Pa 2 15 by AAA East Central

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Vol. 62 No. 2

WESTERN PENNSYLVANIA

FEBRUARY 2015

TAMARINDO BEACH

New updates make AAA Mobile app even better

MEMBERS SAVE! Premier ... $450 Plus............ $400 Basic ..........$375 Book & deposit by 2/28/15. Per room, double occupancy.

Eureka! Tropical paradise found in fun-&-sun-blessed Costa Rica

lmost everyone who’s ever visited there can confirm that tiny Costa Rica has more natural delights per square mile than nearly anywhere on earth. All that nature can affect the senses in ways that can improve our moods: Sunshine warms us, lifting low spirits. Balmy breezes caress us, soothing weary souls. Melodic birdsongs and rhythmic tides comfort us, calming frayed nerves. Floral hues and Get close to fragrances captivate us, residents of the rainforest canopy! enhancing our sensual pleasure. And wild animals mesmerize us, inspiring awe and joy. Feeling nature’s physical and emotional impact is a significant part of the allure of Costa Rica, a tiny Central American nation with enormous potential to MONTEVERDE host your most memoCLOUD FOREST rable — and most revitalizing — vacation. Abundant with lush tropical forests, unique & exotic creatures, spectacular uncrowded beaches, genuinely hospitable people and endless outdoor activities, this is a magical place almost guaranteed to transform your mood from good...to better...to great! And AAA will even further improve your mood, by saving you as much as $450.00 when you book & make a deposit on our Oct 12-20 Costa Rica “cost a-little” escorted getaway now through Feb 28, 2015. The specific discount you’ll enjoy is tied to your AAA membership level and is per room (double occupancy). AAA Premier members

save $450.00, AAA Plus members save $400.00 and basic AAA members save $375.00. Costa Rica’s pristine beauty beckons those seeking to reconnect with nature — and themselves. But you certainly don’t have to be an eco-activist to feel the restorative powers of this “green” scene: If you’ve ever felt distanced from the purity of nature, Costa Rica just may be the ideal antidote to the “artificiality” of the workaday world. Fittingly, Costa Rica’s legendarily friendly ticos (what locals call themselves) use Pura Vida (literally “pure life,” but something akin to “this is living!” or “cool!”) as a greeting or to convey enthusiasm or agreement. The size of Vermont and New Hampshire, Costa Rica boasts an immense variety of landscapes, climate zones and life-forms; it’s estimated that as much as 6% of the world’s species flourish here — from enormous ficus trees to 1,500 different orchids, from elusive margays to showy macaws. Monkeys, sloths, wild cats and other fascinating creatures coexist with an amazing assortment of birds (800+ species), both migratory and resident. Take AAA’s adventure begins a ‘beak’ in San Jose, the colorful at the rest of this tour capital, and travels through on page 23. verdant Central Valley to...

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

SAVE THE COST OF YOUR AAA MEMBERSHIP EACH YEAR

The AAA Mobile app has been updated with an array of new enhancements including a more intuitive interface with easier access to features. An updated iPad version features a number of new functions: • A newly redesigned AAA Emergency Roadside Assistance feature now includes a selection of common issues to simplify your request for help, and an integrated Truck Tracker feature lets you track where the service vehicle is en route. • A streamlined card layout design that provides easy access to member services; • AAA’s newly enhanced TripTik Travel Planner product for mapping and route planning, allowing members to build, access and share trips across the mobile and online platforms; • Expanded membership features, including displaying your current member status and providing the ability to easily renew your membership. The updated mobile app also features traffic and construction information and maps that display gas station locations and updated fuel prices. The free download is available on iTunes, Google Play or AAA.com/Apps.

Auto Pay saves you time & money As winter weather tightens its grip, the last thing you need worry about is being stuck in the cold 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.

Members save 10% at PensGear team stores Show your Pittsburgh Penguins® pride and save on the latest clothing and merchandise at select PensGear stores. AAA members receive an exclusive 10% discount at the CONSOL Energy Center and SouthSide Works PensGear locations when they show their AAA card at time of purchase. Stop in and check out the new Third Jersey and Pittsburgh Gold Collection gear, or pick up the newest addition to the Iceburgh bobble head of the month series. The Penguins team store inside the CONSOL Energy Center is open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday (hours vary on event nights). The SouthSide Works Store is located at 442 South 27th Street, and is open 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Monday through Saturday; and 12 p.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday. AAA member discount excludes Penguins Foundation items and game used equipment.

Make it your year to see Europe

Travelers are drawn to Europe by the magnetic allure of history, architecture, art, culture and cuisine. Now you can savor all the old-world sights and traditions and save with AAA Travel. AAA members who book & deposit an air-exclusive European package of $3,500 or higher per room through Insight Vacations, AAA Member Choice Vacations, Trafalgar, or Alexander + Roberts by February 28, 2015 will enjoy member-level discounts $100, $150 or $200. SEE PAGE 7.

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AAA MOTORIST

Travel insurance protects your travel investment The perfect companion for your perfect vacation

hether your idea of a spring break is sipping a cocktail by the pool, skiing a double black diamond, or touring the capitals of Europe, travel insurance can provide valuable assistance and financial protection. “Emergencies are rare, but everyone should have a backup plan,” notes Jim Lehman, president AAA East Central. “Unexpected illnesses and medical emergencies are the number one reason trips are canceled. A good travel insurance plan will cover you for virtually every contingency — from travel delays due to bad weather, or a missed connection — to lost luggage, or a medical emergency in a foreign country.” TripAssist Family Care Plan, AAA’s newest travel insurance product, covers more of the unexpected for less. It includes valuable features like comprehensive trip cancellation and primary emergency medical coverage, and 24-hour travel assistance. As any parent can tell you, children always seem to become ill at the worst possible moment. With TripAssist Family Care there’s no additional charge for children up to age 17 when traveling with parents or grandparents, and no surprise processing fees! “TripAssist Family Care makes travel insurance premiums more affordable, particularly for families with young children,” notes Ruth Nagy, AAA East Central Managing Director of Travel Services. “It’s our most popular plan for

FEBRUARY 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

STAY COVERED — If something happens, you want to be prepared. vacations, cruises, and tours.” Should your luggage fail to arrive when you do, the plan now offers increased baggage protection. Baggage loss and damage coverage is $1,000 — double that of comparable packages. Baggage delay coverage has been increased to $300, a 50 percent improvement over previous plans. TripAssist Family Care also provides expanded trip cancellation and interruption coverage. It protects your travel investment if your trip is delayed or canceled for a covered reason, such as a major injury, jury duty or other unfore-

seen circumstances. Recent additions to this plan include reimbursement of Frequent Flyer miles and associated airline fees, and vehicle return coverage if your road trip is interrupted. Medical treatment on your domestic or overseas vacation may leave you with expensive out-of-pocket expenses. TripAssist Family Care includes $25,000 in primary medical coverage for emergency medical costs during your travels. There’s no need to file claims with your regular health insurer first. Emergency medical evacuation can be a lifesaver when traveling to a destination where health care is not up to U.S. standards. TripAssist Family Care will reimburse you for transportation costs to the medical facility and back home, up to $500,000. Several add-ons are available to help you customize your coverage. TripAssist Family Care Trip+ offers double the limits for select benefits, including missed connection coverage, travel delay, emergency medical coverage and transportation, and baggage loss/damage or delay. The Required to Work option provides trip cancellation and interruption coverage when your travel plans change due to work related issues. Travelers can also add Cancel Anytime coverage to their TripAssist Family Care plan. As the name implies, Cancel Anytime reimburses you no matter why your plans change, up to an hour before your scheduled departure. This option offers greater flexibility than a traditional trip cancellation policy. It’s a great choice for anyone whose travel plans may change for a variety of reasons not covered by most trip cancellation plans.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Several factors can affect the cost of any travel insurance policy. Before deciding on a plan, be sure you understand what you’re buying and what each policy does and does not cover. For more information, visit AAA.com/travelinsurance.

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 10548 Perry Highway ................................ 724-933-3000 White Oak/McKeesport Area Oak Park Mall, 2001 Lincoln Way ............ 412-675-3400

FEBRUARY 2015

AAA MOTORIST

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Another way to look at your AAA membership It’s the card that can pay for itself each year Western Pennsylvania Official publication of AAA East Central Published monthly (except bimonthly Aug./Sept., Nov./Dec.) by AAA East Central 5900 Baum Blvd, Pittsburgh PA 15206-3854 412-363-5100/1-800-441-5008 USPS 0679-240 ISSN 1066-6869 Periodicals Postage Paid at Pittsburgh PA Postmaster: Send address changes to AAA Motorist Western Pennsylvania c/o AAA, 5900 Baum Blvd Pittsburgh PA 15206-3854 Subscription Rate: $1 included in Primary Membership dues. All others: $2/year. Publisher..................................... James E. Lehman Managing Editor ............................ Douglas O’Neil Editorial Office 5900 Baum Blvd, Pittsburgh PA 15206-3854 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 Allegheny Regional Board of Directors William C. Bradley, Jr., John Fuller, Wilfred Lippert, John D. Petruso, Adam J. Preston, B. J. Smith, John D. Whitehill Butler Regional Board of Directors Jack A. Barkley, Joseph D. Davidson Jr., Kenneth W. McKinney, John E. McNallen, Merril Moses, John E. Whitmer Indiana Regional Board of Directors Thomas Brice, William B. Hastings, Herman Sledzik McKean County Regional Board of Directors Elizabeth M. Costello, Thomas Frederick, Richard Kallenborn, David J. Malone, Stanley Pecora Mercer Regional Board of Directors Robert E. Davis, Merton W. Hutton, C. L. McCandless, Ralph Q. Steadman Mon Yough Advisory Board Robert W. Baum, James J. Dodaro, Jacob N. Skezas, Al Thomas, Dom Toretti Warren Regional Board of Directors H. Robert Hampson, M. Dennis Hedges Jr., Luke Howe, Gerald A. Huber, Linn Hyde, James J. Jordan, Donald E. Lewis, James F. Miller, Ralph D. Pasquino Jr., James H. Young Jr.

By Richard Hamilton Chairman, AAA East Central hen members think about AAA they usually think about tow trucks, and service vehicles. That’s understandable because our 24-hour Emergency Roadside Assistance is such a visible reminder of the kind of security and peace of mind that comes from being a AAA member. But your AAA membership is working just as hard for you in places that go well beyond the side of the road. Your membership makes you a partner in an association that offers a broad range of benefits and services, not just towing privileges or travel planning. When you add up all the savings available through programs like AAA Discounts & Rewards and the AAA Auto Buying Service, they can pay for the cost of your annual membership many times over. AAA Discounts & Rewards is an innovative shopping experience on AAA.com featuring deep discounts, limited offers and everyday savings on dining, electronics, home, apparel, entertainment, and more, from approximately 100,000 participating merchants nationwide. In addition to discount offers, you’ll earn reward points redeemable for extra savings. Registration is completely free at AAA.com — a valid AAA membership and email address are all you need. AAA Prescription Savings will save everyone money on their medications — even the family dog! While not an insurance plan, members save an average of 35 percent on generic and 15

Richard Hamilton percent on brand name prescriptions at more than 59,000 pharmacies nationwide, including major retail outlets like Walgreens, Walmart, Rite Aid and CVS/ pharmacy. Get guaranteed savings on your next new car before you visit a dealer with the AAA Buying Service at AAA.com. Powerful research tools help you access unlimited price and market reports, plus you can compare car read reviews, and check the trade-in value of your current vehicle. You’ll also learn what others paid for the car you want, all at no cost or obligation. Over one million AAA members have enjoyed the convenience of having a AAA battery delivered and installed on the spot. AAA Battery Service provides state-of-the art mobile battery testing

along with high quality, competitively priced batteries installed at the roadside. AAA members receive a $25 discount on every battery, and each AAA battery is protected by an unprecedented 36-month free replacement warranty. Turn everyday purchases into unlimited rewards with the AAA Member Rewards Visa® credit card. Earn points for each dollar you spend that can be redeemed for cash, AAA vouchers good for travel, membership, Approved Auto Repair, and more. And there’s no annual fee. There are plenty of options for online maps and directions, but there’s only one that combines AAA’s professional hotel and restaurant ratings and indepth travel information with Google maps. AAA members who stay at AAA preferred hotels receive discounts of up to 20 percent off the best available rate and the comfort of a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee. AAA members are also entitled to variety of travel benefits including special perks and discounts on theme park tickets, vacation packages, tours and cruises and more, when they plan and book through their local AAA Travel Agency, or online at AAA.com. In an era when newly minted experts promote a bewildering array of contradictory choices, it’s comforting to know AAA has stood by its commitment for over 100 years. We will continue to provide high quality service; offering members more and better quality solutions to their motoring, travel and financial needs.

membersonly

You’re in the driver’s seat with Hertz With exclusive members-only discounts and perks

inter vacation season is in full swing, and travelers are busy shopping for rental cars for their sun and snow destinations. One of the benefits of AAA membership is the special package of savings available when you rent from Hertz. 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. The key to these savings and benefits is the CDP#215, the same number as your club code (215), printed on the front of your membership card. It’s your gateway to savings and value. The Hertz system will automatically assign the best rate available within the chosen channel of distribution at the time of reservation.

Exclusive AAA member benefits include free unlimited mileage on most rentals. Families receive free use of one child, infant or booster seat with every rental, and there’s no charge for an additional driver if that driver is a AAA member and meets standard rental qualifications. Hertz frequently offers AAA members special single and double upgrade coupons in addition to dollars off coupons. These offers are available from AAA travel offices, in your club publication and on AAA.com. While most leisure and/or promotional weekly rates require that a car be rented over Saturday night, AAA members qualify for low weekly rates without having to keep the vehicle over a Saturday night. Plus, you get 10 percent off Hertz’s per-gallon price when you purchase the prepaid fuel option. Hertz Gold Plus Rewards membership is free to AAA members. But that’s not all. Basic and Plus members receive 675 Hertz Gold Plus Rewards

Bonus Points. That’s enough for one free rental day after the first Gold rental. Join at AAA.com/HertzGold. AAA Premier members receive 1,100 Hertz Gold Plus Rewards Bonus Points enough for two free weekend rental days! Join at AAA.com/HertzPremier. Plus, your Hertz Discount Code (CDP#215) is automatically included in your reservations. Hertz’ premier frequent renter program entitles you to membership privileges at more than 1,000 locations around the world. Just get in, show your driver’s license at the exit gate and drive away. Hertz Gold Choice means the car you reserved will always be there, plus the freedom to choose a different vehicle on the spot. Use eReturn to fill out the slip on your Rental Agreement, and quickly be on your way. AAA demands the best for its members. That’s why Hertz is the only car-rental company endorsed by AAA. The next time you need a rental car let Hertz put you in the driver’s seat.

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FEBRUARY 2015

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FEBRUARY 2015

How much is enough life insurance? Steps to figuring out your life insurance needs By Robin Jones

ohn and Sallie Smith, ages 38 and 36, have a mortgage on their home and have two children: Johnny, 4, and Karen, an infant. Both parents work outside the home, and both want the surviving spouse to be able to maintain the family’s current standard of living and continue to contribute toward important family goals (like sending the kids to college) if one of them should die unexpectedly. The Smiths, a hypothetical family, are perfect candidates for a life insurance needs analysis, which some insurance providers, including the Auto Club, conduct for no charge. John and Sallie already have some life insurance, but because they now have two kids, they WE’RE NOT SATISFIED UNTIL YOU ARE TOTALLY SATISFIED

As a member we know you rely on our AAA branch office network to deliver the highest levels of motoring, travel and insurance related services. If you have a branch office experience and you’re not totally satisfied, we want to know. Please make the office manager aware or call our member satisfaction line at 1-800-895-AAA, Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. or email us at membercare@aaaec.com. AAA East Central is committed to your total satisfaction with each and every transaction.

don’t think they have enough. The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but nearly everyone with dependents needs a life insurance policy. If a family plans for their long-term needs when they first purchase a policy, they can feel secure knowing they’ll have enough coverage if tragedy strikes. A complete analysis of your life insurance needs will help determine if you have enough coverage to protect your family. Below, we look at the Smiths’ situation to give you an overview of what’s involved.

Immediate Cash Needs/Ongoing

Income Needs Immediate Expenses: Funds to cover such things as funeral expenses, legal fees, unpaid taxes, and hospital or doctor bills need to be accessible right away,

AAA branches your one-stop shops for PennDOT services Members save up to 40% on service fees

hether you are registering a new vehicle, transferring a title or renewing a driver’s license, the Pennsylvania branches of AAA East Central can help you navigate the process smoothly. With convenient locations, a strong partnership with PennDOT, and decades of experience offering licensing service in Pennsylvania, you can trust AAA East Central to help you with your motor vehicle needs. Many AAA East Central branches are PennDOT Authorized On-Line Messengers, meaning they are approved to instantly process the following transactions types: • Driver’s licenses (non-CDL) and non-driver photo IDs: including renewals, change of address, and replacements • Driving records • Duplicate titles • Insurance restorations: for vehicle registrations and driver’s licenses (also can post any associated restoration fees and submit proof of insurance) • Special plates: including special fund plates and person with disability license plates/placards •

Vehicle history reports • Vehicle registration: including renewals, change of address, replacements and transfers When you bring the required materials and forms to your local AAA branch office for any of the above services, you can be assured your transaction will be completed quickly and conveniently, often allowing you to leave the office with your new documents in hand. Photo services for driver’s license and Pennsylvania non-driver photo ID cards are also available at the following Pittsburgh-area branch offices: • East Liberty: 5900 Baum Blvd. • Century III: 9 Clairton Blvd. (Route 51) • Monroeville: 2725 Mosside Blvd. All AAA East Central branches also offer on-site notary service. Service fees do apply, but fees are waived on personal documents for AAA Premier members. All PennDOT services are available to members and non-members. In addition to state charges, AAA service fees also apply. AAA members save up to 40 percent on service fees. For more information, contact your local AAA branch or call the Member Service Center at 1-800-441-5008.

so the Smiths set aside about $15,000 each for John and Sallie. Education Funding: The Smiths provide enough in their individual policies for each child to attend a four-year university—approximately $151,000. Debt Repayment: The Smiths owe $250,000 on their mortgage and have $45,000 in other debt, including student loans, car loans, and credit card debt, so they include $295,000 in each of their policies for debt repayment. The money doesn’t have to be used for that purpose, but the funds would enable the survivor to pay off the debt and remain in their home instead of possibly being forced to sell. Ongoing Income Needs: John’s current annual salary is $80,000, and Sallie’s is $45,000—that’s $125,000 combined. If either died before retirement, the surviving spouse would probably need to replace most of the lost income. If John were to die first, the family would need 70 percent of John’s after-tax earnings over his expected lifetime, or about $1.25 million (which includes a 2.5 percent annual increase to offset inflation).

Using the same assumptions, the family would need $355,000 to cover Sallie’s income. Cash Sources and Income Sources Before their needs were analyzed, the Smiths had a $200,000 life insurance policy for John and a $100,000 policy for Sallie. Other income sources would include Social Security benefits, money they’ve set aside for retirement, and a small amount of savings. The surviving spouse would continue to work outside the home. The Conclusion After adding up their immediate cash needs, education funding, debts, and ongoing income needs, then subtracting their existing life insurance, the Smiths decide to add $1.5 million to John’s existing life insurance policy and $716,000 to Sallie’s to secure their family’s financial future and give them peace of mind. FOR MORE INFORMATION

Trust AAA to steer you right on all your current and future Auto, Home and Life insurance needs. Combining your coverage with one insurance company could make a significant difference in your premium. Call 800.207.7947, or visit AAA.com/insurance for more information or to schedule a comprehensive Insurance review. AAA – your trusted insurance advisor.

Pennsylvania auto thefts down dramatically

he National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) recently released a historic look at vehicle theft in Pennsylvania. From its peak auto theft year in 1990 when 60,062 vehicles were stolen, Pennsylvania has experienced a significant decline ending 2013 with 13,770 thefts. That’s a reduction of 77 percent since 1990. From 1990 through 2013, vehicle thefts have been on a dramatic downward trend. Pennsylvania actually reported 84 fewer thefts in 2013 than it did in 1960. Like other states, Pennsylvania authorities employed some innovative law enforcement programs; among them the use of bait cars and license plate readers. In short, technology has had a huge positive impact. Not only is law enforcement exploiting technology, but auto manufacturers have been outfitting vehicles with more and more theft prevention products—from smart keys to immobilizers to tracking systems. So vehicles today are much harder to steal and that is good news for everyone who owns a vehicle. Even though auto theft is affecting fewer people these days, if you are one of its unfortunate victims, it can be a real hassle recovering from the loss. Most experts recommend a

layered approach – combining both passive and active devices to thwart even the most ambitious thieves. Common Sense: Avoid parking in isolated or dimly lit areas. Lock your car and take your keys. It’s simple enough but many thefts occur because owners make it easy for thieves to steal their cars. The vast majority of vehicle thefts occur while the doors are unlocked. About 20 percent of vehicles stolen have the keys in the ignition. Never leave your car running unattended. Locking your car when parked inside a garage provides an extra layer of protection. Warning Device: Most thieves will avoid vehicles with anti-theft devices. Having and using a visible or audible warning device is another item that can ensure that your car remains where you left it. Immobilizing Device: Generally speaking, if your vehicle can’t be started, it can’t be stolen. “Kill” switches, fuel cut-offs and smart keys are among the devices, which are extremely effective. Tracking Device: These systems combine GPS and wireless technologies to allow remote monitoring. If the vehicle is moved, the system will alert the owner and it can be tracked via computer. Some will even slow the vehicle down.

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AAA MOTORIST

Member Benefits • Exclusive Offers

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1-800-354-8761 • AAA.com/travel

2015 Ñ A banner year for European travel AAA and its travel partners unfurl a variety of vacation values and exclusive member savings The varied countries, cultures & cuisines of Europe coax ever more AAA members to “cross the pond” for unforgettable vacations. And now AAA Travel makes it easier and more affordable to enjoy a European escorted tour with several of our AAA MEMBERS SAVE! travel partners. Traveling on a fully packaged tour from a Premier Plus Basic well-respected AAA Savings per room (double occupancy) on new air-exclusive bookings (minimum $3,500/room) with deposit by 2/28/15 Travel partner may save you as much as 40% of what you’d pay if you invested the time and energy to plan, reserve and purchase the exact same vacation experience on your own. Save up to $200.00 per room when you book and deposit on a 2015 Europe escorted tour (valued at $3,500 or more per room) from a selection of AAA Travel partners by Feb 28, 2015. Because many escorted tours sell out months before their departure dates, it’s always advisable to book as early as possible to avoid disappointment. Booking early enables you to take advantage of the best availability in tours, accommodations and transportation options; the longer you wait, the greater the chance that the hotels, flights or excursions you really want won’t be available. But the best reason to book early is to save money. The farther away from the departure date, the less you pay. With some travel partners, you can save up to 10% off the land-only portion of select tours by booking and paying in full in advance. So pay early and save more. Choose now from hundreds, if not thousands, of exciting European tour packages from AAA Member Choice Vacations,® Alexander+Roberts, Insight Vacations and Trafalgar. From additional savings to vouchers valid toward optional tours and excursions, AAA members are entitled to exclusive benefits on select packages (ask a AAA Travel Agent for details). Also, some AAA partners offer frequenttravel programs for those who’ve toured with them in the recent past; travel with that same partner again and get additional savings on the land-only portion of select itineraries. What are the benefits of an escorted tour? No need to worry about language, finding your hotel or missing a train. No need to rent a car, to drive yourself along unfamiliar terrain, to decipher maps instead of appreciating the passing scenery. Professional guides provide history and cultural context as well as a personal touch that you’d never experience on your own. All in all, you’re free to enjoy because the hassles have all been taken care of for you. And most tour operators have spent years developing a perfect balance between organized activities and the freedom to spend time on your own. So save yourself valuable time & money and get the most out of your hard-earned vacation. You may even develop new friendships among your fellow travelers — all the more reason not to go it alone!

$200 $150 $100

INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL: AAA MAKES IT EASIER! Utilize AAA’s services before visiting Europe or other international locales — whether you’re on a package tour or traveling independently. Visa/ Passport Assistance Passport Photos International Travel Books AAA Travel Money / TipPaks Minor-Child Consent-to-Travel Forms Sightseeing & Activities International Destinations Info AAA Member Discounts International Driving Permits Discounted Rail Tickets Car Rentals Travel Insurance ®

MOST SERVICES AVAILABLE ONLINE AT AAA.COM/TRAVEL AND/OR AT MOST AAA TRAVEL LOCATIONS.

PAGE 8

AAA MOTORIST

FEBRUARY 2015

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

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

CRUISE

Catch the big wave... of

special savings &

SOME RESTRICTIONS MAY APPLY; PLEASE CONSULT YOUR AAA TRAVEL AGENT FOR DETAILS. NEW BOOKINGS FEB 1-28, 2015.

CRUISE LINE BOOK BY...

2015 “WAVE SEASON” CRUISE SAVINGS AND PERKS

3/31/15

3/29/15

1-2-3-Go! with choice of...

Choose 1... $1,000 per stateroom Choice Air credit $1,000 per stateroom onboard credit 1-category upgrade

2/28/15

GO SALE Reduced rates 2-category upgrade

Classic beverage package per person Free gratuities per person Up to $300 per stateroom onboard credit

Book a Concierge Class stateroom and receive all 3 of the offers above.

2/28/15

175th Celebration Package

Ready, Set, Sail Free stateroom upgrades to oceanview or veranda Up to 10% off selected shore excursions 50% reduced deposit Free or reduced cruise fares for 3rd/4th guest Book a suite and receive up to $300 per stateroom onboard credit, free Wine Navigator package and 2 free soda cards.

Free balcony upgrade Double balcony upgrade on Europe cruises Up to $300 per stateroom onboard credit $175 per person reduced deposit

Grills Inclusive Package $60 per day per stateroom onboard credit Complimentary gratuities Captain’s wine collection Alternative-dining credit Internet minutes Keepsake photo Specialty coffee card

AAA MEMBER BENEFITS

$150 per oceanview stateroom (or above) onboard credit

Waiver of the deposit of the 2nd guest Up to $300 per stateroom onboard credit

On applicable sailing dates

Yes

AAA Vacations® AMENITIES 24-hour best-price guarantee 24–7 member care assistance Ask about others, which vary by cruise line & sailing.

Yes

Ask your travel agent about eligible sailings

FEBRUARY 2015

AAA MOTORIST

PAGE 9

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Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

NEWS — “SAIL SALE” AT FULL SPEED!

perks cresting now! 3/31/15 Your World. Your Way. 2-for-1 cruise fare Early-booking savings 50% off deposits Free gratuities Unlimited internet Up to $1,000 per stateroom onboard credit

Yes

2/26/15

3/31/15

2/28/15

50th Anniversary Sale

“Why Choose?” Offer

DreamWorks Experience Offer

Up to $1,000 per suite onboard credit

1 free soda package per stateroom

Free unlimited WiFi

1 free DreamWorks character photograph

Savings up to $500 per person Complimentary specialty dinner for 2 Up to $200 per stateroom onboard credit

Business-class air from $499 per person

Onboard value booklet (valued up to $325) Reduced cruise deposit per person

Up to $500 per suite onboard credit Invitation to a group onboard cocktail party on selected sailings

1 per balcony stateroom (or above) complimentary spa treatment (3 choices)

Yes

& maximum savings!

Free character breakfast

ALUE: It’s what cruising is all about. The price of a cruise includes your accommodations, activities, parties and entertainment; most meals and snacks on board; and an exciting voyage to some of the most enchanting and culturally enriching places in the world. At AAA Travel, right now the cruising industry’s annual “wave season” of special limited-time savings, stateroom upgrades, onboard credit and other perk opportunities is cresting! Contact us now to take advantage of the many ways you can get more for your hard-earned cruise vacation dollar. There are options to suit every budget. By choosing to cruise, you’ll know what your vacation will cost you before you go; typically, your only extra expenses are drinks, specialty restaurants, optional shore excursions and personal services such as massages or hairstyling.

PAGE 10

AAA MOTORIST

FEBRUARY 2015

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

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

LEAVE YOUR CAR AT HOME!

Car-free, carefree adventures

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

BOURBON AND S U L B EGRAS

A SUREF SIGN OG! SPRIN

CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL & PARADE April 10-12 •

HORSIN’ AROUND IN KENTUCKY

AAA Member Rate: $665

May 11-15 •

Enjoy this annual festival in Washington DC, including a reserved seat for the big parade, dinner overlooking DC, a jazz brunch in trendy Georgetown and guided landmark touring. Enjoy free time to explore the Smithsonian Museums and other landmarks lining the National Mall. 5 meals.

Blooming Pittsburgh – 1 day

May 3 •

AAA Member Rate: $119

Gardeners & nature lovers! Enjoy the Pittsburgh Botanic Garden–The Woodlands, lunch at the Porch at Schenley and the Spring Flower Show at Phipps Conservatory. 1 meal.

Cultural DC – Embassy Open House May 7-9 •

AAA Member Rate: $985

Enjoy international food & entertainment in our nation’s capital. Visit European embassies, dining in one and taking a private tour of another. Take a night tour of DC’s illuminated landmarks. At the National Mall, visit Smithsonian museums & other sites. Tour Hillwood estate & “Brewmaster’s Castle.” Dine & see a show at the Kennedy Center. 4 meals.

Ultimate New York City

May 22-25 •

AAA Member Rate: $965

This Memorial Day weekend getaway features a comprehensive city tour, including a visit to the 9/11 Memorial Museum, the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Explore the

Explore the pleasures of Kentucky, from horse farms to distilleries. Visit Lexington & Louisville, including Kentucky Horse Park, the Kentucky Derby Museum at Churchill Downs, Louisville Slugger Museum, 2 distilleries, a dinner theater, a dinner cruise & much more. 8 meals.

stores, restaurants, theaters, parks, museums and other attractions the Big Apple has to offer — all just steps from your conveniently located Times Square hotel.

Harborfest : Norfolk VA ®

June 5-8 •

AAA Member Rate: $789

Enjoy waterfront accommodations and explore Norfolk’s annual fun-filled maritime celebration of food, entertainment, water activities and tall ships. Visit the US Naval Base, the Norfolk Botanical Gardens, the interactive sea-themed Nauticus science center (home of the Battleship Wisconsin) and take a fireworks dinner cruise. 6 meals.

Lilac Festival: Mackinac Island MI

June 6-10 •

AAA Member Rate: $1,055

Explore the Henry Ford Museum, Greenfield Village and Edsel Ford estate. Ferry to car-free Mackinac Island; enjoy its Lilac Festival, a buggy tour and the Grand Hotel buffet. Cross Mighty Mac Bridge to German-flavored Frankenmuth, home of Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland. 8 meals.

LAST CHANCE TO JOIN THE FUN — BOOK NOW!

AAA Member Rate: $935

A Taste of Pittsburgh – 1 day

June 14 •

AAA Member Rate: $109

Here’s a fun culinary walking tour of historic Strip District markets, featuring tasty samples from around the world. Meet vendors and hear their stories. Come hungry!

Maine Seacoast

June 15-21 •

AAA Member Rate: $1,309

From Portland to Acadia National Park, experience what life along Maine’s Down East coast is really like. Enjoy exploring maritime villages like Boothbay Harbor, Bar Harbor and Freeport; a whale watching cruise; lighthouses; the Maine State Prison Store and L L Bean. Follow the Loop Road through spectacular Acadia National Park. 12 meals.

Shows & More: Lancaster PA

June 18-20 •

AAA Member Rate: $595

See Sight & Sound Theater’s “Joseph” and a production at the American Music Theatre. Tour Amish country. 5 meals.

See majestic Golden Eagles soaring overhead from atop Tussey Mountain during their spring migration. Relax at the lovely Nature Inn in Bald Eagle State Park. Enjoy an Owl Prowl, a live Birds of Prey program and a Sunrise Woodcock Trot. Includes a keepsake birdfeeder! 5 meals.

COMING SOON... MARK YOUR CALENDAR AND WATCH FOR INFO IN YOUR MARCH AAA MOTORIST!

“Magdalene”: Ligonier PA – 1 day • March 25 • $115

Niagara-on-the-Lake Shaw Festival ........................ July 7-9

Eagle Migration Weekend: PA • March 13-15 • $535

Witness the moving story of Mary Magdalene. This thoughtful, entertaining multimedia presentation incorporates music and dance to tell this inspiring story. Enjoy free time to explore the unique shops and other delights of the charming village of Ligonier. 1 meal.

Vera Bradley Outlet Sale: Ft Wayne IN • April 7-8 • $345

Enjoy 2 days finding the ultimate bargains. Start at Ohio’s Lodi Station Outlets (60+ name-brand outlets), then at Indiana’s Jefferson Pointe (60+ restaurants, shops). Beat weekend crowds & attend the first ticketed session of the Vera Bradley sale, featuring a private check-out for AAA guests. Also visit the popular cinda b bag store. 2 meals.

Finger Lakes Escape ...........................................July 13-16 Wright Kind of Summer ........................................... July 19 Girls’ Mystery Getaway ......................................Aug 14-16 PA Patriotic Pride – 1 day .........................................Aug 27

FEBRUARY 2015

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PAGE 11

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

SIZZLIN’ WESTERN USA TOURS! AAA MEMBER RATES SHOWN. VISIT AAA.COM/USA FOR ITINERARIES, INCLUSIONS AND OTHER INFORMATION.

GRAND CANYON & ARIZONA ADVENTURE

SAN FRANCISCO & NAPA WINE COUNTRY

Fly to Phoenix and ride to Sedona’s beautiful Poco Diablo Resort. Explore scenic backcounMAY 17-24 • $2,465 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.

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.

GLACIER NATIONAL PARK

PACIFIC NORTHWEST

Start with a tour of Spokane. Descend into a silver mine in Wallace ID (once the “Silver JUNE 21-27 • $1,939 Capital of the World”) and visit the Smokejumpers Aerial Fire Depot. See artsy Big Fork MT and enjoy a float trip on the Middle Fork of the Flathead River. Stay at an Old World–style lodge in Glacier National Park. Cruise on 2 lakes. Travel “Going to the Sun” Road amid snowy peaks and virgin forest. Ride a vintage Red Jammer Touring Car. Cross the Continental Divide. Take America’s longest gondola up to Silver Mountain. Visit Lake Coeur d’Alene. 11 meals.

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.

BEST OF NORTHERN CALIFORNIA

YELLOWSTONE EXPERIENCE

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.

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.

AMERICAN MAJESTY

COLORADO TRAIN ADVENTURE

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.

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.

NEW MEXICO BALLOON FIESTA

CANYON COUNTRY EXPERIENCE

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.

Eroded for eons by wind & water, the colorful canyons of AZ, UT and NV captivate all who OCT 13-19 • $1,415 visit. Begin in the Entertainment Capital of the World — Las Vegas! Enjoy an afternoon & evening on your own before departing for Kingman’s Route 66 Museum. Marvel at the magnificence of the Grand Canyon; enter the Navajo Nation and see Monument Valley from a 4WD vehicle. Enjoy a sunset jet boat ride on the Colorado River followed by a BBQ dinner. Visit 4 national parks — Arches, Capitol Reef, Bryce Canyon and Zion — and 2 state parks too! 11 meals.

PAGE 12

AAA MOTORIST

FEBRUARY 2015

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

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

Follow the Pirates ON THE ROAD...

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!

Oct 19-31 •

Coach from & to Pittsburgh • Hotel • Reserved game seat Touring, activities & amenities These vary by package; visit AAA.com/baseball for complete itinerary and inclusions.

Pirates vs Nationals in Washington DC June 19-21 •

AAA Member Rate: $5,679

Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip flights (Pittsburgh-Rome, Milan-Pittsburgh), 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.

Glacier Discovery

Sept 5-8 •

$705 per person, double occupancy

Pirates vs Cubs in Chicago IL

Sept 25-27 •

$775 per person, double occupancy

• Pirates baseball cap • Autographed baseball • Outfield box seat • Behind-the-scenes PNC Park tour • Pre-game food & drink • Watch batting practice if it takes place

AAA Member Rate $79 per person per game

GLACIER NP

Full payment due at time of booking.

Saturday June 13 @ 4:05pm vs Phillies FanJam post-game concert Thursday July 3 @ 7:05pm vs Indians Friday July 4 @ 4:05pm vs Indians Saturday Aug 8 @ 4:05pm vs Dodgers Saturday Oct 3 @ 7:05pm vs Reds FanJam post-game concert

AAA: The Preferred Travel Agency of the Pittsburgh Pirates

GLACIER NP

AAA MEMBERS SAVE!

Premier... $400 Plus ......... $350 Basic .........$325 BOOKING WITH DEPOSIT BY 2/28/15 SAVINGS PER ROOM (DOUBLE OCCUPANCY)

GLACIER NP SEATTLE

Glacier National Park Discovery Aug 1-10 •

Pirates vs Reds in Cincinnati OH includes 2 nights in Louisville KY

or get a HOME GAME seat & more!

CHICAGO

CHICAGO to SEATTLE

etrace 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 with a reception at Chicago’s Essex Inn on bustling Michigan Avenue, then 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. Awaken in your private sleeping accommodations to cross North Dakota’s plains and traverse Gassman Coulee Trestle. Enjoy breakfast and lunch onboard as you cross into Montana to Glacier National Park. This vast ice-carved terrain of serrated ridges, jutting peaks (6 more than 10,000 feet high), waterfalls, hanging valleys, 50 glaciers, dense forests and more than 200 lakes is one of the world’s most pristine natural environments. Designated a national park (the 10th) in 1910 by President Taft, the park covers some 1.2 million acres. Deer are among the most commonly spotted wildlife, but elk, moose, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, wolves and bears are seen. Tour in a 1930s “jammer” with a canvas roll-top; rebuilt in 2001, these vehicles ply the park’s primary route — Goingto-the-Sun Road. Cross the border into Canada to visit Alberta’s Waterton Lakes National Park, site of the Canadian Rockies’ deepest lakes. The park is part of the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, a World Heritage Site. Enjoy 2 nights at Glacier Park Lodge, built by the Great Northern Railway. The lobby’s massive fireplace invites fireside chats, and there’s an outdoor pool, a golf course, a pitchn-putt and a day spa on site. Your other in-park home for 2 nights is the Swiss-themed Many Glacier Hotel on Swiftcurrent Lake. Its balcony offers 180º views of the lake, 3 glaciers and serrated peaks. This secluded Old World–style hotel is a one-of-a-kind national park lodging experience. 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!

$599 per person, double occupancy

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 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/travel for complete itinerary. Ask about available add-on airfare.

FEBRUARY 2015

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

AAA MOTORIST

PAGE 13

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

PAGE 14

AAA MOTORIST

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 Feb 28 on a 2015 7-night-or-longer air-inclusive Pleasant Holidays vacation to Hawaii and enjoy:

$50 SAVINGS FROM AAA TRAVEL per room, based on double occupancy • new bookings Feb 1-28, 2015

PLUS

SIVE THIS EXCLU NEFIT! E MEMBER B

FEBRUARY 2015

$50.00 CERTIFICATE

toward purchase of optional sightseeing or activity, per booking

FEBRUARY 2015

AAA MOTORIST

PAGE 15

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

LONDON

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

A TRAVEL CLASSIC

A Tour of 2 Cities

PARIS

Sept 14-21

AAA Member Rate: $4,299 LONDON & PARIS! 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

• 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

• In a quaint town west of London, visit the British Monarchy’s stately, expansive Windsor Castle. Queen Elizabeth II uses the thousand-room 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.

AAA MEMBERS SAVE!

Premier.......$675 Plus ............$625 Basic ..........$600 BOOKING WITH DEPOSIT BY 2/28/15 SAVINGS PER ROOM (DOUBLE OCCUPANCY)

Paris Highlights

• 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.

Before-discount rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip flights (Pittsburgh-London, Paris-Pittsburgh), roundtrip airport/hotel and hotel/train transfers, Eurostar train seating, 6-night 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 baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details. Passport required.

PAGE 16

AAA MOTORIST

FEBRUARY 2015

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

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

LIMITED-TIME OFFERS ON 2015 AAA MEMBER APPRECIATION CRUISES

Enjoy special amenities & $400 toward airfare! Book a balcony stateroom (or higher) on special cruises and enjoy these amenities:

ALSO APPLICABLE...

$400 airfare credit* must purchase flights through AAA, 1st & 2nd passengers per stateroom only

Up to $75.00 onboard credit In-room bottle of wine Onboard martini tasting Compact high-quality binoculars Only AAA members get these extras & only for a limited time.

1 — FREE Classic Beverage Package for 2 2 — FREE Prepaid Gratuities for 2 3 — FREE Shipboard Spending Money Enjoy all 3 offers when you book a Concierge Class stateroom or higher

Europe Cruises: Choose 2 of the 3 offers when you book a balcony stateroom

Alaska Cruises: Choose 1 of the 3 offers when you book a balcony stateroom Ask your travel agent for complete details.

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN: Celebrity Reflection — June 19-29 Balcony: from $2,643

Rates are per person (double occupancy), are subject to availability at time of booking and include 10-night cruise accommodations/entertainment, most onboard meals, government taxes/fees ($399.25), $75 shipboard credit per stateroom, in-cabin bottle of wine and martini tasting vouchers (2 per stateroom). Ship’s registry: Malta. Ask about available add-on pre- and/or post-cruise hotel stays. Visit AAA.com/GoEurope for more information.

ALASKA: Celebrity Millennium — May 22-29 or Aug 14-21 Balcony (May 22): from $1,635 •

Balcony (Aug 14): from $2,075

Rates are per person (double occupancy), are subject to availability at time of booking and include 7-night cruise accommodations/entertainment, most onboard meals, government taxes/fees ($436.19), $50 shipboard credit per stateroom, in-cabin bottle of wine and martini tasting vouchers (2 per stateroom). Ship’s registry: Malta. Ask about available add-on pre- and/or post-cruise hotel stays. Visit AAA.com/Alaska for more information.

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

July 8-17 •

AAA Member Rate: $5,675

Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes flights (PittsburghFairbanks, Anchorage-Pittsburgh), 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.

Fly to Calgary and drive into the Canadian Rockies to Banff. Enjoy 5 nights at Banff Caribou Lodge & Spa. Ride Banff Gondola for panoramic vistas. Visit thundering Bow Falls and cruise serene Lake Minnewanka. Enjoy a day in Banff on your own; you could play a round on Banff Springs’ golf course, take an unforgettable helicopter sightseeing tour or relax on a river float trip. Banff offers shopping and dining opportunities – as well as an occasional moose! Cross the Continental Divide on the way to Yoho and Banff national parks. See Takakkaw Falls, Emerald Lake and Lake Louise (“Jewel of the Rockies”), where you may ride the gondola. Spot wildlife along Columbia Icefields Parkway to Athabasca Glacier and turquoise Peyto Lake. Cap off the week at the Calgary Stampede, a celebration of cowboy life, chuckwagon races, rodeos, parades, fireworks and more. Enjoy the thrilling Grandstand Show from reserved seats. DOWNTOWN BANFF

July 5-11 •

Canadian Rockies and the Calgary Stampede RELAX IN 1 “HOME” FOR 5 NIGHTS! Located in Banff National Park, Banff Caribou Lodge & Spa offers a mountain lodge hotel, a steakhouse and a full-service spa, all in one location. This ideal vacation spot is on Banff’s main street, surrounded by mountains, with plenty of activities to keep you busy.

BANFF SPRINGS

LAKE LOUISE

AAA Member Rate: $2,899

Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip flights (Pittsburgh-Calgary), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, services of a AAA Tour Manager (if minimum-participation goal is met), 9 meals, motorcoach sightseeing and baggage handling (1 per person). Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details. Passport required.

FEBRUARY 2015

AAA MOTORIST

PAGE 17

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

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

WATCH HOME-ICE ACTION from THE COMFORT OF A PRIVATE canadian club party suite AT CONSOL ENERGY CENTER!

AAA member rate • party suite game ticket AND buffet $299 • comfortable leather seating each game • nonalcoholic beverages • TV monitor with live game feed • complimentary access to 3 clubs

HOME

March 4 @ 6pm • Monroeville Holiday Inn: 2750 Mosside Blvd March 5 @ 6pm • Crowne Plaza Pittsburgh South: 164 Ft Couch Rd

RSVP by Feb 20 • 1-800-354-8761

LEXUS, CAPTAIN MORGAN & FIRST NIAGARA

boston ....March 14 @ 1 pm arizona ...March 28 @ 1 pm

enjoy SPECIAL BOOKING OFFERS available on THESE NIGHTS ONLY!

WATCH 1ST ROUND PLAYOFF ACTION GAME #2 AAA member rate $299 PER PERSON

• party suite game ticket AND buffet • comfortable leather seating • nonalcoholic beverages • TV monitor with live game feed • complimentary access to 3 clubs

Century III (Pleasant Hills) . . . . . . . . . . .412-655-6105 Downtown . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .412-338-4305 East Liberty/Shadyside . . . . . . . . . . . . . .412-365-7272 Monroeville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .412-858-4640 North Hills (Ross Twp). . . . . . . . . . . . . . .412-367-7625 Robinson Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .412-809-2803 South Hills (Bethel Park) . . . . . . . . . . . . .412-833-5060 Wexford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .724-933-3000 White Oak/McKeesport . . . . . . . . . . . . . .412-675-3404 Rochester PA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .724-728-6230 St Marys PA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .814-781-3003 Uniontown PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .724-438-8575 Warren PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .814-723-6660 Washington PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .724-225-3600 Waynesburg PA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .724-627-3434 Wheeling WV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .304-233-1810 Weirton WV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .304-748-1616

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

LEXUS, CAPTAIN MORGAN & FIRST NIAGARA

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 MD Eastern Caribbean ..............................April 28–May 8 .............................. from $1,102 Bermuda ..............................................May 8-15 ........................................ from $1,167 Bahamas ..............................................July 10-17 ....................................... from $1,272 Bahamas ..............................................Aug 21-28 ......................................... from $833 Canada/New England.........................Sept 3-11 ........................................ from $1,069 Canada/New England.........................Oct 15-24........................................ from $1,069 Western Caribbean.............................Nov 1-11 ......................................... from $1,194 AAA MEMBER RATES are per person (double occupancy), are subject to availability at time of booking and include roundtrip motorcoach transportation, cruise accommodations/entertainment, most onboard meals and taxes, fees and port expenses of up to $357.17 per person. Ship’s registry: Bahamas. Visit AAA.com/motorcruise for details & PA pick-up points.

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

April 17-30, 2016 •

Altoona PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .814-946-1277 Bridgeport WV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .304-842-7676 Butler PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .724-282-8810 Columbiana OH. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .330-482-3836 Cranberry Township PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .724-772-1122 East Liverpool OH. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .330-385-2020 Erie PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .814-866-0246 Greensburg PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .724-834-8300 Harborcreek PA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .814-897-9508 Indiana PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .724-349-4193 Kittanning PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .724-543-4244 Lower Burrell/New Kensington Area PA . . .724-339-4440 Martinsburg WV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .304-263-4619 Meadville PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .814-724-3157 Morgantown WV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .304-598-7470 New Castle PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .724-658-8551

PITTSBURGH PA AREA

GAMES, TIMES & OPPONENTS SUBJECT TO CHANGE

from the comfort of A PRIVATE canadian club party suite AT CONSOL ENERGY CENTER!

YOU’RE INVITED TO... AN EVENING All about Ireland vacations

from $2,345

Labadee, Haiti • San Juan PR • Philipsburg, St Maarten Fort de France, Martinique • Bridgetown, Barbados Basseterre, St Kitts • Plus 5 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 and taxes, fees and port expenses of $524.25 per person. Ship’s registry: Bahamas. Visit AAA.com/motorcruise for details & PA pick-up points.

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Celebrity’s biggest stars are aligned on Europe Five Solstice-class ships will cruise the Continent in 2015

here’s an old adage that you should “go big or go home.” In 2015 Celebrity Cruises is going very big in Europe with more ways to experience the Continent than ever before. Celebrity will offer 19 distinct Mediterranean itineraries aboard five ships, visiting 94 ports in 28 countries, with more than 65 enticing overnight stays. Ships include Celebrity Reflection, their newest and most advanced vessel. Celebrity’s impeccable design taste is readily apparent in the elegant public rooms filled with contemporary artwork, while the Alcoves is a cool, cabana-style retreat. Staterooms are generous with 85 percent of the 1,498 cabins incorporating private verandahs. Amenities include smarter storage and closet space, spacious bathrooms, and plush European bedding. The Lawn Club is a unique top-deck environment with just over a half-acre off real growing grass and a Hamptonsesque vibe. There are ten memorable dining venues, including Qsine a “uniquely unordinary” interactive bistro with menus delivered on an iPad. Reflection will be retracing the voyage of Odysseus on a series of 10- and 11-night Eastern Mediterranean sailings roundtrip from Rome to the Greek Isles and Turkey. The 10-night itinerary calls in at Messina, Sicily, Mykonos,

SIREN SONG — Santorini may be the quintessential Greek isle. Greece, Kusadasi (Ephesus), Turkey, Rhodes, Santorini and Athens, Greece, and Naples, Italy. The postcard-perfect island of Mykonos is filled with windmills and dazzling white houses set against a shimmering blue sea. Basket-laden donkeys make their way through a maze of ancient streets designed to frustrate marauding pirates. Kusadasi, a popular resort town on

the Turkish coast, is the gateway to the ancient ruins of Ephesus, once the second largest city in the Roman Empire. Walking down the Arcadian Way, an ancient street paved with white marble, you can almost hear the footsteps of Alexander the Great and Anthony and Cleopatra reverberate on the stone. Dolphins frolic in the wake as you sail into storied ports like Rhodes, the largest of the Dodecanese islands. The

thickly walled Old Town is Europe’s largest inhabited medieval city. Santorini may be the quintessential Greek Isle, with whitewashed buildings and blued domed churches perched on dramatic cliffs overlooking an Aegean Sea the color of your dreams. Visitors can ride the mules up the 547 steps from the harbor up to the ancient town of Fira. The cradle of Western civilization Athens is revered for its golden age monuments like the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and the temple of Athena Nike. Naples is the gateway to the famous archaeological sites of Pompeii and Herculaneum, located under the looming shadow of Mount Vesuvius. The two towns remain frozen in time, buried by volcanic eruption in AD 79. For centuries Rome was the center of the world, filled with hidden squares, and ancient wonders like the Colosseum and the Pantheon, that still have the capacity to amaze. Don’t forget to toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain to ensure your return.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

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

The Post Graduate — Alfa Romeo introduces 4C Coupe Italian carmaker makes a memorable return to America

ith its stunning Italian design and Formula 1 derived innovations, the all-new 2015 Alfa Romeo 4C may be the world’s first affordable supercar. Handcrafted in the Maserati plant in Modena, Italy the ground hugging mid-engine coupe marks the iconic Italian brand’s long anticipated return to North America after a nearly 20 year absence. In truth, Alfa Romeo has been pretty much a nonstarter on this side of the Atlantic since a youthful Dustin Hoffman tooled around L.A. in a bright red Duetto Spider in the 1967 film The Graduate. Now owned by Fiat Chrysler, the company plans to add seven new models, including two SUVs, to their lineup by 2018. The acronym ‘4C’ draws its inspiration from the brand’s legendary 8C and 6C models from the 1930s and 1940s, and references its innovative 4-cylinder all-aluminum engine. The exterior’s voluptuous curves pay homage to the ultra rare 1967 Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale, ranked number 15 in Top Gear’s 100 Sexiest Cars of all time. Alfa Romeo leveraged advanced solutions from Formula 1 racing to develop a competition-capable architecture that makes extensive use of aluminum, plus a composite body for an ultra-lightweight design. The carbon fiber monocoque chassis weighs just 236 lbs.

catalytic converter to the tailpipe. Those looking for a Grand Touring car like the Mercedes SLK may be disappointed. The C4 is engineered for performance and that means sacrificing some amenities like power steering and a glove compartment. The interior’s drab plastic surfaces could best be described as Greyhound Bus Terminal circa 1970. Just getting in and out of it with any dignity may require a background in gymnastics, or at the very least, a working knowledge of Gangnam Style dance moves. But what are a few tiny inconveniences when compared to its sinuous lines and seductive Italian charm? It can turn your daily commute into the Mille Miglia followed by a victory lap around Rome.

LOVE, ITALIAN STYLE — The 2015 Alfa Romeo 4C Launch Edition. A lilliputian 1.75-liter flat four produces 237 horsepower and 258 lb. ft. of torque. That’s roughly on par with a Hyundai Sonata, but good enough to move the featherweight 4C from zero to sixty in about 4.5 seconds. And to paraphrase two-time presidential candidate Ross Perot “that giant sucking sound you hear behind you is the turbo.” Drivers can use the Alfa DNA selector to choose four distinct driving modes — Dynamic, Natural and All Weather

and Race, which disables most of the driver assists. The six speed automatic transmission can be shifted manually using the paddle shifters mounted on the steering column. The 4C is available in two variants, the 4C Coupe and the 4C Coupe Launch Edition. Only 500 serialized Launch Edition coupes will be available with upgrades like carbon fiber trim, a unique front fascia and a racing exhaust, by which they mean “no muffler.” The exhaust goes directly from the

VEHICLE TYPE: 2-passsenger, mid-engine, RWD, 2-door coupe. OVERALL LENGTH: 157.5-inches. CURB WEIGHT: 2,465 lbs. ENGINE: 1.75L 237hp/6000rpm. TRANSMISSION: 6-speed automatic. MSRP: $53,900-$68,400. EPA ESTIMATES: City/highway 24/34/28 COMPETITION: Porsche Cayman, Jaguar F-Type Coupe, Chevy Corvette. COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: Italy

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What is a data breach and what you should know Things you can do in case you become a victim

ata breach woes aren’t just plaguing the United States. The world over, data breach incidents are happening at government, technology, education, healthcare, retail and financial service organizations. These are the industries in which the biggest and most breaches are occurring, according to KPMG’s Data Loss Barometer. Truth be told, data breaches happen at any type of business, from local dental clinics to big online retailers. The discomforting part is, the privacy of our data depends on the companies with which we share it. And sometimes those companies share data with thirdparty vendors, such as payment processors or cloud service providers that we don’t even know about. So you can see why data breaches have become so prevalent–both people and companies have data in so many places. When a company’s records are lost or stolen, your sensitive information (like your Social Security number or bank account information) can land in the hands of an identity thief. The thief then can use your information to siphon money from your bank account, gain access to your credit cards, or to create new accounts in your name. As a result, your credit reports can be blemished with unpaid accounts and you can start receiving phone calls from collection agencies.

GOOD PROTECTION — ProtectMyID® can help you address identity theft. What you should know: 1. State laws typically require the business to notify affected customers within a certain amount of time or be subject to a fine. 2. The District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands all have some type of data breach law. Five states – Alabama, Kentucky, Mississippi, New Mexico, and Colorado – do not. 3. In the past, some companies have paid for six to twelve months of credit monitoring for affected individuals. While this is something the Federal

Trade Commission (FTC) recommends to businesses that have suffered a data breach, it isn’t a requirement. What to do if you are a victim: Contact one of the three credit bureaus. Have an initial security alert added to your credit report which can help prevent further damage. Additional precautions will be taken to make sure anyone applying for credit in your name is you. You will have more time to investigate and get a free copy of your credit report.

File a police report. A police report can be instrumental in helping you place long-term alerts on your credit report and helping you recover from fraud and other crimes where your identity was used. Thoroughly review your credit report for suspicious information or activity. Request a copy of your credit report from the credit bureaus. You should also review your billing statements and immediately notify each creditor to dispute what you believe is fraudulent charges. Keep detailed records of your conversations and interactions. If you suspect, or you are a victim identity theft due to a data breach, you have first-hand knowledge of the stress it can cause. ProtectMyID®, offered to AAA members, can help you address identity theft as soon as you become aware of suspicious activity. This article is provided for general guidance and information. It is not intended as, nor should it be construed to be, legal, financial or other professional advice. Please consult with your attorney or financial advisor to discuss any legal or financial issues involved with credit decisions. Published by permission from ConsumerInfo.com, Inc., an Experian company. © 2014 ConsumerInfo.com, Inc. All rights reserved.

How you can survive a winter weather emergency Keep your cool if you’re stranded in your car

hether you’re driving to your local supermarket, or traveling from International Falls to Winnipeg, temperatures can fall fast and winter storms can be dangerous for those caught unprepared. Motorists should monitor weather conditions, pay close attention to storm warnings and road reports and trust them. Heavy snow and ice can trap motorists in their cars but attempting to walk for help in a blizzard can be a deadly decision. Disorientation and confusion can come very quickly in blowing snow. People should remain in their vehicle and wait for help to arrive. Emergency crews can find your vehicle a lot easier than they can find you. Don’t expect to be comfortable. The challenge is to survive until you’re found. Carry a winter survival kit. This should include a flashlight, batteries, hand/foot warmers, first aid supplies, high-energy snacks, brightly colored cloth or flag, a candle, matches, a cell phone, and a shovel. Don’t forget some kitty litter or sand, which can be used to provide added traction. If your car breaks down or gets stuck pull off the road as far as possible and don’t panic. Being hit by a passing car is the greatest danger at this point, so stay put.

THE COLD, HARD TRUTH — In any weather emergency, the challenge is to survive until you’re found. Let others know you are in trouble. Call first responders or AAA to inform them of your location and situation. Hang a distress flag from your aerial or window. Raise the hood when the snow stops falling. Other tips include: • Run the engine and heater approximately ten minutes of each hour. • Change positions and do minor exercises to maintain body heat. • Use newspapers, road maps, seat covers, floor mats or extra clothing for insulation and warmth. If there are •

•

two or more people, huddle together for warmth. Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning by clearing snow from the exhaust pipe and cracking a window for ventilation. Turn on your inside dome light at night so first responders can spot you. Never overexert yourself. Avoid shoveling heavy snow or trying to push your car out of a deep snowdrift.

Watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia. Symptoms of frostbite include loss of feeling and a white or pale appearance in your fingers, toes, nose and earlobes. Hypothermia symptoms can include uncontrollable shivering, slow speech, memory lapses, drowsiness, exhaustion and frequent stumbling. If you suspect frostbite or hypothermia, warm the victim’s mid-trunk section. Warm the arms and legs last to avoid moving cold blood toward the heart. Avoid giving caffeine (such as coffee or tea) or alcohol to a frostbite or hypothermia victim. Sugary drinks are better than hot drinks for beating the cold. Delay your trip if possible in poor driving conditions, and if not, notify others of your plans. If you do become stranded preparation and knowing how to react are vital to keeping you safe.

GIVE YOUR CAR A CHECK-UP

To avoid mechanical breakdowns, have a qualified automotive technician like those in AAA’s Approved Auto Repair program, inspect the brakes, tires, cooling system, windshield wipers, battery, electrical system, lights, emergency flashers, ignition, defroster, and exhaust system.

FEBRUARY 2015

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On the beach in Florida’s Cultural Capital Sarasota is where the circus never leaves town

arasota is artsy, cosmopolitan and oddly un-Florida-like. Sometimes called Florida’s Cultural Capital, there are over 100 galleries, an Opera House, worldclass museums and a real downtown. Visitors willingly surrender their days to the sun in this lush subtropical estuary ringed by a necklace of six barrier islands, dreamily adrift in the Gulf of Mexico. Beach goers cautiously shuffle their feet in the surf in hopes off warding off stingrays. The islands are a study in contrasts. Secluded Long Boat Key sports one the wealthiest zip codes in America, while Siesta Key is as laid-back as a Grateful Dead album. In 2011, Dr. Stephen Leatherman AKA “Dr. Beach” named Siesta Beach No. 1 in the nation for its powdery white sand. Composed almost entirely of crushed quartz crystal, its unique composition makes it remarkably cool on the feet. Although technically not a key, Venice Beach has a Jaws-dropping attraction. It’s home to the world’s largest collection of fossilized shark teeth. Visitors can scour the beach for shark teeth in varying shades of black, brown and gray—some dating back millions of years. John Ringling used his circus elephants to build the first bridge from

SLOW RIDE — Cycling along the beach at Siesta Key.

Image courtesy of Visit

Sarasota County.

the mainland to Lido Key. A slender constellation of beaches circle this idyllic dot of sand, which is also home to St. Armands Circle, a European-flavored piazza filled with designer boutiques and some of the area’s best restaurants. Sarasota’s legacy as a circus town is still evident in the neat, ranch-style homes where an attached gorilla cage is as ubiquitous as a two-car garage. In

those heady days the town was peopled by legends like Emmett Kelly, May Wirth and the Flying Wallendas. Ringling picked out a prime spot on the Gulf to erect Cà d’Zan, or House of John, his magnificent Venetianstyle estate. Soon after its completion he built a museum modeled on the Florentine Uffizi Gallery to house his collection of Old Masters, includ-

ing Velazquez, van Dyke and Rubens. Now a public museum, visitors can stroll the 66 acres of Bayfront Gardens, or admire the replicas of Greek and Roman sculpture, including a bronze cast of Michelangelo’s David. The Ringling Circus Museum preserves rare Big Top memorabilia including parade wagons and calliopes. Visitors can walk the wire, squeeze into a clown car, or view John Ringling’s luxurious private railroad car. The Marie Selby Botanical Gardens is an urban oasis with nine acres of banyan groves, a koi pond and tropical gardens set on the sparkling bay. The Tropical Conservatory houses more types of epiphytes — orchids, ferns, bromeliads and heliconias — than any other place in the nation. Golfers can tee off at more than 100 courses including the Bobby Jones Golf Complex, a 45-hole municipal layout. The legendary Donald Ross designed the original 18 holes and Bobby Jones cut the ribbon at the dedication ceremony in 1927. IF YOU GO

Please see this month’s Departures Guide or log on to AAA.com for special values on Florida vacations.

AAA East Central celebrates Wexford Office Grand Opening Festivities included ribbon cutting and prize drawings

AA East Central celebrated the Grand Opening of its newest office location in McCandless’ Wexford Plaza Shopping Center. The festivities kicked off on Thursday, December 11, 2014 with a ribbon cutting ceremony, an open house and tours of the 3,600 square foot facility. The new branch includes a staff of experienced travel and insur-

ance professionals, who can provide a full range of member services and benefits to the public including auto travel, travel agency, and AAA-branded insurance products. “AAA is excited to open a new branch office in the North Hills Area,” said AAA East Central President Jim Lehman. “This area continues to grow and develop and AAA has a wide array

of benefits and services to meet the needs of local residents and the community,” he added. Grand Opening Weekend visitors could enter a drawing (no purchase necessary) for some fabulous prizes. Maureen Davis of Wexford won a 7 night Bahamas cruise for two on Royal Caribbean Cruise Line’s Grandeur of the Seas. Sue Bloomquist of Pittsburgh won two airline tickets to any Florida city, and Jill Easterling of Seven Fields won two tickets to the January 27th 2015 Penguins vs. Winnipeg game at Consol Energy Center. The new branch is conveniently located in the Wexford Plaza Shopping

Center in McCandless, next to Whole Foods, with easy access from Route 19 and ample parking. Hours of operation for the Wexford branch are 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Saturday. With the new Wexford office opening, AAA East Central now has 83 offices in Pennsylvania, New York, Ohio, West Virginia and Kentucky, servicing 2.7 million members. “Many of our members enjoy talking face-to-face with a travel agent about their honeymoon or “bucket list” trip,” Lehman said. “They take comfort in seeing the same familiar friendly faces when they stop by,” he explained.

Breathtaking! This isNiagara Falls! 154

*PP/DB including meals... 2 full breakfasts, dinner at Two nights from $ Coco’s Steakhouse, and a superb dinner high atop Skylon’s Revolving Dining Room overlooking the Falls. Ask about our Niagara Attractions Package... From $124*PP/DB. CUTTING THE RIBBON — Pictured from L-R: Jim Boltz, Executive Director of the Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber; Lisa Bauman, AAA Branch Manager; Jim Lehman, President AAA East Central; Richard Hamilton, CEO AAA East Central; Randy Vulakovich, State Senator 40th District; Lamar Oliver, McCandless Town Council 5th Ward; & Ralph LeDonne, McCandless Town Council 6th Ward.

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.

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Color your world at Epcot Flower & Garden Festival Spring is in the air at Walt Disney World Resort

pring will be bursting out all over at the 22nd Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival, March 4 to May 17 at Walt Disney World Resort. New Disney character topiaries include a nod to “Frozen” while Outdoor Kitchens will serve a fresh take on traditional favorites. Green thumb-minded guests can get “hands-on” during Disney-led gardening seminars. The festival, including most gardening programs and exhibits, is included in regular Epcot admission A little gardening magic goes a long way with over 100 whimsical topiaries including Snow White, Bambi, Mickey Mouse, Simba and Peter Pan. Each year, topiary experts pull out all the “chops” to create showstoppers like Chip and Dale in a new Epcot front entrance garden vignette, and Disney’s first Anna and Elsa topiaries in a scene from the Oscar-winning animated film’s finale. One of the most interesting challenges is finding just the right plant materials to bring the park’s topiaries to life and the details can be daunting. The “Frozen” topiary vignette at World Showcase Plaza, will illustrate Anna’s and Elsa’s icy world with white and silver blooms of delphinium, alyssum and other floral varieties. Tinker Bell’s Butterfly House will return with a huge, screened, walkthrough enclosure with hundreds of

A LIVING LIKENESS — Goofy and the Donald welcome guests at the entrance to Spaceship Earth. winged beauties fluttering above and lighting upon their favorite nectar-producing plants. Ten new mini-gardens will delight guests around every corner. Discover a new health garden, a pepper garden, a dinosaur-plant garden and a Shakespeare garden, among others, all designed with a storytelling element. The Shakespeare Garden at the United Kingdom pavilion, will use

roses to represent Romeo and Juliet. The Health Garden near The Land pavilion in Future World, will display ancient medicinal plants including garlic, aloe, chamomile, fennel and mint. It takes an entire year and 400 Walt Disney World horticulturists to create the lush rose gardens, floating floral islands, flower towers and expertly crafted bonsai trees. Thirty million blooms

create a tapestry of brilliant color across the 260-acre Epcot landscape. Disney horticulturists will also share gardening tips and lead guests in hands-on activities at the Festival Center. Explore topiaries and gardens, learn planting, style and design techniques then rock the house at popular Flower Power concerts. This year’s concert series will welcome stars like the Gin Blossoms, Pablo Cruise, The Village People and more to the America Gardens Theatre with their timeless tunes. Chefs will be cooking up a variety of new and popular returning menu items, including vegetarian and glutenfree dishes, in the festival’s Outdoor Kitchens where guests can sample garden and spring-inspired tapas-sized food and beverages. When the sun sets, illuminated topiary and play gardens will glow brightly for an after-dark festival experience.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

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

aroundtown BRINGING PARADISE TO PITTSBURGH — (through March 8) No need to jump on a plane this winter – the National Aviary is bringing Paradise to Pittsburgh — presented by AAA Travel. Visitors can warm up in toasty tropical exhibits, meet colorful parrots daily at 11:30 a.m., watch penguins play with beach balls, and see the newest theatrical free-flight bird show. Special events include Flamingo Fest, February 14-16, a weekend featuring those talented flamingos with activities like story time, crafts, and dancing. Get ready to shake some pink tail feathers! Location: National Aviary, 700 Arch St., Pittsburgh. Phone: (412) 3237235 or visit www.aviary.org. LIGHTS, CAMERA, PITTSBURGH! — (February 7) Calling all movie buffs! Celebrate the “Hollywood of the East” on an interactive tour through city backdrops of movies such as The Dark Knight Rises, Perks of Being a Wallflower, Flashdance, Next Three Days, Inspector Gadget, Abduction, Jack Reacher and dozens more. The two and a half hour tour begins at 10:00 a.m. and treats are included. A portion of the proceeds goes to the Pittsburgh Film Office. For tickets and information, visit pghtoursandmore.net. Location: Duquesne Incline, 1197 West Carson Street, Pittsburgh.

PITTSBURGH INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW — (February 13-16) The auto show is a supermarket for anything on wheels. The entire Convention Center is filled with the latest domestic and foreign cars, trucks and SUVs from over 35 manufacturers and exhibitors under one roof. It’s also a preview of coming attractions in a non-selling environment, where visitors can inspect new models before they hit dealers’ showrooms. Slip into the driver’s seat of a sporty new convertible or pile their kids into a roomy sport-utility just for fun. For information, visit pittautoshow.com. Location: David L. Lawrence Convention Center, 1000 Fort Duquesne Boulevard, Pittsburgh. PHANTOM OF THE OPERA: THE SPECTACULAR NEW PRODUCTION — (February 18 – March 1) The Phantom of the Opera, comes to Pittsburgh as part of a brand new North American Tour. Critics are raving that this production is “bigger and better than ever before.” Featured are a brilliant new scenic design and staging, and many exciting special effects including the show’s legendary chandelier. For tickets and information, visit trustarts.org. Location: Location: Benedum Center for the Performing Arts, 237 Seventh Street, Pittsburgh.

MASTERWORKS OF EARLY PHOTOGRAPHY — (February 21 – April 19) This exceptional group of photographs by major artists working in the circle of Alfred Stieglitz captures the development of photography as it moved from the painterly Impressionistic images of the late 19th century to the modernist aesthetic. Featuring rare prints by iconic masters of the medium including Edward Steichen and Paul Strand. Location: Frick Art & Historical Center, 7227 Reynolds Street, Pittsburgh. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday. Closed Mondays. Free admission (not including Clayton House tours). Call 412-371-0600 or visit www.thefrickpittsburgh.org. PITTSBURGH ANTIQUES SHOW & SALE — (February 21-22) The 40th annual show brings together some of the finest antique dealers from the Mid-Atlantic region. A diverse array of merchandise includes pottery, fine art, primitives, glass, china, silver, carpets, vintage and antique toys, and jewelry. This year’s special exhibit is “Women on Glass Made in the United States.” Demonstrations will be available to help restore or repair your treasured antiques. For information, visit hgcp.org. Location: Crown Plaza Hotel, across from South Hills Village, Pittsburgh.

NUNSENSE — (February 25 – March 1) Sister Julia, Child of God, has inadvertently poisoned much of the convent with her cooking and the five remaining Little Sisters of Hoboken decide to put on a show to raise the funds to bury the other fifty-two. For information and tickets, call (800) 672-7171 or visit clarion. edu. Location: Clarion University’s Marwick-Boyd Little Theatre, 840 Wood Street, Clarion. PARTY IN PARADISE — (February 27) Beat the winter blues and support the National Aviary at this 21+ fundraiser. Sip island-style cocktails, dance the winter blues away, play in the sand, or see how low you can go in the limbo contest. The time is from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at the National Aviary, 700 Arch St., Pittsburgh. Phone: (412) 323-7235 or visit www.aviary.org. ORCHID AND TROPICAL BONSAI SHOW — (through March 1) Escape the winter cold at the Orchid and Tropical Bonsai Show, featuring exhibits of elegant orchids planted in garden beds and hanging baskets. You will also get a rare chance to see Phipps’ entire permanent collection of tropical bonsai all at once. Location: Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, One Schenley Park, Pittsburgh.Visit phipps.conservatory.org.

FEBRUARY 2015

Costa Rica

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world-renowned coffee farms on the fertile slopes of Poas Volcano; at Doka Coffee Estate, learn of the history and cultivation of this lifeblood of the tico economy. Sip samples before heading to Tamarindo Beach in Guanacaste, a Pacific-side region known for breathtaking scenery and fine beaches. Rest & relax here amid tropical greenery for 2 nights. Set sail on an included catamaran sunset cruise along Guanacaste’s coastline, glimpsing dolphins, turtles, flying fish, maybe even a whale. Stop at a charming bay for snorkeling, kayaking, swimming, sunbathing or beachcombing. Ascend into the Monteverde Cloud Forest, with trees as high as 100 feet and the largest number (500) of orchids in the world. It’s also a stop for 91 species of migratory birds; keep your eyes peeled for the elusive jewel-toned quetzal, which resides here seasonally. Resident mammals include marsupials, bats, primates, wild cats, wild pigs and others. Next, venture into one of the world’s largest butterfly gardens at Selvatura Park, a reserve in the heart of Monteverde. A nearby gallery hosts more than 100 beautiful hummingbirds. Enjoy a guided walking tour on “hanging bridges” among the cloud forest treetops to learn more about this fascinating ecosystem. If you crave a little more excitement, for just $75 you may opt to experience the unique sensation of flying through

nature on a nearly 3-hour Rainforest Canopy Zip Line Tour Adventure (one of the longest in Costa Rica...and the only zip line inside the actual virgin cloud forest of Monteverde). You’ll be outfitted with equipment, then safely guided to 19 platforms along 12 cables ranging from 120 to more than 2,000 feet in length and 60 to 400 feet in height. Feel pure adrenaline and the exhilaration of gliding up to 35 mph, viewing magnificent landscapes. Later, visit a tree nursery to learn about indigenous-tree reforestation efforts. Travel through stunning mountain country to Tierras Morenas to visit a local school, where you’ll meet students and learn about the educational system and life-style of a small farming community. At Arenal, cruise on a lake of the same name (Costa Rica’s largest) by a volcano of the same name. Spend 2 nights at a lodge in sight of the volcano, which has spewn lava for 30 years. You’ll even enjoy a cooking demonstration and learn how native exotic vegetables and other plants contribute to the unique tico cuisine. Of all Costa Rica’s nature preserves (which cover 25% of it), remote Cano Negro boasts the largest viewable selection of indigenous wildlife. Embark on a covered-canoe river excursion, stopping to watch and photograph crocodiles, otters, sloths, turtles, birds and butterflies. The area around Arenal Volcano is also a land of spas and hot springs; experience supreme pampering during an included 2-hour ses-

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sion at Arenal Springs Hotel’s spa. Travel to charming Zarcero for its whimsical topiary garden. At picturesque Grecia, see an unusual church made of brick-red metal panes, walk a beautifully landscaped park or shop at a traditional market. Visit San Jose’s colorful Plaza de Cultura and magnificent National Theater. Cap it all off New research by the Global Tourism Monitor Survey asked 23,000 vacationers in 26 countries to name the destination they’d most recommend to others based on their experiences in places they’d visited in the previous year. Costa Rica came out on top, followed by Austria, Israel, New Zealand and Italy.

with a farewell dinner with your fellow travelers and newfound amigos. This tour’s a unique way to reconnect with nature. And, once you’re back home, whenever you’re in need of a mood boost, just remember Costa Rica — naturally. ¡Pura Vida, amigo! Log on to AAA.com/GoCostaRica, visit a AAA Travel location or call 1-800-354-8761.

ARENAL VOLCANO

Tropical Costa Rica • Oct 12-20 • AAA Member Rate: $2,754

Before-discount rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip flights (Pittsburgh–San Jose), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, hotel accommodations, 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 airline fee may apply; contact your travel agent for details.

After-tour Optional Extension: 3-night Jungle Adventure Oct 20-23 • AAA Member Rate: $449

Continue to Tortuguero, the “Amazon of Costa Rica.” Explore the region’s wildlife by boat, viewing macaws, sloths, monkeys, falcons and other native species. Enjoy a memorable 2-night stay at an ecolodge surrounded by tropical forest and amazing wildlife. Visit the world’s first Green Turtle Research Station and discover how to protect the turtles’ nesting habitat and eggs. Enjoy a bird watching excursion and learn about local and migratory birds that flock to this area. Experience a spectacular canal cruise, keeping an eye out for howler monkeys, sloths, toucans, aquatic birds, bats and caimans, as well as exotic flora. Tortuguero National Park is a study in rainforest, freshwater and marine biology; it protects more than 350 species of animals, including green macaws, 57 species of amphibians, 111 species of reptiles and 60 mammal species, including endangered jaguars, tapirs, ocelots, cougars, river otters and manatees. Return to San Jose for your last night in Costa Rica. 8 meals.

Co-piloting with advanced driver assistance technology AAA advises drivers to know the limits of these systems

oday’s vehicles can detect and communicate important safety information to the driver and in some cases, assume temporary control of the steering and braking functions to prevent a crash. Advanced driver assistance technologies have to the potential to keep occupants safer, as long as drivers are aware of their limitations. Motorists must learn how these systems operate and how best to manage them for maximum safety and convenience. Recent testing by the Automobile Club of Southern California’s Automotive Research Center, found that blind-spot monitoring and lanedeparture warning systems performed effectively in multiple situations, but there were some situations where the systems failed to perform as expected: • Blind-spot monitoring systems had difficulty detecting fast-moving vehicles – such as when merging onto a busy highway. Alerts were often provided too late for evasive action. • Motorcycles were detected by blindspot monitoring systems 26 percent later than passenger vehicles. • Road conditions were often a problem for lane-departure warning systems. Worn pavement markers, construction zones and intersections can cause the lane-departure warning system to lose track of lane location.

CHANGING LANES — Motorists must learn to manage advanced driver assistance devices for maximum safety. •

The litany of alerts and warnings could be confusing. Auditory, visual or haptic responses — or a combination — could be similar to other advanced driver assistance features that delivered the same warnings. Pros and cons aside, motorists will encounter advanced driver assistance technology more often as automakers introduce these devices across their vehicle lines. Being aware of these

systems and understanding how they operate is a necessary step before driving the vehicle. Tests show that drivers can effectively interact with these systems by: • Gaining experience with the technology. Both systems are effective, convenient solutions to help reduce driver workload. There are limitations, and systems vary greatly. Motorists should consult the vehicle’s owner’s

manual to determine how the systems work before driving the vehicle. • Leverage system input for enhanced safety. Blind-spot monitoring systems detected approaching vehicles as far away as 200 feet. In most cases, the systems also properly detected parked vehicles. These enhanced views of the roadway are an asset for drivers. • Staying engaged. AAA found instances when the blind-spot monitoring system did not provide appropriate warnings or delivered the alarm when the approaching vehicle was only a few feet away. Drivers relying on these systems may not have had time to maneuver to safety. “With nearly three-quarters of new vehicles offering blind-spot detection and 50 percent offering lane-departure warning as options, it’s key that consumers are educated on how to get the best benefit from these systems,” says John Nielsen, AAA’s managing director of Automotive Engineering. “AAA’s tests found that these systems are a great asset to drivers, but there is a learning curve.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION

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

Auto Buying Program PAGE 24

AAA MOTORIST

FEBRUARY 2015

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You could save thousands this President’s Day weekend with the AAA Auto Buying Program: • • •

Upfront dealer pricing information and Guaranteed Savings* on new cars Save hundreds of dollars off the list price with used car discounts on most inventory** Certified Dealers provide a hassle-free car buying experience

See your savings at AAA.com/AutoBuying or call 800-446-7433

*Guaranteed Savings and upfront dealer pricing information not available in all states. In these states, a Target Price is shown, which is a market-based example of what you can reasonably expect to pay for your vehicle as configured. Your configured vehicle may not be available or in-stock at the Certified Dealer. **Used car discounts not available in all states