this production, which is as colorful and captivating as Joseph’s famous coat. The production takes you from the tents of Canaan to the stunning palaces of Egypt, and is an inspirational story for all. Includes tickets to 2 performances (“Joseph” and “Les Miserables”), guided tour of Lancaster’s Amish region, Kitchen Kettle Village, accommodations, 4 meals and more.

TWO TRAINS TOUR — WV, VA, MD June 19-21 •

AAA Member Rate: $559

Aug 21-22 •

AAA Member Rate: $459

WASHINGTON DC

Sept 10-13 •

AAA Member Rate: $599

Bring a camera to capture the most memorable sights of our nation’s capital. A full-day tour with an experienced guide features some of DC’s most interesting and historical attractions. Includes guided sightseeing (full day in DC, half-day in Arlington VA), Illuminated Monuments tour, Flight 93 National Memorial (Shanksville PA), 5 meals & more.

1-DAY FUN-DAY TOURS FLANAGAN’S SHENANIGANS: FREDONIA NY

Travel to WV, VA and MD on this fun tour featuring 2 train rides through scenic mountain valleys, historic farms and lush greenery. Also visit Winchester VA, hometown of singer Patsy Cline, and learn more about her life and career. Includes Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad, Western Maryland Railroad, Harper’s Ferry National Park, Patsy Cline tour, 4 meals and more.

BURTON TEA TOUR: GEAUGA COUNTY OH

NEW ENGLAND’S SCENIC RAILROADS

Quintealia’s Tea Parlor. Middlefield Cheese. End of Commons Store. Sunrise Farm.

July 13-18 •

AAA Member Rate: $1,239

Enjoy some of the East’s most dramatic scenery from 2 different trains through the notches of the White Mountains of New Hampshire. Experience area history at Boston’s Old North Church, Old Ironsides and historic Mt Washington Hotel. Cruise on Lake Winnipesaukee and wander through picturesque villages. Includes Conway Scenic Railway Notch Train, Winnipesaukee Turkey Dinner Train, MS Mt Washington lake cruise, Mt Washington Hotel tour, Wright Museum, Boston tour, Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market, Old North Church, USS Constitution, Turning Stone Casino, 10 meals and more.

BOSTON POPS ON CAPE COD Aug 6-12 •

AAA Member Rate: $1,619

See New England at its best. Hear the Boston Pops Orchestra, watch a humpback whale broaching and take in the beauty of Martha’s Vineyard. Includes Boston city tour, Quincy Market, Plymouth city & waterfront tour, Cape Cod tour, 1 reserved seat at “Pops by the Sea” concert, Martha’s Vineyard tour (with roundtrip ferry), whale-watching cruise, Heritage Plantation, 12 meals (including traditional lobster bake) & more.

March 14 •

AAA Member Rate: $99

4-act “traditional” Irish wake with jokes, songs, corned beef & fun!

June 5 •

AAA Member Rate: $75

LOAFIN’ AROUND: MAYVILLE NY June 20 •

AAA Member Rate: $99

Cooking classes. Bake sale. Samples galore. A foodie’s delight!

INDIANS VS PIRATES IN PITTSBURGH July 5 •

AAA Member Rate: $189

Enjoy a pre-game behind-the-scenes tour of PNC Park, a pre-game picnic and a reserved outfield box seat for this Sunday afternoon interleague contest. You also get an autographed baseball!

3 RIVERS CRUISES: PITTSBURGH PA July 17 or 24 •

AAA Member Rate: $99 each date

JULY 17: Luncheon cruise with Frank Sinatra Tribute. 3 hours at Rivers Casino. JULY 24: Luncheon cruise with Neil Diamond Tribute. 3 hours at Rivers Casino.

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Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

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Sizzlin’ Westerns CORRAL A WILD DEAL IN MARCH! AAA MEMBERS SAVE $50.00! SAVINGS PER ROOM, DOUBLE OCCUPANCY. NEW BOOKINGS WITH DEPOSIT MARCH 1-31, 2015.

AAA Member Rates for all tours below are per person (double occupancy), are subject to availability at time of booking and include accommodations, sightseeing admissions, taxes/gratuities for included features, baggage handling (1 bag per person) and meals as indicated. (Select tours below also include roundtrip flights from Cleveland and roundtrip airport/hotel transfers. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details.) Visit AAA.com/travel for itinerary details.

BEST OF NORTHERN CALIFORNIA

PACIFIC NORTHWEST

So many delights in 1 tour — from the endless charms of San Francisco to the natural JULY 23-31 • $3,699 splendor of the redwoods at Muir Woods to the opulence of Hearst Castle. Cross Golden Gate Bridge, enjoy the Mediterranean ambiance of Sausalito, sample wines at Napa Valley vineyards, savor lunch aboard the Napa Wine Train. Ride Amtrak’s scenic California Zephyr to Lake Tahoe. Visit the ghost town of Virginia City NV. Dine & dance on a riverboat paddlewheeler. Marvel at Yosemite’s wonders. Explore coastal Carmel, Big Sur and Monterey. 14 meals. AIR INCLUDED.

Ascend the Space Needle at Seattle Center, site of the 1962 World’s Fair. Wander through Chihuly Garden & Glass. Enjoy a land-&-water excursion, the Future of Flight Aviation Center JULY 19-25 • $1,815 and a Boeing tour. Explore Pike Place Market. Visit Mt St Helens Visitor Center, the Astoria Column and Ft Clatsop. Enjoy a Tillamook cheese plant, a culinary demonstration, Oregon Coast Aquarium, Sea Lion Caves and an oceanfront dune buggy ride at the National Dunes Recreation Area. Tour Portland and its renowned rose gardens. Marvel at the Columbia Gorge’s Bonneville Dam and Multnomah Falls as well as historic Timberline Lodge on Mt Hood. 9 meals.

AMERICAN MAJESTY

YELLOWSTONE EXPERIENCE

From Salt Lake City to Denver, take in some of America’s favorite national landmarks. Hear the Mormon Tabernacle Choir (choir schedule AUG 29–SEPT 6 • $3,485 permitting). Visit Grand Teton and Yellowstone parks (including Old Faithful & Mammoth Hot Springs), Devil’s Tower, Deadwood, Mt Rushmore (during the day and again in the evening for its inspiring lighting ceremony), Crazy Horse Monument, Custer State Park, Ft Laramie National Historic Site, Cody’s Buffalo Bill Historic Center and Cheyenne. Take a wildlife Jeep® safari through SD’s Black Hills. 15 meals. AIR INCLUDED.

Our first national park’s first explorers were called liars when they described its otherAUG 10-16 • $1,765 worldly geysers & bubbling mudpots and its free-ranging bison, elk, moose, bears & wolves. Begin at Salt Lake City and travel through scenic Idaho to Yellowstone. Enjoy Old Faithful & many other natural landmarks, as well as the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center. A Wildlife Safari includes a picnic dinner. Also enjoy Grand Teton National Park, the cowboy town of Jackson, a Jenny Lake cruise, the Mormon Tabernacle Choir (schedule permitting) and more! 12 meals.

NEW MEXICO BALLOON FIESTA

COLORADO TRAIN ADVENTURE

Explore Albuquerque, the Land of Enchantment’s largest city, then a 3-night stay in OCT 4-9 • $3,265 charming Santa Fe. Visit historic Chimayo village. Enjoy artsy Taos and the impressive Rio Grande Gorge. Take a fun salsa-making class. Ride Sandia Peak’s Aerial Tramway. At the International Balloon Fiesta,® witness the mass ascension of hundreds of balloons. Explore Rte 66, Old Town Albuquerque, the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center and Acoma Pueblo. See the Balloon Fiesta’s evening “Glowdeo” of illuminated balloons & fireworks afterward! 11 meals. AIR INCLUDED.

This Centennial State tour features rides on the Pike’s Peak Cog Railway, the Royal Gorge SEPT 12-19 • $2,145 Route RR, the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic RR and the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge RR. Tour the US Air Force Academy and marvel at the rock formations of the Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs. Ride the country’s steepest incline and walk on the world’s highest suspension bridge at Royal Gorge. Visit Great Sand Dunes and Mesa Verde national parks. See the monoliths of Colorado National Monument. Visit the CO Railroad Museum in Golden. 15 meals.

SAN FRANCISCO & NAPA WINE COUNTRY

GRAND CANYON & ARIZONA ADVENTURE

Here’s a tasty tour from scenic Carmel-bythe-Sea and the Monterey Peninsula to San JUNE 18-24 • $3,495 Francisco and Napa Valley. See landmarks of the City by the Bay — Twin Peaks, Golden Gate Park, Cliff House, the Presidio and Fisherman’s Wharf. Cross Golden Gate Bridge to visit Mediterranean-flavored Sausalito and the redwoods at Muir Woods; ferry back across San Francisco Bay. Tour & sip samples at 4 wineries (enjoy a chef-prepared picnic lunch at one!), blend your own Merlot and savor an elegant dinner aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train. 8 meals. AIR INCLUDED.

Fly to Phoenix and ride to Sedona’s beautiful Poco Diablo Resort. Explore scenic backcounSEPT 20-27 • $2,645 try on an exciting off-road Pink Jeep® tour. Visit the IMAX Theater at Williams, then ride the Grand Canyon Railway (first class) to the canyon’s South Rim. Spend 2 nights there in a national park lodge, then ride the vintage Verde Canyon Railroad. Explore Old Town Scottsdale, marvel at intriguing plants at the Desert Botanical Garden and Western art at the Heard Museum. Enjoy a memorable farewell steakhouse dinner — cowboy-style! 11 meals. AIR INCLUDED.

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AAA MOTORIST

MARCH 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 MARCH 31 on a 2015 7-night-or-longer air-inclusive Pleasant Holidays vacation to HAWAII or the CARIBBEAN and enjoy:

$50 SAVINGS FROM AAA TRAVEL per room, based on double occupancy • new bookings March 1-31, 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).

AAA’s escorted “Tropical Costa Rica” tour features ample opportunities to appreciate Mother Nature’s many marvels.

Arenal Volcano • Monteverde Cloud Forest San Jose • Tamarindo Beach • Selvatura Park Cano Negro • Zarcero • Grecia • Doka Coffee Estate

INCLUDED AT NO EXTRA COST: Spa Treatment • Catamaran Sail Cooking Demo • School Visit River Canoe Excursion Oct 12-20 •

BOOK BY 3/31/15:

SAVE $200 PER ROOM, DOUBLE OCCUPANCY, WITH DEPOSIT

AAA Rate: $2,854

Before-discount rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip flights (Cleveland–San Jose), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, hotel acATURE commodations, guided motorcoach sightseeing, entrance fees, 14 meals, in–Costa Rica tour director and air taxes & fees/surcharges. Visit AAA.com/ GoCostaRica for complete itinerary and more information. Additional airCA O line fee may apply; contact your travel agent for details. TI

An optional 3-night add-on to Tortuguero National Park is available. Visit AAA.com/GoCostaRica for itinerary details and rate.

MARCH 2015

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Member Benefits Exclusive Offers T IO

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

Grandeur of the Seas — from Baltimore Bahamas ..............................June 26–July 3 .... from $1,180 Canada & New England.....Oct 1-9 ................. from $1,085 Eastern Caribbean ..............Nov 11-21 ............ from $1,140 AAA MEMBER RATES are per person (double occupancy), are subject to availability at time of booking and include roundtrip motorcoach transportation, cruise accommodations/entertainment, most onboard meals; taxes, fees and port expenses of up to $358.16 per person are also included. Ship’s registry: Bahamas. Visit AAA.com/motorcruise for itinerary details & Cleveland area pick-up points.

Be among the first to cruise on the brand-new Anthem of the Seas! Get $25 shipboard credit! Experience comfort & convenience: This Anthem sailing includes a 1-night before-cruise hotel stay near Cape Liberty NJ (and a short driving tour of New York City).

Feb 5-13, 2016 • from $1,705 Port Canaveral FL • Nassau, Bahamas • Cococay, Bahamas Plus 3 relaxing days at sea AAA MEMBER RATE is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip motorcoach transportation, 1-night pre-cruise hotel accommodations, cruise accommodations/entertainment, most onboard meals and $25 shipboard credit per stateroom; taxes, fees and port expenses of $365.70 per person are also included. Ship’s registry: Bahamas. Visit AAA.com/motorcruise for itinerary details & Cleveland area pick-up points.

Get swept away... by Ireland’s SOUTH

DINGLE

BLARNEY

KILLARNEY DUBLIN

CLIFFS OF MOHER

AAA Member Rate: $1,475

ATURE

Before-discount rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes hotel accommodations, guided motorcoach sightseeing, entrance fees, 12 meals and in–country tour director. Visit AAA.com/GoIreland for complete itinerary and more information. Ask about available add-on airfare. Passport required. Escorted tour operated by CIE Tours International.

Oct 21-29 •

cupancy, on new b oo with dep kings o March 1 sit -31

Best of Ireland South •

AAA MEMBER SAVE $2 S 00 per room , double oc

Spellbinding scenery Rollicking entertainment Fascinating history Comprehensive sightseeing

Dublin tour with a local guide Farmhouse tea & scones Sheepdog skills demonstration Horse-drawn “jaunting car” ride in Killarney Storytelling session in Newmarket-on-Fergus Walking tour of Trinity College • Book of Kells Irish National Stud & Japanese Gardens Open-top bus tour of Dublin, with a visit & drink at Guiness Storehouse or Old Jameson Distillery Blarney Castle’s “Stone of Eloquence” Blarney Woolen Mills Dingle Brewing Company Walking tour of Galway King John’s Castle Cliffs of Moher

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AAA MOTORIST

MARCH 2015

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

MARCH 2015

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Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

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An entertaining music-themed journey to 3 of America’s most fascinating tune towns that features an Amtrak train ride from Memphis to New Orleans! Nashville — Music City USA

Stay at Gaylord Opryland Resort, visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and see a live performance at the Grand Ole Opry.

Memphis — Birthplace of Rock n Roll

Tour Sun Studios and visit the Staxx Museum, the Rock n Soul Museum and Elvis Presley’s Graceland estate.

New Orleans — Birthplace of American Jazz

Sept 17-24 •

Cairns, catamaran ride

Melbourne, Opal Centre

Great Barrier Reef

Phillip Island Little Penguin colony

Winery tour & tasting

Glass-bottom boat ride

Christchurch

Overnight in Mt Cook National Park

Daintree Rainforest/

Tranz-Alpine Express train ride Franz Joseph Glacier Queenstown, gondola to dinner Milford Sound cruise “Middle Earth” touring

Herding/shearing demo

Mossman Gorge, meet Aboriginals Uluru/Ayers Rock, Champagne toast Alice Springs, Aboriginal drummers Dreamtime tour, bush dinner

Steamship cruise, farm life tour

Dine with a NZ Family Sydney & Opera House Koala Park & Opal Collection Sydney Harbour dinner cruise

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

Oct 15–Nov 4 •

AAA Member Rate: from $10,524

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

PHOTOS: CINDY STAYCHEFF

SAVE $400!

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New bookings with deposit March 1-12

per room, double occupancy

NEW ZEALAND

AAA Member Rate: $2,299

Before-discount rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, Amtrak coach service (Memphis–New Orleans), 10 meals, local guide, motorcoach sightseeing, baggage handling (1 per person) and gratuities for restaurant servers & hotel bellmen. Ask about available add-on airfare.

PER ROOM, DOUBLE OCCUPANCY, WITH DEPOSIT

Amtrak Music Cities of America

AUSTRALIA

SAVE $675

Walk through the French Quarter and the Garden District and visit Bourbon Street and Jackson Square.

from the Outback to the Glaciers!

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Musical Heartland of America’s South

PER ROOM, DOUBLE OCCUPANCY, WITH DEPOSIT

BOOK BY 3/31/15 &

SAVE $300

Explore Down Under

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A TRAVEL CLASSIC

July 8-17 •

AAA Member Rate: $5,825

Experience the history and charm of both of these capitals of culture in 1 fabulous tour. Enjoy 3 days discovering the pageantry of London, then ride the EUROSTAR HIGH-SPEED TRAIN beneath the English Channel to the City of Lights for 3 days of Parisian joie de vivre! London Highlights Paris Highlights TM

• Special welcome dinner with your fellow travelers • Panoramic city tour: See Trafalgar Square, St Paul’s Cathedral, the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, “Big Ben,” the London Eye and more!

Special Inclusion

• Visit the British Monarchy’s stately, expansive Windsor Castle. Queen Elizabeth II uses the 1,000room castle as both a private home and as a Royal residence where formal duties of state are performed. Enjoy time for lunch in the village.

• Dinner at 58 Eiffel inside the Eiffel Tower • Seine River “City of Lights” nighttime cruise • City tour: See the Arc de Triomphe, Notre-Dame, Champs-Élysées, Place de la Concorde, Place Vendôme and more! • Dinner with wine & show at Paris’ oldest cabaret theater

Special Inclusion

• “An Evening in Paris”: Visit Montparnasse Tower for open-roof terrace views, then dine with wine & music at a traditional Latin Quarter restaurant.

Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip flights (ClevelandLondon, Paris-Cleveland), roundtrip airport/hotel and hotel/train transfers, Eurostar train seating, 6-night ATURE hotel accommodations (London: 3, Paris: 3), 10 meals, sightseeing & admissions per itinerary, hotel baggage handling (1 per person), air taxes & fees/surcharges and services of an in-Europe tour escort. Visit AAA.com/travel for complete itinerary. Additional airline fees for CA O baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details. Passport required. TI VA

Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes flights (ClevelandFairbanks, Anchorage-Cleveland), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, motorcoach sightseeing, accommodations (Fairbanks, Denali, Anchorage, Seward: 2 each, Girdwood: 1), 17 meals, luggage handling (1 bag/person), gratuities for included features (includes driver, escort), in-Alaska escort and AAA Tour Manager (if minimum-participation goal is met). Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details.

PARIS!

Traditional salmon bake & a sternwheeler river cruise in Fairbanks 4-hour adventure flying over the Arctic Circle, the Trans-Alaska Pipeline and the Yukon River 7-hour Tundra Wilderness Tour in Denali National Park, looking for grizzlies, moose & more...with an overnight in the park Meet a 4-time winner of the Iditarod Sled Dog Race and his canine crew Visits to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation & Begich Boggs Visitor centers 2-hour river float trip in Kenai Fjords National Park A ride on Girdwood’s Alyeska Tram — from sea level to 2,300 feet! Special welcome & farewell dinners with your fellow travelers

AAA Member Rate: $4,399

LONDON!

See the incredible, inspirational interior of the Last Frontier on this 9-night escorted tour — unforgettable experiences not on cruises!

Sept 14-21

ALASKA BY LAND!

A Tour of 2 Cities

AAA MOTORIST

The Isle of Shamrocks & Leprechauns Drive through Ayrshire and along the coast. From Cairnryan, ferry over to Northern Ireland to visit the Titanic Belfast attraction; learn about the famous liner that was born in the adjacent docks. State-of-the-art displays describe Belfast, its working conditions as well as other aspects of the ship. Drive on to Dublin and your ho-

Taste of Scotland & Ireland •

Sept 19-30 •

Castle dig into a memorable medieval-style feast where lords & ladies serenade you with song and harp. Venture on to Galway for a walking tour around its central core. Visit the monastic Clonmacnoise site, founded in 546AD by St Ciaran to see elaborate Celtic crosses, round towers and ruins of medieval churches. Return to Dublin for a final night of exploration and enjoyment of the city’s delights and a last taste of the Celtic temperament. Log on to AAA.com/Ireland, visit a AAA Travel location or call 1-800-354-8761.

MEMBERS SAVE! Premier.................$350 Plus ......................... $325 Basic .......................$275 New bookings with deposit March 1-31, 2015. Savings are per room, double occupancy.

AAA Member Rate: $2,468 VA

Before-discount rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes hotel accommodations, guided motorcoach sightseeing, entrance fees, 17 meals and in–country tour director. Visit AAA.com/GoIreland for complete itinerary and more information. Ask about available add-on airfare. Passport required. Escorted tour operated by CIE Tours International.

ATURE

EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND

tel overlooking the bay. The evening is at leisure for independent dining. On your central Dublin tour, see fashionable shopping areas, view elegant Georgian squares and pause at the Famine Memorial’s evocative figures. Walk Trinity College’s grounds with a student guide and view the illuminated 8th-century Book of Kells; learn how monks created this and other masterpieces. Enjoy a canal dinner cruise with traditional music aboard a former Guinness barge. Traverse Ireland’s midlands, stopping for photos at the hilltop Rock of Cashel. Enjoy tea & scones at a farmhouse and watch skilled dogs herd sheep. At Blarney Castle, kiss the famous “Stone of Eloquence,” then stop at Blarney Woollen Mills for quality Irish-made goods. In Killarney, picturesquely set beside lakes and mountains, relax before din-

ner, then perhaps spend your evening exploring its many “singing pubs.” A relaxing horse-drawn “jaunting car” ride rewards you with views of Ross Castle on Lough Leane. Embark on the Ring of Kerry — a winding route featuring breathtaking vistas of mountains and coastlines. Cross a bridge to Valentia Island for the Skellig Experience, which describes the austere island-bound lives of early Christian monks. Stop in Sneem to admire its brightly painted houses, pause at Moll’s Gap for stunning views and return to vibrant central Killarney for a free evening. Ferry across River Shannon to reach the Cliffs of Moher, a spectacular wall of sandstone reaching 700 feet above the Atlantic. Check in to Bunratty Castle Hotel; if you wish, visit the nearby Folk Park, sip a drink in 200-year-old Durty Nelly’s Pub or shop at Bunratty Mills. At Bunratty

a lively and entrancing show of songs, stories and traditional dancing. Tour Edinburgh’s sights, driving along bustling Princes Street and through the wide and gracious streets of the 200-year-old Georgian New Town with a local guide. Stroll part of the Royal Mile, where compact medieval houses can reach 11 floors tall. Visit massive Edinburgh Castle, dominating the city and housing the Scottish Crown Jewels and the Stone of Scone; the balance of the day is free.

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Fall foliage highlight Canada and New England cruises Close to home sailings from Celebrity Cruises

he eastern seaboard’s endless coastline is dotted with quiet inlets and bays. Unspoiled natural beauty, and vibrant port cities provide a memorable introduction to a region unlike any other. And there’s no better time to visit than in autumn, when summer’s soothing mantle of green transforms into a fiery palette of crimson, orange and gold. Celebrity Summit’s 14-night Canada/ New England sailings from Cape Liberty (Bayonne) New Jersey, offer land-locked travelers the opportunity to set sail without air transportation. Just seven miles south of Manhattan, Cape Liberty offers unparalleled views of the Statue of Liberty, New York Harbor and the Manhattan skyline. Summit also sails with a new sense of style. The 2,158 passenger ship has been “Solsticized” with some of the hottest features from Celebrity’s newest Solstice-class ships. Ports of call include a new visit to Boston; Portland, and Bar Harbor, Maine; Halifax and Sydney, Nova Scotia; Charlottetown, P.E.I.; and a new overnight call in Québec City, Québec. From the weathered saltboxes, to the beached fishing boats at low tide, there’s nothing like the salty tang of New England. Boston is America’s walking city with street patterns reminiscent of 17th-century London. Landmarks include Copley Square, the Boston

OLD IRONSIDES — The USS Constitution with the Bunker Hill Monument in the background. Common and Beacon Hill. Passengers can follow the Freedom Trail to see the Old North Church, Paul Revere’s house, Bunker Hill and Old Ironsides. The cruise terminal is located less than two miles from the golden dome of historic Faneuil Hall. Portland’s 360-year-history is evident in the picturesque cobblestone streets lined with Victorian-era buildings. The Portland Head Light was constructed in

1787, and today is the most photographed lighthouse in North America. Bar Harbor is the gateway to the remarkable beauty of Acadia National Park. The rock-bound coast, soaring granite cliffs, majestic mountains have drawn visitors for over 200 years. Known as the “Gateway to the Canadian Atlantic,” Halifax is easy to explore on foot, with a beautiful deepwater harbor and formal Victorian gar-

dens. Visitors will inevitably be drawn to its historic waterfront lined with 19th century buildings known as the Historic Properties. The colonial seaport Sydney is an excellent starting point to explore the magnificent scenery of Cape Breton Island. The Cabot Trail runs along the Gulf of the St Lawrence and Atlantic coastlines and is among the most scenic drives in North America. Charlottetown is where the land and sea meld with a vibrant Acadian culture. Green Gables, Prince Edward Island’s best known attraction, is located in nearby Cavendish, where Lucy Maude Montgomery was inspired to create her beloved tale of a red-haired orphan. Québec City is perched astride a 350-foot cliff overlooking the majestic St. Lawrence River. The 400-year-old cradle of French civilization in North America, the style is quintessential New France — thick stonewalls, heavy wooden doors and shutters, and bright tin roofs. A granite and sandstone wall runs in medieval fashion, around the perimeter of the Old City.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Please see this issue’s Departures Guide or visit AAA.com/cruises for special values on Celebrity cruise vacations.

MARCH 2015

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Bluegrass and bourbon capital of the world Kentucky is the home of unbridled spirits

uch of the distinctive character of Kentucky’s Bluegrass Region can be traced to its fertile soil. Early breeders recognized that horses raised in the phosphate-rich soil were superior and the Bluegrass became the horse capital of the world. In addition to legendary horses, like Native Dancer and Secretariat, it’s also the birthplace of bourbon, breathtaking landscapes and a culture rich in history and tradition. Lexington was Kentucky’s first major city and a walk in the historic neighborhoods near Lexington Center, reveals architecture spanning two centuries. It’s also known as “the city in the park” due to its location in the middle of hundreds of beautiful, park-like horse farms. This is the epicenter of the thoroughbred universe, where sleek racehorses are bred, born, trained, bought and sold, retired to stud and buried. You can catch a glimpse of a future Kentucky Derby winner at stud farms like Calumet Farm, which has produced a record nine Derby winners. At the entrance to the Kentucky Horse Park, visitors are greeted by the Man o’ War memorial, marking the grave of one of the Sport of Kings greatest legends. See over fifty breeds on more than 1,200 bucolic acres. In the Hall of Champions, visitors are introduced to elite group of living legends

Georgetown still. Since then, Kentucky bourbon has become prized for it rich aroma and complex flavoring. To be classified as bourbon, the amber-colored spirit by law must be made of mash containing 51 percent corn, and aged in charred, new oak barrels for at least two years. A master taster can pull whiskey out of a barrel, rub it between his hands, smell it and know whether it’s going to be any good. On the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, visitors can travel to historic distilleries like Woodford Reserve, Buffalo Trace, and Wild Turkey and discover time-honored methods developed in the early 19th century still in use today. Maker’s Mark, originally built in 1805 as a gristmill distillery in Loretto, is the only operating distillery in America to be designated a National Historic Landmark.

HORSE COUNTRY — Racing legend Cigar lived out his retirement at the Kentucky Horse Park until his passing last October. Photo credit: Steve Faust (pixbysteve.smugmug.com)

like Kentucky Derby winner Funny Cide. The onsite International Museum of the Horse is the largest and most comprehensive museum in the world dedicated to horses and their impact on human civilization. The American Saddlebred Museum is the Kentucky Horse Park’s “Showplace for Saddlebreds.” This proud, high-stepping breed is descended from hors-

IF YOU GO es bred at the time of the American Revolution, and Saddlebreds like Stonewall Jackson’s Little Sorrell, and Robert E. Lee‘s Traveller, became almost as famous as the generals who rode them during the Civil War. Designated “America’s Native Spirit” in 1964 by an act of Congress, Reverend Elijah Craig mixed up the first batch of bourbon whiskey in 1789 at his

See the majestic horse farms of Kentucky, taste its famed bourbon and experience the cities of Lexington and Louisville during AAA Travel’s 4-night “Horsin’ Around Kentucky” motorcoach tour. Highlights of this May 11-15 Featured Vacation include The Kentucky Horse Park, the Kentucky Derby Museum, Churchill Downs, and Louisville’s historic “Whiskey Row.” For more information visit AAA.com/travel.

Millennials love their cars more than social media Generation Y really wants to drive after all

ontrary to what you may have heard, young people have a passion for cars and car ownership. According to a new research study “Millennials Have Drive” conducted by MTV, 3 in 4 young people say they would rather give up social media for a day than their car. Seventy two percent would rather give up texting for a week than their car. Eight in 10 Millennials get around most often by car as opposed to any other form of transportation — a stark contrast to studies in recent years that show driving on the decline among people born from approximately 1980 through the late 1990s. This shift in driving behaviors and attitudes can be attributed to Millennials aging up into car ownership, an improving economy and the fact that more are able to afford cars now than a few years ago. According to AAA Auto Buying plan partner TrueCar, Millennials will purchase 4.24 million cars and light trucks in 2015. They are expected to comprise about 25 percent of the new vehicle market. “Improving economic conditions are shifting the rhetoric around Millennials and car buying,” said John Krafcik, president of TrueCar. “Saying they don’t like cars simply isn’t true anymore. We know having a car means the same thing to Millennials that it does to other genera-

tions: independence and identity.” They also see owning a car as more than just a big-ticket purchase of four wheels and an engine. The MTV study found almost 3 in 4 think it’s important their car reflect who they are, and 85 percent are looking forward to one day owning the car they’ve always wanted. While the overall sentiment toward car ownership is overwhelmingly positive, “Millennials Have Drive” offers several insights into ways the buying experience can be improved. In fact, 8 in 10 young people believe the buying or leasing of a car should take less time. Additionally, 87 percent say the buying process should be more transparent. Often referred to as Digital Natives, Millennials are adept at using technology and are heavily represented on TrueCar’s mobile marketplace. They

made up almost one quarter of mobile users in 2014, and Krafcik expects this number to grow to about one third in 2015. “TrueCar is in a unique position as our site and mobile application demands open, transparent, at-your-fingertip pricing data coupled with mobile accessibility.” “The insights show a generation that emphasizes car ownership and the critical role it plays in their day-to-day lives,” said Berj Kazanjian, Senior Vice President, MTV. “Millennials, like other generations, see car ownership not only as a way to establish independence, but

also as a way to craft their unique adult identity.” SMART CAR SHOPPING

Looking for a new car? The AAA Auto Buying program provides unbiased new and used car pricing information free of charge to AAA members through AAA’s preferred supplier TrueCar. To save money and get the upfront price on your next new car, visit the AAA Auto Buying Program at www.AAA.com/AutoBuying. Mobile users can download the AAA Auto Buying Tools App at AAA.com/Mobile.

Breathtaking! This isNiagara Falls! Two nights from $154* 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 $124* 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 to May 14, 2015. Child add-ons, whirlpool suites, gift certificates also available. *Subject to exchange rates. Visit www.holidayinnniagarafalls.com for details.

Two

Coco’s overlo

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AAA Four Diamond Award winners for 2015 Northeast Ohio properties offer a high level of hospitality

t takes an ongoing commitment to quality and service to repeat as a AAA Four Diamond Award winner and of all this year’s Northeast Ohio Four Diamond Award properties are multiple repeat winners. “Four Diamond hotels and restaurants provide guests with attentive service in comfortable, high quality surroundings,” said Jim Lehman, AAA East Central President. “These establishments consistently exceed the expectations of the most discriminating traveler and maintaining that level of service year after year is an impressive accomplishment. We are proud to have them in our region.” Among the lodging properties, the Ritz Carlton Cleveland has claimed a Four-Diamond Award for 24 consecutive years, a feat matched only by a handful of others. Sophisticated and stylish, with a touch of rock and roll, each of the 205 rooms and suites offer a marble bath, state-of-the-art technology and views of the city, Lake Erie or the Cuyahoga River. Other Northeast Ohio lodging properties on the list include the Intercontinental Hotel & Conference Center in Cleveland. A 12-year Four Diamond property, the region’s only wellness focused all-suite hotel is conveniently located on the Cleveland Clinic campus. An oasis where guests can relax, and rejuvenate, it’s also close to the city’s best attractions.

FOUR DIAMONDS — The Ritz Carlton Cleveland has earned AAA’s Four Diamond Award for 24 consecutive years. The Red Maple Inn in Burton — a 13-year repeat winner — is a unique Amish Country Ohio bed and breakfast less than one hour from Cleveland, Warren, and Youngstown. Overlooking the rolling farmlands of Geauga County, guests can enjoy a complimentary hearty Amish breakfast and visit a vast array of one of a kind shops and attractions. Julia’s Bed & Breakfast in Hubbard offers spectacular views of the Pine Lakes Golf Club with surround-

ing wooded areas. The 10-year Four Diamond Award-winning property offers luxurious Jacuzzi suites with inroom Jacuzzis, fireplaces, and double pillow top mattresses. Norwalk Ohio is home to two Four Diamond Award properties. The Georgian Manor Inn (14-years), a restored 9,000 sq. ft. mansion, graciously rests on 1.3 well manicured acres of Norwalk’s tree lined, architecturally rich, historic West Main Street. The Victorian Lady Bed & Breakfast (3-years) is an elegant, lov-

ingly restored, West Main Street mansion. The 3-story Queen Anne features exquisitely decorated rooms, period furnishings, beautiful woodwork and stained glass windows. Four Diamond restaurants were lead by Ristorante Giovanni’s in Beachwood, who notched their 23rd consecutive award. Established in 1976, Ristorante Giovanni’s is full of truly imaginative variations of classic recipes, which include handmade pastas, seafood and the finest veal, lamb, beef and game. Other area winners include Lola (5-years), celebrity chef Michael Symon’s downtown Cleveland eatery, where diners enjoy a modern spin on their favorite dishes, while showcasing the best of local purveyors. Aurora’s Leopard Restaurant (13years), is the creative inspiration of Iris and Bert Wolstein. The Leopard’s eclectic menu combines local ingredients with the unique flavors of America, France, and Japan. AWARD WINNING

Travelers can find Diamond Rated establishments and inspector insight in AAA trip planning products: the AAA Mobile® app for tablets and smartphones, the desktop and mobile versions of the TripTik® Travel Planner online mapping and routing tool, searchable Travel Guides on AAA.com and AAA TourBook® guides available to members at AAA offices.

aroundtown THE DIARY OF ANNE FRANK — (March 6-22) Anne Frank emerges from history a living, lyrical, intensely gifted young girl, who confronts her rapidly changing life and the increasing horror of her time with astonishing honesty, wit, and determination. An impassioned drama about the lives of eight people hiding from the Nazis in an attic. Tickets: $8-$15. For tickets and information, call 440.286.2255 or visit geaugatheater.org. Location: Geauga Lyric Theater Guild, 101 Water Street, Chardon. CLEVELAND AUTO SHOW — (March 7-15) — The Cleveland Auto Show features concept, pre-production and production vehicles from the world’s auto manufacturers, and nearly 1.2 million square feet of exhibits. The show also features entertainment, including sports celebrity appearances from the Browns, Cavs, OSU and NASCAR. Free parking. Tickets: Adults $13; Seniors (62+) $11; Kids 7-12, $11; Under 7, free. Hours: 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Monday to Saturday, and 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Sunday. For information, visit clevelandautoshow.com. Location: I-X Center, 1 I-X Center Drive, Cleveland.

PANCAKE BREAKFASTS — (March 8, 15, 22, 29) It’s pancake time again in Chesterland, as the West Geauga Kiwanis Club holds its 62nd annual pancake breakfasts. The all-youcan-eat menu includes blueberry, buttermilk, and buckwheat pancakes, sausage, maple syrup, French toast and more. Admission: $7; $3.50, ages 6-11; free for children 5 and under. Early bird specials available from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. Breakfast is served from 8:000 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at West Geauga High School, Route 306, Chesterland. LUCKY PAWS ANIMAL RESCUE FUNDRAISER — (March 21) Join Lucky Paws for an evening out with friends and fellow animal lovers while supporting efforts to help the animals. Enjoy pasta, pizza, salad, draught beer, well drinks and soda, plus Chinese raffle, silent auction, sideboards, 50/50 raffle and door prizes. Tickets: $25 in advance and at door. Time: 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. For tickets and information, call 216.556.0811 or visit luckypawsrescue.org/fundraiser. Location: Scoundrel’s Bar and Grill, 826 Front Street, Berea. MAPLE SUGARING WEEKENDS — (weekends through March 22) Take a wagon ride to the Woodland

Center to witness the entire maple process as sap is collected, boiled, and turned into maple syrup and other products. Discover how trees are tapped, sample maple syrup and candy, and learn how to make maple syrup in your own backyard. For more information, visit lakemetroparks.com. Location: Lake Metroparks Farmpark, 8800 Euclid Chardon Road (Rt. 6), Kirtland. QUILTS 2015 — (through March 25) One of Ohio’s finest quilt shows, with more than 200 quilted works on display. Featured are works from internationally acclaimed visiting artists and a judged show of quilts completed by regional artists from Northeast Ohio and around the United States. Visitors vote for People’s Choice award. Featured artist is RaNae Merrill of New York City. Time: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday. Admission $6; ages 60+, $5; Youth 2 to 11, $4; Farmpark members, free. For more information, visit lakemetroparks.com. Location: Lake Metroparks Farmpark, 8800 Euclid Chardon Road (Rt. 6), Kirtland. I-X INDOOR AMUSEMENT PARK — (March 27-April 19) The I-X Indoor Amusement Park is 20 acres of fun — all indoors! Enjoy thrill-

ing rides, including the 443-foot Soaring Eagle Zipline that takes you 68 feet into the air and sends you soaring back to the landing area at 25 miles per hour. There will be live family entertainment, including the new Beach Street with Roberto the Magnificent, Sea Lion Splash Show, ZuZu Acrobats, street performers and more. Don’t miss Rosaire’s Big Cat Encounter. For tickets and information, visit ixamusementpark.com. Location: I-X Center, 1 I-X Center Drive, Cleveland. PASTA FOR PUPPIES — (March 30) Join Leader Dog supporters at a spaghetti dinner from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the American Croatian Lodge, 34900 Lakeshore Blvd., Eastlake, Ohio. All proceeds will benefit Puppy Raisers for the Blind and Leader Dogs for the Blind, provided free of charge to the blind and visually impaired. Over 450 Leader Dog supporters are expected to attend, as well as some working Leader Dogs. Receiving a guide dog is a life-changing event that opens the doors to independence, safety and self-worth to individuals without sight. For more information Contact Linda DeCarlo at 440.951.2468.

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