The Real Cost of Our Aging Transportation Infrastructure
Earle B. Seeley, President/CEO

Many of the roads, bridges and transit systems we travel on each day were built decades ago, paid for by previous generations.

Many facilities have outlasted their original design life and are in dire need of repair, or need to be completely rebuilt.

The wear and tear we put on these existing systems is tremendous because we are a very different, more prosperous and mobile country than we were when these facilities were built.

To provide a glimpse of how things have changed, when construction on the Interstate Highway System began in the 1950s, there were 65 million vehicles traveling 600 billion miles annually.

Now there are over 240 million vehicles, and they travel more than 3 trillion miles every year.

The American Society of Civil Engineers publishes a “report card” grading the condition of America’s infrastructure.

In 2005, the nation’s roads received a “D” grade, bridges a “C” and transit a “D+.”

Preliminary findings from their 2009 report show bridges with no change
“C”, while downgrades occurred for roads “D-” and transit “D.”

The figures below shed some detail on the needs we face as a nation:

• 33 percent of America’s urban and rural roads are in poor, mediocre or fair condition, according to the
Federal Highway Administration.

• Driving on roads in need of repair costs U.S. motorists $54 billion per year in extra vehicle repairs and operating costs — $275 per motorist.

• Outdated and substandard road and bridge design, pavement conditions and safety features are factors in 30 percent of all fatal highway crashes.

• Between 1970 and 2002, passenger travel nearly doubled in the United States. Road use is expected to increase by nearly two-thirds in the next 20 years.

• As of 2003, 27 percent of the nation’s 160,570 bridges were structurally deficient or functionally obsolete.

America needs a seamless, multi-modal transportation system; a system of tightly-linked roads, bridges, transit systems, freight rail, airports and seaports; a continuously flowing, 24-hours-a-day, seven-days-a-week system.

Although there have been constructive strides made in the areas of HOV/HOT lanes, GPS navigation, intelligent highway design and other technical advances, the nation’s highway system has been starved of funds for decades and remains
remarkably antiquated for a world superpower.

Clogged and out of date, there is nothing “open” about today’s roads or transit systems for millions of commuters every day.

The freight railroads, airports and seaports that move people and goods
to and from global destinations are similarly clogged and inefficient when compared to other world
facilities.

Today, not only is our transportation system an impediment to our quality of life, but also to environmental quality and our competitiveness as a nation in the global marketplace.

AAA continues to be an advocate for motorists and is working to ensure that their voices are not an afterthought.

Motorists will likely be asked to reach deeper into their wallets to pay for transportation going forward, so it is imperative that those who pay understand what is being proposed.

In an effort to raise awareness about this critical condition, AAA has launched a campaign entitled “Making America Stronger.”

You can get involved in the process by visiting AAAMakingAmericaStronger.com and becoming an advocate for a stronger American infrastructure along with us.

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AAA Valley News Now Online

A full version of AAA Valley News is now available online. Notification of the availability of each new edition will be sent to anyone on our email list via email alert with an easy-access link.

To make sure you are alerted to our online version, please update your email address today! Just go to AAA.com/update. If you prefer to email your changes to us, send your updated information to memberships@aaamv.com. Make sure to give your membership number, name, address, phone number and email address.

You can also call or stop by any AAA Merrimack Valley office and we will be happy to add your email address to your membership file.

“The benefits of electronic media are obvious,” said Eleanor Baker, AAA Valley News Editor. “We are happy to be able to offer this online convenience for those readers who would like it. We will continue to offer the printed publication as we move toward a more efficient system.”

Updating your information will also mean fewer post office returns and fewer re-sendings of traditional mail.

Moving toward a greener system is a process which will be ongoing and we appreciate your help every step of the way.

To update your information simply go to our homepage at AAA.com and click on “Going Greener.”

You can also visit AAA.com/update.

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Commercial Business Insurance: A Great Fit

The recent economic downturn that has hit so many across the nation has affected many residents of the Merrimack Valley, as well.

“The loss of a steady job or income has created a boom in independently-minded entrepreneurs creating small start-up businesses,” said Amy Beardsley, Director of Insurance and Financial Services for AAA Merrimack Valley. “We have seen so many people create a new venture to support their families and we applaud their initiative but we also want to advise them that they may want to talk to us to make sure they are protected as a small business owner.”

Anyone starting a new business, whether it’s landscaping, snowplowing, interior decorating, baking, cleaning service or home daycare needs to be properly insured.

However, there is no one-size-fits-all product when it comes to insurance.

“Our agents are available to walk you through this often intimidating process,” continued Mr. Beardsley. “Your assets and special talents all require some consideration when deciding on coverage.”

For example, a motivated owner of a pick-up truck with a plow attached might decide to make some extra cash plowing during the winter.

After securing clients that are willing to pay for this a problem arises when the driver accidentally damages a building adjacent to the parking lot he/she was clearing.

Personal auto insurance does not cover this type of mishap. This type of incident would need specific liability coverage because it is a “business exposure.”

Another example is the stay-at-home moms, dads, retired grandparents or others who may wish to start a child daycare as a small business.

It may seem as easy as babysitting and many people consider establishing one right in their home.

But what happens if a child falls or is injured while playing with the other children? Who will cover a liability that may occur?

“Most homeowner policies would exclude this type of incident because it would also be considered a business exposure’” advised Mrs. Beardsley. “So, you wouldn’t be covered because business exposures are covered by a commercial policy designed for business purposes.”

The best approach is to be pro-active.

If you have worked to create any large or small venture to provide a service for a fee or sell any products such as household goods, makeup, jewelry or cleaning supplies, you should protect yourself and your assets.

“Call us to see what type of coverage you need,” concluded Mrs. Beardsley. “It is very important to be aware of any risk and secure the protection that a business-owner policy provides.

Protect your business and protect your future. Call Automobile Club Insurance Agency, Inc. today at 978 681-9200 ext 726 and ask for Ida or go online at AAA.com and request an online quote.

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Romantic Retreats
By Megan Gorzkowski

Quebec's Hotel de Glace offers coupoles a magical, relaxing getaway.

What’s your idea of the perfect Valentine’s getaway? A Ferris wheel ride overlooking Niagara Falls? A movie-worthy Empire State encounter? Here are some romantic destinations perfect for a few days away.

• Asheville, N.C. What’s a fairy-tale getaway without a castle, or at least a castle-sized mansion? Built in the late 1800s by George Vanderbilt, Biltmore Estate is America’s largest home. During your visit, view artwork by masters like Renoir. Then tour the estate’s gardens and vineyards on a relaxing carriage ride. Couples with a love of the outdoors will find plenty of hiking trails; Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Appalachian National Scenic Trail are just some of the locations offering breathtaking views.

• Burlington, Vt. Give each other the gift of fine cooking with a stay at The Essex Culinary Resort & Spa. Affiliated with the New Eng-land Culinary Institute, The Essex offers gourmet cooking classes and AAA Four-Diamond accommodations. Continue your Green Mountains getaway with a visit to Burlington’s Church Street Marketplace. Comprised of four blocks of shops, restaurants, street performers and more, this district is popular with tourists, college students and locals alike.

• Hershey, Pa. If you’re tired of the same old box-of-chocolates routine, check out Hershey, “The Sweetest Place on Earth!” Its “Chocolate-Covered February” celebration offers special events all month long. Spend a day at the Chocolate Spa. Go on a truffle-making tour at The Hershey Story Museum. And be sure to stop by The Jeweler at the Hotel Hershey; those Hershey Kiss pendants and chocolate-colored diamonds outshine that box of candy any day!

• Kennebunkport, Maine With the summertime crowds long out of sight, Kennebunkport is a perfect winter haven for couples seeking some peace and quiet. Go for a walk along the beach, spend some time snowshoeing, or curl up by the fire with your loved one.
If you’re in the mood for some shopping, visit Dock Square, home to small shops with handmade goods, antiques and more. For a real splurge, make your reservations for dinner at the White Barn Inn.

• Niagara Falls, Ontario Niagara Falls’ Canadian side is full of fun wintertime activities. Take a ride on the 175-foot-high Niagara SkyWheel, and enjoy a breathtaking view of the falls from the comfort of your heated, enclosed gondola. Lace up your ice skates and go for a glide across the new “Rink on the Brink,” located near the edge of the Horseshoe Falls. And don’t forget to ride under the falls on the Maid of the Mist boat tour. Look how well it turned out for Jim and Pam on “The Office.”

• New York City, N.Y. “An Affair to Remember.” “Breakfast at Tiffany’s.” “Sleepless in Seattle.” Why are some of the best romantic films set in the Big Apple? Find out with an NYC getaway. Indulge in all the “must-do” activities for lovebirds in Manhattan: ride to the top of the Empire State Building, go ice-skating at Rockefeller Center and enjoy Serendipity’s “Frrrozen Hot Chocolate.” If you need a bigger fix of New York’s romantic movie history, check out On Location’s “Central Park Movie Site” tour.

• Québec City, Québec If you really love winter, look to the Hôtel de Glace, or “Hotel of Ice,” just outside Québec City. Constructed of more than 15,000 tons of ice and snow, this unique hotel and tourist attraction is only open January through March each year. Fireplaces, warm beverages and hot tubs keep guests warm. For a more traditional Québécois experience, visit Old Québec City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Feel yourself transported to Europe as you visit bistros and cozy shops along narrow cobblestone streets.

• Stockbridge, Mass. “Picturesque” doesn’t begin to describe Stockbridge. The inspiration for many Norman Rockwell illustrations, this Berkshire town offers a welcome respite. Close to ski resorts and museums, Stockbridge has a variety of its own attractions, too. Berkshire Botanical Garden’s Rice Greenhouse offers a year-round oasis. The Rockwell Museum features hundreds of the artist’s works, many depicting the heartwarming, humorous sides of love.

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CD Laddering: Climb to Financial Success

It’s hard to beat the rock-solid security of certificates of deposit, or CDs. Because they aren’t subject to the wild swings of the stock market, they can add steady returns to your investment portfolio.

The key is having a strategy that maximizes your returns.With a “CD ladder,” your money is spread among CDs with a variety of maturity dates. Why is that important? Well, if the economy is in a slump and interest rates are low, you don’t get stuck buying a bunch of CDs with low interest rates. Spreading out maturity dates also provides some liquidity, as one or more CDs will always be approaching maturity.

How It Works

Let’s use a five-year ladder and $20,000 to invest as an example. Here, you would have five “rungs” of $4,000 each. For the first rung, you would put $4,000 in a one-year CD. For the second rung, you would put $4,000 in a two-year CD, continuing on up to $4,000 in a five-year CD.

After a year, the one-year CD matures. That means each of the other CDs now are one year closer to maturity (i.e., the two-year CD now matures in one year and the three-year certificate matures in two years).

If you don’t need the money for immediate needs, you take the $4,000 plus earnings from the one-year CD that has just matured and roll it over into a new five-year certificate (and put on the top rung of your ladder).

With a CD ladder, you’re always replacing the rung that’s farthest out (i.e., the CD with the longest maturity). If the economy is slumping and interest rates happen to be low one year, you’re only reinvesting a portion of your investment when yields are low. And because you’re constantly reinvesting, you don’t have to play guessing games with where rates are headed.

The beauty of laddering is that you can adjust the “length” of your ladder however you want. In a low-rate environment, you may want to keep your ladder short. Perhaps you’d create a one-year ladder with four rungs (three, six, nine and 12 months).

Matching Maturities to Needs

CDs typically come with early withdrawal penalties, which can wipe out any returns if you need to take the money out before the term is up. So, make sure the maturities you select work with your cash needs. Here, it may make sense to hold some cash in a high-yielding money market account. You’ll earn competitive yields and enjoy access to your money market funds in a pinch so that you don’t need access to your CDs.

What About FDIC Coverage?

Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) insurance coverage has been increased from $100,000 to $250,000 for all deposit accounts, including CDs, until the end of 2013. In cases of a CD ladder that exceeds the FDIC coverage amount, you can open accounts in different ownership categories – Individual, Joint or Trust – or at multiple banks to make sure your CD purchases are covered.

AAA is always on the lookout for ways to help members get the most value from their membership. That’s why we’ve partnered with Discover Bank to offer you preferred rates on CDs, MMAs, and IRAs. Log on to AAA.com/Deposits, or call 1-888-728-3230 today to learn more.

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Members Save With Professional Drivers Inc.

Trust Professional Drivers to get your car back to you safely.

What happens when you’re thousands of miles from home and your car has broken down?

You need to go home now, but your car can’t bring you there.

Usually, you’d have to go back when repairs are done and drive it home yourself.

But repairs to some higher-end vehicles can take up to four months. You simply can’t take more time off and return to drive it home after repairs are done.

Professional Drivers Incorporated is there to help you avoid that extra trip.

Professional Drivers is a unique vehicle transportation service that will reunite you with your car – and is now offering AAA members an exclusive six percent discount on auto transportation services with the AAA Show Your Card & Save program.

The company, which uses its own trusted drivers – whose backgrounds have been thoroughly checked – never hands your car over to strangers. Their drivers are carefully selected professionals who drive every vehicle directly to its destination.

Using drivers is always faster and safer than putting it on a truck, which could damage your newly repaired vehicle all over again.

That’s why Professional Drivers is such an attractive option.

With their years of experience, long list of satisfied customers and millions of accident-free miles, their drivers offer the personalized service that you can count on and need when disaster strikes on your vacation.

Professional Drivers offers an array of services, including taking your car to your second home or vacation spot and returning it safely to you. The company even allows you to include as many personal belongings as you can fit in the car, saving you the expense of shipping them. They allow your pets to be in the car with their drivers, saving you the trouble of shipping them as cargo. And if you hate to fly, you can ride along with them, too.

For more information, visit www.AAA.com/professionaldrivers or call (800) 639-1656.

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Sweet Valentine's Offers: Save on Gifts for Loved Ones

Celebrate Valentine’s Day with AAA member savings on popular gifts for the special people in your life.

Cookies By Design

Show how much you care with a sweet delivery from Cookies by Design, a new AAA Show Your Card & Save partner.

Choose from a variety of freshly baked personalized Valentine’s treats, including the new Whimsical Heart bouquet.

Even better – AAA members save 15 percent on most purchases.

With an offer this sweet, you can treat neighbors, teachers, friends and family this Valentine’s Day.

Visit AAA.com/shopnow to place your order.

FTD

AAA members save 20 percent on purchases at many FTD retail locations and online when they show their AAA card.

Members can enjoy extra savings this month on FTD’s Season of Love Bouquet.

Save 30 percent on this beautiful Valentine’s Day arrangement featuring roses, carnations and a festive vase.

Visit AAA.com/FTD, or call 1-800-SEND-FTD and mention code “11839.” Offer valid now through Feb. 15.

Some restrictions may apply. Visit AAA.com/discounts for more information.

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Have No Fear of the Cold: Boston's Wonderful in Winter
By David A. Kelly

Sisters keep warm while ice-skating at the Frog Pond on the Boston Common.

With our long New England winters, many people think of escaping to someplace tropical when the temperatures dip below freezing. But if you don’t have the time or money for an extended warm-weather vacation, may-be it’s worth considering taking a winter weekend in Boston instead.

“Winter is great time to visit Boston because it’s the peak activity season for the arts, sports, and food-and-wine visitor,” said Larry Meehan, Vice President of Tourism for the Greater Boston Convention & Visitors Bureau. “It’s peak season for exhibitions and theater, and dance and music, basketball and hockey, and restaurants are offering their best menus. For families, it’s also value season – with great deals on hotels, many with indoor swimming pools and extras such as museum passes.”

In addition, important attractions like the Freedom Trail, Faneuil Hall, the New England Aquarium, and the old-fashioned Italian North End, tend to be less crowded in the winter. And it never hurts to warm up with a cup of New England clam chowder at Legal Seafood or a cup of espresso and a cannoli at Mike’s Pastry in the North End.

But there are plenty of other non-traditional stops for winter visitors. Try the North Bennet Street School’s Gallery for something a little different. Since 1885 the school has been training students in the art of creating high-quality crafts — from bookbinding and violin making to carpentry and jewelry making.

The school’s new Gallery features a range of items, from handmade marble paper to a 1918 grand piano. The three-story brick building is a few steps from the Old North Church and near several classic Italian restaurants and pastry shops in the North End.

It might also make sense to take advantage of winter recreational opportunities — from skating on Frog Pond in the Boston Common to signing up for one of REI’s Outdoor School classes, such as their Introduction to Snowshoeing. Learn how to strap on a pair of snowshoes, break a trail and warm up in the winter air with REI’s snowshoes and know-how.

Boston also has plenty of interesting indoor sites to help visitors stay warm.

“Without question, Boston’s hidden gem is America’s first public library – the magnificent Boston Public Library in Copley Square,” Mr. Meehan said. “It’s free, it’s easy to get to from all the hotels, the architecture, the art, the exhibitions are very high quality, it has a great café, and there are free walking tours. The grandness of the interior always surprises visitors, and it has been used by Hollywood for films such as ‘The Pink Panther 2.’”

When the lights go down, Boston is home to a lively music scene with options for every taste. There’s indie rock at the Middle East in Cambridge, a mainstream lineup at the new House of Blues and classical at the Boston Symphony Orchestra.

“I love Les Zygomates on South Street,” said Bostonian Mark Watkins. “They have great food, a fantastic wine list, wonderful atmosphere, and live jazz most nights! Where else can you hear live jazz while you dine?”

The Blue Man Group is also a great wintertime option. Although the event is hard to explain to someone who’s never been, the show is essentially a multimedia performance involving lots and lots of paint and drumming (together), marshmallows, Lucky Charms, wondrous tubes, audience participation and humor.

Make sure to sit in the first few rows if you’re willing to get wet; otherwise opt for seats on the main floor for the best views. (And don’t forget to buy your tickets in advance at www.blueman.com/aaa to take advantage of member savings.)

With fewer visitors, winter can be the perfect time to find some great Boston hotel deals. Be sure to check out AAA.com/hotels for the latest.

Whether it’s a show, a restaurant, the library or a hike on snowshoes, Boston has enough wintertime magic to warm the hearts of any weekend visitor.

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First-Time Cruiser? Here Are Some Things You Should Know
By Tom Wuckovich

A Travel Counselor can help you select a cruise that's best suited to your needs and budget.

Choosing the right vacation is not always easy.

But if you’ve been thinking about a cruise because of all the glowing reports about these all-inclusive vacations — meaning your fare includes almost everything onboard, like accommodations, meals, snacks and activities — here are some things every first-time cruiser should know.

First, consult a AAA Travel Counselor to help you select a cruise that’s best suited to your needs and budget.

What length cruise should I take?

Most experts recommend a three- or four-day cruise to sample the experience. If you enjoy it, cruises of all lengths are available — even around the globe!

Where should I cruise?

Young couples and families with children often opt for the Caribbean or Alaska.

European cruises, the Mediterranean, Baltic and Far East are popular with 50-plus travelers who have a little more time because the voyage is
longer.

What ship do I choose?

Cruise ships come in all shapes and sizes, from 3,000-passenger vessels to more intimate ships that carry less than 100 people.

Large cruise ships have more entertainment, activities and dining options, while smaller vessels offer a casual atmosphere and often visit ports that larger vessels can’t enter.

What about a cabin?

Cabin size varies, but you can ask your travel counselor the size of various staterooms before you make your choice.

If you are on a tight budget and will be out and about most of the time, book an inside cabin.

However, many cruisers feel that an “outside” cabin, with a porthole or picture window, or a cabin with a verandah, is well worth the extra money.

Do I need a passport?

Your AAA Travel Counselor can answer all your questions about document requirements.

What should I pack?

Most large cruise ships have a few formal nights. Tuxedos or business suits are appropriate for the men and cocktail dresses or pantsuits for the
women. Resort casual is the trend these days.

Will I get seasick?

If you’re susceptible to motion sickness, you may need preventive medications. Consult your doctor before you leave.

How do I pay for things?

Cruise lines operate on a cashless system in which you sign a receipt for each purchase and settle your account at the end of the cruise with a credit card, cash or travelers check.

What about tipping?

Tipping is an individual matter. All cruise lines offer general guidelines, but passengers are free to adjust the amount at the end of the cruise.

What are the dining options?

On virtually all cruises, meals or snacks are available 24 hours a day. There are formal dining rooms, buffets, pizzerias, poolside bars, espresso cafes and room service.

Most ships offer at least two dinner seatings, and you will be asked for your preference when making your cruise reservation. On many newer ships, you can pay a small fee and dine in a specialty restaurant on board.

Will I have access to e-mail and the Internet?

Guests are able to send and receive e-mail via
a high-speed satellite link 24 hours a day on most ships.

Can I be reached in case of an emergency?

Yes, instructions will be included with your cruise documents.

Do I really need travel insurance?

You might want to in-sure against unforeseen cir-cumstances like illness. Check with your AAA
Travel Counselor.

Can I leave the ship in ports?

Cruise ships offer a variety of options for your time in port. A shore excursion brochure will be included with your cruise documents.

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Pre/Post Stays Extend & Enhance Cruising

Pre- and post-cruise tours are perfect for faraway destinations like Australia or the Suth Pacific.

Perhaps you’re headed for the Caribbean, sailing from New York or Miami. It could be Alaska by way of Vancouver or Seattle. Or, maybe it’s the Mediterranean from Athens or Rome.

Yes, you’ve booked your cruise and the dates are set. But have you considered everything?

Will you arrive at the port on the same day your cruise sets sail? How soon after coming ashore will you fly home? How much rushing will be needed to make your connections? What if there’s a delay at the beginning or end of your trip?

By making plans in advance for the days before and after your cruise, you’ll not only energize your travels, you’ll eliminate stress and worry.

Whatever your port of departure, exciting and affordable pre/post cruise packages are available. Your AAA Travel Agent can guide you in the best direction.

Pre/post cruise planning is especially important for the South Pacific and far-flung ports such as Auckland or Sydney.

One name you may hear a lot about is Travel Bound.

With over 30 years of international experience, this innovative vacation expert is the first choice for many travel professionals. The company’s pre/post cruise packages rank among the most thoughtful, accommodating budgets large and small.

All packages include two nights’ hotel stay, taxes and service charges, plus transfers between the airport and hotel and hotel and port.

If you prefer to make your own pre/post cruise arrangements or stay for just one night, consulting with your AAA Travel Agent can often save you time and money.

Travel Bound, for instance, offers over 31,000 hotels worldwide and countless sightseeing options to meet every need and budget.

Also, ask about private transfers for added comfort and convenience.

With so many thrilling possibilities these days, it’s no wonder cruise vacations are among the most popular.

Be sure to do it right; make plans for the before and after.

The result can spell the difference between a nice vacation and an absolutely outstanding one.

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Cruise Lines Up 'Wow' Factor With 2010's New Ships

You'll feel like royalty in the Queen Elizabeth's Grand Lobby.

Winning comparisons to a Las Vegas-style resort, Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas made quite the splash when it launched late last year. Among the features on the world’s largest cruise ship: a water theater, a zip line and a replica Central Park.

The cruise industry will build on this momentum in 2010 with more new ships, representing the newest technology afloat and offering unparalleled passenger comforts and amenities. Here is a brief look at some of the top new ships on the horizon.

Allure of the Seas

Oasis of the Seas’ sister ship — Allure of the Seas — will debut in the fall. The revolutionary design will fill your days at sea with wonder: Wake to two-story ocean views in contemporary Loft Suites, hop onto a classic, full-sized carousel in the Boardwalk neighborhood, spend some quiet time in the adults-only Solarium, and let the kids’ imaginations run wild in the Youth Zone – the largest dedicated youth area at sea.

Jump right into the Pool Zone, where you’ll find the H2O Zone, cantilevered whirlpools, FlowRiders and a thrilling zip-line view of the ship and sea below.

Go for a stroll in Central Park – a lush public space lined with foliage and fine restaurants – or take in the majestic view from a balcony overlooking the AquaTheater, the first amphitheater at sea.

With 28 ultra-modern loft suites and 2,700 spacious staterooms, this 16-deck marvel proves the impossible is possi-ble. Like Oasis, Allure of the Seas will sail alternating seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises from Fort Lauderdale.

Celebrity Eclipse

Celebrity Eclipse will feed your wanderlust, offering the best way to explore Europe and the Caribbean when she sets sail in April.

Luxury and spectacular design are mainstays aboard this floating masterpiece whether you’re being pampered in the AquaSpa Relaxation Room, indulging at the main dining room beneath a two-story glass wine tower and dazzling chandeliers, or enjoying the show inside the Eclipse Theatre.

Like her sister ships Celebrity Solstice and Celebrity Equinox , the 2,850-passenger Eclipse will carry on some of the hallmarks of the new Solstice class, including a half-acre Lawn Club with real grass and a glassblowing show and studio developed with the Corning Museum of Glass.

Dining venues offer trendsetting cuisine and design like the sophisti-ca-ted steakhouse Tuscan Grille or Silk Harvest Restaurant for the cuisines of Vi-etnam, Thailand, Japan, China and India, served family-style. And entertainment varies widely, including spectacular new shows in partnership with Poet Theatricals.

Queen Elizabeth

The most anticipated ship arriving in 2010 has one of the most famous names in maritime history. Cunard Line’s Queen Elizabeth will feature the Cunard traditions linking her with her sisters Queen Mary 2 , Queen Victoria and their predecessors, with exciting features that will give the vessel her own style and personality.

The new ship will reflect Cunard’s first Queen Elizabeth in interior grandeur, décor and style, but with a modern twist. From the outside, her distinctive black and red livery will hint at an experience that differentiates a Cunard liner. This will be most evident in the ship’s adherence to liner traditions, with elegant double- and triple-height public rooms on a grand scale, luxuriously endowed with rich wood paneling, intricate mosaics, gleaming chandeliers and cool marbles.

As part of its extensive entertainment program, the ship will offer some unique strands inspired by the era of the first Queen Elizabeth , such as country house parties at sea, evening piano sing-alongs and period dancing, from traditional ballroom to the jitterbug and the jive.

Her maiden season will run from October to January and include voyages to the Western and Central Mediterranean and the Caribbean.

Nieuw Amsterdam

Also reviving the name of a grand ocean liner from the past is Holland America’s Nieuw Amsterdam . Delivering in July, the ship will reflect the glamour and history of New York City.

It further defines Holland America Line’s premium brand with the innovative pan-Asian Tamarind restaurant and Silk Den lounge surrounded by panoramic views of the ocean expanse and the Lido pool. Other additions are an Explorer’s Lounge Bar, a premium wine-tasting lounge, an elegant luxury jewelry boutique, new atrium bar area, enhanced and reconfigured show lounge, and a new photographic and imaging center.

The ship will include outside-view, glass elevators at midship; the Explorations Café, a cyber coffee house powered by The New York Times ; the Pinnacle Grill and Pinnacle Bar; the Culinary Arts Center presented by Food & Wine Magazine , where experts provide cooking demonstrations and intimate classes in onboard show kitchens; an expanded Greenhouse Spa and Salon with thermal suites and hydro-pool; and a youth facility with a teens-only Loft.

Nieuw Amsterdam will feature 11 guest decks and staterooms that spotlight all the Signature of Excellence premium amenities. Also featured are innovative spa staterooms with additional spa amenities.

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Viva Las Vegas: From the Strip to the Rim and Beyond

Dine atop the Eiffel Tower at Paris Las Vegas.

Snow-white lions and tigers and an Asian elephant romp and roam in a secret garden in the western desert. It’s no mirage set amid the glitzy, glamorous surrounds – Las Vegas.

The Mirage’s Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat and the MGM Grand’s Lion Habitat offer a safari of fun.

And there’s plenty more to do in the World’s Entertainment Capital.

Many AAA Travel Counselors recommend Las Vegas’ glamorous live shows. Cirque du Soleil performances are favorites – Fab Four fans should check out “The Beatles LOVE,” at the Mirage ().

And Vegas visitors find themselves hotel hopping, checking out the varied architecture in these communities unto themselves.

Ride to the top of the Eiffel Tower at the Paris Las Vegas (), glide through the canals on a gondola at the Venetian (), or come face to face with sea creatures at the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay
().

Shop — or at least browse — like the rich and famous at Wynn Las Vegas (), Caesar’s (), or MGM-Mirage’s new CityCenter.

And don’t hesitate to get off the beaten Strip for some other fun:

• Golfing – putter around on championship and less-demanding courses in excellent desert-climate conditions.

• Horseback riding – grab your Stetson and saddle up for a cowboy trail ride or an Old West experience.

• Hot-air ballooning – lift up, up and away to scope the Strip from at least 500 feet above.

Anyone looking for a 15-minute thrill in the air can head to Vegas Indoor Skydiving for an adrenaline rush in the simulated experience in a 21-foot vertical wind tunnel.

And these don’t even begin to touch upon the thrills outside Las Vegas.

LEAVING LAS VEGAS

The Grand Canyon National Park’s West Rim is the closest scenic overlook, though another point easily accessible for a day trip from Vegas is the South Rim.

Adventurers may choose to make their canyon tour an overnight. Or, they may decide to explore closer to Vegas.

East of Vegas, through a desert oasis, is Lake Mead. The 1.5 million-acre expanse in western Arizona and southern Nevada extends 140 miles along the Colorado River, from Grand Canyon National Park, Ariz., to Bullhead City, Ariz. It is the meeting point for three of the four desert ecosystems – the Mojave, Great Basin and Sonoran deserts. Mead is one of the largest man-made lakes in the United States.

The Hoover Dam is another popular nearby attraction. The dam was built between 1931 and 1935 in Black Canyon for flood control and water storage. At 726 feet high, it is one of the highest concrete dams ever constructed. A 45-minute self-guided tour begins at the visitor center.

West of Vegas, Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area contains outstanding geological formations such as the Keystone Thrust Fault. Self-guided hiking trails lead to a spring, waterfall, water-containment areas, small canyons – or washes –and an old homestead’s ruins.

About two hours north of Vegas is Zion National Park. It’s off Interstate 15 in Utah, where the West Temple and Watchman stone masses stand sentry at the park’s southern entrance. Huge sculpted rock formations coexist with hanging gardens and desert terrain. And the spectacular Zion Canyon – carved through strangely colored sandstone and shale – begins just north of the park’s southern entrance.

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Meet a Travel Agent: Robyn Michaud

When did you start working in the travel business?

I started in 1992 and worked with Judy Beeley at her office, J. Beeley’s Travel Center. Judy is now Assistant Vice President of Travel for AAA Merrimack Valley and I came with her to AAA in 1998.

What made you decide to go into the travel business?

When I was 18 I traveled to Mexico and loved it so much I went back for a second time. I decided to visit Jamaica and caught the travel bug. I wanted to learn about diverse destinations and cultures.

What made you stay in the travel business?

I was able to travel often and soon realized I went to work every day but did not feel like I was going to a “job.” I enjoy talking with people about their travel experiences and helping them plan new ones.

What do you like most about your position as a AAA Travel Consultant?

I like building new relationships with clients and becoming their “personal” travel agent.It’s exciting to hear about their journey when they return. I learn a lot just from listening to my clients relay their personal experiences.

What type of travel do you like to book
and why?

I like to book trips to the Caribbean and Mexico. All of the Caribbean Islands are so different and it is fun learning about them and matching them up with clients. The same with Mexico, even the areas of the
Mayan Riviera are different. I like the challenge of finding the perfect spot for clients. After 15 years I am starting to
enjoy planning independent trips to Europe as well.

What is it that makes your clients come back to you?

I feel the customer service I provide is one reason. I am genuinely interested in everything that I do here and I love my job.

Robyn works in our North Andover office. She can be reached at (978)- 946-0424.

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Free AAA Roadside App Now Available for iPhone

The AAA Roadside app for iPhone users is now available on the iTunes App Store.

This free app provides AAA members with a way to use their iPhone, and its innovative location based services, to quickly send their vehicle location, description, specific vehicle problem and other detailed information directly to AAA for roadside assistance. The user always has the option to place a voice call.

Once the request is submitted, the AAA member receives a confirmation that his/her information was received by AAA Roadside Assistance.

“Dealing with a breakdown can be a stressful situation for anyone, even more so when you’re not familiar with your surroundings,” said Buzz Seeley IV, Director of AAA Automotive. “The AAA Roadside app for iPhone is another way AAA helps members get back on the road and on to their destinations. We think the AAA Roadside app is an invaluable tool for motorists.”

The app includes a “While You Are Waiting“ feature, so members can search for nearby AAA Approved Auto Repair shops, Hertz rental locations offering AAA member discounts, AAA rated accommodations, AAA offices and retail locations with discounts on auto parts and more.

Each search displays key information for each location, such as the name, address, phone, distance from location, routing map, driving directions and a summary of the discount details.

For those who are not AAA members, the iPhone app also has a “Join AAA” feature.

AAA Roadside is available for free from the iTunes App Store on iPhone or at www.itunes.com/appstore.

Please visit AAA.com/roadside for further details.

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How Do We Know When It's Time to Give Up the Keys?
By Sarah Riley

Encourage loved ones to participate in a driving assessment program for their safety and the safety of others.

Have you ever worried about an aging family member’s safety behind the wheel? Perhaps your own safety?

Although a good majority of older drivers are safe drivers, the combination of medical conditions, use of medication and reduced physical function can increase the risk of accidents and injury among older adults.

Motor vehicle injuries are the leading cause of injury-related deaths among 65- to 74-year olds and are the second leading cause (after falls) among 75- to 84-year olds. Compared with other drivers, older drivers have a higher fatality rate per mile driven than any other age group except drivers under the age of 25.

The older driver will often self-regulate their driving behavior by reducing mileage traveled, refraining from nighttime driving or avoiding highway driving to accommodate for the visual and physical changes that occur with age.

There are, however, situations in which the older driver may not realize that the physical, visual and cognitive changes that have occurred may affect their driving skills. Certain medical diagnoses such as Alzheimer’s disease and dementia affect a person’s capability of having that insight and the ability to recognize that the effects of the disease may diminish their ability to drive safely.

Family members are often plagued with the burden of addressing this difficult crossroad with loved ones. This frequently creates much anxiety and turmoil for families.

Often the older adult feels as though they are losing a vital source of their independence. They do not want to inconvenience friends and family members for rides, do not want to be confined to a bus schedule, and want the freedom to go out when they desire

Here, in the Merrimack Valley and Southern New Hampshire, there are not as many options for public transportation as are available in the bigger cities. For this reason, giving up the keys often becomes a detrimental loss to the older adult.

There are programs that exist at area hospitals that will assess a person’s driving skills. Generally, these evaluations are less intimidating to the older adult than participating in a road test at the Registry of Motor Vehicles. Northeast Rehabilitation Hospital in Salem, N.H., offers a comprehensive driving assessment program that is designed for anyone who has had an illness, injury, or an age-related decline in driving skills that may affect the ability to drive safely.

The goal of the driving assessment program is to keep people on the road and independent for as long as it is safely possible. With a doctor’s referral, the client participates in a two-part evaluation.

The first step is a pre-screening. This is a one and a half hour, in-clinic assessment with a trained occupational therapist. During this time, all of the skills required to drive are evaluated including vision, cognition, physical status, reaction time, and knowledge of the road.

Once the pre-screen is complete an on-road assessment is performed. During this time, the client is evaluated for basic driving skills by a certified driving instructor and the occupational therapist.

At the completion of both the pre-screen and the on-road evaluation, recommendations are provided based on the individual’s performance. Recommendations may include: 1) a safe return to independent driving; 2) further training with a driving instructor with or without adaptive devices to enhance independence; 3) therapy to address deficient driving skills; or 4) driving retirement.

Should driving retirement be recommended, the individual is also provided with resources for transportation alternatives. Once the recommendations are provided, the results are forwarded to the referring physician and a copy to the individual as well.

If you would like more information on the driving assessment program at Northeast Rehabilitation Hospital please contact the outpatient occupational therapy department at (603) 893-2900, ext. 3212.

Sarah Riley is a registered occupational therapist at Northeast Rehabilitation Hospital in Salem, N.H. She is a certified brain injury specialist and coordinates the driving assessment program for NRH.

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2010 U.S. Census Begins This March

The U.S. Census counts every resident in the United States and is required by the Constitution to take place every 10 years.

The data collected by the 2010 Census will help communities receive more than $400 billion in federal funds each year for public-works projects and emergency services.

It also helps determine the number of seats your state has in the U.S. House of Representatives.

It is important to note that any information you provide in the census is protected by federal law.

In March of 2010, census forms will be mailed to every residence in the United States and Puerto Rico.

When you receive your forms, just answer the 10 short questions and then mail the form back in the postage-paid envelope provided. This is the easiest and most cost-effective way to respond to the
census. If you don’t send back your form, you can expect a visit from a census taker.

Should a census taker need to visit you, here’s what the census bureau suggests you should do:

- First ask to see their ID. All census workers carry official government badges marked with just their name; they may also have a “U.S. Census Bureau” bag

- Note that the census taker will never ask to enter your home

- If you’re still not certain about their identity, please call the Regional Census Center to confirm they are employed by the Census Bureau

- Answer the census form questions for your entire household (you must be at least 15 years old to answer questions) so that the census taker can record the results for submission to the Census Bureau

You may also schedule a visit with your census taker by calling your regional census office.

If the census taker visits when you are away from your home, they will leave a contact number.

If you have a question about participation with the census, call the Regional Census Center located in Boston at 617-223-3700 or the Regional Partnership Group at 617-223-3610. You can also visit http://2010.census.gov for more information.

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