It’s Full Steam Ahead with Free Tablet OfferGo rolling on the river onboard the American Queen. The world’s largest steamboat is a show-case 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 showboat-style 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
Live Nation Concert Cash From HertzHertz 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 com-plete details of this exciting offer.
when you use your new AAA Member Rewards
Visa® card.See page 6 for details.
Get more
Visit AAA.com/creditcard or stop by any AAA branch.
Prepare to be Wowed by AAA Club Rewards on AAA.com
AAA Club Rewards is an exciting new online dis-count program that significantly expands discounts and savings available to AAA members! This innova-tive new shopping experience on AAA.com, features deep discounts, limited offers and everyday savings on electronics, home improvement, apparel, enter-tainment, 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 pur-chases 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.
DISTRACTED DRIVING’S DEADLY DOUBLE STANDARD
SEE PAGE 3
Vol. 52 No. 2 SUSQUEHANNA VALLEY REGION MARCH/APRIL 2013Travel | Insurance/Financial | Autom
otive | Mem
ber Savings | AAA.com
SEE ONE OF AMERICA’S GREATEST NATURAL LANDMARKS!
Get on board now & saveup to $400* per room!Book & deposit no later than 3 / 31
EXPERIENCING America’s splendor by rail is a must-do milestone on the “bucket lists” of
many travelers. To explore be-yond the interstates...to escape driving’s drudgery & distrac-tions...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 be-tween. *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 ex-clusive reception at Chicago’s iconic Palmer House, a world-class 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.
Start your rail journey with magnificent views of the Mis-sissippi River and glimpses of the glowing night skyline of Minneapolis/St Paul. Awaken the next morning from a rest-ful night in your private sleep-ing accommodations to cross North Dakota’s plains and tra-verse 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 for-ests and more than 200 lakes is one of the world’s most pris-tine natural environments. Designated a national park (the 10th) in 1910 by Pres- ident William Howard Taft, the
RAIL JOURNEY FROM CHICAGO TO SEATTLE!
Train adventure peaks with 4 toursof Montana’s Glacier National Park
continued on page 6
VACATION FEATURES2 nights in Chicago, including a wine & cheese reception, a city tour & an architecture cruise2 nights on Amtrak’s Empire Builder in a sleeper roomette4 nights, 4 tours & 1 cruise
in Glacier National ParkA cross-border visit to Canada’s Waterton Lakes National Park2 nights in Seattle, including
a city tour & the Space Needle16 meals with gratuities
(5 on train without gratuities)Amtrak Vacations® Tour Escort
PAGE 2 AAA MOTORIST MARCH 2013
AAA DIRECTORYInternet Web Site: www.AAA.com
AAA Member Services/Address Change TripTiks, TourBooks, Maps, License & Title,
AAA BRANCH OFFICE LOCATIONSAltoona1634 Valley View Blvd. ............................. 814-946-1277Brookville288 Main St. .................................................814-849-5381Butler138 Clearview Circle ....................................724-287-2713CranberryThe Village Shoppes, 20510 Rt. 19 ..........724-772-1122Erie6660 Peach St. Unit #2 ..............................814-866-0246Franklin102 Sugar Creek Town Center Rd. ...........814-432-3960GreensburgEastgate Shopping Center5142 Route 30, Suite 135 ......................... 724-834-8300Grove City24 Pine Grove Village Dr. ..........................724-458-8930Harborcreek4430 Buffalo Rd. ........................................814-897-9508Hermitage1749 E. State St.. ........................................724-981-9141Indiana1169 Wayne Ave. .......................................724-349-4193Jamestown (New York)111 W. Fifth St., Jamestown, N.Y.. ...........716-488-1981KittanningFranklin Village Mall. ............................... 724-543-1924Lewisburg530 1/2 North Derr Drive . ....................... 570-524-7455Lower Burrell/New Kensington AreaCrossroads Plaza2503 Leechburg Rd....................................724-339-4440McKean County (Bradford)587 South Ave. ..........................................814-368-3113Meadville18939 Park Avenue Plaza Unit #7 ............814-724-2247New Castle40 East St....................................................724-658-8551Niagara-Orleans7135 Rochester Rd, Lockport, NY. ............716-434-2865Pittsburgh–Century III Area (Pleasant Hills)9 Clairton Blvd. (RT 51). ........................... 412-655-6100Pittsburgh–Downtown538 Smithfield St. ......................................412-338-4300Pittsburgh–East Liberty/Shadyside5900 Baum Blvd. ........................................412-365-7196Pittsburgh–Monroeville2725 Mosside Blvd. ....................................412-858-4640Pittsburgh–North Hills Area (Ross Township)4790 McKnight Rd. ....................................412-367-7600Pittsburgh–Robinson TownshipRobinson Town Centre1760 Park Manor Blvd. .............................412-809-2800Pittsburgh–South Hills Area (Bethel Park)160 Ft. Couch Rd. ......................................412-833-5203Rochester300 Adams St. ............................................724-775-8000St. Marys1375 Bucktail Rd. ...................................... 814-834-7838Somerset110 N. Center Ave. ....................................814-443-6526Sunbury1001 Market Street. ..................................570-286-4507Uniontown111 W. Main St. .........................................724-438-8575Warren2285 Market St. .........................................814-723-6660Washington196 Murtland Ave. ....................................724-222-3800Waynesburg184 Greene Plaza, US 21 & I-79 ................724-627-3434White Oak/McKeesport AreaOak Park Mall, 2001 Lincoln Way ............412-675-3400
A recent survey by AAA finds a strong likelihood of con-sumer confusion and the potential for voided warran-
ties 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 offi-cially 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 wide-ly 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.
“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 regula-tors and the industry to stop the sale of E15 until motorists are better pro-tected. AAA automotive engineering experts believe that sustained use of E15 could result in significant prob-lems, such as accelerated engine wear and failure, fuel-system damage and false “check engine” lights for any
vehicle not approved by its manufac-turer 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 express-ly 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 vehi-cles,” said Brian Newbacher, director of public affairs for AAA East Central. “Consumers should read pump labels carefully and know their auto manufac-turer’s recommendations to help pre-vent any E15 related problems.”
AAA urges fuel producers and regula-tors to do a better job of educating con-sumers about potential dangers before selling E15 gasoline. This outreach should include a consumer education campaign and more effective pump labels, among other safeguards.
AAA cautions motorists about the risks of E15Available only in a handful of locations — for now
STUDY CONFIRMS PROBLEMSNew 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 sup-ported 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 check-engine alerts.
DEC 31 2011
Enjoy additional on-the-road confidence by extending your AAA
benefits with...
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.
Visit your local AAA office or call our 24-hour TeleService Center to add AAA Plus/RV coverage.
LOOK FOR THE LABEL — E15 fuel pumps will be marked with this label.
MARCH 2013 AAA MOTORIST PAGE 3
Susquehanna Valley RegionOfficial publication of
AAA East Central
Published bimonthly by AAA East Central1001 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 RegionP.O. Box 788
1001 Market StreetSunbury, PA 17801-2403
Subscription Rate: $1 included in Primary Membership dues. All others: $2/year.
Publisher .....................................James J. McGrathManaging Editor .............................. Douglas ONeilBusiness Manager ..................... Sherry A. Madison
Editorial Office1001 Market Street, Sunbury, PA 17801-2403
AAA EAST CENTRALChairman: ................................................Richard S. HamiltonVice Chairman: ....................................... James E. Broome, Jr.Vice Chairman: ....................................... Douglas W. CaldwellVice Chairman: .........................................Mary Lynn Laughlin Vice Chairman: .................................... Martha Hartle Munsch
OFFICERS:President: ................................................... James J. McGrathExecutive Vice President: ............................ James E. LehmanTreasurer & CFO: ............................................Michael R. PrattSecretary: ................................................ Robert H. Compton
GOVERNING BOARD OF DIRECTORSGlenn 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 DIRECTORSDebra 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
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 roadsBy Richard HamiltonChairman, AAA East Central
People are quick to blame “the other guy” for unsafe driv-ing, despite the fact that most admit to practicing many of
the same dangerous driving habits themselves. That’s the surprising con-clusion of a new report by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety.
The study found that while motor-ists are outspoken in their criticism of the risks other drivers take, they tend to minimize or overlook their own bad driving behaviors. More than two-thirds (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 per-sonal 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 disap-proval of texting and emailing while driving (95 percent), more than one-in-four licensed drivers (27 percent) reported sending a text or email at least once in the past 30 days. More than
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 driv-ing in the past month. More than one-in-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 behav-iors such as speeding, driving drowsy, driving without a safety belt and send-ing 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 pre-ventable tragedies and using a mobile phone behind the wheel roughly qua-druples crash risk. They impair reac-tion times and in a critical situation, fractions of a second often determine whether a collision occurs. Experts con-clude 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.
Richard Hamilton
The U.S. Department of Energy reports that the aver-age household spent nearly $3,000 refueling their vehi-
cles 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 per-cent. Instead of quick starts and sud-den 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 motor-ists 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 quick-ly locate stations on a map and see the price for all available grades of gaso-line. 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, cardhold-ers can earn triple points on qualify-ing 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 call-ing 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 maxi-mum 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 avail-able to Premier members will increase to $150, from $100. (Premier Home Lockout service remains unchanged at $100.)
Additionally, the following mem-ber benefits will be eliminated effec-tive December 31st, 2013: Emergency Check Cashing, Auto Theft Reward, Legal Defense Fee Reimbursement, and Trip Interruption Protection (for Basic and Plus membership levels only.)
AAA helps you save when fuel prices climbGas prices rising at near record rates
PAGE 4 AAA MOTORIST MARCH 2013
MARCH 2013 AAA MOTORIST PAGE 5
PAGE 6 AAA MOTORIST MARCH 2013
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
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.
Get more
Visit AAA.com/creditcard or stop by any AAA branch.
Glacier National Park Train Adventure continued from page 1
park covers some 1.2 million acres. Deer are among the most commonly spot-ted 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’ deep-est lakes and the historic Prince of Wales Hotel National Historic Site. The park is part of the Waterton-Glacier Interna-
tional Peace Park, a World Heritage Site.Enjoy 2 nights at impressive, rustic-
style Glacier Park Lodge, built in the early 20th century by the Great North-ern Railway on land purchased from the Blackfeet tribe, who named it “Big Tree Lodge”; its 60 immense (36-42 " diame-ter, 40 ' long) support timbers were prob-ably 500-800 years old when they were cut. The lobby’s massive stone fireplace invites fireside chats, and there’s an out-door 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 Gla-cier Hotel on the shores of Swiftcurrent Lake. Its wraparound lakeside balcony offers 180-degree views of the lake, rug-ged hillsides, 3 glaciers and serrated peaks. A secluded Old World–style ho-
tel featuring rustic and comfortable ac-commodations, it’s a one-of-a-kind na-tional 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 sophis-ticated 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 attrac-tions, 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 surround-ing mountains, bays and islands. All too soon it’s time to fly home from Seattle!
FORDS & FAUNA — Glacier Na-tional Park’s knowledgeable and en- tertaining 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.
DAVID RESTIVO, NPS
Aug 23–Sept 2 • AAA Member Rate: $5,149
Pre-discount rate is per person (double occupan-cy), is subject to availability at time of booking and includes flights (Harrisburg-Chicago, Seattle- Harrisburg), roundtrip transfers (airport/hotel, hotel/train), train (Chicago-Seattle), 8-night hotel accom-modations, 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; con-tact your travel agent for details.
DINNER WITH ROLL — Eating on the go takes on new meaning aboard Am-trak’s Empire Builder from Chicago to Seattle. Savor the ever changing view with your breakfasts, lunches and dinners in the “tasteful” onboard dining car!
June 1-9 ............... 7 / 1....... Memphis /New OrleansJune 22–July 5 ..... 12 / 1 ...... New Orleans / St LouisJuly 19-27............. 7 / 1....... St Louis /CincinnatiAug 9-22 ............. 12 / 1 ...... Pittsburgh / St LouisAug 21-31 ............ 9 / 1....... St Louis / St PaulSept 11-21 ........... 8 / 2 ....... Memphis / ChattanoogaOct 4-12 ............... 7 / 1....... St Paul / St LouisOct 25–Nov 2 ....... 7 / 1 ....... St Louis / New OrleansNov 16-24 ............ 7 / 1....... New Orleans /New OrleansNov 29–Dec 7 ...... 7 / 1 ....... New Orleans / MemphisDec 20-28............. 7 / 1....... New Orleans /MemphisDec 27–Jan 4 ........ 7 / 1 ....... Memphis / New Orleans
*Ask a AAA Travel Agent about other available itineraries.
The 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 waterNightly showboat-style
entertainment & dancingDaily lectures by river
historiansPort charges & taxes
Get a Google Nexus 7 tablet computerwhen you book & make a deposit
on a 7-night-or-longer American Queen river cruise by 3/15/13!
AAA MEMBER EXCLUSIVE!$160 Onboard Credit per cabin in 2013
To qualify for the Nexus 7 and $160 onboard credit, cruise must be arranged with AAA through travel partner Pleasant Holidays.
570-286-4507AAA.com/travel
Member BenefitsExclusive Offers
PAGE 8 AAA MOTORIST MARCH/APRIL 2013
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!
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).
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
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 pric-es, 2-day rail only bookings or Group Tour bookings. Not available in conjunction with any other offer. Offer has no cash value and is non-transferable. 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
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 Moun-taineer 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 pric-es, 2-day rail only bookings or Group Tour bookings. Not available in conjunction with any other offer. Offer has no cash value and is non-transferable. Offer is capacity-controlled and may be modified, withdrawn or amended without prior notice. Additional conditions apply.
RAILING
Vacation dreams do come true
SOMEWHERE OVER THE...BORDER!
COME ON, GET HAPPY!
Canada ranks in the top 5 nations when it comes to “life satisfaction” (overall appraisal of life, including
work, income & relationships) and “positive feeling” (enjoyment, smiling & laughing), according to a global happiness survey reported in Scientific American Mind.
AAA invites you to find out for yourself: Head north this year and tap into
some of the good feelings Canadians enjoy!
GRAB YOUR PASSPORT
AND CROSS OVER
TO A GRAND LAND
OF UNIQUE WONDERS!
From 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 majestic wilderness to cosmopolitan cities. Independent travel packages feature “à la Carte” sightseeing and activity options — such as winery tours, whale watching or Canadian Rockies trail riding — allowing you to personalize your vacation to suit your interests and budget.
CANADA à la Carte’s independent vacations provide flexibility in your travel plans while ensuring you don’t bypass region highlights. Based on your requests, accommodations are pre-reserved, rental cars and/or VIA Rail tickets are arranged and activities are pre-booked. Many packages are available year- round, and all may be offered with airfare. In addition to customizing existing packages, CANADA à la Carte can help you create your own special adventure.
DRIVING
THE GREAT
WHITE NORTH
REALLY IS WARM &
WONDERFUL!
570-286-4507AAA.com/travel
Member BenefitsExclusive Offers
MARCH/APRIL 2013 AAA MOTORIST PAGE 11
COLORS, COASTS & COVESExperience 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 allow you to fully explore each fascinating destination, while exemplary service, gourmet 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 yel-lows and exotic purples blankets the land, attracting “leaf peep-
ers.” 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.
Sept 12-24: Montréal to New York 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: Philadelphia-Montréal, New York–Philadelphia) (OCT: Philadelphia–New York, Montréal-Philadelphia), roundtrip airport/pier transfers, cruise accommoda-tions/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.
ATLANTIC ADVENTUREHug 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: $2,639Boston 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.
AIR & MOTORCOACH
FREE FLIGHTSAND $50.00 IN
ONBOARD CREDIT
Vacation dreams do come true
SOMEWHERE OVER THE...BORDER!
COME ON, GET HAPPY!
Canada ranks in the top 5 nations when it comes to “life satisfaction” (overall appraisal of life, including
work, income & relationships) and “positive feeling” (enjoyment, smiling & laughing), according to a global happiness survey reported in Scientific American Mind.
AAA invites you to find out for yourself: Head north this year and tap into
some of the good feelings Canadians enjoy!
AAA OFFERS LOTS OF WAYS
TO EXPERIENCE
CANADA
Canada by car & rail, from majestic wilderness to cosmopolitan cities. Independent travel packages feature “à la Carte” sightseeing and activity options — such as winery tours, whale watching or Canadian Rockies trail riding — allowing you to personalize your vacation to suit your interests and budget.
CANADA à la Carte’s independent vacations provide flexibility in your travel plans while ensuring you don’t bypass region highlights. Based on your requests, accommodations are pre-reserved, rental cars and/or VIA Rail tickets are arranged and activities are pre-booked. Many packages are available year- round, and all may be offered with airfare. In addition to customizing existing packages, CANADA à la Carte can help you create your own special adventure.
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: $529Vancouver Explorer • AAA Member Rate: $383
Victoria Explorer • AAA Member Rate: $742
FOREIGN, EH?ENGLISH SPOKEN HERE!
CRUISING
570-286-4507AAA.com/travel
Member BenefitsExclusive Offers
LEWISBURG . . . . . . . . . . . .570-524-7455SUNBURY . . . . . . . . . . . . . .570-286-4507GENERAL 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 loca-tions. 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.
Look for the AAA Featured Vacations logo to identify out-of-the-ordinary offerings.
AAA Featured Vacations
are specific cruise, motorcoach or air tour vacations created or selected by AAA Travel for their
value, amenities and/or inclusions.
PAGE 12 AAA MOTORIST MARCH/APRIL 2013
OTHER CRUISES & CRUISETOURSMay 20–June 1 .....................Alaska Denali Explorer Cruisetour ............ Sapphire Princess with 3 National Parks
May 24–June 5 .....................Alaska Denali Connoisseur Cruisetour ...... Coral PrincessJune 6-19 ..............................Alaska Denali Explorer Cruisetour ............ Coral PrincessJuly 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 PrincessJuly 20-27 .............................Alaska Inside Passage Cruise ..................... ZuiderdamAug 2-14 ...............................Alaska Denali Connoisseur Cruisetour ...... Coral PrincessAug 12-24 .............................Alaska Denali Explorer Cruisetour ............ Sapphire Princess with 3 National Parks
Aug 18-31 .............................Dawson & Denali Alaska Cruisetour ......... ZuiderdamSept 6-13 ..............................Alaska Inside Passage Cruise ..................... Radiance of the SeasSept 6-14 ..............................Paddlewheel Riverboat Cruise .................. American Queen St Louis to Memphis
Sept 27–Oct 6 .......................Hawaiian Islands Cruise ............................. Pride of AmericaSept 29–Oct 8 .......................Tuscany-to-Provence Cruise ....................... Azamara JourneyOct 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 SeasApril 27–May 4, 2014 ...........Western Caribbean Cruise ......................... Freedom of the SeasJune 20-28, 2014 ..................Hawaiian Islands Cruise ............................. Pride of America
CRUISES FROM NEW YORK NY: from $839 per personMay 26–June 2 ................ Bermuda .......................................................... Norwegian BreakawayJune 16-23 ....................... Bermuda .......................................................... Norwegian BreakawayJuly 1-6 ............................ Canada & New England ................................. Queen Mary 2July 14-21 ........................ Bermuda .......................................................... Norwegian BreakawayJuly 20-28 ........................ Eastern Caribbean .......................................... Carnival SplendorJuly 29–Aug 3 .................. Canada ............................................................ Carnival GloryAug 10-15 ........................ Canada ............................................................ Carnival GloryAug 25–Sept 1 ................. Bermuda .......................................................... Norwegian BreakawaySept 8-15 ......................... Bermuda .......................................................... Norwegian BreakawayOct 5-12 ........................... Canada & New England ................................. Carnival GloryOct 16-24 ......................... Eastern Caribbean .......................................... Carnival SplendorOct 20-27 ......................... Bahamas & Florida .......................................... Norwegian Breakaway
CRUISES FROM BALTIMORE MD: from $899 per personJune 16-23 ....................... Eastern Caribbean .......................................... Carnival PrideSept 8-15 ......................... Eastern Caribbean .......................................... Carnival PrideSept 19-27 ....................... New England & Canada ................................. Grandeur of the SeasNov 16-26 ........................ Western Caribbean ......................................... Grandeur of the Seas
CRUISES FROM BAYONNE NJ: from $899 per personMay 2-11 .......................... Bermuda & Caribbean .................................... Explorer of the SeasMay 19-26 ........................ Bermuda .......................................................... Celebrity SummitJune 9-16 ......................... Bermuda .......................................................... Celebrity SummitJune 13-22 ....................... Bermuda & Caribbean .................................... Explorer of the SeasJuly 6-11 .......................... Bermuda .......................................................... Explorer of the SeasAug 18-25 ........................ Bermuda .......................................................... Celebrity SummitAug 22-31 ........................ Bermuda & Caribbean .................................... Explorer of the SeasSept 1-7 ........................... Bermuda .......................................................... Celebrity SummitSept 7-21 ......................... New England & Canada ................................. Celebrity SummitOct 5-19 ........................... New England & Canada ................................. Celebrity SummitOct 13-20 ......................... Bermuda .......................................................... Explorer of the SeasJan 21-31, 2014 ............... Eastern Caribbean .......................................... Explorer of the Seas
ESCORTED MOTORCOACH TOURSJune 5-11 ....................Mackinac Island & Frankenmuth, MichiganJune 29 .......................“The Phantom of the Opera” Broadway Show: New York City, New YorkJuly 20 .........................“The Lion King” Broadway Show: New York City, New YorkAug 6-8 .......................Ride Ohio’s Buckeye RailsAug 10 ........................ Inner Harbor: Baltimore, MarylandOct 5 ...........................Statue of Liberty, Liberty State Park: Jersey City, New JerseyOct 14-18 ....................Cape Cod & Hyannis, Massachussetts
ESCORTED TOURSJune 10-19 ..............Reflections of ItalyAug 5-13 .................Nova Scotia & Prince Edward IslandOct 2-10 ..................IrelandOct 24-Nov 2 ..........Hawaii Three-island Adventure
Reserve early for best availability: Call 570-286-4507,email [email protected] or visit 1001 Market St, Sunbury.
MARCH 2013 AAA MOTORIST PAGE 13
PAGE 14 AAA MOTORIST MARCH 2013
MARCH 2013 AAA MOTORIST PAGE 15
FOR MORE INFORMATIONTrust AAA to steer you right on all your current and future Auto, Home and Life insurance needs. Combining your cover-age with one insurance company could make a significant difference in your pre-mium. Call 877.222.3974 to speak to an insurance professional.
Understanding the two main types of Life InsuranceHow to choose a policy that’s right for you
The 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 pur-chase 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 insur-ance 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 men-tioned previously, there are sub-types of coverage under whole life. In addition to this, each of the subcategory cover-age 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
keep up with these rising amounts. The premiums are higher when a person is younger. As the person ages, the premi-um amounts decrease. Insurers under-stand 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
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
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 individ-ual 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 ben-efits 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, dis-cuss concerns with an agent.
A SOUND INVESTMENT — Millions of people purchase whole life or term life each year.
If 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. • Blinkmoreoftentokeepeyesmoist.
• Take breaks from your computer torest your eyes.
• Visit your eye doctor annually tomonitor 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 pur-chase. 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.
Computer-related vision problems are on the rise
PAGE 16 AAA MOTORIST MARCH 2013
There’s always room at the top in Switzerland High altitude adventure in the land of the Alps
Switzerland may be a neutral country, but it is anything but colorless. Along with the jaw-dropping scenery this emi-
nently workable amalgam of German, French and Italian cultures gives a whole new meaning to the term diver-sity.
Zürich is Switzerland’s largest city and famous for its gnomes and finan-cial 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 equiva-lent 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 won-drous 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 magnifi-cent 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
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 combus-tion engines have been banned in the village since 1947, and Zermatt’s only
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 6.5-mile 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 pan-orama of 29 peaks above 13,000-feet, with the Matterhorn, the Queen of the Alps, right in the middle.
St. Moritz has become so synony-mous 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 quintes-sential 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 gradi-ent of 48% and return by a cable car that soars past rugged alpine peaks, divided by verdant green valleys.
IF YOU GOJoin 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 itiner-ary, trip details and information.
HIGH TIMES — The Gornergratbahn on the Findelbachbrücke, against the backdrop of the Matterhorn.
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
Give Yourself an Upgrade—
MARCH 2013 AAA MOTORIST PAGE 17
For nearly two decades Half Moon Cay — with its beauti-ful, 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 unin-habited 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 leg-ends. 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 schoo-ner on the beach, features outdoor rum-cask seating, cannon water misters and a signature rum punch.
Half Moon Cay offers shore excur-sions ranging from swimming with stingrays, to a horseback ride in the surf. Over the years, new amenities and shore excursions have been gradually
added to Half Moon Cay, always with an eye to protecting the island’s natu-ral 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 pro-vide 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
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 fea-tures 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.
Half Moon Cay is Holland America’s Island in the SunCelebrates 15-years as top private island experience
RIDE THE WILD SURF— Half Moon Cay’s surf-trained horses take visitors for a cool ride.
IF YOU GOLocated 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 INFORMATIONPlease see this month’s Departures Guide or log on to AAA.com/cruises for great vacation ideas from AAA.
PAGE 18 AAA MOTORIST MARCH 2013
The Space Coast is Florida’s final frontierJust one small step from Orlando
Florida’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 authen-ticity 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.
The Apollo 11 gantry arm and Apollo capsule model allow visitors to reenact the heart-pumping moments of count-down and launch, while the Mercury and Gemini capsules let you experience firsthand just how small early space-craft 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 mis-sions 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 rep-lication, 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 nat-ural surroundings. Space Coast beaches are ranked among Florida’s best and the quartz sand stretches for miles, with waters warmed by the Gulfstream.
NATURE MEETS TECHNOLOGY — Kennedy Space Center is located on the 140,000 acre Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge.
IF YOU GOPlease see this issue’s Departures Guide or log on to AAA.com/TravelPlanner for special values on Florida vacation pack-ages.
NATURE MEETS TECHNOLOGY — Kennedy Space Center is located on the NATURE MEETS TECHNOLOGY — Kennedy Space Center is located on the NATURE MEETS TECHNOLOGY —
Don’t get yourself in a rut this springHow to avoid the perils of pothole season
Potholes are as much a spring-time ritual as dandelions. No matter how hard you try to eliminate them there’s a bum-
per 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 mat-ter. The severity of the pothole dam-age 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 pot-holes 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
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 espe-cially 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 hit-ting 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 underes-timate the value of getting your align-ment 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 driv-ing safety.
FIXING A HOLE — Newer technology like this “Pothole Killer” provides safer, quicker and longer-lasting pothole repairs.
NO ACCIDENTPotholes 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 INFORMATIONVisit AAA.com for information on all things automotive including tips on buy-ing, operating and maintaining a vehicle.
MARCH 2013 AAA MOTORIST PAGE 19
Cruise ships say g’day to Australia & New ZealandRoyal Caribbean travels to the land Down Under
While there’s nothing like Australia, there’s also nothing like experienc-ing Australia with Royal
Caribbean. Vacationers can choose among 55 sailings that call at 56 beau-tiful South Pacific ports on 53 distinc-tive 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 desti-nations, 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 com-bines 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-to-face 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
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 stress-free 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 circum-navigate 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-
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 con-temporary 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 entertain-ment 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.
A WATERY WONDERAustralia’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 coast-line and astronauts have reported that it sparkles from space.
FOR MORE INFORMATIONPlease see this month’s Departures Guide or visit AAA.com/cruises for special mem-ber values on cruise vacations.
SIGHT SAILING — Royal Caribbean navigates between two of Sydney’s most famous landmarks — the Opera House and Harbour Bridge.
