Susquehanna

SEE PAGE 3

SUSQUEHANNA VALLEY REGION

Get on board now & save up to $400* per room!

ALL ABOARD

Book & deposit no later than 3 / 31

with AAA Travel & Amtrak Vacations ®

COURTESY OF TIM LYFORD

Aug 23–Sept 2

© TYCOON101/FOTOLIA.COM

Vol. 52 No. 2

RAIL JOURNEY FROM CHICAGO TO SEATTLE!

Train adventure peaks with 4 tours of Montana’s Glacier National Park

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XPERIENCING America’s splendor by rail is a must-do milestone on the “bucket lists” of many travelers. To explore beyond the interstates...to escape driving’s drudgery & distractions...to enhance a vacation with the romance and relaxed ambiance of a “rolling hotel” full of opportunities to meet & mingle with interesting folks.

These are all hallmarks of an unforgettable train vacation.

AAA and Amtrak Vacations® invite you to follow portions of the Lewis & Clark Trail on Amtrak’s Empire Builder from the “Windy City” (Chicago) to the “Emerald City” (Seattle), with a 4-night exploration of the “Crown of the Continent” (Glacier National Park) in between. *And, if you accept this invitation to book & deposit on this adventure by 3/31/13 and you’re a Premier Member,

you’ll save $400 per room! AAA Plus Members save $350, and Basic Members save $325!

The fun begins with an exclusive reception at Chicago’s iconic Palmer House, a worldclass hotel within steps of the city’s best attractions. Sleep where every President since Grant has slept! Enjoy a city tour and the can’t-miss Architecture Cruise on the Chicago River.

VACATION FEATURES 2 nights in Chicago, including a wine & cheese reception, a city tour & an architecture cruise 2 nights on Amtrak’s Empire Builder in a sleeper roomette 4 nights, 4 tours & 1 cruise in Glacier National Park A cross-border visit to Canada’s Waterton Lakes National Park 2 nights in Seattle, including a city tour & the Space Needle 16 meals with gratuities (5 on train without gratuities) Amtrak Vacations® Tour Escort

Start your rail journey with magnificent views of the Mississippi River and glimpses of the glowing night skyline of Minneapolis/St Paul. Awaken the next morning from a restful night in your private sleeping accommodations to cross North Dakota’s plains and traverse the spectacular Gassman Coulee Trestle. Enjoy breakfast and lunch onboard as you skirt the Missouri and cross into Montana’s Big Sky Country to Glacier National Park.

This vast ice-carved terrain of serrated ridges, jutting peaks (6 more than 10,000 feet high), waterfalls, dramatic 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 William Howard Taft, the continued on page 6

SEE ONE OF AMERICA’S GREATEST NATURAL LANDMARKS!

MARCH/APRIL 2013

Prepare to be Wowed

by AAA Club Rewards on AAA.com

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

DISTRACTED DRIVING’S DEADLY DOUBLE STANDARD

AAA Club Rewards is an exciting new online discount program that significantly expands discounts and savings available to AAA members! This innovative new shopping experience on AAA.com, features deep discounts, limited offers and everyday savings on electronics, home improvement, apparel, entertainment, pet care and more, from approximately 30,000 participating merchants nationwide — including national chains like Kohl’s, Macy’s, Best Buy, Walmart and The Home Depot.

In addition to discount offers, you’ll earn reward or WOWPoints on most purchases that you can “burn off” at your favorite participating merchants. Starting with just 200 points, AAA members can redeem their WOWPoints for merchandise on AAA Club Rewards.

• WOWPoints are as flexible as cash; • 100 WOWPoints earned = $1.00; • No limit to the points you can earn; • No blackout dates, no restrictions.

Registration is completely free — a valid AAA membership and email address are all you need. Why wait any longer? Register online at AAA.com/discounts. Then shop, save and earn on national and local brands, restaurants and retailers.

Live Nation Concert Cash From Hertz Hertz is rocking AAA members with an exciting exclusive offer this spring! For a limited time only, AAA members can save $35 on qualified weekly rentals AND receive $50 Live Nation® Concert Cash® to use online toward the purchase of select concert tickets to over 70 Live Nation venues or artist merchandise at the Live Nation Store.

Just book and complete your rental between March 1, 2013 and April 30, 2013 to qualify for this offer. Promotional Code (PC #) 178474. Visit AAA.com/hertz for complete details of this exciting offer.

Get more

when you use your new AAA Member Rewards Visa® card.

See page 6 for details.

Visit AAA.com/creditcard or stop by any AAA branch.

It’s Full Steam Ahead with Free Tablet Offer Go rolling on the river onboard the American Queen. The world’s largest steamboat is a showcase of Victorian splendor, with handsomely appointed rooms and six delicately filigreed decks. The whistle blows, the calliope plays, the big wheel keeps on turning in a thrilling blend of Americana, acclaimed cuisine, and showboatstyle entertainment. Plus, AAA members who book and deposit a 7-night or longer American Queen River Cruise by March 15, 2013 will receive a free Google Nexus 7 Tablet. With a stunning 7-inch display and all day battery life, Nexus 7 is the perfect travel companion. AAA members will also receive an exclusive $160 onboard credit per cabin on all 2013 American Queen sailings! SEE PAGE 7

PAGE 2

AAA MOTORIST

AAA cautions motorists about the risks of E15 Available only in a handful of locations — for now

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recent survey by AAA finds a strong likelihood of consumer confusion and the potential for voided warranties and vehicle damage as a result of the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) recent approval of E15 gasoline.

More than 95 percent of the gasoline sold in the United States contains up to 10 percent ethanol. Despite objections by auto manufacturers, the EPA officially approved the sale of E15, which contains 15 percent ethanol, last June after receiving a waiver request from producers interested in expanding the use of corn-based ethanol.

Currently, E15 is available only in the states of Nebraska, Iowa and Kansas.

If and when it does become more widely available, fuel pumps will be clearly marked with black and orange labels to differentiate E15 from more familiar formulations.

Unsuspecting consumers using E15 could end up with engine problems that might not be covered by their vehicle’s warranty. Five manufacturers (BMW, Chrysler, Nissan, Toyota and Volkswagen) are on record saying their warranties will not cover fuel-related claims caused by the use of E15. Seven additional automakers (Ford, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz and Volvo) have said that E15 does not comply with the fuel requirements specified in their owner’s manuals and may void warranty coverage.

AAA DIRECTORY Internet Web Site: www.AAA.com AAA Member Services/Address Change TripTiks, TourBooks, Maps, License & Title, Address Change 507-286-4507 Approved Auto Repair 1-888-627-9227 Emergency Road Service 1-800-222-4357 Express Travel Reservations Airline Tickets, Tours, Cruises, Rental Cars 507-286-4507 Insurance Services: 877-222-3974 Media Relations: 412-365-7157 Public Affairs: 412-365-7242 AAA Motorist: 412-365-7017 Safety: 412-365-7211

AAA BRANCH OFFICE LOCATIONS “It is clear that millions of Americans are unfamiliar with E15, which means there is a strong possibility that many motorists may improperly fill up using this gasoline and damage their vehicle,” said John Nielsen, AAA’s Director of Automotive Engineering and Repair.

With less than five percent of cars on the road approved by automakers to use the fuel, AAA is urging regulators and the industry to stop the sale of E15 until motorists are better protected. AAA automotive engineering experts believe that sustained use of E15 could result in significant problems, such as accelerated engine wear and failure, fuel-system damage and false “check engine” lights for any

Enjoy additional on-the-road confidence by extending your AAA benefits with...

vehicle not approved by its manufacturer to use E15.

The only vehicles currently approved by automakers to use E15 are flex-fuel models, 2001 model-year and newer Porsches, 2012 model-year and newer GM vehicles and 2013 model-year Ford vehicles. The use of E15 is expressly prohibited in heavy-duty vehicles, boats, motorcycles, power equipment, lawn mowers and off-road vehicles.

“The sale and use of E15 should be suspended until consumer education efforts are implemented to mitigate problems for motorists and their vehicles,” said Brian Newbacher, director of public affairs for AAA East Central.

“Consumers should read pump labels carefully and know their auto manufacturer’s recommendations to help prevent any E15 related problems.”

AAA urges fuel producers and regulators to do a better job of educating consumers about potential dangers before selling E15 gasoline. This outreach should include a consumer education campaign and more effective pump labels, among other safeguards.

LOOK FOR THE LABEL — E15 fuel pumps will be marked with this label.

STUDY CONFIRMS PROBLEMS

AAA Plus RV includes all of the benefits of basic AAA and AAA Plus®, and extends emergency road service coverage to other vehicles (beyond a car) such as Motorhomes,Travel/ Boat Trailers, Pickups with Campers and Motorcycles. ®

DEC 31 2011

MARCH 2013

Visit your local AAA office or call our 24-hour TeleService Center to add AAA Plus/RV coverage.

New research released by the Coordinating Research Council (CRC) last January, found that E15, gasoline blended with 15 percent ethanol, would damage millions of post-2001 model year vehicles. The CRC — which is supported by Chrysler, Ford, General Motors, Honda, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Toyota, and Volkswagen —said testing showed E15 could cause erratic fuel-gauge readings and concluded that E15 would result in fuel system failures and cause checkengine alerts.

Altoona 1634 Valley View Blvd. ............................. 814-946-1277 Brookville 288 Main St. ................................................. 814-849-5381 Butler 138 Clearview Circle .................................... 724-287-2713 Cranberry The Village Shoppes, 20510 Rt. 19 .......... 724-772-1122 Erie 6660 Peach St. Unit #2 .............................. 814-866-0246 Franklin 102 Sugar Creek Town Center Rd. ........... 814-432-3960 Greensburg Eastgate Shopping Center 5142 Route 30, Suite 135 ......................... 724-834-8300 Grove City 24 Pine Grove Village Dr. .......................... 724-458-8930 Harborcreek 4430 Buffalo Rd. ........................................ 814-897-9508 Hermitage 1749 E. State St.......................................... 724-981-9141 Indiana 1169 Wayne Ave........................................ 724-349-4193 Jamestown (New York) 111 W. Fifth St., Jamestown, N.Y.. ........... 716-488-1981 Kittanning Franklin Village Mall. ............................... 724-543-1924 Lewisburg 530 1/2 North Derr Drive . ....................... 570-524-7455 Lower Burrell/New Kensington Area Crossroads Plaza 2503 Leechburg Rd.................................... 724-339-4440 McKean County (Bradford) 587 South Ave. .......................................... 814-368-3113 Meadville 18939 Park Avenue Plaza Unit #7 ............ 814-724-2247 New Castle 40 East St.................................................... 724-658-8551 Niagara-Orleans 7135 Rochester Rd, Lockport, NY. ............ 716-434-2865 Pittsburgh–Century III Area (Pleasant Hills) 9 Clairton Blvd. (RT 51). ........................... 412-655-6100 Pittsburgh–Downtown 538 Smithfield St. ...................................... 412-338-4300 Pittsburgh–East Liberty/Shadyside 5900 Baum Blvd. ........................................ 412-365-7196 Pittsburgh–Monroeville 2725 Mosside Blvd. .................................... 412-858-4640 Pittsburgh–North Hills Area (Ross Township) 4790 McKnight Rd. .................................... 412-367-7600 Pittsburgh–Robinson Township Robinson Town Centre 1760 Park Manor Blvd. ............................. 412-809-2800 Pittsburgh–South Hills Area (Bethel Park) 160 Ft. Couch Rd. ...................................... 412-833-5203 Rochester 300 Adams St. ............................................ 724-775-8000 St. Marys 1375 Bucktail Rd. ...................................... 814-834-7838 Somerset 110 N. Center Ave. .................................... 814-443-6526 Sunbury 1001 Market Street. .................................. 570-286-4507 Uniontown 111 W. Main St. ......................................... 724-438-8575 Warren 2285 Market St. ......................................... 814-723-6660 Washington 196 Murtland Ave. .................................... 724-222-3800 Waynesburg 184 Greene Plaza, US 21 & I-79 ................ 724-627-3434 White Oak/McKeesport Area Oak Park Mall, 2001 Lincoln Way ............ 412-675-3400

MARCH 2013

AAA MOTORIST

PAGE 3

When it comes to bad driving, it’s always the other guy

It’s do as I say, not as I do on America’s roads Susquehanna Valley Region Official publication of AAA East Central Published bimonthly by AAA East Central 1001 Market Street, Sunbury, PA 17801-2403 USPS 530-080 ISSN 0890-7455

Periodicals Postage Paid at Sunbury, PA and at additional entry offices Postmaster: Send address changes to AAA Motorist Susquehanna Valley Region P.O. Box 788 1001 Market Street Sunbury, PA 17801-2403 Subscription Rate: $1 included in Primary Membership dues. All others: $2/year.

Publisher.....................................James J. McGrath Managing Editor.............................. Douglas ONeil Business Manager ..................... Sherry A. Madison Editorial Office 1001 Market Street, Sunbury, PA 17801-2403 570.286.4507 e-mail: motorist@aaaec.com

AAA EAST CENTRAL Chairman: ................................................Richard S. Hamilton Vice Chairman:....................................... James E. Broome, Jr. Vice Chairman:....................................... Douglas W. Caldwell Vice Chairman:.........................................Mary Lynn Laughlin Vice Chairman:.................................... Martha Hartle Munsch OFFICERS: President: ................................................... James J. McGrath Executive Vice President: ............................ James E. Lehman Treasurer & CFO: ............................................Michael R. Pratt Secretary: ................................................ Robert H. Compton GOVERNING BOARD OF DIRECTORS Glenn B. Bachman, James E. Broome, Jr., Steve D. Bullock**, Douglas W. Caldwell, Charles O. Casto, Edward C. Coaxum, Jr., Robert S. Collins, Robert H. Compton, Jon E. Denney, Debra A. Dinnocenzo, Floyd R. Ganassi**, Richard S. Hamilton, James H. Kanicki, Mary Lynn Laughlin, William Duff McCrady, James M. McDonnell**, Thomas V. McKernan Jr., Martha Hartle Munsch, Gary K. Munsie, Terrence L. Walton** EAST CENTRAL REGION BOARD OF DIRECTORS Debra A. Dinnocenzo, Chairman, Neil D. Bassi, Vice Chairman, Robert L. Anderson, George J. Anetakis, Carol Asam, Christian Asam, Jack A. Barkley, William E. Bierer**, Ellsworth T. Bowser, Louise R. Brown, Peter Burton, Marianne B. Campbell, Charles O. Casto, Hans P.B. Christensen, Michael A. Cochran, Daniel J. Collins Jr.**, Robert S. Collins, Robert H. Compton, Terence Conner, James J. Dodaro, James O. Doersam, Jack G. Ellis, J. Terrence Farrell, Floyd R. Ganassi**, Mona N. Generett, Charles W. Groce , Richard S. Hamilton, Mark Henschen, Luke Howe, David W. Hunter**, Richard Kallenborn, Herbert G. Koenig, Mark S. Mansour, W. Duff McCrady, Martha Hartle Munsch, W. Lee Oswalt, III, Michael Parkes, John D. Petruso, Louis Pomerico, Leonard L. Scheinholtz**, John L. Sellstrom, James C. Stump, Jr., James F. Ward *ex officio **emeritus directors Regional President ......................................Gregory S. Shaffer Copyright ©2013 by AAA East Central. Publication of an advertisement in the AAA Motorist does not constitute an endorsement of the product or service by the AAA Motorist or by AAA East Central, except in the case of products and services which are being offered by AAA East Central.

Sunbury

1001 Market Street 570.286.4507 Lewisburg 530 1/2 North Derr Drive 570.524.7455

By Richard Hamilton Chairman, AAA East Central eople are quick to blame “the other guy” for unsafe driving, despite the fact that most admit to practicing many of the same dangerous driving habits themselves. That’s the surprising conclusion of a new report by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety.

The study found that while motorists are outspoken in their criticism of the risks other drivers take, they tend to minimize or overlook their own bad driving behaviors. More than twothirds (69 percent) of licensed drivers reported talking on a cell phone while driving within the last month, even though nearly nine-in-ten respondents (89 percent) believe other drivers using cell phones are a threat to their personal safety.

The distraction data was collected as part of the AAA Foundation’s 2012 Traffic Safety Culture Index, a nationally representative, probability-based survey of the driving public’s attitudes on a broad range of issues.

According to a survey, ninety percent of respondents believe that distracted driving is a somewhat or much bigger problem today than it was three years ago. Despite the near-universal disapproval of texting and emailing while driving (95 percent), more than onein-four licensed drivers (27 percent) reported sending a text or email at least once in the past 30 days. More than

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Richard Hamilton one-third (35 percent) said they read a text or email while driving.

Young drivers age 16-24 were even more likely to use mobile devices with more than half (61 percent) reporting having read a text or email while driving in the past month. More than onein-four (26 percent) reported checking or updating social media while driving, regardless of the fact that texting while driving makes you 23 times more likely to crash.

Distracted driving may simply be one manifestation of risk-prone driving in general. Researchers at MIT found that motorists who use cell phones while driving are also more likely to

engage in additional dangerous behaviors such as speeding, driving drowsy, driving without a safety belt and sending texts or emails.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that more than 3,000 people are killed and nearly half a million are injured each year in crashes involving distraction.

Given the challenges associated with determining the role of distraction in crashes, these figures are likely just the tip of the iceberg.

AAA and the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety have long been leading advocates for educating motorists about the risks of distracted driving. AAA recommends that motorists turn off their phone before driving or pull over to a safe place to talk, send texts or use email. Motorists must also know the rules and know they will be enforced.

Distracted driving crashes are preventable tragedies and using a mobile phone behind the wheel roughly quadruples crash risk. They impair reaction times and in a critical situation, fractions of a second often determine whether a collision occurs. Experts conclude that about 60 percent of rear end and one third of front end collisions would not happen if a driver reacted just one half a second sooner.

Let’s put an end to this deadly double standard. Instead of blaming the other guy, the real key is for every motorist to put down the phone, avoid distractions and focus on the task of driving.

membersonly

AAA helps you save when fuel prices climb Gas prices rising at near record rates

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he U.S. Department of Energy reports that the average household spent nearly $3,000 refueling their vehicles last year, and in 2013, gas prices have been rising at a near record clip.

Fortunately, AAA offers several ways for drivers to stretch each tank of gas and find the lowest fuel prices when it is time to fill up.

Your driving habits impact your car’s fuel consumption by up to 33 percent. Instead of quick starts and sudden stops, go easy on the gas and brake pedals. Planning your travel, following speed limits, and paying attention to traffic, weather and road conditions will allow your vehicle to operate more efficiently, and ultimately, save you money.

Check AAA’s Fuel Cost Calculator before you go — Key in your starting city, your destination and the year, make and model of your vehicle. The AAA Fuel Cost Calculator on AAA. com estimates the amount and cost of gasoline using prices from AAA’s daily, online Fuel Gauge Report. Your actual mileage may vary slightly, but you’ll

have a good handle on the costs.

Let AAA find the lowest gas prices — AAA Mobile, our free app for Apple and Android devices, provides motorists with the most current and accurate gas price data available, by drawing on credit card transactions at more than 100,000 stations nationwide. Drivers can find the lowest gas prices, close to home or on the road. AAA Mobile’s GPS technology enables users to quickly locate stations on a map and see the price for all available grades of gasoline. Visit AAA.com/Mobile.

Stretch your gas money — Members who pay for gasoline with their AAA Member Rewards Visa® credit card earn double points on gas purchases. In addition to No Annual Fee, cardholders can earn triple points on qualifying AAA purchases, double points on gas, grocery and drug store purchases and one point for every $1 on all other qualifying purchases. Redeem your points for a variety of rewards, including a AAA travel voucher good toward your next vacation, cruise or tour package. Members can apply for the AAA Member Rewards Visa® credit

card at AAA.com/credit card or by calling 1.866.665.3581 and mentioning code VABFFQ.

AAA benefits updated

AAA is constantly reviewing and evaluating membership benefits and services to ensure they provide maximum usage to our members. Over time, certain benefits or services may be updated as part of our overall effort to maintain the lowest possible dues and the highest level of services.

Benefit changes scheduled for 2013 are as follows: Effective March 1st, 2013, Vehicle Locksmith services available to Basic members will increase to $60, from $50. Vehicle Locksmith services available to Premier members will increase to $150, from $100. (Premier Home Lockout service remains unchanged at $100.)

Additionally, the following member benefits will be eliminated effective December 31st, 2013: Emergency Check Cashing, Auto Theft Reward, Legal Defense Fee Reimbursement, and Trip Interruption Protection (for Basic and Plus membership levels only.)

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AAA MOTORIST

MARCH 2013

MARCH 2013

AAA MOTORIST

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AAA MOTORIST

Glacier National Park Train Adventure 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 (grizzly & black) are seen.

You’ll tour in a 1930s red “jammer” with a canvas roll-top; rebuilt in 2001, the 33-bus fleet plies the park’s primary route, the peak-hugging 49-mile-long Going-to-the-Sun Road. This National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark is open from early June to mid-October; in winter, up to 80 feet of snow cover it at the Continental Divide at Logan Pass!

You’ll cross the border into Canada to visit Alberta’s Waterton Lakes National Park, site of the Canadian Rockies’ deepest lakes and the historic Prince of Wales Hotel National Historic Site. The park is part of the Waterton-Glacier Interna-

MARCH 2013

continued from page 1

tional Peace Park, a World Heritage Site.

Enjoy 2 nights at impressive, rusticstyle Glacier Park Lodge, built in the early 20th century by the Great Northern Railway on land purchased from the Blackfeet tribe, who named it “Big Tree Lodge”; its 60 immense (36-42 " diameter, 40 ' long) support timbers were probably 500-800 years old when they were cut. The lobby’s massive stone fireplace invites fireside chats, and there’s an outdoor heated pool, a 9-hole golf course, a pitch-n-putt and a day spa on site.

Your other in-park home for 2 nights is the Swiss Alpine–themed Many Glacier Hotel on the shores of Swiftcurrent Lake. Its wraparound lakeside balcony offers 180-degree views of the lake, rugged hillsides, 3 glaciers and serrated peaks. A secluded Old World–style ho-

tel featuring rustic and comfortable accommodations, it’s a one-of-a-kind national park lodging experience. Take in the prolonged evening sunset from the lakeside veranda or Interlaken Lounge.

After experiencing the park, it’s time to reboard Empire Builder and re-enter civilization in Seattle, where the sophisticated Fairmont Olympic awaits you.

This historic hotel provides modern conveniences and attentive personal service in an elegant surrounding. In the heart of the Financial District, with easy access to shopping and local attractions, it’s a perfect base from which to tour the Emerald City’s gems, including lively Pike Place Market (witness some world-renowned “fish tossing”). As a thrilling way to top off this vacation of peaks, ascend the iconic 605-foot-tall Space Needle from the 1962 World’s Fair for breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, bays and islands. All too soon it’s time to fly home from Seattle!

DAVID RESTIVO, NPS

Aug 23–Sept 2 • AAA Member Rate: $5,149

DINNER WITH ROLL — Eating on the go takes on new meaning aboard Amtrak’s Empire Builder from Chicago to Seattle. Savor the ever changing view with your breakfasts, lunches and dinners in the “tasteful” onboard dining car!

Pre-discount rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes flights (Harrisburg-Chicago, SeattleHarrisburg), roundtrip transfers (airport/hotel, hotel/ train), train (Chicago-Seattle), 8-night hotel accommodations, 2-night roomette accommodations on train, 16 meals (5 on train), meal gratuities (except on train), Chicago welcome reception, 4 tours & 1 cruise in Glacier National Park, sightseeing per itinerary, air & hotel taxes and the services of an Amtrak Vacations® tour escort (Chicago-Seattle).

Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details.

FORDS & FAUNA — Glacier National Park’s knowledgeable and entertaining red-bus driver-guides are called “jammers” because of the sounds the original vehicles’ gears made shifting on steep roads. Today, the refurbished roll-top roadsters are a fun way to see the park’s flora and fauna, like pikas and bighorn sheep.

Get more

when you use your new AAA Member Rewards Visa® card.

Receive a $100 grocery store gift card after qualifying purchases. (students not eligible)

Stock up on rewards with your new AAA Member Rewards Visa credit card. You can earn bunches of points on everyday purchases all year round that can be redeemed for exciting rewards like cash back, gift cards, merchandise and AAA vouchers.

Visit AAA.com/creditcard or stop by any AAA branch.

For information on the rates, fees, other costs and benefits associated with the use of this credit card, visit the website listed above or your AAA branch. This credit card program is issued and administered by FIA Card Services, N.A. Grocery Card Offer. You will qualify to receive a certificate with information and PIN number via mail entitling you to a $100 grocery card redeemable at www.pickyourgiftcard.com for the grocery merchant of your choice after you use your new AAA Member Rewards account to make retail purchase(s) totaling at least $500 (exclusive of any returns and adjustments) within 90 days of account opening. Limit one (1) item per new account. Offer is sponsored by Bank of America. We may substitute an item of equal or greater value and we are not responsible for lost, stolen or undelivered merchandise. This is a limited time offer for new customers opening an account in response to this offer and may be cancelled at any time without notice. Other advertised promotional offers can vary from this promotion and may not be substituted. Federal law prohibits students from receiving a premium. The value of this reward may constitute taxable income to you. Bank of America may issue an Internal Revenue Service Form 1099 (or other appropriate form) that reflects the value of such reward. Please consult your tax advisor, as neither Bank of America, its affiliates, nor their employees provide tax advice. The listed merchants are in no way affiliated with Bank of America nor are the listed merchants considered sponsors or co-sponsors of this program. Uses of merchant names and/or logos are by permission of each respective merchant and all trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Terms and conditions are applied to gift cards/certificates. Please see the merchant gift card/certificate for additional terms and conditions, which are subject to change at merchant’s sole discretion. Merchants are not liable for any actual or alleged claims related to this offer. All logos are registered trademarks. All rights reserved. Must be 18 years or older to participate. A U.S. address is required for delivery. Other restrictions may apply. Visa and Visa Signature are registered trademarks of Visa International Service Association and are used by the Issuer pursuant to license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. AAA is a trademark of American Automobile Association, Inc. ©2012 Bank of America Corporation

AR196174

MARCH/APRIL 2013

AAA MOTORIST

PAGE 7

Member Benefits • Exclusive Offers

570-286-4507 • AAA.com/travel

Get a Google Nexus 7 tablet computer when you book & make a deposit on a 7-night-or-longer American Queen river cruise by 3/15/13!

T

AAA MEMBER EXCLUSIVE! $160 Onboard Credit per cabin in 2013

he largest steamboat ever built, the American Queen is a gracious and elegant triumph of American ingenuity. Although filled with the newest amenities (including free wi-fi!), her public rooms and private accommodations display the opulence of America’s Victorian era. Glistening woodwork, fresh flowers and antiques adorn interior spaces. Outside, lacy filigree evokes memories of the stately steamers that preceded her and inspired her designers. Be transported not just through America but also through time.

And, through 3/31/13, get a Google Nexus 7 tablet computer when you book & make a deposit on a 2013 American Queen cruise of 7 nights or longer at AAA through its travel partner Pleasant Holidays. With a 7-inch display and all-day battery life, the thin & light Nexus 7 is the perfect portable travel companion. With up to 32GB of storage and the option to add mobile data, take and enjoy your favorite content with you...even on American Queen!

Imagine sailing on the same waters as Mark Twain. Watch the mighty river “erase” the paddlewheel’s unique “footprints” on its surface; soon, it’s the same broad river behind you as it is in front of you. The short-lived wake is simply a ripple in time — but, for the brief moment you’re there, you’re part of something much larger than yourself.

The paddlewheel has its own rhythm, but so does the music of the river as you float through the myriad melodies of blues, gospel, folk, rockabilly, ragtime, Dixieland jazz and zydeco. Sway to the music of Louis Armstrong and Jelly Roll Morton and try your hand at that quintessential river instrument, the calliope. You’ll quickly discover that the river has a rhythm all its own.

The rich history of steamboats and the river is reflected in the authenticity of the Queen’s antebellum décor, the family recipes of Southern Chef Regina Charboneau and the familiar smiles of an all-American crew. The Queen is warm, inviting and comforting. She won’t just take you away; she’ll bring you closer together. Enjoy a vacation where community is formed during each voyage...where the rhythm of the past melds seamlessly with the rhythm of today in places like the rocking chairs on the Queen’s Front Porch of America and the mahogany comfort of her Mark Twain Gallery.

The past echoes in the calliope music that drifts across the water and in your fellow passengers’ contented smiles.

Discover what American Queen steamboatin’ is all about! Contact a AAA Travel Agent now.

SAILINGS INCLUDE...

1-night pre-cruise hotel accommodations Complimentary shore excursions in every port All onboard meals, including wine & beer with dinner, specialty coffees, soft drinks & bottled water Nightly showboat-style entertainment & dancing Daily lectures by river historians Port charges & taxes

SAMPLE ITINERARY DATES*

SHIP NIGHTS / HOTEL NIGHTS

EMBARK / DISEMBARK

June 1-9 ............... 7 / 1....... Memphis / New Orleans June 22–July 5..... 12 / 1 ...... New Orleans / St Louis July 19-27............. 7 / 1....... St Louis / Cincinnati Aug 9-22 ............. 12 / 1 ...... Pittsburgh / St Louis Aug 21-31 ............ 9 / 1....... St Louis / St Paul Sept 11-21 ........... 8 / 2 ....... Memphis / Chattanooga Oct 4-12 ............... 7 / 1....... St Paul / St Louis Oct 25–Nov 2 ....... 7 / 1 ....... St Louis / New Orleans Nov 16-24 ............ 7 / 1....... New Orleans / New Orleans Nov 29–Dec 7 ...... 7 / 1 ....... New Orleans / Memphis Dec 20-28............. 7 / 1....... New Orleans / Memphis Dec 27–Jan 4 ........ 7 / 1 ....... Memphis / New Orleans *Ask a AAA Travel Agent about other available itineraries.

To qualify for the Nexus 7 and $160 onboard credit, cruise must be arranged with AAA through travel partner Pleasant Holidays.

PAGE 8

AAA MOTORIST

570-286-4507 AAA.com/travel

MARCH/APRIL 2013

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers My friend, it’s time to let your fun side come out to play in the Caribbean, The Bahamas, Bermuda, Mexico, Hawaii, Alaska, Canada and New England, or Europe. Think good friends, family fun, explosive laughter, and ginormous smiles. Carnival means sweet destinations, award-winning service, delicious dining, onboard activities, nighttime entertainment and spacious accommodations-wrapped up in one imaginative floating resort.

It’s time to get your fun on!

Book NOW to Save More! 7 Day Sailings from:

MARCH/APRIL 2013

570-286-4507 AAA.com/travel

AAA MOTORIST

PAGE 9

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

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570-286-4507 AAA.com/travel

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

ROCKY MOUNTAINEER

The world-renowned, luxurious Rocky Mountaineer train travels by daylight through the wild beauty of Canada’s West.

The best way to experience the majestic Canadian Rockies, it offers more than 45 Canadian vacation packages and several unique rail routes — 3 train journeys through British Columbia & Alberta to Banff, Lake Louise, Jasper and Calgary; 1 train excursion from Vancouver to Whistler; and, NEW THIS YEAR, the Coastal Passage rail journey connecting Seattle WA and Vancouver BC to the Canadian Rockies.

Choose from many tours, including the 4-day Classic First Passage to the West (AAA Member Rate: from $1,185 per person).

me o c o d s am e r d n o i t Vaca

E V O E R E H W E M O S ASSPORT P R U O Y B A GR OVER AND CROSS LAND TO A GRAND NDERS! WO OF UNIQUE

STAY & PLAY CREDIT!

Book a qualifying rail journey (any vacation of 4 nights or more from the 2013 Rocky Mountaineer brochure) by 3/28/13 and take advantage of up to $800 per couple in added value! Use your Stay & Play added-value credit toward customizing your vacation with your choice of these options: • • • • • • •

Extra hotel nights in any Rocky Mountaineer destination Additional tours in the Canadian Rockies Sea to Sky Climb rail journey to Whistler BC Additional meals & meal plans Transfers Activities, including Jasper Tramway, Whistler Peak 2 Peak Gondola & more Rocky Mountaineer “Rail & Cruise” packages

RAILING

Offer valid on new 2013 bookings made in USA & Canada between 12/31/12 & 3/28/13. Offer is applicable to any Rocky Mountaineer holiday of 4 or more nights from the 2013 Rocky Mountaineer brochure. Deposits are required at time of booking. Maximum offer value of $400 per adult bonus credit ($800 bonus per couple) is with qualifying holidays of 7 nights or more in GoldLeaf Service. Bonus credit amount varies by package class of service and duration of holiday. Travel during 2013 Rocky Mountaineer summer season between April & October. Applicable to single or double package tour prices; triple room bookings receive a lower per person credit. Qualifying packages can be purchased in any class of train travel or grade of accommodation. Credit must be requested at time of booking and will not be automatically allocated or retrospectively added. Credited option must be selected at time of booking and can only be added to a Rocky Mountaineer package. Amendment fee of $50 CAD per booking will be charged for changes to the use of the credit after booking has been confirmed. US guests will be charged the equivalent amount in USD at time of amendment. Credits can only be used toward the purchase of additional services offered by Rocky Mountaineer; credit cannot be used to upgrade rail service or accommodation and cannot be used against price of core package. Add-on credit values are expressed in CAD and will be converted to USD at time of booking at the exchange rate used for the package booking. US guests must pay in USD. Credit cannot be deferred to a later trip. Offer is not applicable to child prices, 2-day rail only bookings or Group Tour bookings. Not available in conjunction with any other offer. Offer has no cash value and is nontransferable. Offer is capacity-controlled and may be modified, withdrawn or amended without prior notice. Additional conditions apply.

RAIL & CRUISE BONUS!

Book a qualifying package (below) before 3/31/13 and take advantage of up to $1,300 per couple in added value. Use your Rail & Cruise bonus toward customizing your vacation with your choice of these options: • • • • •

Extra hotel nights in any Rocky Mountaineer destination Additional tours in the Canadian Rockies Additional meals Activities, including Jasper Tramway, Whistler Peak 2 Peak Gondola & more Credit toward cruise portion of the package

Canada ranks in the top to “life satisfaction” (overal work, income & relationshi (enjoyment, smiling & laugh happiness survey reported i AAA invites you to f Head north this y THE GREAT H T some of the g WHITE NOR S Canadian REALLY I & WARM L! WONDERFU

DRIVING

2013 QUALIFYING PACKAGES

Canadian Rockies Highlights & Coastal Passage wtih Pre-tour Cruise (OPLE) Canadian Rockies Highlights & Coastal Passage with Post-tour Cruise (OPNW) Western Explorer & Coastal Passage with Pre-tour Cruise (OPOE) Western Explorer & Coastal Passage with Post-tour Cruise (OPOW) Western Explorer & Coastal Passage (XPIE) • Western Explorer & Coastal Passage (XPIW) Offer valid on new 2013 bookings made in USA & Canada between 12/31/12 & 3/28/13. Offer is only applicable to specific Rocky Mountaineer Coastal Passage Packages (codes OPLE, OPNW, OPOE, OPOW, XPIE, XPIW). Deposits are required at time of booking. Maximum offer value of $650 per adult bonus credit ($1,300 bonus per couple) is with qualifying Coastal Passage holidays in GoldLeaf Service or GoldLeaf Deluxe Service. Travel during 2013 Rocky Mountaineer summer season between April & October. Applicable to single or double package tour prices; triple room bookings receive a lower per person credit. Credit must be requested at time of booking and will not be automatically allocated or retrospectively added. Credited option must be selected at time of booking and can only be added to a Rocky Mountaineer package. Amendment fee of $50 CAD per booking will be charged for changes to the use of the credit after booking has been confirmed. US guests will be charged the equivalent amount in USD at time of amendment. Credits can only be used toward the purchase of additional services offered by Rocky Mountaineer; credit cannot be used to upgrade rail service or accommodation and cannot be used against price of core package. Add-on credit values are expressed in CAD and will be converted to USD at time of booking at the exchange rate used for the package booking. US guests must pay in USD. Credit cannot be deferred to a later trip. Offer is not applicable to child prices, 2-day rail only bookings or Group Tour bookings. Not available in conjunction with any other offer. Offer has no cash value and is nontransferable. Offer is capacity-controlled and may be modified, withdrawn or amended without prior notice. Additional conditions apply.

COME GET HA

F

rom storybook lands and magical fairytale settings to the sheer adrenaline rush of adventure opportunities, each of Canada’s regions offers that “little something special.”

Whether it’s a vacation for the senses, a relaxing weekend away or a once-in-a-lifetime dream come true, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for!

And a great way to do that is through AAA’s travel partner, CANADA à la Carte.

CANADA à la Carte offers a wide variety of Independent vacations showcasing the best of

Canada by car & rail, from m cosmopolitan cities. Indepen feature “à la Carte” sights — such as winery tours, wh Rockies trail riding — allow your vacation to suit your in CANADA à la Carte’s ind provide flexibility in your tra you don’t bypass region hig requests, accommodations a cars and/or VIA Rail tickets are pre-booked. Many pack round, and all may be offere to customizing existing pack Carte can help you create y

MARCH/APRIL 2013

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570-286-4507 AAA.com/travel

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

!

R E D R O B . . .

E H T ER

e true

AAA OFFERS LOTS OF WAYS TO EXPERIENCE

CANADA

Experience Canada aboard the elegant, sophisticated ships of Oceania.

Its midsize vessels can journey off the beaten path to boutique ports and yet provide all the amenities of larger ships.

Overnight stays and late-evening departures FREE FLIGHTS allow you to fully explore each fascinating AND $50.00 IN destination, while exemplary service, gourmet ONBOARD CREDIT cuisine and opulent accommodations ensure your onboard experience is defined by luxury and comfort.

Canada & New England ignite in a blaze of color each autumn.

A foliage tapestry of fiery reds, brilliant oranges, delicate yellows and exotic purples blankets the land, attracting “leaf peepers.” And the best seat for viewing the drama is on Regatta. Best of all, the backdrop changes daily for the maximum effect of nature’s glory.

Opportunities for adventure ashore are as spectacular as the scenery.

Tour the Gilded Age mansions in Newport. Ride the funicular to Dufferin Terrace for the best view of Québec City. Marvel at seafaring artifacts in the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic in Halifax and amazing seascapes in Rockland’s Farmsworth Museum. Indoors & out, the show goes on forever.

CRUISING

E ON, APPY!

Sept 12-24: Montréal to New York

5 nations when it comes ll appraisal of life, including ips) and “positive feeling” hing), according to a global in Scientific American Mind. find out for yourself: year and tap into good feelings FOREIGN, E ns enjoy!

H? ENGLISH SPOKEN HE RE!

majestic wilderness to ndent travel packages seeing and activity options hale watching or Canadian wing you to personalize nterests and budget. dependent vacations avel plans while ensuring ghlights. Based on your are pre-reserved, rental are arranged and activities kages are available yeared with airfare. In addition kages, CANADA à la your own special adventure.

COLORS, COASTS & COVES

Québec City QC • St Lawrence River (cruising) • Corner Brook NF • Charlottetown PEI Sydney NS • Halifax NS • St John (Bay of Fundy) NB • Bar Harbor ME • Rockland/Camden ME Gulf of Maine (cruising) • Newport RI

Oct 6-18: New York City to Montréal (reverse itinerary of departure above) AAA Member Rate: from $4,797 (including FREE FLIGHTS!) Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip flights (SEPT: PhiladelphiaMontréal, New York–Philadelphia) (OCT: Philadelphia–New York, Montréal-Philadelphia), roundtrip airport/pier transfers, cruise accommodations/entertainment, most onboard meals, government fees/taxes and $50 onboard credit per stateroom. Ship’s registry: Marshall Islands.

Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details.

AIR & MOTORCOACH

Book a CANADA à la Carte Independent Vacation and receive a documentation package (1 per booking) with a personalized itinerary containing driving instructions, maps, brochures and region guides (all items “if applicable”).

Sample 3-night vacations (rates per person) Montréal Explorer • AAA Member Rate: $314 Québec City Explorer • AAA Member Rate: $529 Vancouver Explorer • AAA Member Rate: $383 Victoria Explorer • AAA Member Rate: $742

ATLANTIC ADVENTURE

Hug the rugged shores of — and never venture far from — the Atlantic Ocean on this exciting exploration of coastal Canada & New England. Witness the influence the sea has on life & land in Massachusetts, Maine, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island. From big cities to tiny villages, experience cultural differences, visit fascinating attractions and taste unique regional cuisines. The combination of spectacular natural beauty, insightful guides and inevitable camaraderie that AAA motorcoach sightseeing tours are known for make this a journey you’ll not soon forget.

July 12-20: Roundtrip from Harrisburg • AAA Member Rate: $2,639 Boston MA • Portland ME • NB: St John, Reversing Falls Rapids, Fundy National Park PEI: Green Gables, PEI National Park • NS: Cabot Trail, Cape Breton, Alexander Graham Bell site, Anne Murray Centre • NB: St Andrews by the Seas, Kingsbrae Gardens • AND MORE! Rate is per person (double occupancy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes roundtrip flights (Harrisburg-Boston), roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, super-deluxe motorcoach (wi-fi, leather seats, video screens, seatback trays, seatbelts), sightseeing/admissions, 17 meals, taxes/gratuities on included items, baggage handling (1 per person), services of a AAA Tour Manager.

Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for details.

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AAA MOTORIST

MARCH/APRIL 2013

Member Benefits Exclusive Offers

AAA Featured Vacations are specific cruise, motorcoach or air tour vacations created or selected by AAA Travel for their value, amenities and/or inclusions.

Look for the AAA Featured Vacations logo to identify out-of-the-ordinary offerings.

LEWISBURG . . . . . . . . . . . .570-524-7455 SUNBURY . . . . . . . . . . . . . .570-286-4507 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. AAA Featured Vacations are specially priced, unique departures; therefore, tour operators, cruise lines and other travel providers often exclude them from additional discounts or specials they offer.

AAA Featured Vacations include services provided by third-party tour destination service companies; see your AAA Travel Agent for details. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply; contact your travel agent for more details or visit the air carrier’s website for baggage allowance and fee information.

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Reserve early for best availability: Call 570-286-4507, email travelagency@susqac.aaa.com or visit 1001 Market St, Sunbury.

CRUISES FROM NEW YORK NY: from $839 per person May 26–June 2 ................ Bermuda .......................................................... Norwegian Breakaway June 16-23 ....................... Bermuda .......................................................... Norwegian Breakaway July 1-6 ............................ Canada & New England ................................. Queen Mary 2 July 14-21 ........................ Bermuda .......................................................... Norwegian Breakaway July 20-28 ........................ Eastern Caribbean .......................................... Carnival Splendor July 29–Aug 3 .................. Canada ............................................................ Carnival Glory Aug 10-15 ........................ Canada ............................................................ Carnival Glory Aug 25–Sept 1 ................. Bermuda .......................................................... Norwegian Breakaway Sept 8-15 ......................... Bermuda .......................................................... Norwegian Breakaway Oct 5-12 ........................... Canada & New England ................................. Carnival Glory Oct 16-24 ......................... Eastern Caribbean .......................................... Carnival Splendor Oct 20-27 ......................... Bahamas & Florida .......................................... Norwegian Breakaway

CRUISES FROM BALTIMORE MD: from $899 per person June 16-23 ....................... Eastern Caribbean .......................................... Carnival Pride Sept 8-15 ......................... Eastern Caribbean .......................................... Carnival Pride Sept 19-27 ....................... New England & Canada ................................. Grandeur of the Seas Nov 16-26 ........................ Western Caribbean ......................................... Grandeur of the Seas

CRUISES FROM BAYONNE NJ: from $899 per person May 2-11.......................... Bermuda & Caribbean .................................... Explorer of the Seas May 19-26........................ Bermuda .......................................................... Celebrity Summit June 9-16 ......................... Bermuda .......................................................... Celebrity Summit June 13-22 ....................... Bermuda & Caribbean .................................... Explorer of the Seas July 6-11 .......................... Bermuda .......................................................... Explorer of the Seas Aug 18-25 ........................ Bermuda .......................................................... Celebrity Summit Aug 22-31 ........................ Bermuda & Caribbean .................................... Explorer of the Seas Sept 1-7 ........................... Bermuda .......................................................... Celebrity Summit Sept 7-21 ......................... New England & Canada ................................. Celebrity Summit Oct 5-19 ........................... New England & Canada ................................. Celebrity Summit Oct 13-20 ......................... Bermuda .......................................................... Explorer of the Seas Jan 21-31, 2014 ............... Eastern Caribbean .......................................... Explorer of the Seas

ESCORTED TOURS June 10-19 ..............Reflections of Italy Aug 5-13 .................Nova Scotia & Prince Edward Island Oct 2-10 ..................Ireland Oct 24-Nov 2 ..........Hawaii Three-island Adventure

OTHER CRUISES & CRUISETOURS

May 20–June 1 .....................Alaska Denali Explorer Cruisetour ............ Sapphire Princess with 3 National Parks

May 24–June 5 .....................Alaska Denali Connoisseur Cruisetour...... Coral Princess June 6-19 ..............................Alaska Denali Explorer Cruisetour ............ Coral Princess July 1-13 ...............................Alaska Denali Explorer Cruisetour ............ Sapphire Princess with 3 National Parks

July 7-19 ...............................Mediterranean & Greek Isles Cruise ......... Celebrity Silhouette Chrisman Morning Show

July 18-31 .............................Alaska Denali Explorer Cruisetour ............ Coral Princess July 20-27 .............................Alaska Inside Passage Cruise ..................... Zuiderdam Aug 2-14 ...............................Alaska Denali Connoisseur Cruisetour...... Coral Princess Aug 12-24 .............................Alaska Denali Explorer Cruisetour ............ Sapphire Princess with 3 National Parks

Aug 18-31 .............................Dawson & Denali Alaska Cruisetour ......... Zuiderdam Sept 6-13 ..............................Alaska Inside Passage Cruise ..................... Radiance of the Seas Sept 6-14 ..............................Paddlewheel Riverboat Cruise .................. American Queen St Louis to Memphis

Sept 27–Oct 6 .......................Hawaiian Islands Cruise ............................. Pride of America Sept 29–Oct 8 .......................Tuscany-to-Provence Cruise ....................... Azamara Journey Oct 25–Nov 2 ........................Danube Riverboat Cruise........................... Viking Idun (new ship) Germany, Austria & Hungary

Jan 11-19, 2014 ....................Western Caribbean Cruise ......................... Nieuw Amsterdam “Dancing with the Stars”

March 24–April 8, 2014 .......Australia Cruise .......................................... Rhapsody of the Seas April 27–May 4, 2014 ...........Western Caribbean Cruise ......................... Freedom of the Seas June 20-28, 2014 ..................Hawaiian Islands Cruise ............................. Pride of America

ESCORTED MOTORCOACH TOURS June 5-11 .................... Mackinac Island & Frankenmuth, Michigan June 29 ....................... “The Phantom of the Opera” Broadway Show: New York City, New York July 20......................... “The Lion King” Broadway Show: New York City, New York Aug 6-8 ....................... Ride Ohio’s Buckeye Rails Aug 10 ........................ Inner Harbor: Baltimore, Maryland Oct 5 ........................... Statue of Liberty, Liberty State Park: Jersey City, New Jersey Oct 14-18 .................... Cape Cod & Hyannis, Massachussetts

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Understanding the two main types of Life Insurance How to choose a policy that’s right for you

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dies during the predetermined time frame. For example, a person who is 40 and purchases a 30-year policy would produce a death benefit if he or she died at age 68. However, if the individual did not obtain additional coverage and died at age 72, there would be no death benefit. Most terms vary between one and 30 years. Since the policies are simple, they do not offer any other benefits such as cash withdrawals.

With term life, there are two main forms of policies, which are decreasing term and level term. Decreasing term policies have dropping death benefits, which are usually based on one-year time increments. These last for the entire life of the policy. For level term, the death benefit remains the same throughout the policy’s term. In the past decade, the most popular type of coverage purchased has been level term.

To learn more about these options, discuss concerns with an agent.

he two most popular types of life insurance are whole life and term life. In some cases, whole life may also be called permanent coverage. It encompasses several subcategories, which include universal, traditional, variable universal and variable. Millions of people purchase whole life or term life each year.

In 2003, there was only a difference of about 1 million purchases between the two types of products. It is important to remember that life coverage sold to individuals is different than the insurance policies sold to groups.

Understanding Whole Life Insurance

Whole or permanent life coverage provides a benefit upon the death of the policyholder. There is no term limit, so a policyholder’s beneficiary would receive money whether the insured died at age 50, 80 or even 100. As mentioned previously, there are sub-types of coverage under whole life. In addition to this, each of the subcategory coverage types offer their own variations.

With traditional whole life coverage, both the premium and death benefit amount will remain the same for the policy’s duration. As the insured ages, the premium amount per $1,000 of coverage increases. For those who live beyond age 80, these premiums can be very high. However, insurers do not assess higher premiums in later years to

A SOUND INVESTMENT — Millions of people purchase whole life or term life each year. keep up with these rising amounts. The premiums are higher when a person is younger. As the person ages, the premium amounts decrease. Insurers understand that people generally have less income as they age, which is why the policy is designed this way. When the money paid into the policy reaches a certain point, it must be made available

Computer-related vision problems are on the rise

I

f you are part of the 46 percent of Americans who spend five or more hours a day on a computer or a smart phone, you probably already know that a long day staring at your screen can sometimes lead to tired eyes and headaches. But did you know these issues could also be signs of Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS)? Besides tired eyes and headaches, other symptoms of CVS include double vision, eyestrain and sometimes even neck and shoulder aches. The reason is that our eyes have a harder time focusing on characters on a computer screen. Unlike printed type, computer characters are brightest at the center and lighter on the edges. The eyes jump around as they try to focus, making them tired and affecting other areas of the upper body.

Fortunately, the effects of CVS are neither permanent nor damaging to the eye. You can help combat CVS by following a few simple steps: • Get an eye exam before starting a job that requires computer use.

• Use a flat-panel monitor or LCD screen that has crisper resolutions.

• Place the monitor at eye level about 20 to 26 inches away from you.

• Always use the computer in proper light.

• Blink more often to keep eyes moist.

• Take breaks from your computer to rest your eyes.

• Visit your eye doctor annually to monitor and manage symptoms, unless otherwise recommended by your eye doctor.

For some, CVS symptoms can be relieved with computer eyewear or UV coating on your lenses to reduce glare.

Talk with your eye doctor to learn about these options.

If new glasses are in order, now is the perfect time to visit LensCrafters for The Semi-Annual Sale where you will save 50% off lenses with a frame purchase. PLUS, for a limited time, AAA members get an extra $25 OFF when you Show Your Card & Save ®. Hurry, offer expires 3/31/2013. Visit www.

AAA.com/visionsavings for details.

to the insured as a cash value benefit. If the policyholder decides to discontinue the plan, the cash may be withdrawn.

Understanding Term Life Insurance

This is the easiest form of coverage to understand and obtain. Term life only provides a death benefit if the insured

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 877.222.3974 to speak to an insurance professional.

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MARCH 2013

There’s always room at the top in Switzerland High altitude adventure in the land of the Alps

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witzerland may be a neutral country, but it is anything but colorless. Along with the jaw-dropping scenery this eminently workable amalgam of German, French and Italian cultures gives a whole new meaning to the term diversity.

Zürich is Switzerland’s largest city and famous for its gnomes and financial institutions. The Bahnhofstrasse — Zürich’s answer to Fifth Avenue and Wall Street — was built on the site of the old city walls and is lined with upscale boutiques, cafes and those ubiquitous Swiss banks.

Much of Switzerland’s heavily creased Alpine territory is best seen by rail. The Rhaetion Railway includes the world famous Glacier, and Bernina Express lines. The engineering equivalent of Hannibal’s passage through the Alps, the Bernina Express takes travelers through scenery that ranges from the blue-tongued glaciers of Piz Bernina, to the palms trees of Tirano, Italy.

The Glacier Express runs from St. Moritz and Davos via Zermatt where it brings you face to face with the wondrous Matterhorn or “the mountain,” as it is respectfully called by the Swiss.

The little red train literally ties itself in knots as every bend brings a magnificent new vista or a fairytale-like castle perched astride a mountaintop.

Zermatt has over 300 days of sunlight per year, and mild, dry weather that the

HIGH TIMES — The Gornergratbahn on the Findelbachbrücke, against the backdrop of the Matterhorn.

Swiss refer to this as their “champagne climate.” The air is so unbelievably pure that it feels nearly as intoxicating as a chilled flute of Pol Roger.

Vehicles powered by internal combustion engines have been banned in the village since 1947, and Zermatt’s only

Give Yourself an Upgrade— to the highest level of protection available! Get more from your membership. Upgrade to AAA Premier. With expanded roadside assistance — and a host of other benefits — AAA Premier is a smart choice.

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

1-800-441-5008

traffic jam is a herd of Blackneck goats that pass through the Bahnhofstrasse every morning and evening.

From Zermatt visitors can board the 111-year-old cog railway for the 6.5mile journey up Gornergrat Mountain.

The Gornergratbahn is Europe’s highest rack railway, climbing past Swiss stone pine and larch forests to an altitude of 10,100 feet. When you reach the top, pause to take in the breathtaking panorama of 29 peaks above 13,000-feet, with the Matterhorn, the Queen of the Alps, right in the middle.

St. Moritz has become so synonymous with the jet set that the town has taken the unusual step of registering its name as a trademark in 25 countries.

The resort town conjures up glamorous images of the Cresta and horses racing across the snow, but summers here are generally quite leisurely.

Lucerne is considered the quintessential Swiss town and its most popular travel destination. Famous for the two medieval bridges spanning the Reuss

River, few leave without taking a boat ride on scenic Lake Lucerne, framed by mountains and old growth forests that reach right down to the shore. Visitors can also ride the world’s steepest cog railway up Mount Pilatus with a gradient of 48% and return by a cable car that soars past rugged alpine peaks, divided by verdant green valleys.

IF YOU GO

Join AAA Travel on an 8-night Alpine Lakes & Scenic Trains tour of Switzerland and Italy, August 16-25, 2013. Highlights of this AAA Member Choice vacation include a Zurich dinner cruise; Golden Pass, Glacier Express and Bernina Pass Scenic Trains; Lake Como, Italy; 2-nights in Zermatt; Saint Moritz, Lucerne and Montreux, Switzerland, and Milan, Italy.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Visit AAA.com/mcv for a complete itinerary, trip details and information.

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Half Moon Cay is Holland America’s Island in the Sun Celebrates 15-years as top private island experience

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or nearly two decades Half Moon Cay — with its beautiful, crescent-shaped white-sand beach and warm, blue-green waters — has evolved into an idyllic playground for cruise guests. Holland America Line’s private Bahamian island is celebrating its 15th anniversary this Caribbean cruise season, and the uninhabited 1,700 acre Little San Salvador Island is a staple of most Caribbean and Panama Canal itineraries. Half Moon Cay was recently named best private island for the 12th consecutive year by Porthole Cruise Magazine.

Lapped by calm azure water and thick with powdery sand, Half Moon’s 2.5-mile long beach is the stuff of legends. The 700-acre lagoon is ideal for watersports of all kinds and you can spend the day swimming and soaking up the sun, or play with the kids in the nearby Aqua Park.

Just a short walk down the beach guests can find solitude or rollicking fun at Captain Morgan’s Bar. The bar, which resembles a shipwrecked schooner on the beach, features outdoor rumcask seating, cannon water misters and a signature rum punch.

Half Moon Cay offers shore excursions ranging from swimming with stingrays, to a horseback ride in the surf. Over the years, new amenities and shore excursions have been gradually

and features underwater viewing of the island’s colorful reefs and sea life.

The Pegasus Ranch riding tour is one of the island’s most popular, and six horses were recently added to the stable. Hooves splash as you move into the surf, and the bathtub-warm water reaches your toes. With former careers ranging from show jumping to polo to racing — a far cry from swimming in the ocean — the 40 or so horses enjoy a life that would make Trigger envious.

The makeover of the island’s features extends to the Bahamian Church, which has been outfitted with new pews and interior artwork. The island’s private chapel is nestled in a garden overlooking the sea and provides the perfect setting for cruise guests to enjoy a unique, romantic wedding ceremony or vow renewal.

RIDE THE WILD SURF— Half Moon Cay’s surf-trained horses take visitors for a cool ride. added to Half Moon Cay, always with an eye to protecting the island’s natural beauty and preserving its status as an important migratory-bird sanctuary.

Only two percent of the island has been developed—and the other 98 percent will remain pristine wilderness.

Guests to the island will notice five new, colorful, two-story Beach Villas available for rent during each call. The

luxury hideaways boast exclusive hot tubs on the second floor and provide private accommodations for guests while they relax and experience the island’s highlights. Other beach cabanas were refreshed, and the Grand Cabana received new decor and a slide from the cabana deck straight into the ocean.

A new glass-bottom boat that carries 290 guests was introduced for tours

IF YOU GO

Located roughly halfway between Eleuthera and Cat Island, Half Moon Cay is one of about 700 islands that make up the archipelago of The Bahamas.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Please see this month’s Departures Guide or log on to AAA.com/cruises for great vacation ideas from AAA.

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The Space Coast is Florida’s final frontier Just one small step from Orlando

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lorida’s Space Coast offers 72-miles of sun-drenched Atlantic shores, along with a galaxy of attractions like the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, and Port Canaveral. And it’s just a moonwalk away from Orlando — only 35-miles east of Orlando’s theme parks.

From the earliest days of America’s storied space program, Kennedy Space Center has been at the epicenter of mankind’s greatest adventure. Nestled on a placid barrier island the complex is a must-see attraction. Visitors come from all over the world to witness the spectacular rocket launches that seem to set the sky on fire.

The center’s remarkable collection of rockets, launch pads, NASA aerospace technology components and launch viewing opportunities offer an authenticity unlike any other Central Florida destination.

Ground was broken in January on the new exhibit for the Space Shuttle Atlantis. Expected to open this fall, the 65,000-square-foot Atlantis exhibit will provide a unique vantage point to view Atlantis up close, while telling the story of the 30-year Space Shuttle Program through hands-on, interactive and immersive mediums.

In the Rocket Garden, marvel at seven vintage rockets from the Mercury, Gemini and Apollo space programs.

NATURE MEETS TECHNOLOGY — Kennedy Space Center is located on the 140,000 acre Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge.

The Apollo 11 gantry arm and Apollo capsule model allow visitors to reenact the heart-pumping moments of countdown and launch, while the Mercury and Gemini capsules let you experience firsthand just how small early spacecraft were.

The Cape Canaveral: Then & Now Guided Tour is a narrated, in-depth journey through the Cape’s 50-year history of space exploration. Highlights

include Launch Complex 5/6, site of the first two Mercury launches; the Air Force Space and Missile Museum; the Mercury Memorial; and Launch Complex 19, site of 10 manned missions in two years. The tour stops at Launch Complex 34, site of the 1967 Apollo 1 tragedy where astronauts Gus Grissom, Edward White and Roger Chaffee perished in a fire during a launch test.

The tour culminates at the Apollo/ Saturn V Center. A massive, fully restored Saturn V moon rocket serves as the centerpiece of the Apollo/Saturn V Center. In addition to seeing all 363 feet of the most powerful rocket ever built, take time to relive the historic launch of Apollo 8 in the Firing Room Theater and catch the harrowing final moments before man landed on the moon in the Lunar Theater.

The Shuttle Launch Experience is an incredible journey of vertically launching into space and orbiting Earth aboard the space shuttle. Guest “crew members” strap in for this launch replication, which immerses visitors in the sights, sounds and feelings of a space shuttle launch, designed under the guidance of NASA and veteran space shuttle astronauts.

When you’re all spaced out the region offers some of Florida’s best natural surroundings. Space Coast beaches are ranked among Florida’s best and the quartz sand stretches for miles, with waters warmed by the Gulfstream.

IF YOU GO

Please see this issue’s Departures Guide or log on to AAA.com/TravelPlanner for special values on Florida vacation packages.

Don’t get yourself in a rut this spring How to avoid the perils of pothole season

P

otholes are as much a springtime ritual as dandelions. No matter how hard you try to eliminate them there’s a bumper crop every year.

Potholes are caused by cracks in the road surface that allow water to seep underneath. These cracks get larger when the water freezes because ice takes up more volume than water.

When the ice melts it creates a void, causing the pavement to cave in and form a pothole. A winter with heavy snow and several freeze-thaw cycles means a big pothole season ahead.

When a wheel strikes a pothole, if falls into the hole, then has to “climb” out. Unless the hole is extremely deep, falling into it seldom causes much damage. Climbing out is another matter. The severity of the pothole damage depends on a combination of factors such as tire diameter, hole depth, length of the hole and vehicle speed. The wrong combination can cause enormous problems. Longer potholes typically cause the most damage because the tire can fall to the bottom of the hole before climbing out.

To give drivers a fighting chance, automotive engineers tune shock rebound rates to keep the wheel and tire suspended so it can glide over the pothole, preventing the tire from

FIXING A HOLE — Newer technology like this “Pothole Killer” provides safer, quicker and longer-lasting pothole repairs. dropping down into it and impacting the edge of the tire and wheel.

Most experts agree that the life expectancy of components such as ball joints, tie rod ends and idler arms is shortened more by travel over potholes and rough roads than by long-distance driving. Tires are especially vulnerable. A severe impact can damage the tire’s reinforcing material causing a lump or bulge in the sidewall

that can’t be repaired.

While it may be more easily said than done, avoiding a pothole is the best way to control damage. If hitting a pothole is inevitable, try to roll through it rather than braking.

Motorists should never brake during pothole impact because a locked wheel will suffer more damage than a rolling one. Apply the brakes before hitting a pothole and release them just prior

to impact. Braking during impact sets up the tire/wheel assembly for a “solid hit” against the edge of the hole.

Don’t swerve to avoid potholes.

Swerving can create a situation where the front wheel and tire on the car can impact the edge of the pothole at an obtuse angle, which might do more damage than hitting it squarely.

Pothole impacts are amplified when chassis parts are worn. Never underestimate the value of getting your alignment checked along with rotating and balancing your tires. You should also have a thorough inspection of your vehicle’s suspension system done by a qualified service technician at least once a year. It can reveal under-car problems that could affect your driving safety.

NO ACCIDENT

Potholes are often blamed for collisions but studies have shown that striking even a large hole in the pavement seldom cause a loss of vehicle control. More accidents are caused by swerving to avoid a pothole.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

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

MARCH 2013

AAA MOTORIST

PAGE 19

Cruise ships say g’day to Australia & New Zealand Royal Caribbean travels to the land Down Under

W

hile there’s nothing like Australia, there’s also nothing like experiencing Australia with Royal Caribbean. Vacationers can choose among 55 sailings that call at 56 beautiful South Pacific ports on 53 distinctive itineraries from September 2013 through April 2014. Vacationers can also choose a Royal Caribbean Australia Cruisetour to couple an escorted land tour with a Royal Caribbean cruise for a grand Outback adventure.

There’s no better way for families and adventurers to experience Australia and New Zealand than on a cruise.

Unpack once, and visit multiple destinations, while enjoying the comforts of some of the world’s most innovative ships, with award-winning dining and exclusive entertainment. And while we in the northern hemisphere hunker down for a season of snow and ice, it’s summer Down Under.

The most comprehensive way to experience the best of Australia and New Zealand is on a Royal Caribbean Australia Cruisetour. A cruisetour combines a Royal Caribbean cruise with a pre- or post-cruise escorted land tour to the must-see attractions that cruise ships can’t reach or lay inland. Explore the Great Barrier Reef; come face-toface with Uluru or Ayers Rock; or take a walkabout on the wild side in Australia’s Great Outback.

Delve into New Zealand’s culture and

ing landscape includes vast mountain ranges, sweeping coastlines, crenellated fiords and lush rainforests.

In between exciting ports of call, the recently revitalized ships offer guests a wide spectrum of the most contemporary dining and entertainment options. Referred to as the culinary ship, Radiance of the Seas features eight restaurants including Park Café, Giovanni’s Table, and the Samba Grille.

Rhapsody of the Seas features a new, high-flying Centrum entertainment experience, where aerialists glide through the five-story atrium. Both ships also feature an oversized LED video screen overlooking the main pool, bow-to-stern WiFi service, and completely refreshed staterooms with new flat-panel interactive TVs.

SIGHT SAILING — Royal Caribbean navigates between two of Sydney’s most famous landmarks — the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. landscapes on itineraries, escorted by a dedicated Royal Caribbean Adventure Specialist who knows what to see and where to go. Royal Caribbean takes care of all the planning, premium hotel accommodations, included activities, all motorcoach and air transportation, select meals, and time for independent exploration and shopping for a stressfree Kiwi adventure.

Radiance of the Seas and Rhapsody of the Seas will homeport in Sydney offering vacationers a wide variety of itineraries, ranging from seven to 15

nights to Tasmania and Queensland, New Zealand, Fiji and New Caledonia.

Radiance of the Seas also will circumnavigate Australia twice — a 16-night north coast and 17-night south coast and New Zealand sailing — departing Oct. 24, 2013 and Feb. 14, 2014.

Ports include prosperous Melbourne with its “Puffing Billy” steam train, and Sydney Harbour with thrilling views of the imposing Harbour Bridge and the Opera House, with its distinctive silhouette that echoes the sailboats in the harbor. New Zealand’s astonish-

A WATERY WONDER

Australia’s Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest living organism and its 2,900 individual coral reefs take in an area half the size of Texas. These coral islands are strung together like pearls along 1,500 miles of Queensland’s coastline and astronauts have reported that it sparkles from space.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

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

PAGE 20

AAA MOTORIST

MARCH 2013