OCTOBER 2017 VOL.1, ISSUE 8

PIONEER VALLEYYour AAA

On the cover: The Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland’s most visited attractions.

This Month Learn and Save

At AAA Travel EventsVisit AAA West Springfield this month to learn more about great destinations, packages and exclusive AAA Member benefits.

2018 Tours with AAA Member Choice Vacations: 6:30 p.m. Oct. 10.Pacific Coastal Cruise with Celebri-ty Cruises: 6:30 p.m. Nov. 8.

Visit AAA.com/TravelEvents or call 413-785-1381 for more information and to RSVP.

Don’t Miss Out On Great Savings Stay up-to-date on all the latest dis-counts, contests and special events by signing up for e-newsletters at AAA.com. Just click “Sign Up for Emails” on the bottom of the page, under the “Helpful Links” heading.

Get Special AAA Deals From SprintSwitch to Sprint and get up to $300 plus a free AAA Membership Renewal.

Learn more at AAA.com/Sprint.

Download and EnterIreland SweepstakesDownload the AAA Mobile app and enter for a chance to win a seven-day vacation to Ireland, includ-ing round-trip airfare from Bradley International Airport! Use the AAA Mobile app for trip planning, dis-counts, roadside assistance, creating itineraries and more.

Visit AAA.com/GetTheApp for more information.

RMV Services Available at AAA Visit the Hadley, Springfield and West Springfield offices for Massa-chusetts Registry of Motor Vehicle services, including license, regis-tration and state ID renewal and duplicates, replacement license plate stickers and more. Offices are open 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-7 p.m. on Thursday; and 9 a.m.-1 p.m. on Saturday.

Get eTourBooks With Just a SwipeTake advantage of AAA eTourBooks before your next vacation. More than 100 destinations can be easily accessed from your mobile device. Highlights include Diamond Rated hotels and restaurants and insider information from AAA inspectors.

Visit AAA.com/eTourBooks.

By Roberto X. Cruz

October is Car Care Month, and with a potentially harsh winter only a couple of months away, now is the perfect time to give your car a checkup.

As a AAA member, you can bring your vehicle to a AAA Approved Auto Repair facility during Car Care Month and request a free comprehensive safety inspection.

The free safety inspection is a helpful member benefit that can greatly reduce the chances of a breakdown, said Joe Ferraro, vice president of automotive services for AAA Pioneer Valley.

“A properly maintained vehicle costs its owner less mon-ey over time,” Ferraro said. “A regular safety check can help an owner identify a problem or potential problem before it gets worse and more expensive to fix.”

Members can request the free safety check – a $35 value – at any of the more than 7,000 AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities nationwide.

Show Your Car That You Care

Continued on page 18

Continued on page 16

A tunnel of illuminated pumpkins at The Great Jack O’ Lantern Blaze, held annually at Van Cortlandt Manor in Croton-on-Hudson, N.Y.

To-Do ListActivities in Your Area

A Place of Legend

Get Crafty and Shop LocallyPrepare for the colder months with handmade knitted

apparel, candles, body care products and more from indie crafters at the Fall Craft Fair. Hadley Town Commons. Oct. 14, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free.

Become a Pumpkin Connoisseur Put on your spookiest costume and head over to

the Franklin County Pumpkinfest for good food, music, children’s activities and pumpkin decorating for all ages. Avenue A, Turners Falls. Oct. 21, 2-9 p.m. Free.

Ease on Down to the ParkEnjoy food, live music, family activities, a Tractor &

Rag Shag parade, Halloween dance party, pancake break-fast and more at the annual Scarecrow in the Park celebra-tion. Cushman Park, Bernardston. Oct. 21-22. Free entry.

Embrace Your Inner RoadrunnerMarvel at the beautiful fall foliage as you pass

through scenic rural roads during the Happy Valley Half Marathon and 5K. Look Memorial Park, Florence. Oct. 22, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. $30-65.

Get Spooked by New England’s PastRing in Halloween by listening to tales of haunted

happenings from New England history. True stories from the 18th and 19th cen-turies will be told by can-dlelight in the Union Meet-inghouse at the Storrowton Village Museum in Spring-field. Oct. 27, 7-8 p.m. $7.

“If ever I should wish for a retreat whither I might steal from the world and its distractions, and dream quietly away the remnant of a troubled life, I know of none more promising than this little valley.”

It’s with these words that Washington Irving’s nameless narrator describes the now proverbial Westchester glen that sets the scene for his tale, “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.”

I picked up a hardcover copy of the classic on a recent weekend trip to Westchester County, N.Y. Reading it again after experiencing the sights and places that likely inspired Irving, I found that the picture of a seemingly bewitched, sheltered and unchanging respite rings true.

Close enough to see the silhouette of the Manhattan skyline and beautifully flanked by the changing colors of fall trees, yet far enough away to appreciate the slower pace of its charming downtown areas, historic properties and river view restaurants, Westchester is a worthwhile nearby escape.

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By Marisa Musto

What They Check Visibility: Safe drivers need to see and be seen. Yet nearly 20 percent of vehicles have headlights that are burned out or broken. Your technician will test the lights, mirrors, windshield wiper blades, horn and emergency flashers and inspect the windshield for cracks, pits and bull’s-eye breaks.

Fluids: Advancements in the manufacturing of automobile fluids, like motor oil, make them last longer than ever, but it’s still important to check them regularly.

OCTOBER 2017 | AAA PIONEER VALLEY

AAA estimates that Americans spend an average of 17,600 minutes driving each year. That translates into more than 293 hours, or just over 12 full days of driving time. That’s a lot of work for both car and driver.

We know the dangers when drivers are impaired, drowsy or distracted. We discuss that a lot in our educational out-reach and advocacy. We also know that well-maintained cars last longer than ever before. We talk about that as well, and it’s appropriate to do so now before winter.

October might be the most critical month when it comes to preparing for the weather ahead. That’s why AAA Pioneer Valley recognizes October as AAA Car Care Month, complete with opportunities for members to have their vehicles checked out.

When was the last time you changed your vehicle’s windshield wiper blades? How about making sure the summer heat didn’t drain the battery? When did you last change the oil or rotate the tires?

A recent AAA survey found that 64 million U.S. driv-ers could not pay for an unexpected vehicle repair without taking on debt, suggesting many Americans may not fully realize the costs associated with owning a vehicle. In 2016, that cost was over $8,500, with $800 allotted for repairs.

Here is where the AAA Approved Auto Repair program is one of your best member benefits. There are hundreds of local AAA Approved facilities, and thousands nationwide, that meet our stan-dards for training, equipment and customer service and satisfaction.

Handling maintenance issues before they arise – rather than waiting for them to escalate – is a good way to protect your car and your wallet.

AAA PIONEERVALLEY OFFICERS

Chairman of the BoardMichael Godek

Vice ChairJames Russell

President & CEOChris E. MensingCFO & TreasurerRobert M. Dwyer

AAA OFFICESADMINISTRATION150 Capital Drive

W. Springfield, MA 01089413-785-1381

CHICOPEE863 Montgomery StreetHOURS: Monday - Friday

9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.Insurance Services Only

GREENFIELD91 Main Street

HOURS: Monday - Friday9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

HADLEY458 Russell Street*

HOURS: Mon, Tue, Wed,Fri - 9 am - 5:30 pm;

Thursday - 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.Saturday - 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.Registry Services Available

SPRINGFIELD1891 Wilbraham Road*HOURS: Mon, Tue, Wed,Fri - 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Thursday - 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.Saturday - 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.Registry Services Available

WEST SPRINGFIELD150 Capital Drive*

HOURS: Mon, Tue, Wed,Fri - 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Thursday - 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.Saturday - 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.Registry Services Available*Insurance Services unavailable Saturday

Your AAA

Official Publication ofAAA Pioneer Valley EDITORIAL OFFICE150 Capital Drive

W. Springfield, MA 01089413-785-1381

editor@aaapv.com

PUBLISHER & EDITORMindy J. Ginley

TRAVEL EDITORSandra J. Marsian

Your AAA Pioneer Valley is published monthly except June and

August by AAA Pioneer Valley, 150 Capital Drive, W. Springfield, MA 01089 (USPS 002-740; ISSN

2475-689X). Subscription rate: 50 cents per annum with Periodicals Postage Paid at W. Springfield, MA.

POSTMASTER: Send address correction changes to AAA Pioneer Valley, 150 Capital Dr.,

West Springfield, MA 01089.

PIONEER VALLEY

SFI-00993

From the President’s Desk | Chris E. Mensing

AAA Discounts & Rewards: Check AAA.com/Discounts for discount listings, codes and restrictions. Offers and discounts subject to change without notice. *Online discounts only available through AAA.com/Discounts. Valid AAA membership card may be required at time of purchase. D

Attractions Entertainment Shopping Dining Hotels

BE PART OF THE SAVINGS GENERATION®

For how & where to save, go to AAA.com/Discounts

Steve and the boys kicked off the season with big savings.

10% OFF parts & accessories

FREE wiper blades with windshield repair or

replacement

15% OFF tickets*

10% OFF wheelrepair services

10% OFF all products & services at

10% OFF tires andautomotive services

10% OFF regularprice merchandise up to 30% OFF

A Little Car Maintenance Goes a Long Way

MEMBERSHIP2

AAA PIONEER VALLEY | OCTOBER 2017 MEMBERSHIP

WIN BIG WITH $25 IN FREE SLOT PLAY AND 25% OFF YOUR HOTEL ROOM RATE.

Sign up to become a NEW Momentum member and receive $25 in Free Slot Play plus 25% off your hotel room rate. Just mention NORTHEAST at any Player’s Club booth.

HOTEL, SPA & GOLF | ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE | SHOPPING | DINING

For more information, visit mohegansun.com.For room reservations, call 1.888.777.7922.

HOTEL PROMO CODE: CT17 | FREE SLOT PLAY CODE: 1084917 OFFER EXPIRES: 10/31/17

Problem Gambling? Call 1.800.522.4700.Must be a new Momentum member with no prior Player’s Club membership. Visit any Player’s Club

booth for official rules. Valid photo ID required. Valid at Mohegan Sun CT location only.

Hotel Offer is valid on stay dates NOW through November 30, 2017. Based on availability. Blackout dates may apply. Credit card deposit of one night’s room and tax is required upon booking. Rates are exclusive of all taxes and fees. Cancel two days

prior by 11:59pm to arrival date to avoid penalty charges or forfeiture of deposit.

3

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month.

So, tell your daughter, your mom, your friends, sisters and aunts – really, anyone you care about – that AAA can offer help with paying for important medicine.

Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in women, according to the American Cancer Society. If detect-ed early, there are a number of treatment options, including prescription medications. But they don’t come cheap.

Fighting any illness is difficult enough; paying for important medicine should not be.

The completely free, no-strings-attached AAA Prescription Savings Program has helped AAA Members save up to 75 percent on prescriptions not covered by insurance or pre-scriptions with high copays.

Show your AAA Prescription Savings card at the pharmacy, and you will get the best price. A staff member will compare the AAA price to your insurance price and charge you the lowest amount. There is no limit on the number of times AAA Prescription Savings can be used.

This service is available at more than 65,000 retail pharmacies nationwide, including CVS, Rite Aid and Walgreens.

Save Money on PrescriptionsPartner Spotlight

To find out more, visit AAA.com/Prescriptions, where you can also download and print your card, or get a digital version by downloading the AAA Mobile app.

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While It’s Hot

UNIVERSALGet 10 percent off at participating food/

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HERTZ Save $5 a day (up to $35) on weekend and weekly base rentals

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vehicle pickup through Nov. 30.

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For more, visit AAA.com/Discounts.

OCTOBER 2017 | AAA PIONEER VALLEY

PUBLICATION: AAA Pioneer TravelSECTION: Journal AdTRIM SIZE: 3.75” W x 6.5” DCOLOR: CMYKINSERTION DATE: n/aMATERIALS DUE: July 14, 2017APPROVED BY: RC/EO/HM

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By Roberto X. Cruz

Extended Warranties

Nobody wants an unex-pected car repair bill. An extended warranty is a safeguard against that headache.

An extended warranty is a contract that says the war-ranty provider will pay for repairs to important vehicle components if they fail. It can be purchased for new or pre-owned vehicles.

Most new cars roll out of the factory with some sort of manufacturer warranty.

An extended warranty picks up where these warranties leave off. In addition to the powertrain, an extended warranty will typically cover faulty suspension parts, cooling systems, brakes and electronics.

What these warranties do not cover are routine car care services such as oil changes and brake pad replacements. They usually do not cover body panel damage or theft, either.

Your Money Savings Generation®

AAA saves you time, money and worry AAA Members can get a great price on an extended warranty through the AAA Vehicle Extended Service

Plan. Plans are competitively priced and repairs can be made at any licensed repair facility in the nation. Get a

free quote at AAA.com/Warranty.

How Do I Get One? An extended warranty can be purchased when you buy a vehicle at the dealership, or later from an indepen-dent warranty provider.

The price you pay de-pends on factors such as the type of vehicle, its age and its mileage, said Shelly Lynn, who administers the AAA Vehicle Extended Ser-vice Plan. It also depends how long you would like the coverage.

Are There Deductibles? Some plans charge be-tween $50-$100 for deduct-ibles. Zero-deductible plans are also available.

Where Do I Get My Repairs?Drivers who buy a warranty from a manufacturer can have the vehicle serviced at any licensed dealership.

Those who buy from an independent provider can either choose from any li-

censed facility or select from a specific network of facili-ties chosen by the provider.

When Does It Make Sense?Drivers who bought a new car should examine the manufacturer warranty. Find out if an extended warran-ty would kick in after the factory warranty expires or when the powertrain war-ranty expires.

Drivers who plan to trade in their vehicle before the manufacturer warranty ex-pires may not benefit from an extended warranty.

However, some extended warranties are transferable.

An extended warranty can-not be purchased to cover a current problem with a car.

What it can do is provide peace of mind, said Steve Brochu, the vice president of insurance services for

AAA Pioneer Valley.

“You never know when you might experience car troubles, but with an extended warranty, you will know that you won’t walk out of the repair shop with a huge bill for a major repair,” Brochu said.

INSURANCE & FINANCIAL4

AAA PIONEER VALLEY | OCTOBER 2017

Free AAA Membership RenewalSprint will pay for your annual AAA membership renewal fee for as long as you remain a Sprint customer.Free AAA Classic or Basic membership. Renewal reqs. 1 active phone line of svc, AAA member number, and req. reg. at sprint.com/AAA w/in 30 days of phone activ.

Activ. Fee: Up to $30/line. Credit approval req. Offers for AAA Members: For a limited time. AAA Renewal Offer: Ends 12/31/17 Avail. for active AAA members. Limit 1 free Classic/Basic renewal fee per yr. per AAA member number. Classic/Basic renewal fee may be applied to AAA Plus or Premier fee. Fees paid by Sprint are non-refundable & non-transferable. Sprint Acct. must remain active & in good standing to receive offers. Excl. CL, MBB devices, tablets, Sprint Phone Connect. Other Terms: Offers/coverage not avail. everywhere or for all phones/networks. May not be combinable with other offers. Offers subject to change according to AAA’s agreement with Sprint and may be modified, discontinued or terminated at any time without notice. Restrictions apply. @ 2017 Sprint. All rights reserved. Sprint & logo are trademarks of Sprint. Other marks are property of their respective owners.

Learn More: AAA.com/sprint | 1 (800) 754-6907

Find your nearest Sprint store: Sprint.com/aaa

As a AAA member, you are also eligible to receive a special Sprint discount on monthly service. Take advantage of this incredible offer and start enjoying all the benefits — and peace of mind!

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INSURANCE & FINANCIAL 5

Insurance Confidential

How to Vet a ContractorBy Roberto X. Cruz

Thanks to video-sharing websites like YouTube, it takes less than 10 minutes for a homeowner to learn how to replace a toilet, install a window or build a secret passageway behind a bookcase.

If only it were that easy to hire a general contractor.

It takes time to find the right fit for a major home renovation project. But hiring a contractor without thoroughly vetting him or her first is like giving a complete stranger a wad of $100 bills and hoping they come back with groceries.

You might feel awkward peppering a prospec-tive builder with questions about work history and safety practices, but you deserve answers to these and other important questions before any money changes hands.

Here are a few.

Can I see your license? Ask for proof that the contractor is licensed, bonded and insured. If a contractor is unable to produce these documents, do not hire him or her, said Denice Turcotte, insurance manager for AAA Pioneer Valley. “It’s a risk you don’t want to take,” she said.

Are you insured?

The contractor should have general liability in-surance, for damage to your home, and workers compensation insurance, in case a worker gets hurt on your property. If the contractor does not

have insurance, you could be held liable.

How much? Obviously, price plays an important role in the contractor you choose, but don’t let it be the only factor, said Steffanie Finkiewicz, senior public relations manager for HomeAdvisor, a home improvement website. “What you want is someone who can do quality work at a fair price,” she said. Seek at least three bids and ask each company to provide an itemized list of ex-penses. Confirm that the list accounts for every aspect of the project, including building permits and trash removal.

Can you give me a timeline? Unexpected issues might come up, but an ex-perienced contractor should be able to give you start and end dates. Include these in a formal le-gal document when you choose your contractor.

What permits are required? Permits ensure that the builder will adhere to construction codes. The contractor should offer to pull all the necessary permits, which will save you time and the headache of answering compli-cated questions from the building inspector.

Who will be in my home?Big projects take time, and during those days or weeks, workers may be inside your home when you are not. If the contractor is not the foreman who will run the project, ask to meet that person and make sure it’s someone you trust.

Do you stand by your work? Ask what kind of warranty the contractor provides for his or her work. Insist on a written warranty – rather than a verbal agreement – for parts and la-bor. An average warranty for labor is a minimum Im

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of one year, according to HomeAdvisor.

What is your payment schedule? This will depend on the size of the project. For smaller jobs, payments are often made upon completion. For larger projects, the contrac-tor should provide a detailed payment plan, known as a draw schedule, listing when pay-ments are due. For large jobs, contractors typi-cally require a down payment of 10 percent, according to HomeAdvisor. Never pay more than 50 percent up front. Never pay with cash, either. A check or credit card is a much better option.

With these questions answered, you should be able to make an informed decision on a contrac-tor. But make sure everything you agreed upon is in a written contract.

Any home project can have insurance implica-tions. Before you begin, make sure the work will adhere to requirements set forth by your insurer.

For more information on how a home renova-tion project could affect your insurance, go to AAA.com/Insurance or call 413-785-1381.

OCTOBER 2017 | AAA PIONEER VALLEY

7 NIGHT EASTERN/WESTERN CARIBBEANNOVEMBER, DECEMBER 2017 & JANUARY 2018

Harmony of the Seas®

Sailing from Ft. Lauderdale, FL

FROM $1,164* USD PER PERSON

Taxes, fees and port expenses of up to $108.66 per person are additional and subject to change.

Allure of the Seas®

Sailing from Ft. Lauderdale, FL

FROM $924* USD PER PERSON

Taxes, fees and port expenses of up to $109.74 per person are additional and subject to change.

Call or visit your nearest AAA Travel Agent today 413-785-1381 | A AA.com/Travel

* Prices are per person, cruise only, based on double occupancy in interior stateroom and in U.S. dollars. All itineraries are subject to change without notice. Prices are subject to availability and change without notice. Certain restrictions apply. ©2017 Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Ships’ registry: The Bahamas. 17057931 • 07/27/2017

B I G G E S T , B O L D E S TA D V E N T U R E A T S E A

INSURANCE & FINANCIAL6

Discover Bank

TrustHigher Earnings1

Member Benefits

Open a AAA Savings Account today: 1.800.347.7056 • AAA.com/Deposits • Invitation Code: AAABONUS

1The APY for the Online Savings Account as of 7/26/17 is more than five times the national average APY for an interest bearing savings account with a balance of $500 as reported by Informa Research Services, Inc. as of 7/26/17. APYs are subject to change at any time. Although the information provided by Informa Research Services has been obtained from the various institutions, accuracy cannot be guaranteed.

2Annual Percentage Yield (APY). Applies to personal accounts only. Advertised Online Savings Account APY is accurate as of 7/26/17 and subject to change daily without notice. APY may change before or after the account is opened. Fees could reduce earnings on the account. There is no minimum deposit required to open the account.

3To get your $150 or $200 Bonus offer: What to do: Apply for your first AAA Online Savings Account from Discover Bank by 10/31/17. Enter Offer Code AAABONUS when applying. Deposit a total of at least $15,000 into your account by 11/15/17 to earn a $150 Bonus or deposit a total of at least $20,000 into your account by 11/15/17 to earn a $200 Bonus. Maximum bonus eligibility is $200 per account. What to know: Offer not valid for existing or prior AAA savings customers. Account must be open when bonus is credited. Bonus will be credited to the account by 11/30/17. Bonus is considered interest and will be reported on IRS Form 1099-INT. Offer may be modified/withdrawn without notice.

© 2017 Discover Bank, Member FDIC

AS OF 7/26/17NO MINIMUM OPENING DEPOSIT

1.10% APY2

AAA SAVINGS ACCOUNT Earn a Bonus!3 OPEN YOUR FIRST AAA SAVINGS ACCOUNT BY 10/31/17 FUND YOUR ACCOUNT BY 11/15/17

$15,000 TOTAL DEPOSIT REQUIRED3

$150BONUS

$20,000 TOTAL DEPOSIT REQUIRED3

$200BONUS

Go online to see our great rates on CDs, IRA CDs and Money Market Accounts.

Calculating auto insurance rates is far from a cut-and-dry process. Premiums are influenced by a variety of factors.

Your CarThe more expensive your car, the more expensive it may be to repair and insure.

Your Driving HabitsYour chance of being in a crash increases the more you drive. Greater risk typically means higher premiums.

Where You LiveUrban dwellers usually have higher premiums than those in rural areas because the risk of accidents, theft and vandalism grows with popula-tion density.

Your Driving RecordSomeone with multiple accidents or moving violations is a greater risk

An increasing number of auto insurance consumers are experiencing bait-and-switch tactics when they receive their policy and bill-ing statements, said Steve Brochu, vice president of insurance for Pioneer Valley. In response, Massachusetts state legislators have filed a bill requiring insurers to verify an applicant’s driving history before providing a quote or accepting a down payment on a policy.

“This is a great step in protecting consumers who pur-chase auto insurance from certain direct and online insur-ance carriers and then receive an increase a month later when they receive their policy and billing statements,” Brochu said.

“AAA Insurance agents verify driving records for all con-sumers, as do most other independent insurance agencies operating in the commonwealth, so this bill will protect consumers from bait-and-switch tactics,” Brochu said.

Consumers who receive a quote from a direct writer or an online insurance company should ask if their driving record was verified and ensure that their quoted premium will not change.

Stick to the Facts

Don’t Get Caught in a Bait and Switch

than someone with a clean driving record. Insurance premiums follow accordingly.

Your CoverageHaving a higher deductible can lower your premium because it decreases what your insurance company would have to pay. Having higher limits or optional coverage, like collision, can mean higher premiums because they increase what an insurance company might have to pay.

Credit RatingCalifornia, Hawaii and Massachusetts are the only states where insurance companies cannot use drivers’ credit ratings to influence auto insurance premiums. Elsewhere, drivers with poor credit may have higher rates than those with good credit ratings.

AAA.com/Insurance

For more information, visit AAA.com/Insurance.

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AAA PIONEER VALLEY | OCTOBER 2017 7

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ALL: Rate valid on new bookings only. Rates are per person based on double occupancy, unless otherwise noted. Rates, offer and itinerary shown are current at time of print, capacity controlled and subject to change and availability. AAA does not assume responsibility for any errors or omissions in the content of the offers displayed. Ask your AAA Pioneer Valley travel agent for best rate and full terms and conditions at time of booking. Other restrictions may apply.Royal Caribbean, Holland America, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises: *Rates are based on cruise only, including port charges, taxes, government fees, fuel surcharges and any other applicable vendor surcharges. Age restrictions may apply to certain AAA Vacations benefits. Offer is not combinable with any other offer or promotion, including but not limited to, Shareholder benefits, Future or Next Cruise offers, promotions, or benefits. AAA Vacations Best Price Guarantee and 24 X 7 Member Care are applicable to AAA members only.Pleasant Holidays: §Rate is based on land only. Rates, terms, conditions and itinerary are subject to availability. Certain restrictions apply. Rate shown includes government-imposed fees and taxes. Rate is current as of 8/25/17; at the time you purchase your package, rates may be higher. For current prices, please see your travel professional.Universal Orlando Resort™: ^Rate is per adult, per night, tax inclusive and based on double adult occupancy for a 4-night stay at the Rosen Inn International, Standard Room. Subject to availability, room type, hotel, and travel dates selected. Rate valid for bookings now – 12/14/17 with travel 5/25/17 – 12/31/17. 4 Night Minimum Required. Reservation must be made 72 hours in advance.

Additional hotels, rates and travel dates available. Universal Parks & Resorts Vacations is registered with the State of Florida as a seller of travel. Registration number ST-24215. Universal elements and all related indicia TM & © 2017 Universal Studios. All rights reserved. AAA Exclusive Vacations is a d/b/a of Member Select Vacations LLC. AAA does not assume responsibility for any errors or omissions in the content of the offers displayed. AAA Exclusive Vacations reserves the exclusive right to change or cancel itineraries, hotels, and other tour components whenever it is deemed necessary. If this occurs, every effort will be made to offer alternate dates, hotels or other tour components. Please note: This is a hosted package. Travelers will not be escorted to all activities and functions. Your City Ambassador will be available to answer questions through the duration of the tour. Ask your AAA Travel agent for best rate and full terms and conditions at time of booking. Restrictions may apply. CST# 2125005-50 †Rates are land only, per person, based on double occupancy and subject to availability and terms and conditions. Package shown is current at time of print, capacity controlled and subject to change and availability. *AAA Vacations® Best Price Guarantee and 24/7 Member Care are applicable to AAA Members only. If you book a qualifying AAA Vacations® cruise or tour package and find a valid better rate for the exact itinerary within 24 hours of your booking, AAA will match the lower rate and send you a $50 AAA Vacations® future travel credit certificate. Certain restrictions apply. Visit AAA.com/AAAVacations for full details.

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Go to AAA.com/GetTheApp to download and enter now!

The AAA Mobile app lets you:• Request and track roadside assistance• Add a digital membership card to your mobile device• Book and save on hotels, cars and flights• Find exclusive member discounts• Manage membership details and so much more

Download the AAA Mobile app by December 31, 2017and click on the sweepstakes button to enter for a chance to

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Sweepstakes. No purchase or AAA Membership necessary to enter or win. Membership will not increase odds of winning. Enter via AAA mobile app, internet entry or by mail. Odds of winning depend on number of entries received. Must reside in AAA Pioneer Valley territory to enter. For complete sweepstakes rules, prize information and internet entry forms, go to AAA.com/GetTheApp. See terms of use for additional information on the app.

LIFESTYLE8

With their huge menus, mom-and-pop opera-tions, and all the food you love, diners offer the ultimate in All-American eating.

The Breakfast Club270 Western Ave., Allston, Mass.The bountiful breakfasts and oversized sandwich-es at The Breakfast Club draw a loyal clientele. Huge omelets stuffed with your favorite fillings and the fire bomb Benedict, served with shaved steak and a spicy hollandaise sauce, will really light up your morning.

Busy Bee1046 Beacon St., Brookline, Mass.Head here for the best basic breakfast in Brook-line. The throwback greasy spoon offers comfort food like pancakes chock full of blueberries for breakfast, a Greek salad topped with chicken for lunch, and classics like Salisbury steak and Yan-kee pot roast for dinner.

Dave’s Diner390 W. Grove St., Middleborough, Mass.Dave’s menu boasts everything from meatloaf sandwiches to malted waffles, chicken parm to chocolate cake, and hand-packed burgers to fresh-baked blueberry pie. Phantom recommends the cranberry-apple nut pancakes for breakfast and the fried chicken for lunch or dinner.

Deluxe Depot Diner417 Waverly St., Framingham, Mass.Breakfast classics include Deluxe Depot’s famous

Great 8 | Finer Diners

The Grand Marnier French toast at Roundabout Diner in Portsmouth, N.H., is topped with fresh strawberries and whipped cream.

By Phantom Gourmet

Catch the “Phantom Gourmet” on TV every weekend. For listings and times, visit www.phantomgourmet.com.

flapjacks. The kitchen griddles up six varieties of pancakes, including sweet potato, French Aca-dian style, stoneground blue corn and signature deluxe flapjacks made with sour cream and buttermilk.

Maine Diner2265 Post Road, Wells, MaineYou’ll find lobster quiche, lobster salad and out-standing lobster rolls at this ultra-popular dining destination. The lobster pie is the best Phantom has ever had, packed with loads of claw and tail meat under a buttery cracker crumb topping. For breakfast, the luxurious lobster Benedict is drenched in homemade hollandaise sauce.

Red Wing Diner2235 Providence Highway, Walpole, Mass.This eatery has been stuffing hungry customers with fresh seafood, crispy bar pizzas and indul-gent comfort food for over 80 years. Fried clams here are fabulous on their own, but even better as part of the Red Wing’s fisherman’s platter, overloaded with whole-bellied clams, scallops, shrimp, haddock, fries and addictive onion rings.

Roundabout Diner580 Portsmouth Traffic Circle, Portsmouth, N.H.This spot serves up huge portions of homestyle comfort food with a twist. So there’s an omelet stuffed with pulled pork, big burgers garnished with fried pickles, and homemade potato chips dripping with blue cheese. Don’t leave without getting a slice of the famous banana cream pie.

Ugly Mug Diner122 Washington St., Salem, Mass. Come here for the huevos rancheros, served like a seven-layer dip, and an upscale twist on chick-en and waffles made with duck confit, candied pecans and bourbon-maple syrup. Phantom’s favorite dish is the Elvis waffle, baked with pea-nut butter and chocolate chips and topped with bananas and whipped cream. And yes, there’s even a collection of ugly coffee mugs.

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AAA PIONEER VALLEY | OCTOBER 2017 LIFESTYLE 9

ONE-DAY TOURS

Oct. 29 - Granite State Oktoberfest...........$98Stop at Grafton Village Cheese in Brattleboro on the way to The Inn at East Hill Farm for an Oktoberfest luncheon with a German Oompah Band.

Nov. 19 - Radio City....................................$164Reserved orchestra seats; free time in NYC for shopping

MULTI-DAY ESCORTED TOUR

Dec. 4-6 - 3-Day Cape May Christmas.....$6492 nights at the Grand Hotel, Cape May; welcome cocktails, lunch at the Chart House; sightseeing and Holly Trolley Tour; Cape May Light & Cape May Diamonds; Christmas Spectacular at Radio City; 2 full breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners

2017Motorcoach Tours

Book Early - Space is Limited!

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Last time you made it to the gym or chose fruit over ice cream for dessert, you prob-ably didn’t think, “I’m reducing my risk of breast cancer.” But you should have.

Because while most of us have heard of the BRCA gene mutation and the importance of mammograms, maintaining a healthy weight through proper diet and exercise can also make a difference in a woman’s breast cancer risk. “I think those are two [factors] that women don’t pay as much at-tention to,” said Rita Musanti, a professor of oncology nursing at Rutgers University. “We have an overweight society.”

She advises that women investigate op-tions such as the Mediterranean diet, which includes lots of fruits and vegetables as well as healthy fats, and the latest exercise rec-ommendations – establishing good habits and educating their mothers, daughters and sisters as well.

“We don’t know the specifics of why a healthy weight reduces the risk of certain cancers,” Musanti said. But we do know that lifetime ex-posure to estrogen is linked to breast cancer risk, and that fatty tissue produces estrogen. So the more fat in a woman’s body, the more estrogen she’s exposed to.

Hormone therapies are another way we can be exposed to estrogen. In younger women, this means hormonal birth control, though Musanti says that low-dose birth control appears to be safe in young women because the estrogen is balanced out by the hormone progestin. For post-menopausal women, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can relieve symptoms of menopause and help prevent osteoporosis, but can increase breast cancer risk. The current recommenda-tion is that women limit their HRT use to no more than five years, Musanti said.

According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, 1 in 8 women will be diag-nosed with breast cancer in her lifetime, with more than 40,000 women in the U.S. dying every year.

Breast cancer in men, how-ever, receives significantly less attention. It’s easy to see why – men account for less than 1 percent of all breast cancer diagnoses.

But the percentage of men diagnosed with breast can-cer who die from the dis-ease is similar to that ratio among women. And early detection in men has its challenges. While it’s easier

Know Your Risks For Breast Cancer

Breast Cancer Isn’t Just A Women’s Disease

By Christina Elston

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Women who have mammograms to screen for breast cancer should also find out whether they have dense breasts, which can make cancers harder to spot. For these women, 3-D mammography and other imaging technology may be recommended. Musanti recommends asking for your test results, or using an online patient portal if your health care provider offers one, to check them.

Decisions about birth control, HRT and how often you have a mammogram should be made with your health care provider, who should look at all your risk factors – those that can be modified (such as weight and hormone-therapy exposure) and those that can’t (such as genetics, family history and age). “If women are going to a health care provider that’s not talking to them about prevention, they might want to con-sider getting another health care provider,” said Musanti.

Prepare for these discussions with infor-mation from the following websites: the National Cancer Institute (www.cancer.gov), the American Cancer Society (www.cancer.org) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (www.cdc.gov). “Those three sites are going to offer women reliable information about preventative services they should be seeking,” Musanti said. “I can’t stress enough that education is really important to help women understand the questions to ask.”

Arrive at your next appointment with a checklist, so you and your doctor can make a plan.

to spot breast tumors in men because they have less breast tissue than women, it also means that cancer has a shorter distance to travel to reach tissues or lymph nodes through which it can spread, according to the American Cancer Society.

Males have higher breast cancer risks if they have family members – male or female – with the disease. Aging, the BRCA gene mu-tation, radiation exposure, heavy consumption of alco-hol, liver disease and obesity can also heighten risk.

Symptoms of breast cancer in men include breast lumps or swelling, skin

dimpling or puckering, a nipple that turns inward, nipple discharge and red-ness or scaling of breasts or nipples.

Early detection is import-ant. Men with a family history of breast cancer should talk to their doctors about managing risks, and should report any breast lumps as early as possible, according to the society.

For more information, visit www.cancer.org and search “breast cancer in men.”

LIFESTYLE OCTOBER 2017 | AAA PIONEER VALLEY10

Fill your diet with superfoods that address women’s health concerns with these healthy, yet flavorful, recipes.

By Cassandra Raposo

Food for All

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Superfoods Just Right for Women’s HealthThis light nighttime snack will satisfy your sweet tooth and your need for daily nutri-

ents, according to the National Osteo-porosis Foundation. The vanilla yogurt panna cotta is notable for its toppings: Just add raspberries, or another choice of fruit, plus honey and flaxseeds for a dessert rich in calcium, protein, folate and fiber. Visit https://cdn.nor.org for the recipe.

The American Cancer Soci-ety thinks you should have your pizza and eat it, too. But this pizza is loaded with

cancer-fighting ingredients like eggplant, artichokes and tomatoes. For details, visit www.cancer.org.

When thinking of building strong bones, a cheesy Ital-ian meal prob-ably doesn’t come to mind. But this spin-

ach and ricotta cannelloni from the National Osteoporosis Foundation is loaded with nutrients such as calcium, iron and protein that give you an edge against bone disease. Visit https://cdn.nof.org for the recipe.

Nothing says fall like a stuffed squash recipe, and one that protects against

heart disease is even better. This cous-cous-stuffed acorn squash from the American Heart Association is low in cholesterol and high in healthy unsatu-rated fats, making it a hearty choice for your health. Stuff with spinach, cous-cous and walnuts, then top it off with a drizzle of maple syrup and a sprinkle of blue cheese crumbles. Visit https://recipes.heart.org for details.

Look no further than the Amer-ican Heart Association’s white bean hummus wrap for

a heart-healthy sandwich. Choose a multigrain wrap, fill it with creamy white bean hummus, and add avocado, bell pepper, cucumber or any combination of vegetables to add a tasty crunch. Visit https://recipes.heart.org for the recipe.

Good news: You can enjoy a yummy ri-sotto that’s low in carbs and un-healthy fats

by adding pumpkin. This side dish from American Diabetes Association is also made healthier by substituting olive oil and yogurt for butter and cream. Visit www.diabetes.org for details.

Sweet n’ Wholesome

A Slice of Veggie Heaven

Savor the Flavor

Stuff to Your Heart’s Desire

Wrap up Your Meal

A Fall Staple

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AAA TrainerBoost Your BonesBy Cassandra Raposo

It’s never too late to strengthen your bones and help pre-vent osteoporosis. According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, about 80 percent of the 10 million Americans with osteoporosis are women. Here are some exercises recommended by the foundation to improve your posture, flexibility, strength and movement.

PostureTo improve posture, try an exercise called the “corner stretch.” Stand in a corner of a room, facing the corner, with your arms raised at shoulder level. Step one foot forward and bend that knee, then lean on the extended leg and bring your head and chest toward the corner. Hold this for 20-30 seconds, then repeat with the other leg. Do this twice on each side, three times a week.

Hip StrengtheningStand straight and hold on to the back of a chair. Place your other hand on your hip and raise that leg straight out to the side, with your toes pointing forward. Lower the leg and repeat 10 times. Do the same with the other leg. Do this two to three times a week.

Leg StrengtheningProne leg lifts can help strengthen your legs and lower back. Lie face down with your hands at your sides and

place towels under your fore-head, shoulders and abdomen for comfort. Then, bend your right leg and lift your thigh off of the floor, keeping your foot relaxed. Repeat 10 times on each leg. Do this two to three times a week.

BalanceToe raises are great for improving balance. First, stand straight and hold on to the back of a chair. Next, rise up on your toes and imagine you’re moving your head up to the ceiling. Then fall back on your heels. Repeat this 10 times a day.

Back StrengtheningA wall slide can strengthen your back and im-prove posture. Stand with your back to a wall, with your heels one shoe-length away from the wall. Keep your feet straight and shoul-der-width apart. Then, place your buttocks, palms of your hands and shoulders against the wall. Tuck your chin in and slide up and down, bending your knees halfway to a sitting position. Repeat 10 times, two to three times a week.

Consult a physician before beginning any new exercise routine, especially if you have low bone density or have recently broken a bone.

AAA PIONEER VALLEY | OCTOBER 2017

No matter where you are in life, combining your auto and home insurance through AAA will save you money, time, and hassles, too. AAA insurance agents can compare major insurers to find you the right policy—and even help with claims. Whether you own or rent, drive a sports car or sedan, our agents are always ready to help you save.

DIFFERENT AGES, DIFFERENT STAGES—BOTH SAVING BIG ON AUTO & HOME INSURANCE.

BE PART OF THE SAVINGS GENERATION™

Get your quote today! AAA.com/QuoteNow or 413-785-1381

Products and rates may vary. Insurance may be offered through Pioneer Valley Automobile Club Insurance Agency, Inc. Advance purchase required. Some restrictions may apply.

AUTO + HOME LIFE

LIFESTYLE 11

Work-Life Wellness Is As Easy – and Messy – As PieWork-life balance is a goal many of us, especially women, like to chase. But Samantha Ettus, author of “The Pie Life: A Guilt-Free Recipe for Success and Satisfaction,” says it’s an impossible dream.

“I instead like to think of work-life wellness,” Ettus said, “because that’s something we can all achieve.”

How? With pie. Ettus’ life-wellness model has seven slices: Health, friends, hobbies, commu-nity, career, relationship and family. And living a fulfilling life means devoting time to each. “When your life is too heavily weighted in one slice or one area, you end up really neglecting the other areas of your life,” she said.

Round out your pie by first looking at how much time you’re devoting to each different area. Don’t beat yourself up over areas you’re neglecting, but do make goals that will shift your focus. If you aren’t spending enough time on the relationship slice, maybe it’s time for a weekly date night. Hob-bies and friends getting less of your attention? Join a crafting class with a pal.

Yes, you can multitask. Just make your goals – especially your health goals – achievable. “A lot of times, we put such weighty goals on ourselves in the health slice that we end up giving up on those really fast,” Ettus said. “I like to think of wellness as having a margarita with a friend. That’s just as good for your health as going on the latest diet or following a fitness craze. It’s really important that

you spend time in relationships that are creating joy for you.”

You can hike with your partner on the weekend, play soccer with the kids or join an exercise class with a pal or two. “There’s a lot of ways to incorpo-rate our fitness with the other slices,” Ettus said.

She has noticed that women often focus on perfec-tion, and will drop everything else to focus on one particular area of their lives, whether that’s being a great parent or having a great career. But hobbies, friends, relationships and fun are not luxury items. They actually make us more productive. “The most fulfilled people are those who are involved in six or seven slices of their lives, not just two or three,” she said. “We forget that all of these different things create an ecosystem for fulfillment.”

There’s one thing, however, that Ettus does want you to leave out of your life-wellness pie. “One ingredient that is not something that I mention is guilt,” she said. Feeling guilty because your life isn’t perfect will spoil the whole recipe. “Your health suffers when you feel guilty, your emotions suffer, the relationships around you suffer, your productivity suffers. Nobody wins.”

Instead, let your life be messy, just like a good homemade pie. And know that even the smallest changes could lead to a more fulfilling life. “You already have all of the ingredients you need to-day,” Ettus said. “It’s just a matter of fixing up the recipe a little bit.”

By Christina Elston

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OCTOBER 2017 | AAA PIONEER VALLEY

SHOP AAA!Get low member-only prices on luggage, car and travel accessories and more

Visit your nearest AAA office for all of your travel needsStop by or call 413-785-1381 to check availability

Premier Members save an additional 5% on travel accessories, travel bags and luggage. Selection may vary by location.

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The whole family can save up to 75% on prescriptions for free!

Pets are family too! Save on many pet medications to keep them healthy and happy. Just ask your vet to write a prescription you can take to your local pharmacy. Already have a prescription? Take the bottle to your pharmacist to transfer the prescription and receive your AAA savings.

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MEMBERS: Fill in your AAA club code and AAA member number on the front of this card. Your pharmacist may also ask to see your AAA membership card. You must have an active AAA membership to participate in Prescription Savings. For a list of participating pharmacies, visit www.AAA.com/prescriptions or call 1-866-AAA-SAVE.

PHARMACIST: For pet claims, submit RxGRP as APET followed by 3-digit club code from front of card. Along with Member ID number located on front of this card, please use a person code of 01 for all members/claims (including pet prescriptions). Call toll-free: 1-800-364-6331

Keep this card with your AAA membership card.1-866-AAA-SAVE (1-866-222-7283)

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MEMBERS: Fill in your AAA club code and AAA member number on the front of this card. Your pharmacist may also ask to see your AAA membership card. You must have an active AAA membership to participate in Prescription Savings. For a list of participating pharmacies, visit www.AAA.com/prescriptions or call 1-866-AAA-SAVE.

PHARMACIST: For pet claims, submit RxGRP as APET followed by 3-digit club code from front of card. Along with Member ID number located on front of this card, please use a person code of 01 for all members/claims (including pet prescriptions). Call toll-free: 1-800-364-6331

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LIFESTYLE12

It’s Never Too Late To Help Your HeartThe No. 1 threat to a wom-an’s health in the United States comes in the form of a silent killer: heart disease.

It’s known as a silent killer because women are less likely to get help when they experience symptoms of a heart attack.

A woman dies every 80 sec-onds from the disease, says Dr. Suzanne Steinbaum, attending cardiologist and director of Women’s Heart Health of Northwell Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City.

“It’s important to raise aware-ness because 80 percent of the time, heart disease is pre-ventable,” said Steinbaum, who is also a spokesperson for the American Heart Asso-ciation’s Go Red for Women movement. “It’s never too late to change your future.”

Symptoms in Women The classic symptoms of a heart attack are chest pain, discomfort in areas of the upper body and shortness of breath.

The signs of a heart attack in a woman are different, Stein-baum said. They’re subtler: lightheadedness, slight pressure in the chest area, nausea, sweating and jaw or back pain. They’re signs that women often dismiss as stress or the flu, but can be dangerous if ignored.

Common MythsSome common myths as-sociated with heart disease deter women from getting a proper diagnosis, Steinbaum said. One is that heart dis-ease only strikes older men.

Another is that a young, healthy woman can’t have heart disease. Women who seek help for heart disease symptoms know they of-ten won’t be taken seri-ously, Steinbaum said. If they’re young, thin and follow a healthy diet, they might be misdiagnosed because they don’t fit the image of a stereotypical heart disease patient.

Steinbaum believes women should learn the risk factors of heart disease, check

their family history and take control of their health.

“Another myth is that if heart disease is in your family, there’s nothing you can do,” she said. “You can fight your family history; you just have to know it first.”

What You Can Do Steinbaum’s advice is to schedule what Go Red for Women calls a “well-wom-an” visit with your doctor to discuss screening for early signs of heart disease. The goal is to be aware of five key numbers: your total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, blood pressure, blood sugar and body mass index figures.

If your total cholesterol, blood pressure and blood sugar are too high, and/or your HDL cholesterol is too low, your doctor can talk to you about changing your life-style to mitigate those risks.

Risk factors you can change include smoking, high blood pressure and cholesterol levels, being inactive and eating a poor diet. Stein-baum recommends loading up on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, beans and foods packed with ome-ga-3 and other unsaturated fats. Essentially, eat like they do in the Mediterranean.

Risk factors you can’t change include having diabetes, a family history of heart disease, your gender, race and age. If a first-de-gree relative has suffered a heart attack, or you have in-herited high blood pressure or high cholesterol from your family, you might be at risk of developing heart dis-ease. Getting older is also a factor – normally, men are at greater risk of heart dis-

ease, but a woman’s risk matches a man’s after menopause.

Knowing your numbers is the key to form-ing a healthy

roadmap. Talk to your doctor

about getting screened so

that you can join the millions of wom-en who have taken a proactive role in their heart health.

By Cassandra Raposo

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TRAVELAAA PIONEER VALLEY | OCTOBER 2017 13

H

Top 10 Things We Love in… Austin, Texas

By Katie McElveen

yper chic, yet quirky and casual, Austin welcomes out-of-town guests with a youthful buzz that promises to keep the city wonderfully weird – and authentic. Beyond the trendy beer gardens and boutiques, it’s easy to find old-school music

joints, dive restaurants serving up giant platters of sauce-drenched ribs or cheesy Tex-Mex, and Western-wear shops that sell cowboy boots and dinner-plate-size belt buckles. And plan on spending lots of time outside – Austin is filled with parks, lakes and walking paths that make it easy to enjoy the moderate climate and lush green landscape.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Low and slow perfection at Franklin Barbecue; the view from atop Mount Bonnell; the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.Im

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There’s always something blooming at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, a 279-acre botanical wonderland where walking paths lead to wildflower meadows, shady forests and a green lawn perfect for kite flying.

In Austin’s hip South Congress neighborhood you can shop, people-watch at Jo’s Coffee, and catch a show at the Continental Club, an Austin institution since 1957.

Climb the 106 stone steps to the top of Mount Bonnell, and you’ll be rewarded with a jaw-dropping view of downtown Austin, the 360 Bridge, the rolling hill country and Lake Austin.

Perfect your backstroke at Barton Springs Pool, a natural swimming hole fed by thermal springs that keep the water at a comfortable 68 degrees all year long.

At the LBJ Presidential Library, recordings of phone conversa-tions reveal the full measure of Lyndon B. Johnson’s Texas-size personality. Exhibits, including a recreated Oval Office and gifts from world leaders, reveal an insider’s view of his presidency.

Nearby Texas Hill Country is dotted with plenty of wineries, breweries and adorable towns originally settled by German immigrants. Fredericksburg and Gruene are two of the most stroll-worthy.

There are only 45 Gutenberg Bibles in the world. One of them, along with the earliest-known photograph ever taken, is on display at the Harry Ransom Center on the University of Texas campus.

Find vintage glassware, knives handmade in Austin, cookbooks and other fabulous and unique culinary tools at Metier Cook’s Supply, a kitchen shop located in a renovated clapboard cottage.

Where there’s smoke, there’s barbecue, especially at Franklin Barbecue, where pit masters have turned cooking brisket, pork and beef ribs into the messiest – and most delicious – of art forms.

Sample award-winning craft beer and grab Fido a bag of Brew Biscuits, dog biscuits made from spent brewing grains, at Hops & Grain Brewery.

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Looking for a variety of great lodging options in the area? Visit AAA.com/Hotels.

TRAVEL OCTOBER 2017 | AAA PIONEER VALLEY14

AAA Member Vacations’ Vinnie Brown will discuss all the reasons to go guided, the exclusive benefits AAA clients enjoy and will highlight our 2018 group departures to the U.S. National Parks, Rome, Italy and San Antonio, Texas. Tue., October 10

You’re Invited!Discover amazing travel opportunities and receive special booking incentives

exclusive to event attendees, hosted by AAA Travel and our preferred travel partners.

Travel Events begin at 6:30 pm at the AAA West Springfield officeRSVP to reserve your seat today! 413-785-1381 or AAA.com/TravelEvents

Discover the Difference of a Guided Tour

Join us for an informative presentation by Celebrity Cruise’s Kim Smith where you’ll learn about our September 2018 7-night sailing the Pacific Coast from Vancouver, British Columbia to San Diego on the Celebrity Infinity.Wed., November 8

Pacific Coastal Cruise withCelebrity Cruises

AGAWAM V&F Auto Service 443 Springfield Street (413) 789-2181 CHICOPEE KLM Auto Repair 600 Front Street (413) 331-4105 EASTHAMPTON ESP Auto, Inc. 15 Pleasant Street (413) 527-1232GREENFIELD Art’s Tire 10 Silver Street (413) 774-4349HOLYOKE D. E. Bourque & Sons 1280 Dwight Street (413) 539-2552

PALMER Jackson’s Auto Sales & Service 1307 Park Street (413) 289-1016 SOUTH HADLEY Veryl’s Automotive 644 Newton Street (413) 536-0794SPRINGFIELD Bing’s Auto Service 512 St. James Avenue (413) 739-8641

Leonard’s Auto Repair 288 Allen Street (413) 785-1434 Lyndale Garage, Inc. 87 Warehouse Street (413) 732-3750

WEST SPRINGFIELD Spartan Auto Care Center 865 Memorial Avenue (413) 739-2175WESTFIELD Brill’s Auto Sales 388 Southampton Road (413) 568-9487WILBRAHAM Spartan Auto Care Center 2714 Boston Road (413) 596-2479 WILLIAMSBURG Cichy’s Garage 5 Main Street (413) 268-7901

Plus, as a AAA member you’ll also receive:24-month/24,000-mile limited warranty on repairs

Complimentary dispute resolution • ASE-certified technicians

AAA Approved Auto Repair (AAR) facilities always offer you a 10 percent discount on any repair or maintenance work (labor only)

at over 8,000 AAR facilities around the country.

Participating APPROVED AUTO REPAIR FACILITIES

Participating APPROVED AUTO BODY FACILITIES

100% PEACE OF MIND

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NORTHAMPTON Acme Automotive 220 King St. (413) 584-3710

SPRINGFIELD Rick’s Auto Body 375 Pasco Road (413) 543-3368

*Discount on labor up to a maximum of $50 at AAA Approved Auto Repair (AAR) facilities. Offer cannot be combined with any other offer.

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In these parts, we often think of the holiday season as the five or six weeks be-tween Thanksgiving and the new year.

But look around the world and you can find a celebra-tion any time of year.

Here’s a look at some holi-days around the globe.

January: Australia Day is Jan. 26. The Aussie cultural cel-

ebration includes events na-tionwide, like boat races in Sydney Harbor and aborig-inal dance performances, outdoor concerts, festivals and fireworks throughout the country.

February: Mardi Gras is usually held 46 days before

Easter. That makes it Feb. 13 next year. New Orleans is the place to be for parades and concerts. Bring green, purple and gold attire.

March: The four-day St. Patrick’s Festival takes place

in Dublin around March 17. It usually includes parades, walking tours, scavenger hunts and craft whiskey fairs.

April: Easter is in April through 2023. Thousands

of Catholics celebrate by heading to Vatican City for a papal blessing and message in Saint Peter’s Square.

May: Bermuda Day is May 24, or the closest week-

day to May 24. It’s celebrat-ed in Hamilton, Bermuda’s capital, with a parade and performances by Gombey dancers decked out in color-ful, eye-catching masks and costumes.

June: Make Music Day, known inter-nationally as Fete

de la Musique, is a world-wide celebration on June 21. Events take different shapes among hundreds of participating cities. Berlin, for example, usually hosts

Good Times Around the Globe

concerts on dozens of in-door and outdoor stages.

July: Bastille Day, July 14, celebrates the storming of the

Bastille, in 1789. In Paris, it’s recognized with fireworks (a particularly scenic backdrop to the Eiffel Tower) and a massive military parade on the Champs-Elysees.

August: The Edin-burgh International Festival, in Scot-

land, includes more than three weeks of theatrical and musical performanc-es at more than a dozen venues. The Edinburgh Festival Fringe, advertised as the world’s largest arts festival, runs simultaneous-ly, with an unjuried lineup of children’s shows, circus performers, spoken word poetry and more.

September: Okto-berfest takes place in Munich, Germa-

ny. About 7 million people attend annually. Along with (many) beer tents, the festi-val includes food, parades, traditional German bands and tons of lederhosen.

October: In India, families celebrate five days of Diwali

by displaying colorful lights and rangoli – vibrant pat-terns made of rice, sand and other material.

November: Imagine selecting your next Christmas tree or-

nament as you sip hot cider and gaze up at centuries-old cathedrals. That’s the expe-rience of visiting European Christmas markets. They traditionally open in late No-vember, and are big draws for late-year river cruises.

December: There are no New Year’s celebrations quite

like that of Walt Disney World Resort’s Magic King-dom, in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. You’ll never forget the sight of fireworks exploding over Cinderella’s castle.

TRAVELAAA PIONEER VALLEY | OCTOBER 2017 15

Destination: Healthy SmilesAAA members can get quality coverage from Altus Dental for as low as $36 a month.* You’ll have access to the benefits you need and the largest PPO network of dentists in Massachusetts. Sign up today and find out why nine out of ten members would recommend us to friends or family.

Visit altusdental.com/AAA

*Rates vary by age and are based on a 12-month policy year.

Discover Your Celtic StoryAuthentic Ireland and Scotland

Vacations Planned by Locals

GUIDED VACATIONS PRIVATE CHAUFFEUR LOCALLY HOSTED RAIL SELF-DRIVE

*10% Early Payment Discount (EPD) is valid on the land only portion of new 2018 Europe summer vacations when booked and paid in full by 01/11/18. Subject to availability, may be withdrawn at any time without notice, and is combinable with brochure discounts. Other conditions apply. CST#2084503-20

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Treasures of Ireland | 6 DaysIrish icons come together on this trip as you explore soulful Dublin, kiss the Blarney Stone, take in the striking Cliffs of Moher and more.

Call or visit your nearest AAA Travel Agent today 413-785-1381AAA.com/Travel 

14391 BV 18 Europe Ad OCT QP AAA Pioneer Valley.indd 1 8/16/17 11:15 AM

By Dana Hammond

D$$ Mid-Range

$ Budget

$$$ Luxury

Save & SplurgeAbsorb the retro vibe of mid-cen-tury Americana at Cabana Bay Beach Resort. It’s the largest onsite hotel, complete with a lazy river, a bowling alley and a Jack LaLanne-themed gym. Family suites make sharing digs easy. Guests get early access to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

Relish an island-inspired paradise at Loews Royal Pacific Resort, where soaring bamboo, swaying palms and an orchid-adorned courtyard await. It’s the least ex-pensive hotel providing Univer-sal Express Unlimited Passes – a perk to sidestep regular lines at many rides.

Live la dolce vita at Loews Por-tofino Bay Hotel. Honoring its namesake village on the Italian Riviera, this waterfront retreat ranks as Universal’s most serene, with cobblestone lanes and a pi-azza that hosts roving musicians, three pools and a full-service spa.

isney may rule the theme park world, but Mickey’s looking over his shoul-der because Universal Orlando Resort

keeps blooming like a flower on steroids. Now, muggles can mingle with Harry Potter in two Wizarding Worlds adorning Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure.

Plus, a new water theme park, Volcano Bay, splashed to life this summer. And next year, Universal will welcome a sixth onsite hotel, too.

Universal Orlando Resort

Volcano Bay, a new water theme park, recently opened at Univer-sal Orlando Resort. Next year Universal will open its sixth hotel.

Shun extras and enjoy overlooked treasures – call the Ministry of Magic from a phone booth in Diagon Alley, watch dino eggs hatch at Jurassic Park Discovery Center and hunt for hidden art. Take advantage of fun freebies, too, like hopping a complimentary shuttle bus to the parks.

Purchase an interactive wand to cast spells and unlock mag-ical experiences throughout The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. (Practice your “Agua-menti” spell near the Mermaid Fountain, for example, to enjoy a splashy surprise!) They make stylish souvenirs, too.

Say yes to Universal’s VIP Experience. The tour ensures an epic, line-skipping affair complete with backstage access, expert inside info, wonderful food and other benefits.

Sample franks from ballparks around the country at CityWalk’s Hot Dog Hall of Fame. Or feast Simpsons-style along Fast Food Boulevard in Universal Studios on a clogger burger from Krusty Burger. Plus, for anybody wild about Harry, British bites and butterbeer beckon from The Leaky Cauldron.

Gather the family and visit Mama Della’s Ristorante at Portofino Bay for fresh pasta and old-school Italian dishes. The bread basket alone deems it worthwhile. If dessert is the best part of dinner for you, CityWalk’s Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen can’t be beat.

Savor creative dishes with a Creole “Bam!” (think andou-ille-crusted redfish) from celebri-ty chef and James Beard award winner Emeril Lagasse at his eponymous restaurant, Emeril’s, on CityWalk.

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OCTOBER 2017 | AAA PIONEER VALLEY

When you drive an older car, you never know what can go wrong.

Until it does.That’s why AAA offers an exclusive Vehicle Extended Service Plan, providing members with extended automotive coverage after the manufacturer’s warranty has expired.

This exclusive AAA plan offers customized coverage levels. And depending on the level you choose, it may cover all major repairs for up to 7 years and 230,000 odometer miles.

Affordable. Customized Plans. Easy.

AAA EXTENDED SERVICE PLANFor more information, call 413-785-1381

or visit AAA.com/ExtendedWarranty

1 Tropical Days Offer: Valid on new bookings made 9/1 – 10/31/17 for select travel 9/1/17 – 6/30/18. Blackout dates apply 12/21/17 – 1/3/18. Requires roundtrip airfare from the U.S. and accommodation of 5 nights or longer at a participating hotel or resort. Discount is per booking and taken at time of booking.Not responsible for errors or omissions. Pleasant Holidays acts only as an agent for cruise & tour providers listed. CST# 1007939-10. Copyright©2017 Pleasant Holidays, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

E X C L U S I V E:

SAVE $150

to HAWAII, MEXICO and the CARIBBEAN!1

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Call or visit your nearest AAA Travel agent today!413-785-1381 • AAA.com/Travel

TRAVEL16

From late September through November, Sleepy Hollow country is an ideal place to view stunning New York foliage and get into the spirit of harvest and Halloween.

Legendary Places and Activities Irving wrote “The Legend of Sleepy Hol-low” while living in England, but it’s said

that his Tarrytown memories influenced the por-trayal of the starring village in his 1820 folktale. As a first hit for one of America’s earliest celebrity authors, Westchester was, in a way, the world’s introduction to modern America.

It seems appropriate to get to know “America’s first man of letters” at his Sunnyside estate while you’re in the area. You’ll feel transported back in time as guides in 19th century costumes walk you through the restored rooms of Irving’s romantic, red-roofed cottage overlooking the Hudson River. Admission is by timed tours only, Wednesday through Sunday through mid-November.

Not far from Sunnyside is the village of Sleepy Hollow, which officially adopted its moniker in 1996. The Old Dutch Church and churchyard, described as the Headless Horseman’s headquar-ters in the story, are here. On weekends in Octo-ber leading up to Halloween, the church hosts a dramatic retelling of “Irving’s Legend” that you’ll want to reserve tickets for in advance.

Those with a taste for history and a bit of the macabre can walk over to Sleepy Hollow Ceme-tery, where Irving and other notables – including Andrew Carnegie, Walter Chrysler and William Rockefeller – are buried. Daytime and nighttime guided tours are available.

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The exterior of Lyndhurst Mansion lit up for the Halloween season.

Haunting Mansions If you don’t spot the Headless Horseman at the Old Dutch Church, you’ll be sure

to find him at Philipsburg Manor. Every weekend in October, the 18th century site is transformed into Horseman’s Hollow, a haunted trail that’s a must for those who appreciate a good scare.

All of Westchester’s mansions are spectacular in the fall, but the towering Gothic Revival castle at Lyndhurst seems like it was made for Hallow-een. Go at night to fully appreciate the seasonal decorations and to see the spooky performances of “Jay Ghoul’s House of Curiosities,” on the first and basement floors.

One of the area’s most popular events, the Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze at Van Cortlandt Manor, runs through the end of November. The family-friend-ly walk-through attraction features incredible themed displays made from more than 7,000 hand-carved illuminated pumpkins.

More Fall Fun You’ll feel the spirt of autumn as you crunch over fallen leaves on a walk

through downtown Tarrytown. Start on Main Street and fuel up at Muddy Water Coffee & Cafe before starting on a day of window shopping and exploring. For antiques, Pretty Funny Vintage is as great a find as the variety of bits and bobs inside.

A few minutes up the road are two equally endearing villages: Dobbs Ferry, where you can enjoy riverside dining at Half Moon, and Hast-ings-on-Hudson, where you’ll find the AAA Three Diamond Rated Harvest on Hudson, complete with waterfront views.

To explore the heart of Westchester’s country-side during harvest season, head to Stone Barns Center for Food and Agriculture in Tarrytown for a tour, or pick your own apples and pumpkins at

North Salem’s Outhouse Orchards or Wilkens Fruit & Fir Farm. Can’t resist a good farmers market? Pleasantville Farmers Market, held outdoors through mid-November, claims to be the largest in the county.

Where to Stay Take up residence in a castle for the weekend at the AAA Four Diamond

Rated Castle Hotel and Spa. Perched at the highest point in Westchester, the colorful views of the treetops leading down to the Hudson can’t be beat. Whether you’re relaxing at the Thann Sanctuary Spa or dining at Equus restaurant, you’ll feel like royalty.

The AAA Three Diamond Rated Crown Plaza White Plains Downtown is a more budget-friendly lodging option. It’s centrally located near top attractions, shopping and the Metro North Train Station (which will get you to Manhattan in less than an hour).

Perhaps there is no more fitting fall destination than the stomping grounds of the galloping Hes-sian of the hollow himself. Just watch your head.

There are plenty of budget, midrange and luxury options for experiencing Westchester County. Visit AAA.com/Hotel to kick-start your getaway.

AAA PIONEER VALLEY | OCTOBER 2017

3 NIGHTS OF UNLIMITED-LUXURY® FROM $663

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Ask about your Travel Impressions AAA Member Benefits.

Tours operated by Travel Impressions, Ltd. Rate is land only, per person and based on double occupancy. Rates are based on travel 4/3/18 – 4/6/18 and vary by departure date. Blackout, weekend, holiday and peak season surcharges apply. Rate & promotion are accurate at time of printing and is subject to changes, exceptions, cancellation charges and restrictions. All advertised savings are reflected in rate. Rate is subject to change based on currency fluctuations. Not responsible for errors or omissions in the printing of this ad. Additional higher priced packages available. Valid for new bookings only. CST #2029006-20, IOWA #758, Washington UBI #602 425 801. AG9603_DF_8.14.17

Call or visit your nearest AAA Travel agent today 413-785-1381 | AAA.com/Travel

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TRAVEL 17

To someone unfamiliar with the depths of Irish culture, images of shamrocks and lep-rechauns and pints of green beer on St. Pat-rick’s Day might spring to mind. At least that was my experience before visiting Ireland.

Anyone who’s traveled to the Emerald Isle knows that its centuries-old culture goes far deeper than the American collegiate celebration.

A good way to immerse yourself in Ireland is to rent a car for a few weeks. The island boasts plenty of landscapes to accentuate your drive, from fantasy-inspiring mountains to dramatic coastlines and green meadows in between.

Dublin A few days in Dublin are practically obligato-ry. Renowned Irish writers, including James Joyce, Oscar Wilde and Samuel Beckett, have passed through the city. It’s also the stage for much older writings: The Book of Kells, one of the world’s most well-known medieval texts, is on display at Trinity College.

Walking Dublin’s streets, it’s mind-boggling to realize that some establishments are more than 800 years old. For example, the Brazen Head, which offers a traditional beef and Guinness stew, has served patrons since 1198. And speaking of Guinness, the Guinness Storehouse has been turned into a popular exhibition about the beer brewed since the 18th century.

The Wild Atlantic WayIreland’s Wild Atlantic Way is a coastal road made for scenic drives along the west coast. One of the more dramatic spots is the Cliffs of Moher, a 5-mile stretch of shale and sand-stone standing hundreds of feet above the Atlantic Ocean.

Lore Galore In Ireland

Galway is a good base from which to explore the west coast. There’s a youthful vibe, with plenty of pubs and street performers on Quay Street. From here, you can easily reach surf spots at the beaches of Kilkee, or go rock climbing and zip lining in Westport.

County Kerry and the SouthCounty Kerry is home to Ireland’s highest peak, Carrauntoohil. It’s also home to the Skelligs, a pair of islands made famous by the presence of Luke Skywalker in the new “Star Wars” movies.

Cork is the main city of the south, and it serves as a good base to explore the region – especially nearby Blarney Castle, home of the famed Blarney Stone.

Northern IrelandThe landscape may seem a bit familiar driving through Northern Ireland. That’s because some sites double as locations in HBO’s popular “Game of Thrones.” Castle Ward in Strangford is Winterfell, while the area around Slemish Mountain poses as the Dothraki grasslands.

Another fantastical-looking site is the very real Giant’s Causeway, comprised of about 40,000 volcanically formed rock columns. The site is a little over an hour’s drive from Belfast. When you’re in town, you can visit Titanic Belfast, an interactive exhibition about the famed Titanic, on the site where the ship was built.

You’ll never run out of awe-inspiring experi-ences on the Emerald Isle.

By Erik R. Trinidad

Halloween in Ireland

Ireland may be associated with St. Patrick’s Day, but it’s also connected to another holiday: Halloween. The origins of Halloween can be traced back to the Celtic pagan festival of Samhain, signifying the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter – a day in which pagans believed the boundary between the living and the spirit worlds was at its weakest, allowing ghosts to enter our reality. The Celts wore costumes to ward off loitering phantoms.

That custom continues today. You’ll find Ireland’s biggest costumed cel-ebration at Londonderry’s Hallow-een Festival. This city, in the north-western corner of Northern Ireland, boasts a huge parade along the banks of the Foyle River. In Dublin, the Bram Stoker Festival pays hom-age to the Irish writer who created Count Dracula and spread the fear of vampires worldwide.

A Northern Ireland coastline shimmers at sunset. Many local spots double as locations in HBO’s uber-popular “Game of Thrones.”

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Three Castle Head in County Cork, Ireland. County Cork is also home to the famous Blarney Stone, housed at Blarney Castle.

AAA DRIVERSNATIONSM OCTOBER 2017 | AAA PIONEER VALLEY18

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AAA offers loans for used and new cars.

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West Springfield, MA 01089

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806 East Elm Street (Just off Rte. 5 beside McDonald’s)

West Springfield, MA 01089

733-8354 1-800-479-8354www.affordable-auto-glass.com

ALL DOMESTIC & FOREIGN CARS AND TRUCKS

FREE LOANER CARSWhile We Replace Your Glass

• Commerce Insurance Preferred Glass Shop* •

• Insurance Approved, We Handle All Claims •

• New & Used Glass Available •

• Mobile Service Available •

• MA State Inspection Station - Two Bays •

MA Lic. #2772

806 East Elm Street (Just off Rte. 5 beside McDonald’s)

West Springfield, MA 01089

733-8354 1-800-479-8354www.affordable-auto-glass.com

ALL DOMESTIC & FOREIGN CARS AND TRUCKS

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• Commerce Insurance Preferred Glass Shop* •

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AAA Members receiveFREE wiper blades and

VIN etching.

Grinding Brakes A grinding noise when applying the brakes could mean the brake pads are worn out. Driving on shot brake pads could damage the calipers or rotors, neither of which are cheap to replace.

Leaky Tire Sometimes a tire leaks so slowly that a driver can add air every couple of days and get to where they need to go. But doing this could permanently damage the inside of the tire, Paul said. It could also weaken the side-wall, which could cause a blowout.

Cracked Windshield On a very hot or cold day, it won’t take long for a half-inch crack in a windshield to become an irreparable gash across the glass. The safest and most cost-effective solution is to get the crack or chip repaired as soon as possible, Paul said. Wait too long and you might need a complete wind-shield replacement. A large enough crack might also earn a driver a ticket for faulty equipment. Like a tooth-ache, sometimes it pays to act before a problem gets worse.

By Roberto X. Cruz

Paying for car repairs is about as much fun as a trip to the dentist.

And, like the dentist, some people will go to great lengths to avoid a trip to the shop.

But drivers who skip or delay im-portant repairs expose their vehicles to dangerous situations and costlier fixes down the road, says AAA’s Car Doctor John Paul. Here are four right-now repairs that should be fixed as soon as possible.

Fluid LeaksAn engine without oil or coolant could be irreparably damaged in seconds, yet some people would prefer to add oil or coolant to their car every day instead of fixing it. The leak will only get worse over time, and it will be hard to keep up with the refills, Paul said. Ignore a leak long enough and what was a simple repair could end up destroying the engine, he added.

Car Repairs to Tackle Now

Learn about AAA’s various automotive services at AAA.com/Automotive.

Technicians will assess the level and con-dition of the engine oil, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, brake fluid, engine coolant and more during the safety check. They’ll look for leaks, too.

Battery: Almost 30 percent of AAA Road-side Assistance calls are for battery-re-lated issues. This inspection confirms the charging and electrical systems are work-ing, connections are tight and the battery is free of corrosion.

Belts and Hoses: The technician will look for potential problems with the alternator, power steering pump, water pump and air conditioning as well as the corresponding belts and pulleys. The technician will look for cracks and leaks in the hoses for the ra-diator, heater, power steering, transmission coolant and more.

Tires: Each tire, including the spare, is test-ed for proper air pressure and tread depth. The tires are also inspected for bulges, bruises, nicks and other damage that make them more prone to blowouts. Making sure

Car Care CornerHave AAA Check Your Car

Find a AAA Approved Auto Repair station near you at AAA.com/AAR.

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each tire is properly inflated will help you extend the life of the tires, plus it will net you better fuel economy.

When you pick up your vehicle, you will get a list of recommended services or repairs and a written estimate if you want to get the work done at that shop.

Repairs at AAA Approved Auto Repair fa-cilities are backed by a 24-month, 24,000-mile guarantee. AAA members can also save up to $50 on repairs at these stations.

AAA DRIVERSNATIONSMAAA PIONEER VALLEY | OCTOBER 2017 19

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By Roberto X. Cruz

Coffee spills, kids make messes and pets can track all sorts of nasti-ness into your car.

Unfortunately, these can result in some pretty dreadful smells if not treated right away – smells that can have a real effect on your car’s resale value down the line.

Here are a few tips for getting rid of the worst of the worst, courtesy of AAA’s Car Doctor John Paul, who has tangled with some horri-ble car scents, including a spoiled chocolate milkshake odor that just wouldn’t go away.

Get in There The longer a stain or spill sits, the harder it is to get out. Put paper towels on a wet mess as soon as possible. Dilute spills on the carpet with some cool water and blot up what you can with a cloth, paper towel or sponge.

Banish Funk From Your Trunk

Apply Cleaner Buy or make a shampoo to treat the affected area. Use a little on an inconspicuous spot to make sure it won’t stain the fabric. For particu-larly disgusting spills, use an odor eliminator spray after sucking up the carpet cleaner with a wet vacu-um or carpet extractor. Sprays like Febreze, which encapsulate smells, do a better job than perfume air fresheners, Paul said. These sprays can also help get rid of smoke smells inside your car.

Other Methods Some use baking soda to get rid of unwanted odors. They either sprinkle it on a stain and vacuum it up or leave an opened box in the car overnight. Other people put citrus peels or open bags of coffee in their car to make it smell better, but if you do that, make sure it’s not going to roll around while you drive.

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By Roberto X. Cruz

Car batteries hate extreme temperatures. It’s one reason so many fail in the summer heat.

Periodically disconnecting the battery to clean its terminals with water and baking soda can help extend its life, said AAA’s Car Doctor John Paul. But all automotive batter-ies will fail eventually. Here are a few signs yours is on its way out.

It’s Old The first reason is simply a numbers game. Modern car batteries are designed to last three to five years. A lot of short trips, vibrations and exposure to very hot and cold temperatures outside and under the hood can result in a lifespan that’s on the short end of that spectrum. Batteries that have been jump-started many times also tend to fail earlier.

Engine Cranks Slowly The battery makes the power that gets the engine going before the alternator takes over. A weak car battery will struggle to produce enough juice to start the engine. It will either take longer than normal or won’t start at all. If the battery is totally gassed, you might turn the key and hear nothing but a rapid clicking sound, which happens when the battery is too weak to begin the starting process.

Issues With Electronics Bad batteries won’t power a vehicle’s elec-trical parts properly. One way to check is to turn the headlights on. If they look dim,

3 Signs Your Battery Is Zapped

Learn about AAA’s mobile battery service at AAA.com/Battery.

it could be a sign that your power source is ready to go caput. You might also notice issues with parts like windshield wipers and power windows, Paul said.

Having a dependable battery can take a lot of the stress out of being a car owner. “I always tell people, if your vehicle’s battery is three years old, have it tested, and if it’s five years old or more, it’s time to have it replaced,” Paul said.

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