Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your puzzle-playing experience. Good luck!

Sixty years ago, Ruby Bridges, just 6 years old, was the first Black child to attend an all-white school in New Orleans. She walked to school accompanied by her mother and four armed federal marshals.

Now hundreds of thousands of children across the country walk on Nov. 14, Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day, to honor Bridges’ courage and resilience.

“This is an important part of history, and it’s important for us to remember it as a community,” said Katy Smith, a PTA volunteer at Meadow Elementary School in Baldwin, N.Y., after the school’s first Ruby Bridges walk. Smith’s daughter, Londyn, who is in kindergarten, was excited about the event, Smith added. “I read a book (about Ruby Bridges) to her, and I explained segregation to her. She was very happy to walk and wore purple.”

Purple is reportedly Bridges’ favorite color.

“This is to support diversity and cultural awareness, and it brings the school community together,” said Helen Suh Singson, vice president of programs for the PTA. “It’s a significant day in history. We wanted children to know about it.”

The impetus for Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day came in 2018 from fifth graders in the AAA Safety Patrol at Martin Elementary School in San Francisco. They were moved by Ruby Bridges’ story and approached the California state legislature, which passed a bill in 2021 proclaiming Nov. 14 Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day.

AAA partnered with the Ruby Bridges Foundation in 2022, and the event’s popularity continues to grow. More than 700,000 people from across the U.S. and in three international locations participated in 2024.

At Meadow School, about 75 students, parents, teachers and community members came together and walked about four blocks to the school, many dressed in purple and waving banners.

“Through the Ruby Bridges Walk, we are promoting unity and diversity,” said PTA Vice President for Health and Safety Susan Geevarghese. “Our theme this year is ‘Stronger Together: Building Community One Connection at a Time.’ Coming together for this walk is a powerful example for the world that we must love our neighbor and promote kindness.”

After the walk, AAA Northeast Outreach Specialist Aisha Darby spoke to the school’s fourth and fifth graders. She showed a video about Bridges’ life and explained that views about other races when Bridges was little were much different than today. She told them to look around the room at all the students from different cultures.

“Just imagine if you couldn’t sit with your friends because you are different,” Darby said.

Implicit in lessons about Bridges was the idea that everyone can have an impact.

“Ruby Bridges wants you to think about that, as young as you are, you can make a difference,” Darby said. “Can you be an agent for change?”

Meadow Principal Yolanda Martin also said that it is critical message. “It’s important to connect students to the value of history and realize how one student can make a difference,” Martin said. “We have a very diverse community, and this promotes our own values and shows that children have a voice. And this promotes advocacy — Ruby Bridges defied the odds and took a stand. This shows what all people can do.”

Featured image: From left, Kenya Darling-Adepoju, PTA event co-chairperson; Katy Smith, PTA volunteer; Maria Jimisalami, PTA event co-chairperson; Helen Singson, vice president, programs, for Meadow Elementary School, Baldwin, N.Y.

Sign up your school for the next Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day.

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It’s that time of year again! Once you’ve made your gift list, be sure to check it twice for savings.

Find the best gifts at even better prices with these AAA holiday discounts.

Wolferman’s

The holidays are all about baked goods. And what could be better than an indulgent breakfast, brunch or dessert from Wolferman’s? Since 1888, Wolferman’s has remained a proud purveyor of gourmet breads and pastries. Try their delicious English muffin sampler, their deluxe ham brunch banquet, their orange cream bundt cake and more.

Save 30% on special collections or get 25% off sitewide.

1-800-Flowers.com

Spruce up your holiday decor with a bouquet from 1-800-Flowers.com, or gift some holiday flowers to your friends and family. Check out their holiday centerpieces, sleighs filled with flowers, holiday wreaths, poinsettias and more. You can even get bouquets shaped like little Christmas trees.

Get exclusive savings and offers up to 40% online and save in-store.

HP

If you’re looking for new tech this holiday season, HP has a wide selection of choices. Whether you’re getting it as a gift or upgrading yourself, it’s the perfect time of year to get a new computer. Look into HP’s Elite laptops and desktops for business-ready performance. If you’re looking for something a little more lightweight and flexible, check out something like an HP Pavilion. For everyday use, an Envy laptop is a great choice for casual PC users.

Save big on your next HP purchase.

Petro Home Services

The weather outside may be frightful, but your house should always be comfy and cozy. Make sure your home temperature stays just the way you like it with Petro Home Services, your one-stop shop for heating, cooling and plumbing needs. New customers get $150 in free heating oil and a rebate on annual oil usage.

AAA members can save with the promo code AAA.

AAA Tickets

Sometimes the best gift is the gift of a new experience. It’s also a great opportunity to spend some quality time together with your loved ones. AAA members can get savings and special offers at concerts, theme parks, virtual events, museums, attractions and more!

Get exclusive tickets and savings.

UPS

Do you want to send your gift through the mail? AAA members can get 5% off shipping and 20% off packing services at the UPS store. As a bonus, you also get up to 15% off new mailbox services, in-store printing and in-store copying.

Learn more.

Personalization Mall

Whether you’re shopping for someone who has it all or someone who just appreciates a personal touch, Personalization Mall is the perfect place to find a one-of-a-kind gift. Everything on Personalization Mall can be customized with the giftee’s name, family name or even nickname. Some even have options for including a personal photo. You can get almost any kind of gift, like stuffed animals, kitchenware, wall art, blankets, jewelry boxes, the jewelry that goes in those boxes and so much more.

AAA members can save 25% when shopping online.

Active&Fit

The new year is coming faster than you expected, and it’s time to get your resolutions in order. If you’re trying to get in shape, Active&Fit can help you save on gym memberships and online fitness classes. Have a fitness fanatic in your life? An Active&Fit membership might be the perfect gift.

AAA members can join for just $28 a month with the Active&Fit Direct program.

Samsung

You can get premium gadgets and appliances without breaking the bank by utilizing Samsung’s special discount for AAA members. At the exclusive online store for AAA members, your discount will automatically be applied as you shop, and you’ll be able to see all your deals in one place. You’ll also get access to limited-time offers on phones, TVs, computers and home appliances.

Start shopping and saving.

Shutterfly

Are all your family photos trapped on your phone? Shutterfly can help you turn your pictures into keepsakes like photo books, prints, wall art, calendars, notecards and more. It’s an easy way to make sure you can hang onto your most treasured memories.

AAA members can take their pick of Shutterfly’s holiday offers, from a free calendar to 50% off your order.

AAA Gift Membership

Pass on the tradition of world-class roadside assistance and exclusive discounts and services with a AAA membership. You can get 50% off on new primary memberships, plus two free associate memberships through the end of 2025.

Buy it here.

AAA Driver Training School

Do you know someone who is learning to drive, or wants to get behind the wheel for the first time? Give the gift of safe driving with AAA Driver Training School, available in Massachusetts and Rhode Island. You can purchase driver education classes or hands-on, behind-the-wheel training to get your loved one driving confidently in no time. Plus, the lessons in driving safety will be a gift that keeps on giving. Already have a license? Look into our Driver Improvement Courses.

Search AAA Discounts for more gift ideas. Happy holidays!

This article has been updated and republished from a previous version.

Depending on your perspective, the holiday season is either the most joyous time of the year or the most stressful. If you are apprehensive that the holidays are right around the corner, it likely has something to do with the amount of money you will end up spending in the coming months.

2025 is projected to be a record year for holiday shopping. An estimated 187 million people are expected to shop between Thanksgiving through Cyber Monday alone, according to the National Retail Federation. Overall holiday sales are expected to increase between 3.7% and 4.2% from 2024 and surpass $1 trillion.  

With consumers planning to budget an average of $890 for gifts and other seasonal items, it’s no wonder many develop a higher sense of anxiety when the wish lists start to roll in.

The good news is there are still ways you can soften the impact of holiday spending on your household’s bottom line.

Here are a few smart ways to help you keep your budget under control.

Begin Saving up Early in the Year

If you plan to go all out on holiday shopping, one way to offset the expense is to factor it into your savings throughout the year. By saving a little each month, you could wind up with several hundred dollars in accessible cash by the time shopping season comes around. As a general guideline, look at what you spent last year and calculate your monthly savings goal. This way, you won’t have to scrounge up all that gift money in the last quarter of the year.

Listen to Our Podcast

Pay off your debt and get your finances in check.  Listen to Episode 10 of our podcast, Merging Into Life: Budgeting 101.

Tune In

Account for All Holiday Expenses

When most people plan their holiday expenses, so much emphasis tends to be put on gifts that they forget about everything else. But decorations, travel, charitable donations and other traditional expenses add up quickly. So, as you’re building your budget for this year’s holiday spending, don’t neglect to take a big-picture view of everything you’re looking to purchase to make the holidays special. Otherwise, you might find yourself coming up short when the time comes.

Decide on an Overall Budget

Once you know what you want to buy for the holidays — again, gifts and all — then you can decide how much money you’re truly willing to spend to cover all the expenses. Come up with the maximum amount that you can justify spending on the holidays, preferably leaning on your holiday savings or other extra money for most of it. If you don’t have a cap on your holiday expenses, you run the very real risk of overspending.

Divide Your Budget Into Categories

From this point, you can determine how much of your master holiday budget you can devote to each specific category. Prioritize your expenses, devoting money first to the ones you cannot go without, and then adjust as you go along. Sure, you might wind up having to tighten the amount you spend on each gift or even forgo certain less important purchases, such as buying gifts for distant relatives or picking up extra decorations. But in the end, you’ll be thankful that you have specified a concrete way to stay firmly within your overall spending limit.

Know What You’re Shopping For

We know all too well the dangers of impulse purchases. You see something in the store and, on a whim, decide to buy it. However, such a decision completely contradicts the methodical use of a holiday budget. Before you even head into the store or begin shopping online, have a sense of what you want to buy. Knowing how much you want to spend on each person makes it easier to decide what to buy. Consider making a list. Build extra gift purchases into your budget just in case you need them.

Keep an Eye Out for Holiday Sales

The retail business often depends on holiday spending to maximize its profits. To that end, the season is brimming with promising sales, most notably the period between Black Friday and Cyber Monday, which seems to get longer every year. Thanksgiving weekend sees discounts and doorbusters that you simply cannot find any other time of year. Take advantage of these deals to get more without exceeding your spending limits and get a lot of your shopping done in one fell swoop. Even when you’re not shopping the sales, do your research and get the best price.

Check out AAA Discounts to search for the best holiday gifts this year.

Track Your Spending As You Shop

Taking the time to decide on a detailed budget only works if you keep a close eye on your progress. Have your shopping list with you every time you head out and adjust your remaining total accordingly as you do so. If you do overspend, just make the necessary adjustments to the remaining total. If you do a significant portion of your shopping in person, you could also opt to make your purchases only with cash, as this prevents the urge to spend more than what you originally intended.

Say Farewell to Holiday Stress

If you apply the above strategies to your holiday spending, you’re certain to find ways to stretch out your budget without severely curtailing the generous spirit that has become so synonymous with the holidays. Too often, shoppers get swept up in all the pressures of the retail game that they wind up overspending and paying the price for it in the subsequent months. Hopefully, this won’t be you. Not this year.

Holiday Budget Word Search

Today, an average traveler may never need to know an airport code. Your airline, destination and departure time are often all you need to find your gate and flight status. Although, it’s best to know your flight number too.

You may be at least subliminally aware of the three letters that accompany your flight information on your tickets, boarding passes, luggage tags and the airport’s arrival-departure board.

If you’re headed to Boston, it’s no big deal. The code BOS is straightforward. But if you’re going to Chicago, you may need to know whether you’re landing at Midway (MDW) or O’Hare (ORD). If it’s the latter, you might also find yourself wondering: Why ORD?

It’s a question many of us have pondered at some point. Thankfully, we’ve never mistaken the Windy City in March for sunny Orlando, Florida, airport code MCO. Or have we? The codes for O’Hare and Orlando are perhaps the most puzzlingly familiar. But with hundreds of airports across the U.S., each with its own unique code, they’re not alone.

The Origin of Airport Codes

The codes air passengers most often see are from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), which established the three-letter system for commercial airlines starting in the 1960s. Airports may be assigned different codes by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). Airports can request specific codes, but they’re not always granted.

There’s no decoder ring, all we can do is follow a few rules and some clues.

Formerly Known As

Some airports that predate the IATA codes had well-established two-letter codes that were incorporated into their three-letter identifiers. Or an IATA code may correspond to an airport’s previous name. IATA codes are permanent. Just imagine how disruptive changing airport codes could be. Here are some examples.

• BNA: Tennessee’s Nashville International Airport was once Berry Field.
• MCO: Florida’s Orlando International Airport was formerly McCoy Airforce Base. ORL belongs to Orlando Executive Airport.
• MSY: It may seem a mystery, but the code for Louisiana’s Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport is short for Moisant Stock Yards, where it was built.
• ORD: Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport was Orchard Field Airport until 1949, when it was renamed to honor a World War II pilot.
• SDF: Kentucky’s Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport was once Standiford Field, named for the owner of the land where it was built. It was Louisville International Airport from 1995 to 2019, when it was renamed to honor local son and boxing legend Muhammad Ali.

No N’s Allowed

The U.S. Navy reserves codes beginning with the letter N. K and W are also reserved for U.S. radio call letters. That’s why these airports have peculiar codes.

• EWR: Newark Liberty International Airport, New Jersey.
• EYW: Key West International Airport, Florida
• HVN: Tweed New Haven Airport, Connecticut.
• ICT: Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport, Kansas
• ORF: Norfolk International Airport, Virginia.
• OME: Nome Airport, Alaska.

Ends With an X

An X at the end of an IATA airport code could be an extension of an existing two-letter code, as in:

• LAX: Los Angeles International Airport, California.
• PHX: Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, Arizona.
• PDX: Portland International Airport, Oregon, not to be confused with Portland International Jetport in Maine (PWM).

But sometimes an X has greater meaning.

• JAX: Unlike other X-ending airports, Florida’s Jacksonville International Airport code reflects the city’s nickname for itself. Jacksonville, North Carolina’s Albert J. Ellis Airport is OAJ. JAC belongs to Jackson Hole Airport in Wyoming.
• SUX: The code for Iowa’s Sioux Gateway Airport may have an unfortunate pronunciation, but the letters do reflect its name. Sioux Falls Regional Airport in South Dakota may have given it a little more thought when it requested FSD, which stands for Falls, Sioux, Dakota.

All-American

• USA: It’s hard to believe that the country’s most patriotic IATA airport code didn’t come into being until 2013. And it was bestowed on North Carolina’s Concord–Padgett Regional Airport, which has only two airlines with limited flights to Florida and the Northeast. This is also an example of an airport’s IATA code not matching its ICAO code (KJQF) or its FAA code (JQF).

Top 20

Now that we know a little about airport codes, let’s make a list of those you’re most likely to see. In 2024, these were the 20 busiest airports by passengers, according to the FAA.

1. ATL: Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport, Georgia.
2. DFW: Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, Texas.
3. DEN: Denver International Airport, Colorado.
4. ORD: O’Hare International Airport, Illinois.
5. LAX: Los Angeles International Airport, California.
6. JFK: John F. Kennedy International Airport, New York.
7. CLT: Charlotte Douglas International Airport, North Carolina.
8. LAS: Harry Reid International Airport, Nevada.
9. MCO: Orlando International Airport, Florida.
10. MIA: Miami International Airport, Florida.
11. PHX: Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, Arizona.
12. SEA: Seattle–Tacoma International Airport, Washington.
13. SFO: San Francisco International Airport, California.
14. EWR: Newark Liberty International Airport, New Jersey.
15. IAH: George Bush Intercontinental Airport, Texas.
16. BOS: Boston Logan International Airport, Massachusetts.
17. MSP: Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport, Minnesota.
18. FLL: Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport, Florida.
19. LGA: LaGuardia Airport, New York.
20. DTW: Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport, Michigan.

Are you ready to put your newfound knowledge to the test? Try our Decipher the Airport Code word search.

What’s your local airport code, and does it have special meaning? Tell us in the comments.

EPISODE SUMMARY

Navigating your career takes more than just doing great work — it takes courage, strategy and confidence.

In this episode of the Merging Into Life podcast, host Sabrina Pierotti is joined by career coach and author Sam DeMase, whose advice has helped thousands of professionals land jobs, build workplace boundaries and master advocating for themselves at work without succumbing to career burnout.

Whether you’re looking for job interview tips or salary negotiation strategies for that long-overdue promotion, this episode offers actionable advice to help you overcome imposter syndrome, own your voice and take up space without second-guessing yourself.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Career confidence is a skill, not a personality trait. You don’t need to be the loudest person in the room to advocate for yourself. You just need a plan and a little practice.
• Imposter syndrome is universal. Keep a brag sheet of your wins and revisit it when self-doubt creeps in. Most of the time, there’s no real evidence behind the fear.
• Use artificial intelligence (AI) tools like ChatGPT to compare your resume to job descriptions and identify keyword gaps. If bots are screening your application, you should use bots too.
• Nail your interview with the WAT method. Focus on what you do, your top achievement and tie it back to the role you’re applying for to keep it brief and powerful.
• Red flags are real. Disorganized interviews, poor communication or dodged questions about work-life balance are all signs the job might not be what it seems.
• Establish workplace boundaries. Don’t wait until you’re facing career burnout. Decide your limits ahead of time, communicate them clearly and be solution-oriented when protecting your time.
• How to ask for a raise: Build a business case. Document how you’ve delivered in your current role, how you’re working beyond your scope and gather third-party praise to present to your manager.

TRANSCRIPT

[00:00:01] Sabrina Pierotti: So, when I started my first corporate job out of college, there were so many things that I wish people told me before I started, my first day. But perhaps one of the biggest things that I wished somebody told me was don’t be so quick to prove yourself. Let other people shine, let other people have their moment, and all you need to do, Sabrina, is be a sponge and just, like, soak up as much as you can. Because I came from college where I was a straight-A student, so I was really great at school, and corporate life and the workforce is drastically different than school. People told me when I started my job, they were like, you know what, it takes a full year for you to really feel comfortable in your job and for things to start clicking. So that high achiever part of me was like, a year? Please, I’m going to show you that I can do this in three months. But they were spot on. So, I wish somebody said, think of your job in the long term. Think of your career as a long game instead of trying to claw your way to the top within the first year. This is your lifelong career. Hey guys, welcome back to Merging Into Life. I’m your host, Sabrina Pierotti, and I’m going to be your guide for the Everyday Mastery Series. So our first topic today is one that hits close to home for a lot of us. I know it hits close to home to me, which is career confidence. Whether you’re interviewing for your first role, and if you are, congrats. Whether you’re negotiating a raise or just trying to set boundaries in a new job, speaking up can feel intimidating, especially in environments that don’t always make space for you. Luckily, our guest today is Sam DeMase, a career confidence coach and the author of “Power Mood.” Sam’s helped thousands of professionals find their voice, advocate for themselves and build careers they actually feel good about. Hi Sam, so good to see you.

[00:02:03] Sam DeMase: Hi Sabrina, thank you for having me.

[00:02:06] Sabrina Pierotti: It’s so funny. I wish I knew you and we talked like 10 years ago, before I entered the workforce, like post college, because girl, trust me when I say, it was like a rude awakening for me, like entering the workforce after college. So, I’m so excited that we’re having this conversation. So, I want to start off by getting to know a little bit about you. What led you to doing the work that you do today?

[00:02:33] Sam DeMase: That’s a great question. And to your earlier point, I agree with you. I wish I had had some really direct, actionable advice when I was younger. So, I think that’s one of the things that motivated me to do this work. But in my corporate life, which I spent 13 years in human resources, leadership development, people-centric roles, working mostly in male-dominated industries, I really learned by doing how to advocate for myself every step of the way. There were a lot of doors I had to kick down to get promotions that I thought I really deserved. I sometimes will refer to myself as a corporate troublemaker. I broke some of the rules, challenged certain corporate policies, and as I was doing that, I realized, OK, there are some really actionable tips here that I could be giving other people to hack the system and get what they’re worth.

[00:03:27] Sabrina Pierotti: And a big part of what you talk about is having what you call career confidence. From my own experience, I want to talk about imposter syndrome. What is your advice for imposter syndrome?

[00:03:40] Sam DeMase: I would say the No. 1 thing to remember is imposter syndrome is a universal experience. So, at any given moment when you’re experiencing that, someone else who you perceive as more qualified, better, they’re experiencing it as well. It is a universal experience, and I like to always remind people where imposter syndrome comes from, right? So, it doesn’t necessarily come from an inability that you have, a failure. It comes from broader society telling you, maybe, that you can’t perform something or you can achieve something. But when you do experience it, I think there’s some practical things to get in the mindset of doing. And No. 1 is evidence. Is there evidence that I can’t do this, or do I just need to sit down and try? A lot of times, there’s no evidence to back up your imposter syndrome. It’s like, I can’t do this. I shouldn’t do that. And then also looking back at your brag sheet of previous successes. If you don’t have a brag sheet, whether you’re new, whether you’re into your career by a decade, I always recommend having a brag sheet where you can write down your accomplishments and look back on it. When I’m having a tough imposter syndrome day, I always look back at my brag sheet and remember my wins, small, medium and big, that will remind you who you are and what you’ve done and what have achieved. So, you always have to have a brag to look back at it will boost your confidence and help you conquer those tough moments.

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*The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are not necessarily the views of AAA Northeast, AAA and/or its affiliates.

Do you know the 10 busiest airports in the U.S. for passenger traffic? Decipher this list from the Federal Aviation Administration in random order. We give the three-letter Air Transport Association (IATA) codes. You find the cities associated with them. They may take off in any direction.

Curious about the rankings or need a cheat sheet? We list the top 20 with clues about their origins.

The holidays are a time for parties and celebrations with family and friends. But as the drinks start flowing, the roads get more dangerous.

Drunk driving accounts for about 30% of all roadway deaths across the U.S., according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, and fatalities and injuries trend upward from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day.

Keep the season bright by ensuring your loved ones don’t get behind the wheel if they have consumed alcohol — be a designated driver.

Inspired by one mother’s tragedy, Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) introduced the concept of designating a sober driver in 1986. Together with the Tori Lynn Andreozzi Foundation in Rhode Island, MADD has provided a list of reasons why one responsible choice can make the holidays safer for everyone.

Why Be a Designated Driver?

• Because it’s the law. Driving under the influence is illegal.

• Because impaired driving crashes are 100% preventable. Choosing to be a designated driver protects countless lives and is one of the simplest, most powerful ways to look out for your community.

• Because the holidays are the busiest and deadliest time on our roadways, and to navigate them safely, you must drive sober.

• Because you know buzzed driving is still drunk driving. A single drink can impair judgment and slow reaction times.

• Because you’re a good friend. Friends and family can count on you.

• Because choosing to stay sober honors lives impacted by drunk driving. “You’re not just a driver, you’re a lifesaver,” said Cathy Andreozzi, founder of the Tori Lynn Anderozzi Foundation. After her daughter’s life was permanently altered by a drunk driver, Cathy made it her mission to inspire people to make better choices. “You’re giving the ultimate gift this holiday: The chance for everyone to make it home safely.”

How To Be a The Best Designated Driver

• Decide before the party starts. Commit to staying sober and let your friends and family know that you are their go-to if they need a ride.  

• Stick to your commitment. A true designated driver doesn’t drink — not even one. Swap cocktails for other festive sippers like hot cocoa or sparkling cider.

• Make it fun!  You can still be the life of the party. Volunteer to be the DJ, photographer or snack supplier.

• Watch for others who might need a safe ride. Extend the circle of care. Sometimes the person you help isn’t part of your group. If you see someone who shouldn’t drive, step in with compassion.

• Plan the return, not just the ride. Ensure everyone has a way to get home safely — even if plans change, the party continues elsewhere or the night runs long.

AAA and MADD encourage everyone to celebrate responsibly this holiday season and always.

Are you a designated driver? Tell us in the comments.

AAA projects 81.8 million people will travel at least 50 miles from home over the Thanksgiving holiday period, from Tuesday, Nov. 25 to Monday, Dec.1. This year’s domestic travel forecast includes an additional 1.6 million travelers compared to last Thanksgiving, setting a new overall record.  

“Thanksgiving is the single busiest holiday for travel and has become synonymous with heading out of town to spend time with loved ones,” said Jillian Young, director of public relations for AAA Northeast. “It doesn’t come as a surprise that people are willing to brave the crowds and make last-minute adjustments to their plans, if needed.” 

Thanksgiving Travelers by Mode of Transportation 

By Car

AAA projects at least 73 million people — nearly 90% of Thanksgiving travelers — will travel by car. That figure is an increase of 1.3 million travelers compared to last Thanksgiving. It could be higher if people who want to avoid airports on the heels of recent flight cancellations decide to drive. 

For travelers who are renting cars, AAA car rental partner Hertz says Wednesday, Nov. 26, is expected to be the busiest pick-up day. AAA booking data shows that domestic car rentals are 15% cheaper than last year. 

At the pump, drivers are paying about the same as last year. Filling the tank the night before a road trip is a good idea, since it’s one less thing to worry about on travel day. AAA also recommends checking your battery and tire pressure. AAA responded to nearly 600,000 emergency roadside assistance calls last Thanksgiving period to help drivers with issues like dead batteries, flat tires and empty fuel tanks. 

As travelers prepare to get behind the wheel, AAA and Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) remind drivers about the dangers of impaired driving. Drunk driving contributed to 868 fatalities during the Thanksgiving holiday period from 2019 to 2023, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Have a plan in place before Thanksgiving and use a rideshare, designate a sober driver or take public transit to ensure everyone’s safety. 

By Air

Over the Thanksgiving holiday period, 6 million U.S. travelers are expected to take domestic flights, a 2% increase from 2024.  

By Other Modes

Travel by other modes — including bus, train and cruise — is expected to increase by 8.5% to nearly 2.5 million people. Buses and trains could see an uptick in last-minute bookings this year.  

AAA’s Top Thanksgiving Destinations 

The top holiday destinations listed below are based on AAA booking data for the Thanksgiving travel period.  

Best/Worst Times to Drive 

Tuesday and Wednesday afternoon are expected to be the most congested periods before Thanksgiving Day, according to INRIX, a provider of transportation data and insights. Travelers returning home on Sunday should expect heavy traffic most of the day. Drivers should hit the road in the morning to avoid the worst backups, but keep in mind that construction, crashes or inclement weather could impact travel times. Slow Down, Move Over for emergency responders and other stopped vehicles on the side of the road to ensure everyone’s safety. 

Nostalgia tourism is on the rise in 2025, and there’s no better way to embrace it than by hitting the open road to explore some of the quirkiest, most iconic roadside attractions in the northeast, like Lucy the Elephant in New Jersey and the Coffee Pot in Pennsylvania.

“Places like (these) drive tourism. They drive interest. People plan vacations around them. They tell stories we can all connect with, not to mention they are inherently fun and quirky,” said Rolando Pujol, author of “The Great American Retro Road Trip: A Celebration of Roadside Americana.”

For classic Americana and timeless charm, here’s what to add to your retro road trip itinerary.

L.L. Bean Boot

Freeport, Maine

Few things scream “Maine” like a gigantic 16-foot-tall duck boot. Standing proudly outside the L.L. Bean flagship store in Freeport, this oversized icon pays tribute to the state’s rugged culture and the legendary rubber-bottom boot that put L.L. Bean on the map. Inside the store, you’ll find classic duck boots in much more reasonable sizes to help you gear up for your next adventure.

Paul Bunyan Statue

Bangor, Maine

Standing 31 feet tall and weighing 3,700 pounds, Bangor’s Paul Bunyan statue is a must-see for fans of timeless roadside attractions. This legendary lumberjack has been keeping watch over his birthplace since 1959, erected in honor of Bunyan’s 125^th birthday. Skeptical about Bangor’s claim? Check out Bunyan’s “official” birth certificate at City Hall. Maine’s own Stephen King even gave the statue a brush of pop culture fame, bringing it to life in his 1986 novel, “IT.”

The Coffee Pot

Bedford, Pa.

Built in 1927, the 18-foot-tall Coffee Pot first operated as a roadside diner serving up hot coffee and hearty meals along U.S. 30. By 1937 it had been transformed into a bar with a hotel behind it. Over time, this caffeine-forward landmark fell into disrepair. Then, Bedford County and the Lincoln Highway Heritage Park Corridor stepped in to restore this iconic landmark in 2004. Today, this giant, coffee pot-shaped relic is a nostalgic tribute to the golden age of road travel.

Doo Wop Museum

Wildwood, N.J.

Step into the past  at the Doo Wop Museum, a nostalgia-inducing tribute to the 1950s and 1960s. Explore vintage mid-century artifacts, including neon signs, pop culture memorabilia and plenty of vinyl upholstery. The Neon Sign Garden features carefully restored signs from iconic Wildwood motels, like the White Star Motel and Swan Motel. Inside, you’ll find a malt shop and a gift shop stocked with merch to show off your love for the Doo Wop era.

For more offbeat attractions, check out these quirky museums in the northeast.

Lucky Snake

Atlantic City, N.J.

At the Lucky Snake within the Showboat Hotel you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported back to the heyday of arcades. This expansive complex features vintage pinball, classic video games, and water gun games, as well as mini golf and roller skating. Not only does Lucky Snake proudly boast the title of the world’s largest arcade, but it’s also home to what could be the world’s largest Zoltar, a towering 11-foot-tall fortune-teller machine.

Plan your next arcade road trip with this guide to classic arcades.

Lucy the Elephant

Margate, N.J.

Standing 65 feet tall, Lucy the Elephant has watched over the Jersey Shore since 1881, originally built as an eye-catching real estate advertisement. Now a National Historic Landmark, she welcomes visitors who come to admire her in all her glory. Snap street-view photos for free or book a guided tour inside for sweeping views across the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a fun way to step back in time at one of the top roadside attractions in the northeast.

Fingerlakes Drive-In

Auburn, N.Y.

Since 1947, the Fingerlakes Drive-In has been keeping the magic of old-school movie nights alive. As the oldest operating drive-in theatre in New York, it offers the best of both worlds — tune in through your FM car radio or enjoy the vintage charm of classic speakers. Roll up for a double feature under the stars, just like the good old days. A classic concession stand serves up hot dogs, nachos, and crispy onion rings. It’s a must-visit for anyone craving nostalgic summer fun.

TWA Hotel

JFK Airport

Step into the jet-set era at the TWA Hotel, a mid-century marvel at New York’s JFK Airport. Housed in the iconic 1962 TWA Flight Center, this retro-chic hotel celebrates the golden age of air travel. Sip cocktails in the stylish Sunken Lounge or Connie Cocktail Lounge, take a rooftop pool dip with runway views, or explore a museum filled with artifacts, interactive exhibits, and stories curated by the New York Historical Society.

Haines Shoe House

York, Pa.

Ever dreamed of sleeping inside a shoe? Probably not — but at the Haines Shoe House in York, Pennsylvania, you can do just that. Built in 1948 to promote a local chain of shoe stores, this larger-than-life roadside attraction is pure Americana. Once home to a museum and an cream shop, it’s now a one-of-a-kind Airbnb, complete with a hot tub, foosball table, and an outdoor fire pit. Featured on HGTV’s “What’s With That House” and “The Amazing Race,” this oversized shoe is a must-stay for any offbeat or retro road trip adventure.

The Flavor Graveyard

Waterbury, Vt.

Where do retired ice cream flavors go? At Ben & Jerry’s, they find a final resting place in the Flavor Graveyard where curious visitors can pay their respects to dearly departed pints like “Peanut Butter and Jelly” and “Tennessee Mud.” Perched on a scenic hilltop adjacent to the iconic ice cream factory, this funky graveyard features 35 flavors, each with a clever epitaph. It’s a bittersweet (but mostly sweet) stop for any ice cream lover.

Have you been to any of these retro road trip destinations? Tell us your favorite in the comments.

Need a ride? Rent a car.

EPISODE SUMMARY

Trying to decide whether to lease or buy a car? In this episode of Merging Into Life, host Zack Klapman is joined by Chris Hardesty, senior advice editor at Kelley Blue Book and Autotrader, to help you make sense of your options. They thoroughly break down the pros and cons of leasing versus buying, covering the financial, lifestyle and long-term car ownership considerations relevant to today’s market. From understanding depreciation and building car equity to navigating car loan lengths, confusing leasing fees and auto financing options, Chris offers clear guidance to help you make an informed vehicle decision for your budget and future.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• When you lease a car, you are essentially renting it for two to three years. This results in lower monthly costs but means no equity is built, and you may face potential charges for excess mileage or wear and tear.
• While buying a car generally results in higher monthly payments, once the car loan is paid off, the vehicle is your asset. You can then sell it, trade it in, or drive it for years without a car note.
• Buying builds equity over time, providing you with a valuable asset. Leasing only pays for the car’s depreciation, not ownership.
• A used car’s lower sticker price can sometimes be offset by higher interest rates on used vehicles. Always compare the total cost of ownership, not just the monthly payment.
• While longer car loan terms (72 to 84 months) lower the payment, they significantly increase the total cost and delay when you begin building equity. Shorter terms are financially preferable.
• Exercising a lease-to-own option is usually smart only if the car’s residual value is lower than its current market value. Otherwise, it often means you’re paying excessive costs for the same vehicle.
• Focus your negotiation on the total vehicle price, not just the monthly payment. A great-sounding low payment often hides an unnecessarily long car loan with unfavorable interest.

TRANSCRIPT

[00:00:02] Zack: One of the most common questions I receive when someone wants to get a new car is, should I lease or should I buy? It can be so confusing, it can seem like you need three calculators and a spreadsheet to figure it out. There’s things like, what’s my monthly payment? What’s my down payment? What happens when I return the car? What can you actually afford or think you can afford? Those are different answers sometimes. It’s a very personal decision. It requires a lot of thought on what kind of car you need, how you use your car and how long you want to keep the car for. New car prices are going up. We’ve got EVs entering the market. We have rebates going away. It’s never been more important to get the most information when you’re making this decision. And luckily, today’s guest is here to help break it all down for us and help you make the right choice. Welcome back to Merging Into Life, the show where we help you navigate life’s unexpected turns. I’m Zack Klapman, your host for the Road Ready miniseries, where we cover everything you need to be confident on the road. Chris Hardesty is an automotive editor and expert contributor for Kelley Blue Book and Autotrader. He’s spent years helping consumers understand the fine print behind car financing, leasing and so much more. Chris, it’s great to have you. Share a little bit about yourself and what got you into this industry.

[00:01:28] Chris Hardesty: Well, I started working for Cox Automotive, the publisher of Kelley Blue Book and Autotrader about four years ago. A friend of mine was working there, and she was needing help producing some content. We had worked together long ago with various newspapers and where my role was the research director at various places. My last role in newspapers was a how-to guides editor for the Wall Street Journal. So, since she needed somebody to make complex topics easier to understand, she thought that I might be good for that. So, I started doing some freelance stuff for her and that turned into my role now as the senior advice editor for Kelley Blue Book and Autotrader.

[00:02:10] Zack Klapman: So, let’s jump into it. So, if someone is looking to get a car, how should they start weighing that decision between buying or leasing?

[00:02:17] Chris Hardesty: No matter what, whether you buy or lease, the first thing to consider is what your budget is. You don’t want to overspend on a car, whether you’re leasing or buying, but for leasing, you should consider what your annual mileage is. How much do you drive every day, every week, and every month, every year? And how much you value driving a new car versus keeping one for a long time? There are benefits to both.

[00:02:42] Zack Klapman: The average American drives 12,000 miles per year, based on a bunch of data. Is there an average number of miles that are allotted by a lease annually, or does that vary depending on what you negotiate?

RESOURCES

Merging Into Life

AAA Auto Buying

AAA Auto Loans and Refinancing

AAA Insurance

Autotrader Car Affordability Calculator

The Smoking Tire

Chris Hardesty

Merging Into Life | S1EP1: Car Buying Guide

Buying A New Car

Financing Your New Car

Questions to Ask When Buying a Used Car

Want to Learn More? Drop Us a Note

*The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are not necessarily the views of AAA Northeast, AAA and/or its affiliates.

Tucked between the Hudson River and Long Island Sound, Westchester County offers a charming winter escape just 30 miles from Manhattan. Whether you’re looking for a day trip or an extended stay, now is the perfect time for a visit.

Easily accessible by Metro-North or Amtrak, this scenic stretch of the lower Hudson Valley comes alive during the colder months with holiday charm and seasonal adventures. From glittering light displays to cozy nights filled with timeless stories and songs, there’s something to make everyone feel merry.

Here are just some of our favorite events from this year’s lineup.

Sparkling Lights

Westchester’s light shows bring warmth and wonder to the cold winter nights.

From Nov. 21 to Dec. 30, Lumina illuminates Harvest Moon Farm & Orchard with more than half a million lights. Stroll the trail and be dazzled by a musical Nutcracker display, whimsical gingerbread city and more, with cider, s’mores and other farm-made treats to add to the magic.

Holiday on the Hudson at Monteverde at Oldstone in Cortlandt Manor is another a captivating light walk, backed by stunning Hudson River views. Afterward, warm up with a cocktail or hot chocolate by the fire in the vintage 1920s bar. Runs Wednesday through Sunday, Nov. 22 to Jan. 4.

In Yonkers, Untermyer Gardens Conservancy’s Grand Holiday Illumination showcases over 150,000 twinkling lights set to music from around the world. Open every night, Dec. 6 to Jan. 4, including the holidays. It’s free to the public and no reservations are required!

Stay cozy in your car at Westchester’s Winter Wonderland, a 1.2-mile drive-through light show at Kensico Dam Plaza in Valhalla. Turn up the holiday tunes and enjoy colorful, larger-than-life light displays surrounding Westchester’s tallest Christmas tree. Open nightly from Nov. 28 to Dec. 31.

Go Beyond Making New Traditions

Find the perfect gift and enjoy spectacular holiday views — this December in Westchester.

Learn More

Classic Holiday Traditions

For a glimpse of holidays past, visit one of Westchester’s historic mansions, where the halls are decked with ornate wreaths, garland, trees and antique ornaments.

The Armour-Stiner Octagon House in Irvington is hosting a Victorian Christmas Tour from Nov. 13 to Dec. 22. You don’t want to miss seeing this unique eight-sided home decorated for the holidays in 19th century decor. 

It’s a Gilded Age holiday at Lyndhurst Mansion in Tarrytown during the Holiday Classic Mansion Tour, running from Nov. 28 to Dec. 28. Also at Lyndhurst, guests can see the one-hour, one-man show “Mr. Dickens Tells a Christmas Carol.” Based on a tour Dickens did in 1867, it brings the beloved story to life like you’ve never seen before. Performances run Dec.14 to 26.

The Hudson River Museum offers Glenview Holiday Tours through its 1877 residence on select dates starting Nov. 28.

Markets and More

Pick up something special and soak in the spirit of the season with some gift shopping.

Ridge Hill and Cross County Center in Yonkers will be hosting festive experiences throughout the holidays, including tree and menorah lightings, photos and pet nights with Santa, live carolers, food trucks and a pop-up ice rink.

For handcrafted and locally made gifts you won’t find at the mall, you can browse nearly 50 artisanal vendors at the Downtown White Plains Holiday Market from Dec. 5 to 14, complete with firepits, live entertainment and Santa visits. The Nature Center at Greenburgh in Scarsdale hosts a sustainable Holiday Market and Train Show on weekends from Nov. 15 through Dec. 7. The New Rochelle Holiday Market brings ice skating and winter village charm from Nov. 28 through Dec. 14. And for even more unique finds, Clay Art Center’s Handmade for the Holidays is Nov. 13 through Dec. 23.

There’s so much to keep you entertained in Westchester this holiday season — and plenty of restaurants, cafes and bakeries to satisfy your cravings, wherever you go. So, plan to dine locally.

As you think about year’s holiday outings and winter traditions, put Westchester County at the top of your list.

Featured image: Courtesy of Visit Westchester

Have you ever wanted to take a magical ride on the Polar Express? In the Northeast, you can! Many vintage railroads in the region are now scenic railways. And there’s nothing better than taking a holiday ride on a snowy evening. Here are some of the best winter and holiday train rides near you.

Adirondack Railroad, N.Y.

The Adirondack Railroad brings the Polar Express train ride to New York. The popular holiday story comes to life, with cocoa, cookies, a narrated story time, carols and even a visit from Santa himself. Don’t forget to wear your pajamas! You can catch the two-hour nonstop train at Utica’s Union Station. Runs through Dec. 21.

Historic Blackstone Valley, R.I.

The Blackstone Valley Polar Express Train Ride is the hottest golden ticket in town. It’s almost sold out for 2025, but you may want to add it to your list of things to do next Christmas!

Experience the magic of “The Polar Express” in author Chris Van Allsburg’s home state of Rhode Island. The 90-minute, round-trip train ride departs from the historic Blackstone Valley station in Woonsocket and is filled with singing, games, hot chocolate and a reading of the book, topped off with a visit from Santa. Before getting on the train, a stage show, photos with characters and more kick off the fun.

Cape Cod Central Railroad, Mass.

You can also board Cape Cod Central Railroad’s Polar Express train ride, running along the shoreline of Massachusetts. Passengers will receive punched golden tickets, enjoy dancing waiters, hear the story that inspired the ride and meet Santa and his elves. It’s a 90-minute round trip from the Buzzards Bay train depot in Bourne, Mass. Select nights through Dec. 23.

Maybe the best part about the holidays — besides spending time with family, of course — is the food. But sometimes, getting your favorite annual dish from your home to the gathering can be a bit of a balancing act. Literally.

While you could chance it, transporting certain foods can get messy fast, adding stress to what is supposed to be a cheerful day. Avoid losing a battle to gravity with these delicious and portable foods to bring to your holiday get together.

Starters

It’s safe to say that soup is out as a traveling appetizer option due to its propensity to spill — unless you have a slow cooker with a locking lid (but even then, be wary). There are still plenty of starters that’ll stay stable on the way to your destination.

Every table needs bread, and freshly baked rolls are easy to make, shareable and a breeze to transport right in the pan you made them in with a stretch lid on top.

Dip is also a great appetizer that’s easy to take with you, and the options are pretty much endless. There’s spinach and artichoke dip, jalapeno popper dip, caprese dip, buffalo chicken dip and so many more. To make your dip easier to transport, you could choose to make it in a disposable foil pan, so you don’t have to worry about getting your baking dish back at the end of the night. (Even better: choose one that comes with a lid.)

Some sort of puff pastry appetizer, like apricot and gruyere cheese puffs from Cooking in my Genes, is an easily portable food that can be placed into a large food storage container with a secure lid and taken on the road.

Mains

If you’re contributing a main course to the meal, leave anything elaborate to the host and opt for something that’s sturdy (won’t spill) but not super heavy (and therefore cumbersome to maneuver.) Think casseroles, potatoes, macaroni and cheese and gratins — all of which can be made ahead of time in their transport dish or foil pans and then topped securely with plastic wrap and aluminum foil for safe arrival at your destination.

Duchess potatoes are a fresh spin on mashed potatoes with their beautiful rosette presentation, and because they’re baked into shape, they should be a cinch to transport. As far as casseroles, any kind can work as long as it’s fully cooled before you get on the road. This sweet potato casserole from Spend With Pennies has over 2,000 five-star reviews and takes only 45 minutes to assemble and bake. If you’re a one-bowl recipe type of person, this cornbread casserole has your name on it.

For baked mac and cheese, try this recipe from Mom On Timeout, which uses three types of cheese and is finished with a top layer of crispy breadcrumbs.

Desserts

There’s always room for dessert in our bellies, but maybe not in our vehicles. Try to veer away from anything tall, like cookie towers or multilayered cakes as they can be tricky to transport without damage. Cookies not assembled high and single-layer cakes are fine, as they can be packaged securely with either a zip-close bag or a snap-lock cake carrier, respectively.

Pies are OK — but not any pie. As with the casseroles, make sure the pie is fully baked and sturdy. A pie that’s underbaked or has a liquid texture is going to be a nightmare to transport, so choose something like a pecan pie or crumb cake over chocolate cream pie or other cream-topped varieties.

Cheesecake is a perfect middle ground as it tends to hold its shape quite well, once it’s cooled. Keeping any cheesecake in its springform pan with a tight covering over the top is a great way to safely transport and provides an easy reveal come dessert time.

Drinks

If you’ve been tasked with being this year’s mixologist, don’t fret about lugging all the beverage ingredients separately. You can assemble any drinks ahead of time by multiplying the ingredients by how many people will be at the function so that you have it properly proportioned. Add everything to a sealable container (even a soda bottle would do) and gently swirl to mix. This way, once you get there, all you have to do is pour each individual cocktail or mocktail instead of mixing each drink one by one. Saving time, for the win.

PS: If you or your guests plan to imbibe, make sure everyone has a safe ride home.

What are your tips for transporting food for the holidays? Let us know in the comments!

Lower production, higher exports and steady demand have steadily taken a bite out of national gasoline stockpiles. The Energy Information Administration (EIA) last week reported a fifth-straight week of declines in gasoline supplies, which fell by 4.7 million barrels to 206 million barrels. That’s 5 million fewer than last year and 9 million less than the five-year average.

While demand fell slightly from the prior week, the EIA’s figure of 8.87 million barrels a day is still relatively robust for this time of year. At the same time, gasoline production eased to 9.42 million barrels a day, down from 9.65 million barrels a day the previous week, while exports climbed from 859,000 to 1.08 million barrels a day.

“Shrinking gasoline inventories have put some pressure on pump prices, ending the recent streak of price declines seen throughout the Northeast this fall,” said Mark Schieldrop, senior spokesperson for AAA Northeast. “Supply and demand shifts will dictate how much prices shift—and in what direction—in the coming weeks.”

*Prices as of Nov. 10, 2025

Today, Oklahoma and Mississippi have the lowest prices in the nation at $2.56 and $2.59, respectively. California and Hawaii hold the highest prices in the nation this week at $4.71 and $4.46 respectively.

The AAA Gas Prices website is your resource for up-to-date fuel price information. Search for average gas prices on national, state and metro levels by regular, plus, premium and diesel.

Life insurance is one of the most misunderstood forms of insurance coverage. How it works, why it’s necessary and what defines quality coverage are all common questions. And for younger generations struggling with debt, life insurance is simply not on top of the priority list. But when it comes to purchasing life insurance, the sooner the better. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to build a formidable financial support system.

Reach out to an insurance agent to discuss your options.

Life Insurance Sets Up a Financial Foundation

Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to be middle-aged or even have started a family for life insurance to be a worthwhile contribution. In fact, establishing a life insurance policy early on could be a smart way to set the tone for your financial future.

For young adults just starting to build their finances, such a policy could be the safety net that makes all the difference. This age group typically has yet to amass significant savings or a retirement plan and life insurance could ensure that a future spouse or children are provided for under any circumstances.

Even if you don’t have anyone depending on you just yet, you’ll be thankful to have gotten a jump on investing in your family’s future early on. It’ll put you that much closer to your financial goals later in life.

Early Affordability

One of the clearest reasons why you shouldn’t wait to start a life insurance plan is because of how affordable rates are for young adults. A policy’s cost is affected by a wide range of factors, but your age and general well-being are chief among them. So, beginning a policy when you’re young and healthy means rates are likely as low as they’ll ever be.

In some cases, a life insurance policy could be as inexpensive as just a few dollars each week, and it may be wise to begin injecting some funds into your plan even before you begin having children or purchasing a home. The more expenses you take on, the less available money you will logically be able to apply to your policy.

Anticipation is key when it comes to insurance – protecting against an uncertain future is its very nature — so the time is now to set aside your misconceptions and start planning ahead, especially while you can still take advantage of incredibly low rates.

Adjustable to Your Needs

Just as the rates for life insurance vary based on your specific situation, you may be relieved to know that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to the kind of policy you can acquire. How much you contribute and how much coverage you attain are up to you. You can customize your policy to your budget and your lifestyle.

Feel free to take on a more ambitious premium. However, if you don’t have the means, it is better to have a modest plan than none at all.

Take it slow with a term life insurance plan and amp it up once you’re comfortable. Just be sure to leave the option open to convert your policy into whole life insurance, which offers an entirely different set of benefits.

Priceless Peace of Mind

At its core, the concept of life insurance may feel a bit morbid. After all, its key benefits kick in once the insured individual passes away — but there are living benefits available, as well. In the case of an accelerated death benefit, if the insured is diagnosed with a terminal illness, they may receive up to half of their death benefit tax-free to help cover or defray medical or other associated costs. Another benefit is a return of premium that ensures a tax-free refund of any premium payments at the end of the policy.

The benefit to the surviving loved ones is undeniable. With a life insurance policy in your back pocket, you’ll be able to rest easy knowing that the people who matter most will be protected if disaster strikes.

Whether you already have dependents or not, it’s never too early to begin paying into your life insurance plan. No one can predict the future, and you never know when tragedy may occur. However, once you take precautions, you’ll be better equipped to set those worries aside and focus on enjoying life.

More than laying the groundwork for your financial future, your life insurance plan puts in place a support system that will provide for your family long after you’re gone. That’s a peace of mind that cannot be effectively quantified, no matter what your premium is.

Get a Personalized Life Insurance Policy Through AAA

This article has been updated and republished from a previous version.

“I can’t adult today” is an expression that many millennials have heard friends say, seen as a slogan on a t-shirt or perhaps uttered themselves (maybe even multiple times in the same week).

While the sentiment strikes a chord with many, the reality of the situation is millennials now comprise the largest percentage of the country’s workforce, according to the Pew Research Center. This generation is now in the prime window for “peak adulting” – that is to say, getting married, having children and, of course, committing to 30 years of debt with a new mortgage.

But another adult decision that it’s time for millennials to put some serious consideration into is life insurance. Unlike the aforementioned weddings or additions to the family that take months of planning and adjusting to, once you know what you need, signing up for a life insurance policy is a process you can get started in a matter of minutes.

Learn about your life insurance options with AAA Insurance.

No Better Time Than Now

Millennials were ranked most in need of life insurance in 2022 by the Life Insurance Marketing and Research Association’s (LIMRA) annual Insurance Barometer Study.

Now would be the ideal time for millennials to sign up for life insurance, though, as insurance is generally cheaper for younger, healthier individuals – the right policy could result in saving significantly over the coming years.

Additionally, for those who receive life insurance through their employers, it’s important to examine if that amount would cover what you want it to cover in the event the policy is needed, meaning funeral costs, future college tuitions for your children, monthly living costs and any other outstanding debts. Most people find that the additional coverage gives them added peace of mind that they are securing their family’s future for the road ahead.

Be Kind to Your Budget

That all sounds good, but can you afford it? Another takeaway from LIMRA’s 2022 study was that millennials were the most likely generation to overestimate the cost of life insurance – by an average of $1,000 per year.

It varies based on policy, but many options would be cheaper than what the average American household spends on movie/TV streaming services ($55/month according to J.D. Power) or a typical monthly internet bill, which Nerdwallet estimates to be around $47-$69 per month.

Let Us Help You

If any of this still gives you those “I can’t adult right now” vibes, don’t worry. Our qualified agents can walk you through the process and find the best option for you.

Get a life insurance quote from AAA Insurance. 

Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your puzzle playing experience.

A father is driving with his three children in the back seat. His left hand is firmly on the steering wheel while his right hand is gripping a beer bottle.

Shocking, right? But would you be as shocked if the same man was holding a phone instead?

Distracted driving can be as devastating as driving under the influence. That’s the message of the AAA Don’t Drive Intexticated campaign. The above scenario plays out in a video made for the campaign.

Think of these statistics the next time you reach for the phone while driving, and click here for a look at how distracted driving can impact your daily commute.

Sources: AAA, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

What do you do to avoid distractions when you’re behind the wheel? Share your tips in the comments. 

For more on AAA’s campaign to curb distracted driving, visit AAA.com/DistractedDriving. 

Every day, AAA Northeast’s expert roadside technicians demonstrate a dedication to helping and serving people.

Some days, their efforts are downright heroic.

May 30 was one of those days. That’s when Norman Strom helped save an elderly couple from a fire in their Grafton, Mass., home.

Strom was passing their house on his way to a Roadside Assistance request when he noticed smoke billowing from the garage. Strom, a volunteer firefighter of 15 years, stopped to knock on the door of the house and notify anyone inside. The couple had no idea of their plight.

Strom helped them out of the house and to a safe place. Then, as the first flames emerged, he returned inside to rescue a cat and some of the couple’s personal items.

Not 10 minutes later, a propane tank in the garage exploded, setting the entire house ablaze.
“He saved our lives,” Norman Daigle told a Boston-based TV station. Daigle and his wife lived at the house with his daughter and his son-in-law.

Multiple media outlets reported the story as did the Your AAA website and the AAA Northeast Facebook page. AAA members commended Strom for his actions. Daigle’s daughter, Debra Rixham, was among them. She wrote:

“Thank you do [sic] much Norman. I do not have the words to express how grateful we are. This was my house and it was my parents that you saved along with my cat Kevin. We will meet in the near future so that we can thank you properly.”

Soft-spoken and humble, Strom said he was simply doing his job on that fateful Wednesday afternoon.

“I would do it again,” he said. “If everybody helped one another, we’d live in a better world.”
But Strom’s actions went far beyond his AAA duties, and club leaders felt he should be celebrated for it.

“At AAA Northeast, we help and serve as a way of life. Norman took that to the next level,” John Nardolillo, senior vice president of member services, said. “He was driving by that house for a reason. If he didn’t stop, if he didn’t go inside, I don’t believe those folks would have made it.”

Strom wasn’t interested in formal recognition, though. He asked that the club instead do something to help the victims. So, a donation in Strom’s name was made to a GoFundMe page set up for the family.

Strom’s wishes regarding a recognition event went unheeded. The club held a small celebration for him in early June.

Other AAA Heroes

Strom is not the only AAA hero.

On June 11, Nellie Hutchinson and Kitt Sewer-Small, employees at the AAA Wayne, N.J., office, helped prevent a possible suicide on a bridge in Paterson, N.J.

In December 2016, roadside technician Bobby McCollough pulled a man from a burning building in Providence, R.I.