aaa pioneer valley this month marijuana linked to fatal crashes · research, fatal crashes...

AAA PIONEER VALLEY

JULY/AUGUST 2016Vol. 34, Issue 6

this month

On the cover: Funtown Splash-town USA, in Saco, Maine, has

hair-raisingly fast rides as well as peaceful coves for the younger set.

Early returns are in when it comes to fatal crashes in a state that has legalized the recreational use of marijuana. And they’re not good.

According to new AAA Foundation for Traffi c Safety research, fatal crashes involv-ing drivers who had recently used marijuana doubled in Washington after the state legalized the drug at the end of 2012.

In the study, researchers found the percentage of driv-ers involved in fatal crashes who had a detectable level of active THC – the main chemi-cal component in marijuana – in their blood at or shortly after the time of the crash more than doubled, from 8 to 17 percent, between 2013 and 2014. In addition, 1 in 6 driv-ers in Washington involved in fatal crashes in 2014 (the most recent data available) had recently used marijuana.

“The signifi cant increase

in fatal crashes involving marijuana is alarming,” said Peter Kissinger, president and CEO of the AAA Foundation for Traffi c Safety.

Washington and Colo-rado were the fi rst states to legalize the recreational use of marijuana, and the AAA

fi ndings raise serious con-cerns as other states consider changing their marijuana laws. Alaska, Oregon and the District of Columbia also have legalized recreational mari-juana use, and 20 other states have legalized it for therapeu-tic and medicinal purposes.

A GROWING PROBLEMMarijuana use behind the

wheel is growing nationwide. According to a National High-way Traffi c Safety Administra-tion survey, nearly 13 percent of weekend nighttime drivers had evidence of recent mari-juana use in their systems in 2013, the latest year for which fi gures are available, up from 9 percent in 2007.

To enforce drug-impaired driving laws, some states have created legal limits, also known as per se limits, that specify the maximum amount of THC that drivers can have in their system based on a blood test. AAA’s research, however, shows that legal limits are arbitrary and not supported by science.

AAA Foundation research-ers’ examination of lab results of drivers arrested for impaired driving suggested a few things.

Marijuana linked to fatal crashes

Continued on page 12

swisshippo / iStockphoto / Thinkstock

Remnants of Amsterdam’s golden age are strewn throughout the canal-ringed city, from the gabled canal houses, above, to ethnic eateries, world-class museums, historical sites and market squares. Read all about Amsterdam’s cultural offerings on page 7.

Go Dutch10 TripTiks

Make a splash this summer at super-cool water parks By George Morse

In this neck of the woods, amusement park season can feel like a fl eet-ing thing. If you’re looking to seize this limited opportunity, consider these 10 outdoor water parks. They’re all great, and they’re all within a day’s drive.

1. Camelbeach Mountain Waterpark, Tannersville, Pa.: The Pocono Mountains are home to a great water park scene. Great Wolf Lodge , in Scotrun, Split Rock Resort, in Lake Harmony, and Kalahari Resorts and Conventions, in Pocono Manor, all offer guests indoor water parks. Camelbeach opened its own indoor water park, Aquatopia, last year. It complements an outdoor park of more than three-dozen rides, slides and attractions.

2. Canada’s Wonderland , Vaughan, Ontario, Canada: Canada’s largest amusement park includes nearly 70 rides, such as Leviathan, a monstrous, 300-foot-tall roller coaster. Guests also have access to the 20-acre Splash Works water park.

Continued on page 10

Six Flags New England

Fun in the pool at Hurricane Harbor at Six Flags New England.

Tell us your AAAsavings story Have you saved money with your AAA Membership? Tell us your AAA savings story and we’ll tell other AAA Times readers. Stories will be selected randomly and published in AAA Times. If your story is published, you’ll win a one-year membership renewal! For more information, visit AAA.com/Promo.

Come to AAA Day at Six Flags NECelebrate AAA Day at Six Flags New England Aug. 13, when AAA Mem-bers can get into the park for only $42.99. (Season pass holders can buy tickets for $25.) Tickets include admission, standard parking, an all-you-can-eat buffet lunch, early park access with ride time, and exclusive ride time for AAA Mem-bers from 10 p.m. to midnight. Visit AAA.com/Promo for details.

AAA branches offer RMV services AAA Members can visit the West Springfi eld or Hadley offi ces for Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles services including license, registration and state identifi cation renewals and duplicates, replace-ment license plate stickers and more. Visit AAA.com/RMV for a complete list of services.

Summer driving classes from AAA Spots are available for one-week ac-celerated driver’s education classes in Hadley, Springfi eld and West Springfi eld. Call 413-785-1381 or visit AAA.com/DrivingSchool.

Join the AAA Solo Travelers ClubLove to travel but don’t have a travel partner? Join the AAA Solo Traveler’s Club. A summer picnic will be held Wednesday, Aug. 17, at Summit View Banquet & Meeting House in Holyoke. For more infor-mation, visit AAA.com/Solo.

AAA offi ces closed for Fourth of JulyAAA offi ces will be closed Monday, July 4, in observance of Indepen-dence Day; 24-hour roadside assis-tance is always available.

2 AAA PIONEER VALLEY | JULY/AUGUST 2016

When Washington state and Colorado fi rst legalized the recreational use of marijuana, the question within the traffi c safety community centered on the impact legal use of the drug would have on driving. Early returns are in when it comes to fatal crashes in Washington state, and they’re not good.

According to research from the AAA Foundation for Traffi c Safety, fatal crashes involving drivers who had recently used marijuana more than doubled after Washington legalized the drug at the end of 2012. A companion report showed that es-tablishing legal limits for THC (the main chemical component of marijuana) is not supported by science and is not a reliable measure of how much a driver may be impaired.

This is important research, as more and more states con-sider proposals to legalize recreational marijuana. Massachu-setts has legalized marijuana for medicinal purposes, while Alaska, Oregon and Washington, D.C., have joined Washington and Colorado in approving recreational use. Twenty additional states have proposals in play this year to legalize recreational use, and the question may be put to Massachusetts voters this fall.

Marijuana use while behind the wheel is growing nation-wide. According to a National Highway Traffi c Safety Adminis-tration survey, nearly 13 percent of weekend nighttime drivers had evidence of recent marijuana use in their systems in 2013,

up from 9 percent in 2007. This increased use, combined with the data from Washington state, raises serious concerns about drug-impaired driving.

I mentioned earlier that science doesn’t support the use of an arbitrary legal limit for THC. But if states pass laws, there has to be some way to enforce them. AAA believes states must use comprehensive enforcement measures when police of-fi cers deal with suspected impaired drivers. We urge states to invest in training for law enforcement offi cers, in particular, training programs that specifi cally teach offi cers to recognize drug-impaired driving.

Decades of research shows that marijuana can impair drivers. Mari-juana can decrease a driver’s ability to handle a car, perform behind the wheel and pay attention. It can also increase all-important reaction time. Driving within one hour of using marijuana can signifi cantly increase a driver’s crash risk. And mixing alcohol and marijuana may produce effects greater than either drug on its own.

AAA urges all motorists to avoid driv-ing while impaired.

from the president’s deskChris E. Mensing

Marijuana poses need for new road safety strategy

SFI-00993

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

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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

SPRINGFIELD270 Cooley Street*

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.

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

TimesOfficial Publication ofAAA Pioneer Valley EDITORIAL OFFICE150 Capital Drive

W. Springfield, MA 01089413-785-1381

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PUBLISHER & EDITORMindy J. Ginley

TRAVEL EDITORSandra J. Marsian

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Periodicals Postage Paid at W. Springfield, MA and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send

address correction changes toAAA Pioneer Valley, 150 Capital Dr.,

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BACK TO SCHOOL BUDGETSTRETCH YOUR

AAA Members can save on back-to-school shopping at a variety of retailers. From clothing to computers, as well as shoes and prescription

eye glasses, save on the items you need most to prepare you for a successful academic year!

AAA.com/DiscountsOr download the AAA Mobile app

Save up to 75% on prescriptions at

your local pharmacy when you show your

AAA Membership card.

Save $10 off a purchase of $40 of regular and sales merchandise in

stores.

Save 10% on your entire purchase at

adidas Outlets.

Receive a free 32” Samsung TV

(valued at $319.99) with purchase of select PCs

$699.99+ through 9/29/16.

Save up to 20% off one-way truck

rental rates.

Save 10% monthly on eligible lines on select

Sprint plans.

Save 5% on UPS shipping and 15% on eligible products

and services.

Save double the everyday discount to 40% off

original prices 8/4-21. Restrictions apply.

Visit AAA.com/Reebok.

Visit AAA.com/Discounts for the most up-to-date listings and offer details. Restrictions may apply. Offers subject to change without notice and may not be combined with any other offers. Not responsible for typographical errors. Online discounts are only available when accessed through AAA.com.

JULY/AUGUST 2016 | AAA PIONEER VALLEY 3

Download. Register. Win.

FIND nearby member discounts

PLAN trips, get maps, book flights, hotels and car rentals

REQUEST roadside assistance

AAA.com/Mobile

Download the fully-loaded AAA Mobile® app, register your membership number, and you’ll automatically be entered to win a $50 Visa Gift card.*

You could win a $50 Visa Gift card!

Use your card for all its worth with these app features, and so much more:

*Visit AAA.com/Promo for contest details.

Auto Renewal

Enroll in

$5

Save time & money!

Enroll today! Visit your nearest AAA office,call 413-785-1381 or click AAA.com/AutoRenew

OFF PER HOUSEHOLD**one time discount when you enroll in AAA Membership Auto Renewal using your credit card.

AAA Diamond Ratings for hotels

and restaurants.

AAA Members save. Find details

at AAA.com/Discounts.

LOOK FOR THESE ICONS WITHIN AAA TIMESAAA GEM attractions offer a Great

Experience for Members.

MOVIE TICKETSAAA Members Save

Rave Motion Pictures Eastfield Mall and West Springfield AAA Price Reg. Price SavingsAdult Ticket: $840 $1140 $300

Cinemark Theatres Hampshire Mall, Hadley

Adult Ticket*: $840 $900-950 $.60-$110

ConcessionSupersaver: $650 $925 $275

(includes one junior popcorn and a small soft drink; not valid for special engagements and may include additional charges for 3D showings)

Tickets available at AAA Pioneer Valley offices. All AAA ticket prices include any applicable handling/service fees; prices subject to change and availability.

* Independence Day fi reworksCome to Beacon Field in Greenfi eld to see spectacular Fourth of July fi reworks along with a full roster of musical entertainment: July 2, 4-10:30 p.m. Free. Visit www.greenfi eldrecreation.com.

* Brimfi eld Antiques & Collectibles ShowJourney into yesteryear at one of the largest outdoor antique shows in the country. With thousands of dealers, you can fi nd almost everything – from glassware to antique toys to vintage tools and artwork – at the fair’s home on Route 20 in Brimfi eld: July 12-17. Parking $10; show fees up to $5. Visit www.brimfi eld.com.

* New England Morgan Horse ShowLocated at the Three County Fairgrounds in Northampton, this show features various competitions and is recognized as one of the largest Morgan horse shows in the country: July 26-30. Free admission. Visit www.nemha.com.

fun things to do for $15 or lessget out!

By D. Bottero, of Springfi eld, AAA Plus Member since 1999

Last summer, I went to Maine with my parents and my son. We got into our car to go to lunch and the car wouldn’t start. I got a jump-start from the motel’s owner, but it didn’t work, so I called AAA. They sent some-one out right away. This experience with AAA not only saved me the cost of having someone come out to jump my car, but also saved me a lot of stress that I might have had if I didn’t know that I could rely on AAA. The service was prompt and courteous. Thanks, AAA, for the many years of service and the feeling of security.

By M. O’Melia, of Longmeadow, AAA Plus Member since 1992

My AAA Membership has helped me and my family members for many years. My granddaughter received a discount at AAA Driving School. AAA was helpful and accom-modating when she went through driving school and on the roads. They supported her through her driving test and prepared her well, and she was able to get her license on

the fi rst try. After she received her driver’s license, she became a AAA Member. My other granddaughter is now taking driver’s educa-tion classes at AAA Driving School. Our family appreciates all the help that AAA has given through the years.

By L. McCarthy, of West Springfi eld, AAA Member since 2007

I am so glad I am a member of AAA! I was very pleased with my recent call to AAA for roadside assistance! I went to start my car in my garage, and the battery was completely dead. I called AAA, and Steve, a road ser-vice technician, showed up within 25 to 30 minutes. He was able to get power to the car so I could get the keys that were stuck in the ignition out. He then proceeded to test and charge my battery. Steve was very polite, courteous and professional. He gave me a printout of my battery’s diagnosis, which showed that it would need to be replaced soon. He was right – a few days later, my car wouldn’t start so I called and had a battery with a six-year warranty installed. Thank you, AAA!

AAA saves the day

Members share stories of great AAA service


AAA is a proud spon-sor of this year’s Indian Motorcycle Day, which will be held Sunday, July 24, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Held on the grounds of the Springfi eld Muse-ums, the annual event attracts more than 2,000 visitors.

Indian Motorcycle Day is a revival of the long-standing celebra-tion and rally of the classic motorcycles that were manufactured in Springfi eld from 1901 to 1953. The show draws enthusiasts from all over the Northeast. In addi-tion to the motorcycles on display, there will be vendors selling motorcy-cle-related gear, food and beverages, music and an awards ceremony. With some of the fi nest restored Indians from around the country on display, the competition for trophies is always keen.

AAA Members get $2 off Indian Day event-only tickets ($5 or $10) and $2 off museum admission ($18 adults; $12 seniors and college students; $9.50 ages 3-17; under 3, museum members and Spring-fi eld residents [with proof of address] are admitted at no cost).

For more information, visit www.springfi eldmuseums.org.

Clarifye—available only at the independent

doctor at or next to LensCrafters®*, is pow-

ered by innovators in precision optics, and

features a whole new way to get your eyes checked, digitally. Its initial measurement

is so precise it helps reduce the guesswork of “which is better?”**.

Clarifye provides a more comprehensive understanding of your eye health and

vision. The digitally precise exam measures 5x more optical characteristics about

your visual system to address unique needs and help you see your best.

It is so precise, it can even help uncover differences in day and night vision***.

Addressing those differences can mean crisper vision during the day with fewer star-

bursts and halos around lights at night. Helping you feel more confident about night

driving.

Experience Clarifye—only at the independent doctor at or next to LensCrafters*.

Schedule your next eye exam today. AAA members save 30% at LensCrafters

everyday on eye exams—including Clarifye—as well as complete pairs of glasses,

sunglasses and accessories.

*Clarifye is available at LensCrafters or at the independent doctor of optometry at or next to LensCrafters. In Califor-

nia, eye exams are available at LensCrafters locations from licensed optometrist employed by EYEXAM of California,

a licensed vision health care service plan. The optometrists are not employed by LensCrafters, which do not provide

eye exams.

** For consumers who are diagnosed with clean visual systems or low levels of higher order aberrations.

*** For consumers who have meaningful difference in their photopic and mesopic visual systems and prescriptions.

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© 2016 LensCrafters. All rights reserved. ® AAA and AAA logo trademarks owned by, and use is granted by, the American Automobile Association.

AAA MEMBERS GET A SPECIAL $5 BONUS*

* Purchase a frame at tag price and get 50% off the quoted list price of single vision, bifocal, trifocal and no-line lenses. Valid on multiple pairs. Cannot be combined with vision benefi ts, any other offer or discount, previous purchases, readers or non-prescription sunglasses. Additional $5 off of complete pair of eyeglasses or sunglasses made with your prescription (frame and lenses) may be combined with vision and insuranceplans and other offers. Valid prescription required. Discounts are off quoted lens price. Some brands excluded including Varilux lenses, Maui Jim and Oakley Authentics lenses and Cartier frames. Valid AAA Membership required. Limit one AAA discount per customer. Offer valid 7/22/16-9/12/16. $5 Bonus Code: 678946

Offer available 7/22/16 - 9/12/16

AAA sources its in-club foreign currency from Wells Fargo. Foreign currency sold at AAA offices is sold by the AAA club at that location. Questions or concerns about currency exchanged in club locations should be directed to AAA. ECG-2433001

Arrive ready with foreign currency and TipPaks®.

Three convenient ways to order:

• In person at participating clubs• Over the phone at 1-888-626-2027• Online at AAA.com/travelmoney

Ready. Set. Travel.AAA offers foreign currency for more than 100 countries.

Springfi eld Museum fetes Indian motorcycles

Augusta and Adeline Van Buren rode Indian motorcycles across the country 100 years ago, when they were the fi rst women to make the two-wheeled trip.

Kudos to AAA Driving SchoolBy Sarah Mullins, of Amherst

My son JP recently completed driver training and education with AAA, and I wanted to let you know what a wonderful experience we had throughout the process thanks to Cherie Pease. My son attends boarding school in New Hampshire, two hours away from our home, and spends very little time at home. Getting to and from driving lessons in western Massachusetts isn’t easy or convenient, and I was concerned that it was going to take us over a year to get him through the driving school requirements before he would be able to take his road test. Cherie has been so helpful in accommodating JP’s schedule and helping us with scheduling his road lessons, and thanks to her, he was ready to take his road test in May. (He started this process in late December.)

Whenever I thought I was going to have a problem with schedul-ing road time, Cherie was able to help with a creative solution: from scheduling his observations to fi nding lessons on Sunday mornings. She is helpful, knowledgeable and a consummate professional. AAA is fortunate to have her as part of the team.


UPGRADE YOUR MEMBERSHIPYou’ll get up to 200 miles of towing* and more peace of mind.

You never know what’s around the next turn...so why not get even more peace of mind for you and your family by upgrading your membership.

413-785-1381 • AAA.com/Upgrade

Roadside Assistance within Pioneer Valley: (800) 622-9211

For Service Outside Pioneer Valley: (800) 222-4357

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*Certain conditions and restrictions apply. Visit AAA.com/Membership for details.

Driving School

AAA.com/DrivingSchool413-785-1381

Graduates receive a FREE one-year AAABasic Membership**visit website for details

MembersSAVE$75

Learn from the experts in traffic safety

Register Today for one-week accelerated

summer classes beginning in July and August in

Hadley, Springfield and West Springfield

Summer brings warm weather, barbecues, beach days and vacations. As you set out to enjoy the best months of the year, it’s important to keep the safety of your home and fi nances in mind.

Safety comes in many forms, including taking steps to help protect your identity on the internet. When plan-ning your summer fun, it’s important to book only from secure websites. You can de-termine if a website is secure by ensuring the URL begins with “https.” Inform your bank and credit card com-panies of your travel plans,

allowing them to better track suspicious purchases.

Before you hit the road, hack proof your smartphone and any other mobile devices. Be sure to remove all sensitive documents and data that you don’t need. Consider turning off your geolocation settings as well. It’s best to wait until you’ve returned from your trip to post vacation photos on social media. If you post while you’re away, disabling location services will ensure your whereabouts are not pinpointed.

Although we may try, disconnecting during vacation

doesn’t always happen. If you fi nd yourself using free Wi-Fi, fi rst confi rm that you are using a legitimate network by asking a staff member how to access it. Some scammers will host free Wi-Fi networks to gain access to your device and data. Also, avoid pulling up private documents or access-ing banking information when using a free network. If you must use a public computer, try to avoid tasks that require a log in. If malware is pres-ent, it can secretly copy your information. Be sure to clear the internet browser’s cache, history and cookies when you’re done.

In addition to helping to keep your identity and data safe from hackers, protecting your home from intruders is another important step in summer travel safety. You can trick intruders by timing the lights and the electronics in your home. If you don’t already hire a landscaper to keep your yard maintained, do so. If you have trustworthy neighbors, be sure to let them know you’ll be out of town, so they can keep an eye out for suspicious activity, and maybe

even take in your mail. If your home is being tar-

geted, the fi rst step a criminal takes is to fi nd a spare key. Standard placement locations such as a fake rock, below a doormat or above a door are the fi rst to be checked. Before you go, remove the key altogether and perhaps leave it with a neighbor.

Protect your home, identity and family while on vacation

Flying Colours Ltd / Digital Vision / Thinkstock

You may be able to relax a little more on your vacation knowing you’ve taken steps to protect your home, identity and family.

AAA DISCOUNT ON LIFELOCK

Take the ultimate step toward identity theft protec-tion with LifeLock. AAA Members receive 30 days free plus 15 percent off. Visit AAA.com/LifeLock for details.

CATCH A SOCCER GAME! AAA cardholders receive a

coupon for free popcorn at Western Mass Pioneers soc-cer games held at Lusitano Stadium in Ludlow. The next home games will be held July 1, 8 and 15 at 7:30 p.m. You can also save on tickets to New England Mutiny women’s soccer matches at East Long-

meadow High School. Games will be held there July 16 and 23 at 7 p.m.

GET YOUR CULTURE FIX AAA Members save 10 percent

off single tickets, up to four tickets per card, per show at New Century Theatre at the Menden-hall Center for the Performing Arts at Smith College, Northamp-ton. Visit AAA.com/Discounts for a performance schedule.

TAKE A ROAD TRIP Need a little more room for

your summer road trip? Mem-bers save up to 20 percent when booking a Hertz Rental car. AAA Members receive ad-ditional benefi ts. To learn more, visit AAA.com/Hertz.

TRY A NEW LOOKAAA Members save 30

percent on orders of $100 or more at AAA.com/Glasses throughout July. Add in free lenses, and you can afford to get the frames you really want. Discount automatically applied at checkout.

MYSTERIOUS SAVINGS WITH HP ONLINE

Visit AAA.com/HP for details about a mystery sale on print-ers and print accessories, including ink, for AAA Members during the month of July. The deep discounts can be com-bined with the everyday AAA offers. Available online or by phone only.

discounts bulletin


Tours operated by Travel Impressions, Ltd. Rate is land only, per person and based on double occupancy. Blackout, weekend, holiday and peak season surcharges apply. Rate is 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. Travel Impressions materials (including, but not limited to, names, trademark, service marks, logos, marketing materials, etc.) shall not be used, reproduced, transmitted or distributed in any way, except with the express written consent of Travel Impressions. CST #2029006-20, IOWA #758, Washington UBI #602 425 801. LR151-16_DF_5.11.16

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Call or visit your nearest AAA Travel agent today

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Ask about your Travel Impressions AAA Member Benefits.

Dutch treats abound in charming AmsterdamBy Jill Fergus

Netherlands’ golden age was during the 17th century, when its maritime prowess was unmatched in the world. And while its capital, Amsterdam, has grown into a world-class metropolis, many remnants of the golden age remain, including graceful canals, gabled buildings and market squares – all of which still fascinate visitors. And from the modern perspective, Amsterdam has chain store-free shopping districts, Michelin-starred gourmet restau-rants and – oh yeah – it’s kind of known for its nightlife. The city is compact enough to walk, though you could make like a local and rent a bike to get around. Either way, you’re in for a Dutch treat.

CANALS & CAFESThe central canal belt – one of the

most picturesque areas in all of Am-sterdam – is like a walking history museum. It’s a great place to start a city tour, especially for fi rst-time visitors. Many opt for a canal cruise, but you’ll probably see more on foot. Along Keizersgracht and Prinsen-gracht, two of the prettiest canals, you’ll fi nd the gabled houses built by wealthy golden age merchants – you’ll also see many houseboats lining the canal banks.

In the heart of the canal belt is a charming little neighborhood called the Nine Streets. Its name may lack originality (yes, it’s a nine-block area bordered by Singel and Prinsengracht canals) but along its cobbled streets are an eclectic mix of independent shops, galleries and cafes. On Hartenstraat, Hester van Eeghen carries stylish leather bags in all shapes and sizes, while McLen-nan’s Pure Silk has a selection of colorful silk scarfs. On Huidenstraat, there’s Rum Amsterdam, a clothing store stocked with Scandinavian designs and at the sweet-smelling La Savonnerie on Prinsengracht, soaps are handmade on the premises and can be stamped with customized messages. Have lunch in one of the neighborhood’s many cafes, such as the perennially popular Van Harte with hearty soups and sandwiches.

DUTCH MASTERS & MUSEUMRembrandt, Van Gogh, Vermeer …

all the big names are well repre-sented here, and their works can be viewed in the museums that com-prise the centrally located Museum Quarter. In the Van Gogh Museum, fans of the brilliant but troubled artist can see many of his most well-known works, including “Sunfl ow-ers,” “The Potato Eaters” and “The

Bedroom,” as well as numerous self- portraits (though “The Starry Night,” perhaps his most famous painting, is in New York’s Museum of Modern Art). On your way out, you’ll be hard-pressed not to buy a few postcards in the well-stocked gift shop.

Down the street is the Rijksmuse-um, the Netherlands’ largest and most popular museum that houses many golden age masterpieces. The massive brick building built in 1885 recently underwent a 10-year top-to-bottom renovation, the highlight being the Gallery of Honour that houses Rembrandt’s “The Night Watch,” Vermeer’s “The Milkmaid” and classics from Frans Hals, Jan Steen and others. The museum’s vast collections also include Delft pottery and historic ship models. And while not in the Museum Quarter, the Anne Frank House on Prinsengracht canal is not to be missed. You can tour the tiny dwell-ing where Frank, a young Jewish girl, hid with her family during the Nazi occupation of Amsterdam in World War II. Her diary, “The Diary of a Young Girl,” published after her death in a concentration camp, has been translated into 60 languages.

Sebastiaan Evers / iStockphoto / Thinkstock

The Museum Quarter is home to several cultural institutions, including the Rijks-museum and the Van Gogh Museum, part of which is at right, above.

Ingram Publishing / Getty Images

The central canal belt is a great place to start a tour of Amsterdam. Canal cruises are popular, but walking and biking are excellent ways to explore as well.

imagsan / Getty Images / iStockphoto

The Rijksmuseum, built in 1885, recently underwent a 10-year renovation. It houses many golden age masterpieces, including Rembrandt’s “The Night Watch” and Vermeer’s “The Milkmaid.”


PASSPORT PHOTOS

Available at all AAA offices and ready in just minutes!

Passport applications are also available,but AAA does not process applications.

Valid AAA card must be shown for Member prices. Member prices valid only for the member listed on the card and their minor children (17 & younger). Child photos will only be taken if the child is able to sit up without assistance. Please do not wear a white shirt.

AAA Plus/Plus RV and Premier/Premier RV Members: Up to 2 sets FREE

AAA Basic Members: $5.25/per set

Non-Members: $10.50/per set

United States

SUMMER PICNICWednesday, August 17 • 6:30 pm

Summit View Banquet & Meeting House, Holyoke, MACost is $20, payable to AAA by Aug. 1

For details and to RSVP: 413-205-2339 or AAA.com/Solo

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AAA MEMBERS get FREE GOLD and a FREE DAY

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TERMS AND CONDITIONS:

More families are hitting the road this yearMillions of Americans are plannning to

travel with family this year. According to a recent AAA survey, more than one-third of Americans (35 percent) are planning to take a vacation 50 miles from home with two or more family members in the next year.

AAA estimates that U.S. drivers have saved nearly $12 billion on gas so far this year compared to the same period in 2015, and drivers this summer should pay the lowest gas prices in 12 years. These lower gas prices have motivated Americans to drive at record levels, and prompted many families to take road trips this year. Fifty-fi ve percent of Ameri-cans say they are more likely to take a road trip this year due to lower gas prices.

Road trips (69 percent), national parks (49 percent) and theme parks (42 percent) are the most popular types of vacations for families planning to travel in the next year. Vacations to internation-al destinations (26 percent) and cruises (19 percent) round out the top fi ve most popular vacation options for families.

“Two-thirds of Americans say spending quality time as a family is the most im-portant part of taking a family vacation,” said Sue Como, travel services manager for AAA Pioneer Valley. “Whether it’s a cross-country road trip or a dream vaca-tion to a far-off destination, travel offers busy families an excellent opportunity to share experiences and connect with each other in meaningful ways.”

AAA travel experts have great tips for those taking family vacations this year.

• Road trips: AAA recommends travel-ers map out a route in advance to make the most of their road trip. Drivers should plan frequent stops, about every 100 miles or two hours, to remain alert. Tools such as AAA’s TripTik travel planner, in desktop and app versions, can help fami-lies fi nd AAA Diamond Rated hotels and restaurants, gas prices and plan fun stops along the way.

• National parks: The National Park Service celebrates its centennial anniver-sary in 2016, making it a great year for travelers to discover the parks. The most

popular national parks, such as Great Smoky Mountains, Grand Canyon and Yosemite, may reach capacity during peak travel times, so plan ahead. National parks are waiving entrance fees this year on Aug. 25-28, Sept. 24 and Nov. 11.

• Theme parks: Theme parks in Orlando and Southern California are ex-pected to continue growing in popularity with families this summer. Early May and September, when travelers can experience lighter crowds and shorter lines, are great times to visit theme parks.

• International vacations: Favorable

exchange rates and discounted pricing are helping many families plan trips to international destinations this year. The current strength of the dollar makes international travel especially affordable right now, and Americans will get more for their money.

• Cruises: Cruises offer a variety of activities for all ages, plus children’s pro-grams that give parents a chance to relax and unwind. Cruise Lines International Association predicts 24 million vacation-ers – 1 million more than last year – will cruise the world’s waterways in 2016.

AAA MOBILEBefore setting out on a family vacation, down-load the free AAA Mobile app for iPhone, iPad and Android devices. Travelers can use the app to map a route, fi nd the lowest gas prices, access exclusive member dis-counts, fi nd more than 58,000 AAA Approved and Diamond Rated hotels and res-taurants, request AAA Roadside Assistance and more.


Rate quoted is per person, land only, based on double occupancy unless otherwise stated. Rate valid for departure 9/19/16. Rates for other travel dates may vary. 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 5/10/16; at the time you purchase your package, rates may be higher. For current prices, please see http://www.pleasantholidays.com. Advertised rate does not include any applicable daily resort or facility fees payable directly to the hotel operator at check-out; such fee amounts will be advised at the time of booking. AAA Member Benefit: $25 discount does not apply to air/car only bookings. Discount is per booking, taken at time of booking and not reflected in rate shown. AAA members must make advance reservations through AAA Travel to obtain Member Benefits. Not responsible for errors or omissions. [Pleasant Holidays acts only as an agent for the various travel providers shown above.] CST# 1007939-10. UBI# 601 915 263. TAR# 5308. Copyright © 2016 Pleasant Holidays, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

AAA Member Benefit: Members receive $25 per booking discount at time of booking.

CALL OR VISIT YOUR NEAREST AAA TRAVEL AGENT TODAY!

1-800-622-9211 • AAA.com/Travel

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• Luggage• Travel Accessories

• Atlases• Travel Guides

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Get Travel-Ready and Save!Get everything you need for your travels

in one convenient location, with exclusive AAA Member discounts on:

ONE-DAY TOURS*

July 24 - Charles Riverboat and Cambridge....................$114 Narrated Charles River cruise; lunch at the Cheesecake Factory; guided tour of Cambridge.

August 7 - Long Island Lighthouse Cruise.......................$110 Narrated lighthouse cruise; dinner at Go Fish; free time in Mystic Village

October 16 - Granite State Oktoberfest.............................$96Visit Grafton Village Cheese, enjoy entertainment by a German Oompah Band and Oktoberfest luncheon at The Inn at East Hill FarmOctober 23 - Salem............................................................$107Lunch at Victoria Station Restaurant; admission to Salem Witch Museum

November 20 - Radio City..................................................$151Reserved orchestra seats; free time in NYC for shopping

MULTI-DAY ESCORTED TOURS*

August 16-18 - 3-Day Niagara Falls & Finger Lakes........$5952 nights in Niagara Falls; 2 full breakfasts; 2 dinners; Niagara Falls guided tour and cruise on the Hornblower; Niagara on the Lake shopping; Casino; Lunch and wine tasting at a Finger Lakes Winery

September 19-21 - 3-Day ‘Samson’ Theatre Show..........$4792 nights hotel; 2 breakfasts, dinner and show at the hotel, dinner at Shady Maple Smorgasbord, wine and cheese reception; ‘Samson’ reserved orchestra tickets; Longwood Gardens; Kitchen Kettle Village; Sands Casino

October 7-10 - 4-Day Washington & Annapolis Tour.....$7793 nights at the Rosslyn Holiday Inn; guided tour of Washington, D.C.; Mount Vernon; tram tour at Arlington National Cemetery; guided tour of U.S. Naval Academy; 3 breakfasts; 3 dinners

2016 Motorcoach ToursBook Early - Space is Limited! For tour details, visit

AAA.com/Travel or call 413-785-1381

*One-day tour prices are per person; multi-day tour prices based on double occupancy; prices and dates subject to change. All motorcoach tours leave from the AAA office located at 270 Cooley St., Five Town Plaza, Springfield.

More praise for AAA Travel Veteran AAA travel agent Alyson Reed transfers to AAA Springfi eld locationBy Jeanne A. Fontaine, courses &

travel curator, Museum School at the Springfield Museums

I plan our member travel for the Springfield Museums, and I wanted to let you know how appreciative I am for a successful round-trip group airfare booking for 11 people with AAA Travel. We had a terrific flight from Bradley International Airport to Lima, Peru, on Delta Airlines.

Kathleen Karlsen made our group reservations and everything went very smoothly from initial inquiry to final booking. It was a pleasure working with Kathleen, and I hope to do so again in the near future, when we need group airfare.

We also purchased Nuevo soles, the Peruvian currency, from your AAA office, and it was extremely helpful, too.

I’ve been a AAA Member since 2001, and I’ve had nothing but great experiences. Thank you again!

AAA travel agent Kathleen Karlsen

ALYSON REEDAAA SPRINGFIELD OFFICE

413-205-2269 [email protected]

What I love most about my job is helping people plan their dream vacations. In the 15 years I’ve been at AAA Travel, I’ve assisted many clients with their travel plans while sharing advice about destinations.

My domestic travel experiences include New Orleans, Universal Orlando and Walt Disney World. I enjoy cruising and have been on Eastern, Western and Southern Caribbean cruises. One of my favorite travel experiences was on a recent Rhine River cruise where I visited Germany, France and Amsterdam.

With certifi cations from Sandals, Disney, Universal, Marriott, Viking River Cruises and Royal Caribbean, I am happy to assist clients with a wide variety of travel plans. I have recently trans-ferred from the West Springfi eld offi ce and look forward to serving clients at the Springfi eld offi ce, located in the Five Town Plaza.

AAA travel agent Alyson Reed


Cool places where ‘all wet’ means all’s right

3. Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom , Allentown, Pa.: The Snake Pit is among the park’s most recent additions. Its six slides include the Constrictor, an enclosed chute with four 360-degree loops, and Python Plummet, where riders enjoy a near vertical fall from roughly 60 feet in the air.

4. Funtown Splashtown USA, Saco, Maine: Funtown Splashtown offers guests a mix of amusement park (Fun-town) and water rides (Splash-town). The latter houses slides, pools and play areas, such as Pirate’s Paradise Aquaplay, where a 500-gallon bucket drenches kids every two minutes.

5. Great Escape and Splashwater Kingdom, Lake George, N.Y.: There are a few ways to have some

aquatic fun at this Six Flags theme park. Its water area, ad-jacent to an amusement park full of thrill, family and kids’ rides, gives visitors plenty to keep busy with an array of water slides and splash areas.

6. Hurricane Harbor at

Six Flags New England , Agawam, Mass.: Several waterslides offer no shortage of thrills, especially Bonzai Pipelines, where riders stand on a trap door that gives way to a 257-foot plummet. More easygoing visitors can fl oat on a

1,000-foot long lazy river. Younger swimmers can spend the day at Splash Island, which has a child-size lazy river and wave pool.

7. Lake Compounce, Bris-tol, Conn.: This park combines a variety of thrill rides, such as roller coasters, with a great wa-ter park. Crocodile Cove’s slides, lazy river, aquatic play area and children’s wave pool provide a great mix of summer fun.

8. Morey’s Piers and Beachfront Water Parks, Wildwood, N.J.: What’s better than a fun water park? Two of ’em. Morey’s Piers’ six beach-front blocks include Ocean Oasis Water Park and Beach Club and Raging Waters Water Park. Wildwood is home to 5 miles of beach and a 38-block boardwalk lined with food and amusements.

9. Sesame Place, Lang-horne, Pa.: Here the long-run-ning children’s show “Sesame Street” comes to life in a won-derful way. The park’s attrac-tions are based on the series’ colorful characters, and water rides include a body fl ume (Bert & Ernie’s Slip and Slide) to an inner tube fl oating adventure (Big Bird’s Rambling River).

10. Water Country USA , Williamsburg, Va.: Thrill-seekers will fi nd plenty to love here, including a 75-foot drop from atop Vanish Point and a weightless moment while fl owing down Colossal Curl, one of the parks’ newest attractions. More laid-back guests can check out the Surfer’s Bay Wave Pool.

continued from page 1

10 TripTiks®

BRING THE PARTY INDOORS

Does the heat have you beat, or the rain just will not quit? There are plenty of great indoor water parks around the region.

Great Wolf Lodge New England , Fitchburg, Mass. (exclu-sive for guests)

Kahuna Laguna at Red Jacket Mountain View Resort , North Conway, N.H. (exclu-sive for guests)

Pump House, Jay Peak Resort, Jay, Vt.

Sahara Sam’s Oasis, West Berlin, N.J. (outdoor water park open season-ally)

Morey’s Piers & Beachfront Water Parks

Raging Waters is one of two waterparks at Morey’s Piers and Beachfront Waterparks, in Wildwood, N.J.

AAA has discounts to amusement and water parks around the region. Before your trip, stop by a AAA branch or visit

AAA.com/Tickets to take advantage of exclusive membership benefi ts.

DISOUNTS


9-day Colorado Rockiesfeaturing National Parks & Historic TrainsAAA MEMBER CHOICE VACATIONSSelect Dates: through 9/24/16 Includes: 8-night hotel accommodations, 12 meals, sightseeing, expert travel director, and much more.Highlights: Denver, Grand Junction, Durango, Colorado Springs; ride aboard the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad and Pike’s Peak Cog Railway, the world’s highest cog railroad.a Rate includes $25 savings per person Receive a $75 credit to use toward the optional

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9-day California CoastAAA MEMBER CHOICE VACATIONSSelect Dates: through 4/30/17 Includes: 8-night hotel accommodations, 11 meals, sightseeing, expert travel director, and much more.Highlights: San Francisco, Yosemite National Park, Monterey, Santa Barbara, Los Angeles, Long Beache Rate includes $25 savings per person Receive a $75 credit to use toward the optional

tour of your choice. Purchase 2 or more optional tours and receive a $100 credit. ou Roundtrip home to airport sedan services

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CRUISES/CARIBBEAN

Rates valid on new bookings only. Rates are per person based on double occupancy, unless otherwise noted. Rate and member benefits shown are current at time of print, capacity controlled and subject to change and availability. Offers and itinerary are subject to change, availability, terms and conditions, and may be withdrawn or changed at any time without notice. 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. Not combinable with AAA ClubDeal offers. Other certain restrictions may apply. † AAA Exclusive Vacations is a subsidiary 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 whe ever it is deemed necesary. If this occurs, every effort will be made to offer alternate dates, hotels or other tour components. Please note: These are hosted packages. 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 Pioneer Valley 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, (7-day Discover London and 9-day Discover Italy valid 11/2 – 12/14/16, 9-day Discover Prague valid 11/8 – 12/13/16). Packages shown are 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. ^Pleasant Holidays.

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AAA Approved Auto Repair and Approved Auto Body facilities

meet AAA’s high standard of customer satisfaction, employ ASE certified technicians, provide a 12 month/12,000 mile warranty and agree to

accept AAA’s decision in the event of a member dispute. Check below for a location nearest you.

We Do!

Approved Auto Repair FacilitiesAgawamV&F Auto Service, 443 Springfield St. 789-2181 ChicopeeBrad’s Service Center, 760 Front St. 592-5187Greenfield Art’s Tire, 10 Silver St. 774-4349HadleyRoute 9 Auto, 457 Russell St. 253-0088 HolyokeD. E. Bourque & Sons, 1280 Dwight St. 539-2552NorthamptonFirestone Tire & Service, 327 King St. 586-1584PalmerJackson’s Auto Sales & Svc., 1307 Park St. 289-1016South Hadley Veryl’s Automotive, 644 Newton St. 536-0794SpringfieldBing’s Auto Service, 512 St. James Ave. 739-8641Firestone Tire & Service, 1666 Boston Rd. 543-1312Leonard’s Auto Repair, 288 Allen St. 785-1434Lyndale Garage, Inc., 87 Warehouse St. 732-3750W. SpringfieldSpartan Auto Care Center, 865 Memorial Ave. 739-2175Westfield Brill’s Auto Sales, 388 Southampton Rd. 568-9487WilbrahamSpartan Auto Care Center, 2714 Boston Rd. 596-2479WilliamsburgCichy’s Garage, 5 Main St. 268-7901

Approved Auto Body FacilitiesNorthamptonAcme Automotive, 220 King St. 584-3710SpringfieldRick’s Auto Body, 375 Pasco Rd. 543-3368

Visit AAA.com/Auto for complete details on AAA’s Approved Auto Repair

and Approved Auto Body Programs

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413-785-1381AAA.com/quotenow

• No science shows drivers reliably become impaired at a specifi c level of marijuana in the blood. This is different from alcohol, for which the relationship be tween blood alcohol con-centration and impairment is well understood and predictable.

• A driver’s THC level may drop from above a legal threshold to below it between the time a driver is stopped by the police or involved in a crash and when a blood test is administered. It can take hours to obtain blood samples.

• Marijuana affects people differently, making it challenging to develop consistent and fair guidelines.

“There is understandably a strong desire by lawmakers and the public to create legal limits for marijuana impairment in the same manner as we do with alcohol,” said Marshall Doney, AAA national president and CEO. “In the case of marijuana, this approach is fl awed and not supported by scientifi c research. It’s simply not possible today to determine whether a driver is impaired based solely on the amount of the drug in his or her body.”

AAA is urging states where marijuana use is legal to use more comprehensive enforcement measures, such as a two-compo-nent system that requires a positive test for recent marijuana use as well as behavioral and physiological evidence obtained by law enforcement to convict a person of marijuana-impaired driving.

“Marijuana can affect driver safety by impairing vehicle con-trol and judgment,” Doney said. “States need consistent, strong and fair enforcement measures to ensure the increased use of marijuana does not impact road safety.”

Continued from page 1By Kimberley Edgar

Summer concerts usually evoke thoughts of multi-sensory experiences savored at sym-phonic summer homes like Tanglewood.

But two Thursday-night series with person-alities of their own present free musical fare – and more – for the masses in downtown Springfi eld.

After 15 years, City Block Summer Concert Series organizers have returned to the roots of the Stearns Square sets with a lineup that includes pop, country, rock and blues acts.

“It was all about different genres when it started,” said Chris Russell, executive direc-tor of the Springfi eld Business Improvement District.

Up to 10,000 people have crowded in to hear the likes of British Invasion band The Yardbirds, which had two original members performing when the group played in 2006.

Five minutes away, at 361 Sumner Ave., 60 bells and about 60 pounds of potatoes draw hundreds.

They’ve found music plus food equals a summer series, called A Little Night Music, that towers above the rest. It begins with fi ne concerts at 6 p.m. inside Trinity United Methodist Church’s 800-seat sanctuary, fol-lowed by with 7 p.m. carillon recitals from the church’s 100-foot-high tower.

As the bells play, kids and adults can often be found playing Frisbee, relaxing in chairs and on blankets and enjoying rotat-ing meals – hamburgers and potato salad, for example – always capped with ice cream sundaes.

“The carillon is an outdoor instrument,” said Becky Isaacson, Trinity’s director of music ministry. “People talk while it’s being played and they’re eating their dinner. That’s how it’s to be enjoyed. You don’t just sit there in rows listening to it.”

These are concerts for the neighborhood and surrounding community, which has embraced them – as have the carillonneurs playing.

“This is a full-size carillon, kept in good shape, in a comfortable playing cabin in the tower,” said David Maker, who will play July 21. “I even have the luxury of a window, through which I can see the crowds on the lawn.”

For more information, visit www.springfi elddowntown.com or www.trinityspringfi eld.org.

In Your Backyard

In Springfi eld, a summer of note

A crowd gathers at Trinity United Methodist Church in Springfi eld for a carillon recital from the church tower.

AAA calls for stronger marijuana-use tests


1 Annual Percentage Yield (APY) is accurate as of 5/31/16 for a 24-month CD term and subject to change daily without notice. Applies to personal accounts only. A penalty may be charged for early CD withdrawal. Fees could reduce earnings on the account. There is no minimum opening deposit required to open.

2 National CD Average APY based on rates of top 50 U.S. banks (ranked by total deposits) provided by Informa Research Services, Inc., as of 5/31/16. Rate is accurate as of 5/31/16 and may change at any time without prior notice. Fees could reduce the earnings on the account.

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By Roberto X. CruzEvery now and then, a

car is so beloved – or so rare – that its value starts to skyrocket decades after it was built.

In the classic car market, this boost in value is one way buyers distinguish classic and collectible cars from ordinary used vehicles, said Jonathan Klinger, a spokesman for Hagerty, the nation’s largest insurer of classic cars.

“People used to say that once a car is 25 years old, it’s a classic, but that’s no longer true,” Klinger said. “A ve-hicle’s collector status today really depends on supply and demand.”

Of course, the condition of the car, the number of origi-nal parts and, yes, even color matters, too. With that in mind, let’s take a look at four cars from the ’80s and ’90s that are gaining in popular-

COLLECTOR CAR INSURANCE FROM HAGERTY AND AAA

Hagerty is as passionate about cars as you are. The AAA part-ner provides affordable coverage for classic and collectible cars, including many from model year 1980 and later. To learn more about the coverage options available through Hagerty, call your AAA insurance account manager or visit AAA.com/Insurance.

Classic cars

Emerging collector favorites

BMW M1

Porsche 911 Turbo

Buick Regal GNX

Dodge Viper RT/10

By Roberto X. CruzNearly 1 in 5 U.S. au-

tomobiles has an unfi xed safety defect, according to a study by Carfax, the vehicle history report company and a AAA part-ner that reviews recall data every year.

When a recall is issued, the manufacturer is required to fi x the problem, free of charge, by repairing it, replacing it or offering a refund. The manufac-turer must notify its customers of a recall with a letter in the mail.

Drivers can do their part by making sure their mailing ad-dress is up to date on their vehicle’s registration, according to the National Highway Traffi c Safety Administration, the govern-ment agency that administers recalls.

Once a driver is notifi ed that his or her vehicle has been recalled, he or she should follow any safety guidelines included on the recall notice and, if applicable, schedule a repair at the automaker’s local dealership, according to NHTSA.

Paul Nichting, Approved Auto Repair representative for AAA Pioneer Valley, has another tip for owners of recalled cars.

“Dealerships must fi x a recalled vehicle for free, but drivers should confi rm that the part they need is in stock before show-ing up unannounced,” Nichting said.

If you’d rather be proactive, you can also search for recalls on NHTSA’s website, www.safercar.gov. There, drivers can search recalls by make and model or by the car’s Vehicle Identifi cation Number, the 17-digit code found at the bottom of the driver’s side of the windshield.

The NHTSA website can also be used to look up recalls on child restraint systems and tires and to report a dealership that won’t repair a recalled part for free, Nichting said.

Know your rights when it comes to car recalls

ity at auction houses across America. (Vehicle values are estimates courtesy of the Hagerty Valuation Tools.) 1986 PORSCHE 911 TURBO

2013 Value: $39,600 2016 Value: $195,000

This speedy 282-horsepower coupe is beloved by collec-tors for its 3.3-liter air-cooled, rear fl at-six engine. Capable of going from zero to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds, the 911 Turbo has a 155-mph top speed that was marveled at in the early 1980s.

1987 BUICK REGAL GNX2013 Value: $54,100 2016 Value: $87,000

1987 was the fi nal year for Buick’s Grand National series, and the GNX helped it go out with a bang. With a 3.8-liter V-6 capable of producing 276 horsepower, it was one of the fastest muscle cars in America

in its day.1992 DODGE VIPER RT/10

2013 Value: $21,400 2016 Value: $26,800

It’s tough to think of a sports car from the 1990s as a classic, but with its colossal 8-liter V-10 engine, the Viper RT/10 is a favorite of auto enthusiasts. The fact that only 285 were built simply adds to its growing appeal.

1981 BMW M12013 Value: $217,000 2016 Value: $592,000

Until a few years ago, the M1 was the only mid-engine supercar ever produced by BMW. Only 453 were ever built, making it one of the automaker’s rarest models and one a collector anywhere would love to own, in any color.


AAA has a great student lending program.

Call or visit today!1-888-222-9413AAA.com/FinancialAid

All advertised rates are current as of the date this advertisement was printed and are subject to change without notice. All loans are subject to the lender’s receipt and approval of a completed loan application. The APR and loan fees applicable to your loan will depend on several factors, including the repayment option you select and your credit history. AAA Advantage Loans are made by SunTrust. Consolidation and education refi nance loans are made by the Rhode Island Student Loan Authority, Darien Rowayton Bank and Citizens Bank. See rates and fees at AAA.com/FinancialAid for Annual Percentage Rate (APR) examples and other im-portant information about private student loans through the AAA Student Lending Program. AAA encourages prospective borrowers to exhaust scholarships, grants, and federal loan options before applying for a private student loan. Federal loans are often less expensive and offer the widest variety of repayment options. FIN.15921.16_PV

When it comes to fi nding answers to your student loan questions, the AAA Student Lending Program is here for you. Our refi nance and consolidation loans will reduce loan payments after you have graduated while our private loan product provides competitive rates if you need help paying tuition and expenses.

The AAA Student Lending Program also provides: • Trusted advisors to guide you • Assistance fi lling out the FAFSA forms • Informational webinars • Help fi nding the right loan for you

We have the answer!

Student lending

Many different loans available for collegeBy George Morse

College students and their families na-tionwide have either received or will soon receive bills for the upcoming semester.

While everyone is a fan of scholarships, many students and families often turn to borrowing as part of their fi nancing plans.

But the types of loans available to parents and to students are quite different. There are nuances to each, and borrowers should familiarize themselves with what they will be signing up for.

STUDENTSIn the vast majority of cases, students,

especially incoming freshmen, don’t have enough of a credit history to qualify for private loans. As a result, many students turn to federal loans.

Federal loans for undergraduate students fall into two categories: subsidized and unsubsidized.

Subsidized loans are available for un-dergrads who demonstrate fi nancial need. Students do not have to pay interest on these loans while they are in school at least half-time.

Students don’t have to show fi nancial need to receive unsubsidized loans. Stu-dents are responsible for the interest on these loans when they’re in school. They

can choose to not pay interest while in school, though this means the interest will become part of the loan’s principal.

Both subsidized and unsubsidized loans carry borrowing limits that vary based on factors such as grade level.

Federal loans carry several repayment benefi ts, including income-based repay-

ment options and deferment for reasons such as unemployment.

Graduate students seeking federal loans can apply through the Direct Grad PLUS program.

PARENTSParents with established credit histo-

ries often have to weigh the benefi ts of private versus federal loans. Federal PLUS loans carry fi xed rates and do not have a maximum borrowing limit. PLUS loans are also unsubsidized, meaning borrowers are responsible for paying interest as it accrues and payments are due immediately after the last disbursement of funds, often while a child is still in school. Parents have the option to defer payments while the student is in school.

Applicants must be a student’s biological, or adoptive parents or legal guardians and cannot have adverse credit history.

PLUS loans are generally repaid in 10 to 25 years.

By George MorseThere were no cars on the

road when Ben Franklin said life’s two certainties are death and taxes. If there had been, he might have at least consid-ered adding vehicle deprecia-tion to the list.

In the majority of cases, and unlike other investments, the value of a car only falls over time, sometimes in dramatic fashion.

“It’s common to see a new car lose as much as 20 or 30 percent of its value in just a few years,” said Steve Brochu, vice president of insurance ser-vices for AAA Pioneer Valley.

In fact, an owner who takes out a loan to a buy a car can see its value diminish so quickly that he or she will owe more than the vehicle is worth.

GAP coverage is one way for borrowers to safeguard themselves against such a situation. Here are four things to know about the coverage.

What is GAP coverage? Guaranteed asset protection (GAP) plans cover the differ-ence between an outstanding auto loan or lease balance and what an insurance company deems to be a vehicle’s value.

When does it kick in? GAP coverage takes effect if a vehicle is stolen or is determined to be a total loss following a crash.

When is it purchased? GAP coverage is almost always purchased when closing on a loan.

Do I pay for it every month, like a loan? GAP coverage is a fl at fee. Borrow-ers can pay for it in one fell swoop, or have the cost added to a loan.

When closing a loan, bor-rowers can also protect them-selves from unexpected life events. Debt protection covers outstanding auto loan bal-ances in a variety of instances. Co-borrowers , for example, are safeguarded if the primary borrower dies. Debt protec-tion could also step in for bor-rowers who become disabled, or lose their jobs.

GAP coverage

Your car’s gone – but the debt isn’t

For more information about GAP coverage and debt protection, visit AAA.com/AutoLoans.

Getty Images / iStockphoto / Thinkstock

Vehicle depreciation is inevi-table, and that’s where GAP coverage comes in.

If you didn’t realize we offer great loans and financial services, that’s okay, now you do. AAA Financial Services saves you time and money with competitive rates and expert advisors—all from a company you already know and trust.

Surprised? You’re not alone.

*All loans offered through AAA Pioneer Valley. Rates and terms subject to change without notice. Some fees and restrictions may apply. All loans subject to credit approval, appraisal and satisfactory title examination where applicable. Consult your tax advisor regarding the deductibility of interest. Rates are for AAA members only. Other rates and terms available. Actual rate determined by individual credit worthiness. Above rates reflect a .25% discount for vehicle’s with 30+ MPG. Rates may not be available in all areas. No down payment required for qualified applicants. FIN.30800.16_PV

New & used 2010–2016 models for 60 monthsBorrowing at 2.44% APR for 60 months results in payments of

$17.72 per $1,000 borrowed*

Rates as low as APR

For the latest rates or other low rates and terms, call 1-888-222-9415 or visit AAA.com.

New & used 2010–2016 models up to 48 monthsBorrowing at 2.19% APR for 48 months results in payments of

$21.77 per $1,000 borrowed*

Rates as low as APR

2.19%

2.44%

Feng Yu / Hemera / Thinkstock

Many students and families turn to borrowing as part of their fi nancing plans for college.

Did you know some insurance compa-nies offer discounts on auto coverage for students with good grades? Talk to a AAA insurance agent at 413-785-1381 or go to AAA.com/Insurance to fi nd a AAA account manager near you.


FOR YOUR INFORMATION: Advance reservations are required and must include your AAA Club Discount Code (CDP)#, along with Promotion Code (PC#)108566. Subject to availability, offer is redeemable on 1-day minimum weekend and 5-day minimum weekly rentals of most car classes (excludes Dream Cars) at participating Hertz locations in the U.S., Canada, Puerto Rico, and Mexico. Saturday night keep is required. Blackouts may apply. Offer has no cash value and may not be used with Pre-pay Rates, Tour Rates or Insurance Replacement Rates and may only be used with a AAA CDP#. Taxes, tax reimbursement, fees and optional service charges are not included. Savings in USD or local currency equivalent. At the time of rental, present your AAA membership card or

For reservations and additional information on

Call: 1-800-654-3080 Click: AAA.com/hertzVisit:

AAA Members save an additional $5/day up to $30 on weekend and weekly rentals when Promotion Code #108566 is included in your reservation.

hertz.com

Hertz helps your AAA membership cover even more ground.

Hertz & AAA. Where value rules the road.

AAA PIONEER VALLEY

July/August 2016Splash into summer

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