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

The minivan has long been a staple of family driveways and school drop-off areas. Known for sporting a car seat (or two), crumb-covered interiors and cargo spaces stuffed with athletic equipment, it’s the practicality and safety of this perfect-for-carpooling vehicle that makes it stand out.

As electric vehicles start to gain more traction, car brands are beginning to offer more EV and hybrid styles to choose from – including minivans – providing families with energy efficient options, while maintaining the functionality they’ve come to know and love.

Learn about some of the newest and most reliable hybrid and electric minivans on the market today and how they perform.

Why Choose a Minivan?

Minivans are designed to carry extra passengers, usually up to eight or nine people. They often have modular seats that can add an extra row for reconfiguration, increasing seating capacity up to three rows, and large sliding or hinged rear side doors for easy access.

Key attributes of a minivan include:

• Large rear doors
• Additional rows of seating
• More space and legroom
• Higher roof
• Large trunk space

Minivans can be useful alternatives to an SUV or pickup truck, ideal for larger families or storing large items such as work or sports equipment. However, sedans or compact SUVs might be more suitable for those who do most of their driving in the city.

Electric Minivan History

The first electric minivan was released in the U.S. market by Chrysler in 1993. The TEVan model was based on the already successful Dodge Caravan and became a huge hit with consumers.

Decades later, the Nissan e-NV200 became the first electric seven-passenger minivan in 2015, following the introduction a smaller compact EV van in the same range a few years prior.

3 Hybrid and Electric Minivans to Consider

If you think an electric minivan might be the best option for your family, you’ll need to consider the features that work best for your lifestyle. Do you value passenger and cargo space or fuel economy? Does the make and model matter?

These three options are a good place to start.

Volkswagen ID. Buzz

Based on the iconic VW Bus, the all-electric Volkswagen ID. Buzz is set to be released in fall 2024.

Here’s what it has to offer:

• Seven seats
• 91 kWh battery
• 201 horsepower
• Available in front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive
• Estimated range of around 260 miles per charge

If you’re looking for a reliable car brand with iconic style, it is a great choice.

Toyota Sienna Hybrid

The Toyota Sienna is a reliable hybrid minivan with great fuel economy and a comfortable interior. The hybrid powertrain helps to deliver excellent gas mileage up to 36 miles per gallon in the city.

Here’s what it has to offer:

• Seats up to eight passengers
• 245 horsepower hybrid powertrain
• Available in front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive
• Towing capacity of 3,500 pounds

Boasting a premium interior and smooth handling, the Toyota Sienna is a great option for families. It’s available in six trims which vary in price and extra features. The base trim is built with a nine-inch touch screen, driver assistance features and power sliding doors.

Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

The Chrysler Pacifica is a spacious and fuel-efficient hybrid minivan with plenty of tech and safety features. As a plug-in hybrid with all-electric driving, fuel economy is one of its best advantages.

Here’s what is has to offer:

• Seats up to seven passengers
• V6 engine with two electric motors (84kW and 63kW)
• 260 horsepower powertrain
• Front-wheel drive only

Delivering fantastic gas mileage, the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid returns the equivalent of 82 miles per gallon in combined city and highway driving. Gas mileage returns 30 miles per gallon. You can also expect an all-electric driving range of 32 miles – ideal for local commuting.

Renting an EV With Hertz

If you prefer a greener way to travel, Hertz offers a selection of EVs and hybrids. For those new to driving an EV, Hertz makes the process easy by providing information and resources on driving and charging, so you can hit the road with confidence.

If you are on the fence about purchasing an EV, renting an EV for an extended test drive could be also a good way to “try before you buy.”

AAA members get exclusive Hertz discounts, including up to 20% on Hertz rentals.

If you’re heading on an international adventure, there is a lot to think about. Of course, there’s booking a trip within your budget, making sure your passport is up to date and considering what to pack. You might want to brush up on a few phrases in the local language. You may even need to buy converters or adaptors for your electronics.

It’s also a good idea to have some of the local currency in your wallet. Did you know that AAA can turn your U.S. dollars into Japanese yen, Bulgarian lev, Kenyan shilling or the money of dozens of other countries from Australia to Uruguay?*

Let’s take a look at the most common foreign currency exchanges made by AAA members, and where they are going to spend it.

To place an order for foreign currency, visit any AAA Northeast branch at least three business days in advance. You’ll be notified when it’s available and you can return to pick it up.

Top-Booked Destinations

After exchanging their money, this is where AAA members are going most.

The Azores

Comprised of nine volcanic islands in the Atlantic Ocean, the Portuguese Azores offer beauty and rich heritage. Portugal is one of 20 European countries that use the euro. The Azores are marked by breathtaking landscapes, including waterfalls, volcanos, vineyards, fields of blue hydrangeas and pristine beaches. It is also a perfect destination for climbers, hikers and surfers, earning it the name of Best Adventure Destination in the World in 2023 by the World Travel Awards. During your visit, try to spend a day at the World Heritage Site Angra do Heroísmo on Terceira Island, a critical port city dating back hundreds of years featuring a fortress, art treasures and several cathedrals.

Book your Azores Adventure.

Japan

Japan has used yen as currency since 1871, but its history goes back for centuries. The island nation is full of traditions and rituals, making its mark in technology. Visit the ultra-modern city of Tokyo, featuring the latest innovations, arts, music, theater, restaurants and even baseball. Travel to Kyoto, the country’s imperial capital for 1,000 years, and a haven for cultural traditions. The city is home to more than 1,000 temples. Visitors can also experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony at one of scores of elegant tea houses. Take in a geisha performance, one of Japan’s oldest art forms. Japan’s third-largest city, Osaka, is known for its tasty street food and vibrant nightlife. Don’t forget to take a bullet train ride and snap a photo of Mt. Fuji!

Explore the Land of the Rising Sun.

Great Britain

Grab your pounds and get ready to explore Great Britain’s thousands of years of history. You could spend days just touring London, full of ancient architecture and sprinkled with world-famous shops and trendy restaurants. Stop by the Tower of London, a former palace and prison, to see the crown jewels. Not to be missed is Tower Bridge, Buckingham Palace and the London Eye, a giant Ferris wheel, which offers singular views of the city. Outside of London, enjoy the countryside and iconic monuments such as Stonehenge. Travel to Stratford-upon-Avon, William Shakespeare’s birthplace and tour the Royal Shakespeare Theater. Not far away is Glasgow, Scotland’s most populous city, with castles to explore and renowned opera, theater and ballet to see.

Book a Great Britain tour.

Canada

While U.S. dollars are accepted most places in Canada, it’s still good to have some “loonies” in your pocket, and a basic knowledge of French if you go to Quebec Province. For a taste of Europe on the same continent, visit Montreal and Quebec City. Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage treasure, is the only fortified city north of Mexico. Vieux Montreal (Old Montreal) has preserved many buildings and its cobblestone streets dating back to 1642 and its days as a French colony. The bilingual city features cathedrals, museums, outdoor cafes, restaurants with mouth-watering fare and shopping streets that extend for eight city blocks. Explore Montreal’s Underground City, 20 miles of tunnels with 1,600 shops and connections to other malls, hotels and city buildings, designed to shield residents and tourists from the winter’s numbing cold.

If you feel like seeing the Canadian coasts by boat, cruise ships depart from either coast. Book a Norwegian Cruise Line tour of New England and Eastern Canada, to visit the Maritime provinces or head to the opposite coast and sail from British Columbia to Los Angeles or other cities on the U.S. west coast.

Book your trip to Canada.

Mexico

After you convert your dollars to pesos, you’ll find plenty of places to spend them at popular beach destinations, including Cancun, the Playa del Carmen/Riviera Maya region and Tulum. Enjoy soft-sand beaches, deep blue water off the shores of Cancun and Playa del Carmen, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Playa del Carmen also is known for its restaurants and colorful and unique street art. Visit Mayan ruins in Tulum, the only ones along the coast perched on a 45-foot cliff face. Nearby is Xel Ha, known as the world’s largest outdoor aquarium; a snorkeler’s paradise, it is teeming with fish of every color. 

Make memories in Mexico.

For more information on these and other destinations, contact your AAA travel advisor today.

*Please note, AAA does not conduct coin transactions.

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IN THIS EPISODE

Bringing a new baby home is exciting and nerve-racking, especially when ensuring their car seat safety during those first few car rides. When it comes to car seats, you need to get it right.

Which is the best car seat? How much should you spend? Can you buy a used one? How do you install it? Which side of the vehicle does it go in? There are nuances galore.

Adelle Zocher, AAA Northeast safety specialist, will guide you through everything you need to know.

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KEY TAKEAWAYS

[7:06] – How to find a car seat certified technician in your area?
[10:26] – The car seat do’s and don’ts
[11:52] – How to buy a used car seat, and precautions to take
[14:43] – How do you know when it’s time to move your child to a different car seat?

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TRANSCRIPT

[00:00:02]

Amanda’s Daughter: Mom, when can I get a new car seat?

Amanda Greene: I don’t think you’re big enough to move into a booster seat yet.

Amanda’s Daughter: But my friend has one. She’s five. I’m five. Why can’t I have one? And my sister has one.

Amanda Greene: So I’ve looked a bunch of times and I don’t think you’re tall enough yet or something. I don’t know. I guess I can look again.

Amanda’s Daughter: Please. I love you, mommy, please.

Amanda Greene: I’ll check again.

Amanda’s Daughter: Yay.

Amanda Greene: Welcome to Merging into Life where we navigate life’s milestones, one episode at a time. Brought to you by AAA Northeast. I’m your host, Amanda Green. So, as you heard, I’ve been having this conversation a lot with my daughter. At the tender age of five she thinks she’s ready for the free and easy life of a kid in a booster seat.

I’m not against it, but I am for safety. And when I look online, there are different ranges for different seats and weights and heights. This is an important one to get right, but I’m finding it really hard to get straight answers.

I think back to the early days when I was pregnant, somewhere between those two phases of quiet contemplation and panic and fear. There are so many things to think of and plan for, but even at that time I knew there was only so much I could do to prepare.

Buying stuff was one of the few ways. There was the crib, a changing table, diapers, clothes, toys, so much stuff. But I can vividly remember strolling through the car seat section, picking out the biggest and best toddler car seat I could afford because I wanted my baby to be safe and secure like all parents do.

But just like I’m finding out now, there’s more to it than I thought. Even in those early days. There are things to consider past buying the “good” seat, like installation.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), almost half, 46% of all car seats have been installed incorrectly. That’s a lot. And according to the same organization in one year, 325 children under five are saved by car seats. That’s music to the ears of us parents and guardians and probably just about everyone.

We know they work. So join me while we get answers to all the questions around how to use them properly, including the big one at my house.

READ MORE

[00:02:25]

Amanda’s Daughter: When can I get a booster seat?

[00:02:28]

Amanda Greene: Let’s bring in an expert who has installed some car seats.

[00:02:32]

Adelle Zocher: Many, many seats, hundreds and hundreds, definitely hundreds.

[00:02:35]

Amanda Greene: That’s Adelle Zocher, a public affairs specialist with AAA Northeast. She’s seen some stuff because there is no messier place than that of a child’s car seat.

[00:02:45]

Adelle Zocher: All kinds of messes, which people are always, ‘I’m so sorry. I’m so sorry. Oh, there’s food.” Listen, you have kids, I understand. No problem. So I’ve seen some gnarly stuff, but people shouldn’t be embarrassed. It’s fine. They’re cars, they’re lived in.

[00:02:58]

Amanda Greene: I think I’d sooner make my browser history public than let someone look in and behind my kids’ car seats, but I’m happy to know this is a shame-free zone. So first things first, what kind of car seats are there?

[00:03:11]

Adelle Zocher: So we have rear-facing convertible seats. That’s that little bucket that we pick up baby in and we click it into the base, which remains in the vehicle. That’s typically our first step.

Then as the child gets a little bit bigger, we’d still like to keep them rear-facing for safety reasons. So they’ll transition into a convertible seat and a convertible seat converts from rear to a forward-facing car seat. The next step would be to turn that seat forward-facing or move up to a combination seat, which is a harness, which then becomes a booster. And from there we transition from that five-point harness seat into the booster seat and beyond.

[00:03:41]

Amanda Greene: So I know a lot of the safety rules and regulations vary from state to state, but are there any general universal rules that people should follow?

[00:03:50]

Adelle Zocher: So for new parents, the NHTSA is a good resource and it’s a .gov. The NHTSA works closely with an organization called Safe Kids Worldwide and Safe Kids Worldwide is actually the certifying body for car seat safety. These two work together to create the curriculum for the technicians to set these guidelines, working with organizations like the American Academy of Pediatrics and hospitals all over the nation, to collect data and basically find, where is the misuse? What’s happening here? What do people need? Where are we falling short and how can we fill those gaps?

[00:04:22]

Amanda Greene: Okay, I found the site here. It asks for age, weight, height and then gives a graph of all your options. We’ll be sure to put a link in the show notes for anyone who needs it because that’s really helpful.

[00:04:32]

Adelle Zocher: I would also seek out a technician – so myself, a certified child passenger safety technician. I’m also an instructor, so I certify those new technicians

Personally, in the classes I teach, I see a lot of law enforcement, first responders, so there’s all sorts of people in the community, all sorts of organizations that involve child passenger safety. And a really great start is to find that technician so you can have them help you assist you and show your way around the seat.

My first step, I think if I had no idea, would be to familiarize myself with the types of car seats and then from there maybe, what am I going to buy? And then maybe I’m going to talk to a technician and they’re going to help me get that in the car.

[00:05:09]

Amanda Greene: Are there any particular models you like?

[00:05:11]

Adelle Zocher: The best seat is always the seat that works best for the family, fits their price range, fits their vehicle, can be installed and used correctly every time. And any seat that a person could purchase on the market is going to meet those requirements and be safe for their child.

[00:05:23]

Amanda Greene: So you’re saying when it comes to car seats, it may be isn’t worth splurging on the higher end model?

[00:05:28]

Adelle Zocher: No, I wouldn’t say so. It’s so personal. If you want to splash out on the $400 infant seat, that’s great if that’s in the budget. Or a lot of people get them as gifts. To me – because that’s the seat that they’re going to be doing all that good stuff when they’re little – I always say, if you’re going to get a cheaper seat, do that. Get your use out of that. Let them grow out of that seat.

[00:05:49]

Amanda Greene: Smush Cheerios into it.

[00:05:50]

Adelle Zocher: Exactly. And then transition to that convertible at a little bit later of a date because that’s a seat that could potentially take your child all the way to the end of needing a restraint, right?

AAA Car Seat Safety

[00:06:02]

Amanda Greene: Adelle, this is obviously something parents want to get right, and NHTSA says almost half of all seats are installed incorrectly, but I read that even more seats are misused. What are people getting wrong?

[00:06:14]

Adelle Zocher: Depending on where you look, you’ll see maybe around 60%, sometimes 70% or more of misuse. But that could be something really simple, right? The car seat may be installed correctly, but the harness is not used correctly. If you’ve got a little bit too much slack in that harness, right there is small misuse.

Everything may be done perfectly, but that seat might not be tight enough. It might not be pulled in and ratcheted in. So there’s a misuse right there. They can be very small. But again, the right seat is the seat that is used correctly and works for that family every single time, which is why a tech is such a great resource to go to. Once you do it, practice it a couple times you’ll have it down pat.

[00:06:48]

Amanda Greene: So this is not the time to take the Ikea furniture approach, pulling out the instructions and hoping for the best. This is the time to do it right. So how do we find a tech in our area?

[00:06:58]

Adelle Zocher: Awesome question. That information is available to you on cert.safekids.org, and from there there’s a little tab to click, find a tech, and from there you can put your area. So for me, Connecticut, I’d put in Connecticut and it would list all the technicians and their contact information.

[00:07:14]

Amanda Greene: How about new parents with new babies? Any safety tips for them to keep in mind?

[00:07:19]

Adelle Zocher: Well, one of the things, a lot of people are tempted to put some all sorts of little accoutrements in the seats – little cute fuzzy teddy bear things and like something so they can play with. And then we got the mirror.

We as technicians will not recommend any of that stuff because if it has not been crash tested alongside that car seat, we can’t be sure that in the event of a crash, any of those objects may not compromise the integrity of that seat, how it’s working. Is it tight enough? Might those objects come loose and become a projectile and injure the child or somebody else in the vehicle? We do not know unless it’s been crash tested. So that’s why we don’t recommend aftermarket products like that.

Of course, it’s people’s prerogative. If you want the mirror, if you did your research, that’s something you want by all means. But that’s the reason why.

Another thing, projectiles are a big danger in the vehicle. Something even like a tissue box with those sharp edges going flying through the air as the vehicle screeches to a halt at 50 miles an hour can go flying through that vehicle and could cause an injury certainly to a baby or even an adult.

[00:08:20]

Amanda Greene: I never really considered that and I am someone who drives around with just a lot of stuff in the car because we’re driving from here to there and everywhere. So, limiting the amount of stuff in your car is probably a great tip.

[00:08:32]

Adelle Zocher: Less is more. We don’t want little ones bundled crazy tight. We want them to be able to be harnessed in nice and tight. When we show new parents, I have these little training dolls. A lot of technicians will have these little squishy training doll babies. We put them in the seat and we pull the harness tight, we show them this is where we want it on the shoulders. And I always tell them they’ve been snuggly snuggled up for nine months. They like being cozy and tight. So if they become used to a nice tight, snug fit right from birth on, that’s not ever going to be a problem.

What we want is to not be able to pinch any of that mesh, any of the webbing from the harness. So if your fingers kind of slip over the mesh without pinching a little piece of it, that’s how you know it’s tight enough.

[00:09:12]

Amanda Greene: I’ve had ladies in the grocery store parking lot comment that my kids don’t have a proper coat on in the winter after getting out of their car seat because you’re not supposed to wear a bulky coat, right?

[00:09:23]

Adelle Zocher: Exactly. Say pish posh. This is all by design. It’s exactly what we tell people. Put them strapped in and put that coat on backwards, right? Slip their little arms through, have it on backwards, lay a little blanket over top of them once they’re safely strapped in. But absolutely do not feel bad at all. Parents out there trying to wrestle with kids in the coats, you are doing the right thing by not strapping them in all bundled up.

[00:09:45]

Amanda Greene: Even just like a fleece zip up is better than wearing a bulky winter coat, right?

[00:09:49]

Adelle Zocher: Yes. We just don’t want any compression space underneath. So ,in the event of a crash, we want that harness to be able to restrain the child in the way that it’s meant to. And if there’s a bunch of fabric that’s getting compressed down, then that means there’s space between the child’s body and that harness. So it’s not restraining them as adequately as it should be.

[00:10:10]

Amanda Greene: Are there any other dos and don’ts you have for parents? From a technician’s point of view?

[00:10:15]

Adelle Zocher: We go by good, better, best in terms of practice, right? So good practice is we have a car seat, we’re putting our child in it. We are seeking out information, we’re doing the best we can. You’ll never come to see a technician and be shamed. They’re going to say, “Good on you for trying better on you for coming here and we’re going to get you correct,” and you’re going to leave knowing exactly how to do it correctly and they’ll get you comfortable.

We always make people play around with the seat. We always say, have the families put their hands on the seat, have them practice lifting it up, practice with the baby doll, feel your way around the car. We ask questions like, “Do you park on the street? Are you going to be opening that door where your child is out into the street?” And if so, maybe we’ll put it on this side so that you can be on the curb here and you won’t be having traffic to the side of you.

[00:10:59]

Amanda Greene: You really think of everything.

[00:11:01]

Adelle Zocher: Not every vehicle and every seat is perfectly wonderfully compatible, but that best seat is the one that is installed correctly a hundred percent of the time, used correctly a hundred percent of the time. And that’s another great one for parents every single time. So they see right from the jump, right, that this is something we do. Parents wear seat belts, children are buckled in, and that becomes a habit and that becomes a safe life.

And when we do that, we’re just increasing the likelihood that if, God forbid, we were involved in a crash, that there would be reduction in injury. The incidence of fatalities for children involved in crashes with proper car seat use is reduced significantly.

[00:11:33]

Amanda Greene: I know many parents consider buying used car seats to save money. Are used car seats as reliable as new ones? And also what kind of precautions should you take if you’re going to buy a used one?

[00:11:45]

Adelle Zocher: Please don’t purchase a used car seat unless it’s a transaction between you and someone that you trust implicitly, right? Going online, finding maybe a Facebook marketplace thing, not that the person might not be trustworthy, but you cannot know without a shred of doubt that that seat has not been compromised in any way.

In that process of the crash. The forces being exerted upon where it’s restrained, right, down at those lower anchors or the seatbelt hasn’t compromised the seat in some way.

That being said, if you know the source, trust the source, the seat is not expired. All seats have expiration dates and that’s another thing a technician will look that up. If it’s missing labels. If the straps, any pieces are a little wonky and you can’t guarantee that that seat has not been involved in a crash or compromised, we would not recommend using that used seat.

But it’s a great option. Seats last typically six years, some of them longer. So if you know a trusted source and they say, “Hey, I’m ready to pass this along, still in good shape, there is no problem with that at all.”

[00:12:42]

Amanda Greene: And you could have some peace of mind that, yes, you did it correctly or maybe it just needs a little tightening here or there. This is really good information.

Can you walk us through how car seats help protect kids if there, God forbid, happens to be an accident?

[00:12:59]

Adelle Zocher: Vehicle restraints, they’re meant to kind of counteract physics, right? An object in motion moving. So we need to slow down. We need to ride the crash force down. So in a short stop or in the event of a crash, that seatbelt rides the force down by stopping us.

In a rear-facing seat. The seat itself is what takes on the force of the crash. Small pro-tip, when you do install that infant seat, the bucket seat, we do not want that resting on any part of the seat in front of it, which is why I often have people do it on the passenger side if we need the driver’s seat to be a little further back. Because even if it’s just a small enough gap to pass a hand through, that’s adequate because if the back of the car seat rests on the back of the seat, the seat cannot move.

So in the event of a crash, the seat would move up, rock back and forth and ride the force, the crash down on the seat itself and not the child’s body. When we move forward-facing in the five-point harness seat, the force gets ridden down basically on the child’s body, but it is distributed differently because of that five-point harness. And because we tether that seat in the back of the headrest, the physics of a crash is basically why we would say rear-facing as long as possible because the force of it is on the seat and not the body of the child.

And like we said, they’re top-heavy, they’re a little neck and spine are a little bit weaker as they’re growing and stretching into themselves. And so that’s just all the more reason to keep them rear facing and then five-point harness as long as possible.

[00:14:19]

Amanda Greene: It’s so interesting you say that because my daughter is desperate to get out of her five-point harness and into a booster car seat, but I’m just not sure that she’s ready. How do I know?

[00:14:30]

Adelle Zocher: So state laws vary depending on where you are. The requirements for turning your child forward-facing in that five-point harness seat may be more lax than say Connecticut, where we have pretty strict child passenger safety laws.

But that best practice is always going to be: keep that child rear-facing longer because that offers better protection, superior protection.

When they go forward-facing, let’s try to keep them in that five point harness as long as they can to try to max out in the height and weight requirements of the seat because it’s offering them superior protection. And it’s a hard struggle with kids because they want to get big, they want to ride in the booster, but-

[00:15:04]

Amanda Greene: They see their friend moving up to the next level.

[00:15:07]

Adelle Zocher: Exactly. But each child is so different in how they grow and what their needs are. And ultimately, since we are responsible for their safety, this is just the best thing we can do. Seek out that information. Practice, practice, practice, ask questions, and we will provide that information and those resources and be there for people.

[00:15:23]

Amanda Greene: You have shown us how important it is to get this right. Thank you so much for being here and sharing all of your knowledge.

[00:15:30]

Adelle Zocher: Pleasure.

Car Seat FAQs

[00:15:32]

Amanda Greene: I’ve learned a lot today. We’re talking about child safety here, so knowing this stuff is super important.

Okay, everyone, pop quiz.

In a perfect world, how long should a child stay in a five-point harness safety seat?

If you said until they max out on height and weight requirements and the earliest they can move into a boosters when the state law allows it, you’d be right. Good job, you were paying attention.

Next one. What’s the best way to install a safety seat?

If you said, with the guidance of a technician, you would be correct. One can be found by going to safekids.org/inspection-stations.

Another question for you. Can a parent purchase a used car seat?

If you said yes, that’s correct, but only if you can be completely sure that the seat has never been in an accident. The best way to do this is by buying from someone and trust. And again, get a technician involved to make sure it’s installed properly, still in working order and isn’t expired.

Okay, next question. Big warm winter coats and car seats. Yes or no?

No. Dress your child lightly so they can be buckled snugly in the seat. Ignore the lady at the grocery store in the parking lot who’s commenting that your child doesn’t have a bulky coat on in the winter? They’re fine.

Next one, because I love to be prepared, so I always have a tissue box handy. Things to keep the kids occupied, teddy bears. Is this recommended in your car?

No loose items in your vehicle. They turn into projectiles if you come to a sudden stop. These items have also not been crash tested with your child’s seat. So it’s best to keep the inside of your car as free and clear as possible. Hopefully Cheerios and Goldfish don’t apply.

And last question. When it comes to buying safety seats, do you look for the biggest and most expensive?

According to Adelle, buy the seat that fits your vehicle and your child. As long as you properly install it and can use it properly every single time, it’s the right seat for you.

 And as Adelle says, you don’t have to spend a fortune on a seat that will probably be a little questionable as the months tick by. Speaking from experience, those things can get pretty gross and the car seat suffers the consequences.

So that’s it for today. I want to thank AAA Northeast Public Affairs specialist and safety seat expert extraordinaire, Adelle Zocher.

You’ve been listening to Merging Into Life where we navigate life’s milestones, one episode at a time. Brought to you by AAA Northeast with production assistance from JAR Audio. I’m your host, Amanda Greene. Follow us wherever you get your podcasts and leave a review. We’d love to hear what you think. Send your thoughts to podcast@aaanortheast.com. Talk to you next time.

Hey, so I checked with an expert and she said that until you get a little bit bigger, this seat that you’re in right now is a lot safer.

[00:18:30]

Amanda’s Daughter: Oh, really? Mommy, please?

[00:18:33]

Amanda Greene: Can we agree that since it’s safer to stick with this seat, that we’re going to stay in this one for a while?

[00:18:39]

Amanda’s Daughter: Okay, fine. Whatever you say.

[00:18:41]

Amanda Greene: Love you. Give me a high five.

---

RESOURCES

AAA Car Seat Safety

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

Safekids.org

Find a Certified Technician

Car Seat Safety Tips for Expecting and New Parents

Parents Urged to Avoid Counterfeit and Used Car Seats

Car Seat Safety

Car Seat FAQs

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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.

What’s the best recipe for a summer meal? Take one part fresh-off-the-boat seafood, one part sunshine, add a dash of ocean breeze, a squeeze of lemon and voila! Here are some of our favorite New England clam shacks.

Champlin’s Seafood Deck

Narragansett, R.I.

Located just steps off the docks of Point Judith, where all of the fishing boats full of that delicious calamari come in, is Champlin’s. The first floor is a seafood market where you can pick out your own lobster. The second floor is the Seafood Deck, where you can have it cooked. Champlin’s serves clam cakes, white, red and clear chowder, and all of the traditional clam shack fare. There’s also a shucked-to-order raw bar and an outdoor bar serving up killer mudslides.

Jim’s Dock

South Kingstown, R.I.

Jim’s Dock is closer to Champlin’s by sea than by land. Even though it’s in a different town, it’s a stone’s throw across Galilee Salt Pond Harbor to Point Judith. This BYOB restaurant is as casual as they come, and people regularly roll in from a day at the beach in their bathing suits and shorts. Don’t miss the interesting variations on calamari, and the Point Judith “stuffie” or stuffed quahog clam, a Rhode Island staple.

The Clam Shack

Kennebunkport, Maine

The line can be long at The Clam Shack, which sits right on the bridge over the Kennebunkport River. That’s because a lot of people have tried the legendary fried clams in the over 50 years that the restaurant’s been open, and most come back for more. Order at the window and eat at one of the restaurant’s picnic tables or take it to a spot along the main thoroughfare of this idyllic Maine town. Don’t miss the signature lobster roll served on fresh bread.

Bob’s Clam Hut

Kittery, Maine

Bob’s Clam Hut has been feeding hungry crowds in southern Maine since 1956. Here, the whole belly clams come Bob’s style (breaded then fried) or Lillian’s style (dipped in egg wash, then breaded and fried, so they come out with a lighter texture and consistency), on a roll or as a dinner plate with fries and coleslaw. Combo platters, where you can combine clams with shrimp, scallops, fish or oysters, are where it’s really at.

Clam Box of Ipswich

Ipswich, Mass.

This North Shore food destination has been lining up crowds since 1935, and for good reason: Clam Box dishes out some of the best seafood in all of the Bay State. Choose from clams, scallops, shrimp, haddock, calamari or oysters – and in a nice change from tradition, you can pick onion rings in place of your fries or your coleslaw. Smaller “mini meals” are a nice choice, especially if you decide to add a seafood-only “box” or two for the table.

Larsen’s Fish Market

Martha’s Vineyard, Mass.

Larsen’s, in the tiny fishing village of Menemsha, isn’t really all that close to the ferry landings at Oak Bluffs or Vineyard Haven. Menemsha is part of Chilmark, which is almost as far west on the island as you can get. But the trip out to Larsen’s is worth it, especially at the end of the day, when the sunsets from the picnic tables are spectacular. The menu is small – lobsters, chowder, stuffed clams and scallops, steamers and mussels – but it’s as fresh as seafood comes and really makes the case for life’s simple pleasures.

Costello’s Clam Shack

Noank, Conn.

While you’ll get clam cakes in Rhode Island, you’ll get clam fritters in Connecticut. And if you order them at Costello’s, you’ll get to eat them right on the docks of the Mystic River and look out at views of three states at once. This BYOB restaurant is so close to the shore it offers directions by land and by water. The menu is slightly bigger than your average clam shack – it also has items like fish and shrimp tacos, and several salads – but if you don’t get some Noank-style clear chowder and some fritters for dipping, you’re missing out.

Lobster Landing

Clinton, Conn.

Lobster Landing sits on Clinton Harbor, squarely in the center of Connecticut’s coast, and overlooks the Long Island Sound. The small menu is written on a white board inside the photo-worthy seaside shack, and the owners welcome customers to bring anything they don’t serve. So while you should definitely order some steamers and the restaurant’s specialty hot lobster roll, you could, theoretically, bring a cooler with a dessert tucked inside. Just a suggestion.

Which clam shack completes your summer? Tell us about it in the comments. 

It’s officially summer, which means it’s high time to get outside and start enjoying those perfect weather days. And the perfect way to do so? Planning a picnic, of course.

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Because the whole point of a picnic is to have a relaxing afternoon, keeping the food and drink simple is a necessary element. That’s why, when putting together our menu, we sprung for things that don’t need much prep but come together to make some scrumptious alfresco fare: red onion mascarpone tart, ciabatta slab sandwiches, limoncello mocktails and a store-bought cake refresh.

Here’s everything you need to make it all and plan an idyllic backyard picnic this summer.

Your Shopping List

• 1 loaf focaccia or ciabatta bread
• 1 jar pesto
• 3 small red onions
• Fresh thyme
• Fresh mint
• Blueberries
• 8 oz. mascarpone
• 8 oz. burrata
• 10 slices prosciutto
• Baby arugula
• 1 sheet puff pastry
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 lemons
• Lemon-flavored sparkling water
• Store-bought cake of your choice
• 1 can premade vanilla frosting
• 1 egg

Prep and Cook

Limoncello Mocktails

These refreshing lemony spritzes are ideal for picnicking and easily transportable. First, make the lemon syrup by measuring out your sugar with the following rule of thumb: 3 tablespoons of sugar to one lemon. To make two drinks, we used two lemons worth of peels and 6 tablespoons of sugar. Place the peels and sugar in a glass jar and muddle together for 30 seconds before placing the lid on and leaving it on the counter for about three hours. To speed up the process, add 4 tablespoons of warm water to the mixture and stir.

Once your syrup is ready, add some ice to a mason jar along with a slice of lemon and sprig of thyme. Pour in the lemon syrup to taste. Top with lemon-flavored sparkling water. Cover the mason jar with a lid and gently shake to mix.

Red Onion and Mascarpone Tart

This is the easiest savory tart you’ll ever make.

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees. Starting with one sheet of puff pastry at room temperature, score 1 inch around the border without cutting all the way through. Then, begin cutting the red onions by slicing longways through the root. Using a mandoline or sharp knife, slice the onion as thin as possible. Repeat with all three onions. Set aside.

Smear the mascarpone with the back of a spoon over the puff pastry, stopping at the 1-inch border. Once the pastry is covered, arrange the red onion slices in straight lines, top to bottom and slightly overlapping each other. Beat one egg with a tablespoon of water to create an egg wash and lightly brush the pastry edges. This will ensure a golden crust.

Sprinkle the tart with salt, pepper, olive oil and sprigs of thyme before placing into the oven to bake for 25 minutes.

Ciabatta Slab Sandwiches

Individual sandwiches take too much time. Simplify the process with a slab sandwich technique using a loaf of either focaccia or ciabatta bread.

Cut the bread in half horizontally and begin topping your sandwich with your favorite ingredients. We used pesto, tomatoes, burrata, prosciutto and baby arugula. Pile it all on before placing the top of the loaf of bread back on and using a bread knife to slice through the loaf vertically to create multiple sandwiches (depending on the size of your loaf of bread and slice thickness, you’ll get about 5-10 servings).

Wrap individually in aluminum foil to maintain freshness until your picnic.

Pinterest-Style Store-Bought Cake

We’ve already used the oven for the tart, so forget baking a sweet treat to bring along. Instead, we opted for a simple store-bought birthday cake and turned it into something worthy of a pin on Pinterest.

First, remove any frosting decor using a knife or spoon. Even out the frosting and fill in any gaps with additional frosting, if needed. Once you have a smooth base, arrange the blueberries in threes by gently pressing them into the frosting. If the frosting is too soft, just stick the cake into the refrigerator for 20 minutes to help it stiffen. Next, snip a few small to medium fresh mint leaves and place next to each blueberry “bunch” to replicate the look of the berries on a blueberry bush.

Now all that’s left to do is pack up your picnic basket and head to the backyard – or any beautiful location you choose.

Click here for more Shop and Cook recipes and videos.

What’s your favorite food to bring on a picnic? Let us know in the comments!

An Aruba vacation is, in many ways, perfect. There’s near-eternal sunshine, it’s located outside of the path of hurricanes and serves up a variety of top resorts, dining and activities wrapped around a friendly and welcoming vibe.

“Aruba is an extremely safe island, which appeals to a lot of people,” said AAA travel advisor Jennifer MacPherson. “It’s OK to walk around at night. It’s got great all-inclusive resorts, and it’s also an excellent place to stay at a non-all-inclusive hotel because there are so many restaurants to choose from.”

Your Aruba vacation is just a click away. Book now.

At 75 square miles, Aruba is small enough to explore easily but big enough that it’s possible to find solitude without having to drive too far from the island’s main hotel zone on the northeast coast just outside the capital city of Oranjestad.

The resort area is concentrated on two beautiful beaches: Palm Beach, primarily home to larger, high-rise hotels and the hub for Aruba’s water sports activities, and the low-rise Eagle Beach, fringed by a lively boulevard lined with restaurants, shops and nightclubs.

Aruba Accommodations

“Aruba has everything from all-inclusive resorts to top-notch luxury properties and boutique hotels,” said MacPherson.

Travelers seeking an Aruba all-inclusive, adults-only, experience can book Riu Palace Antillas on Palm Beach near the popular De Palm Pier, or the more laid-back Divi resorts, which offer the option of beachfront accommodations, a stay in a quiet village setting or alongside the links at Divi Village Golf & Beach Resort.

Boutique hotel options include the excellent and eco-friendly Bucuti & Tara Resort on Eagle Beach – which also has one of the island’s top beachfront restaurants, Elements – and the wellness-focused Manchebo Beach Resort and Spa. The Aruba Ocean Villas in the fishing village of Savaneta has a trio of luxuriously private overwater bungalows, while budget-conscious families often choose the highly rated Holiday Inn Aruba on Palm Beach, which has three pools, a spa and a casino.

Aruba Ambiance and Adventure

Dotted with divi-divi trees – with their sideways branches, the trees are a national symbol of an island where cooling trade winds blow almost constantly – Aruba’s broad, white sand beaches are a magnet for visitors, many of whom go directly from their hotel rooms to the shore each morning to stake out a spot for the day.

“With the trade winds you don’t always realize how strong the sun is, so I always advise my clients to use sunscreen and take advantage of the beach umbrellas and palapas offered by their resort,” notes MacPherson.

Water sports like parasailing and Jet Skiing can be found right off Palm Beach and Eagle Beach, while visitors who want to try their hand at windsurfing head to Malmok Beach near the northern tip of the island. Sunset cruises cast off each evening from Aruba’s west-facing beaches, and Jolly Pirates sets sail for day trip snorkel adventures with a swashbuckling party theme.

Search vacation packages to Aruba.

Aruba Excursions

If you’re wondering what to do in Aruba outside of the hotel district, don’t worry – there is plenty.

Despite the palm trees shading many a resort swimming pool, Aruba is a desert island – a fact that quickly becomes clear once you venture beyond the hotel districts. The island’s sparsely populated east side is dotted with cactus, its rugged coastline fringed with cliffs frequently pounded by strong surf. Arikok National Park, which covers about one-fifth of the island, attracts hikers with its high hills and cool caves. The park also has a pair of undeveloped beaches and a natural pool sheltered from the wind and waves by rocks.

Guided tours of Aruba’s backcountry by all-terrain vehicle, e-bike, and on horseback are popular, although many visitors opt to rent a car and explore the island on their own. Day trips include historic sites like the Bushiribana gold mine ruins and the Casibari rock formations with their prehistoric drawings, and wildlife destinations like the Aruba Ostrich Farm, donkey sanctuary or butterfly farm. If you visit the charming and petite Alto Vista Chapel, be sure to stop at the neighboring boutique winery.

Those who have been on Aruba cruises might be familiar with the trolley in Oranjestad, which leads from the cruise port to the downtown shopping district, a smattering of interesting museums and the distillery, Pepe Margo, where you can sample and purchase locally made spirits in a traditional Aruban home. Even the island’s grittier port city, San Nicolas, has been beautified with colorful murals and has a blossoming art scene.

Aruba Dining and Cuisine

Aruba’s culinary diversity is reflected in top restaurants like Papiamento (named for the island’s local language), which serves upscale local cuisine in a historic cunucu house. At Flying Fishbone, guests dine on fresh seafood on the beach. For other styles of cuisine, there’s French at Bohemian and Peruvian dishes at Lima Bistro.

The California Lighthouse on the northern tip of Aruba is one of the island’s most photographed sites; savvy visitors head there in the evening to catch the great light and enjoy a sunset dinner at the nearby Faro Blanco, an elegant Italian restaurant with a formal terrace overlooking the Caribbean Sea.

Like almost everything else in Aruba, ordering and paying for your meal is a breeze. English is spoken almost universally on the island, and the U.S. dollar is accepted everywhere.

“Most of my clients who stop in Aruba on a cruise end up going back there on vacation,” said MacPherson. “Once you go to Aruba, everywhere else pales in comparison.”

Plan your Aruba vacation with the help of a trusted AAA travel advisor. Call 866-423-5585 to speak with an advisor today!

Have you been to Aruba? Tell us what you love about it in the comments below.

The flashes and booms of fireworks on the Fourth of July are a tradition almost as old as America itself. But – as with any time you are dealing with fire – fireworks safety should be top of mind.

Fireworks History

In the days leading up to the signing of the Declaration of Independence, Founding Father John Adams predicted in a letter to his wife, Abigail, that the occasion would be “solemnized with Pomp and Parade, with Shews, Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations from one End of this Continent to the other from this Time forward forever more.”

As anticipated, fireworks were part of the first organized Independence Day celebrations in Philadelphia and Boston in 1777 and have been representative of the holiday’s festivities ever since. It doesn’t feel like the Fourth of July without seeing sparklers twirling in the dark or hearing the popping and sizzling of firecrackers late into the night.

During your summer celebrations, practice these fireworks safety tips to make sure that the only flashing red, white and blue lights that you see are in the sky, not on top of a police car or ambulance.

Fireworks Safety Stats

Fireworks can cause serious burns and other life-changing injuries to eyes, ears and appendages, and can potentially be fatal.

There were an estimated 9,700 injuries bad enough to require medical treatment and a minimum of eight deaths due to fireworks-related incidents in 2023, according to the latest U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Fireworks Report.

Most incidents are due to amateurs attempting to use professional-grade, homemade or other illegal fireworks or explosives, but an estimated 700 reported injuries were from sparklers.

An estimated 19,500 fires are started by fireworks annually, according to the National Fire Protection Association. And as you might imagine, more fires are reported on Independence Day than any other day of the year.

Fireworks Laws

Connecticut

All fireworks are illegal except for sparklers and fountains, which can only be legally used by people 16 or older.

New York

The sale and use of fireworks known as “sparking devices” are allowed by New York state law in cities and counties where a law has not been enacted against them.

Counties that prohibit the sale and use and of sparkling devices are Albany, Bronx, Columbia, Kings, Nassau, New York, Queens, Orange, Richmond, Schenectady, Suffolk, Warren and Westchester.

Sparkling devices are defined as ground-based or handheld and produce a shower of colored sparks and flames, audible crackling or whistling and smoke. The law limits the size, type and construction.

New Jersey

It is unlawful to sell, possess or use fireworks anywhere in the state without a valid permit. Those 16 years of age or older can lawfully buy, possess and use certain sparkling devices and novelties. Permissible fireworks include handheld or ground-based sparklers, snakes and glow worms, smoke devices and trick noisemakers.

Massachusetts

It is illegal for private citizens to use, possess or sell fireworks, or to purchase them legally elsewhere and transport them into the state. The law prohibits any article designed to produce a visible or audible effect.

Rhode Island

Legal fireworks include ground-based and handheld sparkling devices, fountains, illuminating torches, wheels, spinners, party poppers, snappers, toy smoke devices, snakes and glow worms. Any firecrackers, rockets, mortars or any other device that launches a projectile and/or makes a “bang” are illegal.

Fireworks Safety Tips

Advice from the National Safety Council and CPSC on how to practice proper fireworks safety.

• One of the best fireworks safety tips to follow is to never use fireworks illegally. The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to go to a public show put on by professionals. If you do choose to use fireworks legally, use them away from people, houses and flammable materials.
•  Never light fireworks: indoors, in a container, in your hands or when impaired.
• Only light one device at a time and maintain a safe distance after lighting.
• Never point or throw fireworks at anyone or anything.
• Anyone using fireworks or standing nearby should wear protective eyewear.
• Keep a bucket of water or a fire extinguisher nearby to fully put out fireworks that don’t go off or in case of fire. Soak both spent and unused fireworks in water for a few hours before discarding.
• Do not underestimate sparklers: Sparklers burn at around 2,000 degrees, which is hot enough to melt some metals. They can quickly ignite clothing and children have gotten severe burns from dropping sparklers on their feet. If sparklers are legal where you live, don’t let young children handle, and closely supervise older children.
• Remember that kids imitate adults. Do not operate fireworks irresponsibility in front of children and teach them to understand the dangers.

How will you be celebrating the Fourth of July this year? How do you feel about fireworks? Tell us in the comments.

Protect your home and property with homeowners insurance from AAA. Schedule an appointment to speak with an agent today.

It’s nearly impossible to think about Maine and not have lobster spring to mind. You know, smothered in warm, melted butter with a glass of sparkling wine. Scrumptious.

You can savor lobster in Maine in a variety of ways, though steamed lobster and lobster rolls are among the favorite ways to delight in the sweet and tender meat of this crustacean. You’ll find lobster rolls at restaurants and seafood shacks across Maine, even at McDonald’s during peak summer months.

However, you don’t need to stick to the tried-and-true ways to eat this dreamy delicacy in Maine. You can savor this shellfish as lobster risotto, lobster nachos or lobster grilled cheese. In Bar Harbor, you can even cool off with a scoop of lobster ice cream – what a way to celebrate a hike at nearby Acadia National Park!

So, let’s take a lobster-themed road trip through Maine. Here’s where to stop from south to north to go beyond the usual to get your fix.

Need a ride? Save on Hertz car rentals.

Lobster Risotto

Robert’s Maine Grill, Kittery

For fresh-caught lobster and local craft beers, Robert’s Maine Grill in Kittery Point is the place. They’ve got lobster prepared all kinds of ways, but this is where to stop for mouth-watering lobster risotto with mushrooms, spinach and parmesan that’s finished with a balsamic drizzle. Pair this dish with a state-brewed beer, even a hyper-local ale, like Tributary Pale Ale that’s brewed just 2 miles away at Kittery’s Tributary Brewing Company.

Lobster Benedict

The Chadwick Bed & Breakfast, Portland

It’s easy to start the day off on the right foot when breakfast features eggs benedict with lemon-herb butter, and of course, Maine lobster. It’s not on the menu every morning at The Chadwick Bed & Breakfast in Portland, but it is a guest favorite, so we suspect it’s got a heavy presence in the weekly breakfast rotation.

Lobby Pop

Highroller Lobster Company, Portland

You’ll find lobster prepared a variety of ways at the Highroller Lobster Company in Portland, but one of the hands-down faves is the Lobby Pop. This lobster on a stick is such a fan favorite that the restaurant trademarked the name in 2019. Order yours naked (just warmed lobster in butter) or dipped in corn bread batter and deep fried. They’ve got signature dipping sauces too, like sweet red pepper mayo and lime mayo.  

Lobster Bloody Mary

Taste of Maine, Woolwich

In Woolwich, Taste of Maine is known for lobster, of course, but not just the deliciously edible kind. Travelers and locals alike stop over to snap a photo of the super-size inflatable lobster that sits atop the restaurant. At Taste of Maine, you’ve got almost too many choices when it comes to lobster, but our pick is the lobster bloody Mary that’s garnished with celery, an olive and meat from a massive lobster claw. Notably, Taste of Maine also sells the ”world’s largest lobster roll,” a mouth-watering claim we’d love to independently verify.

Lobster Grilled Cheese

Beal’s Lobster Pier, Southwest Harbor

The lobster grilled cheese is becoming nearly as easy to find across Maine as the ubiquitous lobster roll. For many, Beal’s Lobster Pier in Southwest Harbor is the go-to for this deliciously melted sandwich with cheddar cheese and tomato. The lobster grilled cheese draws in hungry visitors from near and far, all eager to polish off this scrumptious sammie. Need more lobstah choices? On the menu, you’ll also find lobster bisque, lobster bites and lobster mac and cheese, which pair well with a refreshing Maine blueberry mojito.

Lobster Ice Cream

Ben & Bill’s Chocolate Emporium, Bar Harbor

Ice cream and lobster may not sound like the world’s best combination, but when the line at Ben & Bill’s Chocolate Emporium in Bar Harbor snakes out the door, you may give this pairing a second thought. Interestingly, this flavor was created some years ago as a joke, but the flavor was so popular that it earned a permanent spot on the menu. This curious flavor, which blends butter pecan ice cream with buttery lobster, can be ordered in a cup, a cone or a lobster tail.

Lobster Taco

Langosta, Bar Harbor

Everyone loves Taco Tuesdays, but you can get lobster tacos every day of the week at Langosta, a Mexican taqueria and cantina in Bar Harbor. The lobster tacos feature chilled lobster, Mexican corn, lime mayo and a savory cilantro sauce. Even better, each order comes with three lobster tacos. If that’s not enough luscious lobster for you, start off your meal with the lobster queso and chips. Yum-o. There’s also a lobster burrito on the menu. When in Maine, as they say.

Lobster Nachos

Bar Harbor Lobster Pound, Bar Harbor

Bar Harbor Lobster Pound in Bar Harbor is first and foremost a lobster restaurant. They’ve got fresh-caught lobster all over the menu, from lobster rolls to steamed lobster to lobster bisque. Also, lobster nachos, which sounds like a lobster-rific way to start any meal, though many of us are good to go with nachos as the meal. Get ready for warm house-made tortilla chips topped with 6 ounces of lobster, mango salsa and lobster bisque-infused cheese. All we can say is OMG. Delicious.

What’s your favorite place to eat lobster in Maine? Share your recommendations in the comments.

Few events disrupt a road trip – or the average day – as much as a blown tire. And while you can’t always avoid running over a nail, there are ways to keep your tires in optimum condition and ensure you arrive at your destination safely.

Knowing when to replace tires is not something all drivers are aware of, but old or worn tires can be dangerous. In 2021 alone, there were 622 fatalities from tire-related motor vehicle crashes in the U.S., according to the most recent data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

One way to ensure uninterrupted travel and your safety is to examine tires thoroughly and maintain them regularly.

Signs of Tire Damage

In the Northeast, tires usually have a lifespan of about five years.

The pressure monitor system light on your dashboard is a sure sign to take your car to a professional to check for punctures or other issues, but some warnings are not as obvious.

Here are a few more signs that your tires may need repair or replacement.

• Worn tire tread – The tire appears smooth or has very few ridges. Improper alignment, overinflation, underinflation or a damaged suspension can also cause uneven wear, affecting tread in one area more than another. Uneven tire wear or cupping can also take a toll on the steering mechanism.
• Slipping and stopping – Wheel spin when the car accelerates or skids when braking are “obvious signs that a tire’s tread has exceeded its useful life,” said Joseph Klis, co-founder of AAA Approved Auto Repair facility Klis Brothers at North Shore Firestone in East Northport, N.Y.
• Sidewall cracks, bubbles/bulges and breaks – These can be caused if a tire scrapes against a curb or a foreign object.
• Dry rot – This occurs when the tire loses moisture, and the rubber becomes dry and brittle. This is due to UV exposure, hash chemicals, high temperatures and age. 

Find a AAA Approved Auto Shop near you.

Tread Lightly

Many drivers wonder at what tread depth to replace tires. Tires are measured in 32nds of an inch with new tires having about 11/32nds. Although tires are considered worn out at 2/32nds, AAA recommends replacement at 4/32nds of tread life.

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Watch the the video above to learn how to easily measure your tread depth with a quarter.

“The reason is stopping distance in wet weather,” according to John Paul, senior manager of traffic safety for AAA Northeast. “A tire with 4/32nds of tread stops from 60 mph in up to 60 feet shorter distance, the length of a tractor trailer, than a tire with 2/32nds.”

Key Tire Maintenance

Knowing how often to change your tires depends on how well you care for them.

Some of the biggest tire care mistakes are not regularly rotating tires, skipping routine alignments and incorrect tire pressure. In addition to regularly checking your tread, you should also be keeping up on these maintenance tasks.

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Tire Pressure

Drivers should inspect tires once a month to ensure they are properly inflated to the recommended pounds per square inch. You can find this information on the driver’s door placard. Always check tire pressure with a gauge when the tires are cool. 

You should also keep a closer eye on your tires in cold weather and check them at least twice a month. When the temperature decreases by 10 degrees, a car’s tires can lose between 1½ and 1 pound of air pressure. 

Fully inflated tires improve gas mileage, make driving safer and help tires last longer.

Tire Rotation

The main purpose of rotating tires is to ensure that the best tire treads are on the front of the car. It ensures proper handling, performance and tire wear. It is critical for the vehicle owner’s safety. Refer to the vehicle’s owner’s manual for mileage recommendations. Typically tire rotation is performed between 5,000 and 7,000 miles but it can vary based on the vehicle and types of tires. 

Tire Alignment

Wheel or tire alignment is critical to a car’s suspension and helps to maintain tires. Alignment refers to angling the tires onto the car to maximize contact with the road. When the wheels are not in alignment, they wear unevenly, and the car can pull to one side. The alignment should be checked generally every year or 12,000 miles or at the first signs of tire wear or uneven handling. 

“Alignments can only be set on a balanced tire,” notes Klis. “A tire with uneven wear will continue to wear on that poor pattern even with an alignment and would not be well-spent money.”

When to Repair and When to Replace Tires

Even if a tire isn’t flat, any damage is reason to consult a tire care expert for a more thorough inspection.

“Tires should only be repaired within the tread area, never on the outside edge or sidewall,” according to Paul. “Punctures larger than one-quarter inch should not be repaired but the tire should be replaced instead.”

Rather than just plugging a hole, a mechanic should remove the tire from the rim, inspect it for damage and then repair it with a combination of a plug and a patch.

“Generally, once the tire is repaired properly it is safe for use,” Paul said. “At the same time the tire should be rebalanced, and the tire pressure monitoring system-wheel sensor should be inspected.” 

Not all tires can be repaired, Paul added. “Specific repair limits should be based on recommendations or repair policy of the tire manufacturer and/or type of tire service,” Paul explained. “And never repair a tire that has an existing, improper repair. The tire must be replaced.”

You may be wondering if AAA replaces tires during roadside assistance calls. AAA can install your spare tire if you have one. A technician can also inflate your tire if needed. If your tire needs more extensive repair or replacement, AAA will tow your vehicle to the nearest approved repair facility.

Don’t Forget Your Spare

If your vehicle is equipped with a spare tire, don’t forget to have the air pressure checked regularly. If your spare is mounted under the car, it is also a good idea to periodically service the mechanism that lowers and secures the tire. Learn more about how to care for your spare.

How do you care for your tires? Tell us in the comments.

There’s lots more to Connecticut than picturesque fall foliage and charming small towns (although we do love it for that, too.) The Constitution State has so much to offer to both out-of-state visitors and locals alike – and all within a budget, too.

These are our top 20 things to do in Connecticut for $20 or less.

Need a ride? Rent a car.

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Harkness Memorial State Park – Price Varies

This park’s 237 acres of pristinely maintained gardens, beaches and historical buildings can be enjoyed all year round. Walk the stunning grounds, have a picnic, tour the Roman Renaissance Revival-style mansion or simply take in the panoramic views of Long Island Sound. Free for in-state registered vehicles. $15 for out-of-state on weekends and $10 on weekdays.

Avery’s Beverages – $13.50

Just like its founder 100 years ago, Avery’s is still handcrafting and bottling small-batch craft soda in the trademark red barn on Corbin Avenue. Try one of its classic flavors like cola and ginger ale or test your bravery with a “Totally Gross” flavor like Toxic Slime. You can even make your own flavor on a visit to the mixing room. If you’re looking for a fun, cheap thing to do in Connecticut, this is it.

B.F. Clyde’s Cider Mill – Free

Every Sept. 1, B.F. Clyde’s Cider Mill opens just in time for the fall season. Good thing, too – it’s the perfect autumn activity to experience. As the last remaining steam-powered cider mill in the country, you can watch an apple pressing demonstration while you eat an apple cider doughnut and sip on either iced or hot apple cider. Is there anything more fall coded?

The Book Barn – Free

The tagline for The Book Barn says it all: “A bibliophile’s bliss.” We’d have to agree, seeing as you can browse more than 500,000 books between their three locations. If it’s your first time, we recommend visiting the Main Barn as your introduction. From the multiple buildings with books stacked to the ceiling to farm animals, roaming cats, water features and more, there’s enough to keep any book lover happy to stay for a lifetime.

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Buttonwood Farm Sunflowers – $3 donation

The Sunflowers for Wishes event held at Buttonwood Farm is an annual tradition with lots of heart. Every year, 14 acres of sunflowers are planted for guests to pick for a $3 donation – 100% of which goes to the Make A Wish Foundation of Connecticut, which grants wishes to children with critical illnesses.

Coventry Farmer’s Market – Free

Beginning at the start of June, the Coventry Farmer’s Market sets up shop each week on the grounds of the Nathan Hale Homestead and offers an enormous array of locally grown, locally produced and locally made goods. Every week has a different theme – like Strawberry Fest, Farm-to-Table, Dog Day, Sweet Treats and many more.

Cruise to Thimble Islands – $18

The Thimble Islands weren’t named so for their small size, but it’s fitting, anyway. An archipelago of 365 tiny islands in Stony Creek Harbor, the Thimble Islands are both beloved for their beauty and seclusion and revered for their folklore – namely, the claim that the infamous Captain Kidd buried his treasure there. Take a 45-minute cruise around the Thimbles to see them all up close.   

Dinosaur State Park – $6

See where dinosaurs literally walked 200 million years ago. As one of the biggest sites for dinosaur tracks in North America, Dinosaur State Park acts as life-size diorama of the Jurassic age and offers an up-close look at footprints, fossils, interactive exhibits and over 2 miles of trails for hiking and exploring.

Gillette Castle State Park – $6

A castle in Connecticut? Yes, really! Built in 1919, Gillette Castle was the home of William Gillette, an actor best known for his portrayal of Sherlock Holmes. Today, you can take a guided tour of the castle’s unconventional interior, walk the beautiful grounds and check out the quarter-scale railroad that circles the 122-acre property.

Liuzzi Gourmet Food Market

Liuzzi Gourmet Food Market is a fifth-generation family-owned marketplace, better known as an Italian wonderland. Besides all the delicious sights and smells, visitors can enjoy browsing the high-quality products, including cheese, meats, grocery items and – perhaps best of all – the bakery where fresh focaccia comes steaming out of the oven.

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Lobster Landing

As a Connecticut staple, Lobster Landing is beloved for a reason. Enjoy a variety of delicious fresh seafood set against the most charming, no-frills seaside hut as a backdrop (complete with an askew “o” in “Lobster.”) Admittedly, the lobster rolls are more than $20, but the rest of the menu stays under budget, from a $4 hot dog to lobster bisque for $9 and change.

Norwalk Oyster Festival – $15

The 46^th annual Norwalk Oyster Festival is happening Sept. 6 to 8 at Veterans Memorial Park. The event is sure to be a hit with carnival rides, an arts and crafts sale and plenty of food offerings for every taste. That’s right, you don’t have to be an oyster fiend to attend; the International Food Court serves up a variety of cuisine that includes Mexican, Columbian and Italian.

Olde Mistick Village – Free

A perfect activity for families (including the furry members) is a stroll around Olde Mistick Village. It’s one of the best free things to do in Connecticut. Chock full of quaint shops and restaurants, the village offers plenty to do from exploring a “haunted” book shop, to trying some homemade fudge or even picking your wizard house.

Pratt Street Salsa Socials – Free

It’s time to get your salsa on! Happening once a month through September, the Pratt Street Salsa Socials are events where everyone gets in on the fun. The music will be playing – you just have to start dancing!

Saville Dam – Free

Looking straight out of a storybook, Saville Dam sits at the top of the Barkhamsted Reservoir and is surrounded by picturesque tree-dotted hills. The castle-like structure is a great place to take in the views, have a photo op or hike the 22-mile scenic trail loop that encircles the sparkling reservoir.

Talcott Mountain State Park – Free

Hikers will enjoy the moderately difficult climb to the summit of Talcott Mountain where they’ll be greeted by the impressive Heublein Tower. From the top, 360-degree views include Mount Monadnock, the Berkshires and even Long Island Sound.

Terrain

As a cafe and garden shop, Terrain is a plant-lover’s paradise. Wander through the incredibly curated space that inevitably distorts the line between indoor and outdoor. Cafe fare boasts seasonally inspired dishes, coffee and tea, sweet treats and more.

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Try the famous local pizza – Price Varies

A visit to Connecticut simply wouldn’t be complete without sampling some New Haven-style ‘za. Famous for its extremely thin crust and coal-fire bake, you can’t go wrong. Make a trip out to Wooster Street to try both Sally’s Apizza and Frank Pepe’s where small pizzas go for about $18 on average.

Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art – $20

Prepare to be wowed by the almost 50,000 works of art here at the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art. As the oldest operating public art museum in the country, the museum houses many collections from Greek and Roman antiquities to African American arts and textiles. Works are distributed among five connected buildings, so we recommend reserving a good chunk of time to see it all.

Yale Peabody Museum – Free

After four years of major renovations, Yale’s natural history museum is back and open to the public once again. Enjoy exhibits all about our world’s past and present, including the halls of dinosaurs, minerals, earth and space.

Find more things to do in the Northeast for under $20.

What are some of your favorite activities in Connecticut under $20? What did we miss? Tell us in the comments!

It’s easy to see why summer is the most popular season for driving. There’s nothing like sitting next to an open car window and letting a mild breeze slip through your hair on the way to your destination. But before the many summer car rides you’re sure to enjoy this year, it’s important to take care of your vehicle and keep safety top of mind. AAA has you covered on both fronts with these summer driving safety tips.

Beware of Extreme Heat

As temperatures increase, it’s paramount to ensure children and pets are not left in locked cars. On a typical 80-degree summer day, the interior temperature of a vehicle increases by 20 degrees in only 10 minutes and can reach a deadly 109 degrees in 20 minutes. On hotter days, the interior temperature can easily reach 120-140 degrees, and cracking the windows has little effect.

To prevent hot car deaths, AAA Northeast recommends caregivers practice the following: 

• Never leave children or pets in the car unattended. Even if the outside temperature is 60 degrees, temperatures inside a vehicle can reach 110 degrees, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
• Stop and look at the backseat before exiting a parked vehicle. Make it a habit to check the entire vehicle before locking the doors and walking away. Place personal items, like a purse or briefcase, in the back seat as another reminder to look before you lock. Ask child care providers to immediately call if your child doesn’t show up for care as expected.
• Lock your vehicle to prevent unsupervised access and a child getting trapped inside. Keep car keys away from children and teach them that the inside of a car should never be used as a play area. 
• Act fast, call 911 and take action if you see a child alone in a locked car. A child in distress should be removed as quickly as possible. 

Learn more about dealing with extreme heat.

Get Your Car Ready

Dead batteries, lockouts and flat tires are a few common reasons for breakdowns. Safe and carefree summer driving starts with preventative car care and maintenance.

• Have your vehicle’s air conditioning system checked before the start of the season.
• Batteries have a typical lifespan of about three to five years. Drivers should have their batteries tested at the three-year mark, and on an annual basis going forward. AAA provides members with free battery testing.

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• Keeping your tires in good shape is important because they’re the only parts of your car that touch the road. Drivers should check each tire’s tread depth, inflation and overall condition at the start of every season. “Look for cracking, bulging or breaks,” said AAA Car Doctor, John Paul. Such damage can cause blowouts when vehicles are traveling on hot pavement at highway speeds. Tires should be inflated to manufacturer specifications (found on the driver’s doorjamb) and treads should be at least 4/32-inch deep.
• Scorching summer temperatures put serious stress on engines. “Make sure the cooling system is ready by having it flushed on a regular basis and using manufacturer-recommended coolant,” said Robert Sinclair, senior manager of public affairs for AAA Northeast. Coolant, also known as antifreeze, has anti-corrosion chemicals to prevent rust buildup inside the engine. Getting rid of old coolant, flushing the engine with fresh water and filling it the proper mixture of the coolant formula and water, along with checking hoses and belts, will help a vehicle stand the test of hot summer driving. Remember to never remove the cap from a hot radiator.
• Drivers (or their favorite reputable maintenance shop) should also check their vehicles’ transmission, power steering and windshield wiper fluids, and make sure all brake lights, headlights, turn signals, emergency flashers and interior lights are working.
• See and breathe easier with new filters and blades. Summer is the perfect time to replace consumable items like air filters and wiper blades. A new engine air filter will ensure your car runs as efficiently as possible. A new cabin air filter will prevent unpleasant, musty odors and help you and your passengers breathe easier. Wiper blades should be replaced at the first signs of wear, such as streaking or chattering and groaning noises.
• Getting locked out of your car is never fun, though it’s especially troublesome when all you want to do is escape the heat. Lockouts persist despite advances in key technology. Motorists should take special care of smart keys and keyless entry fobs. Always take these with you when exiting the car, avoid exposing them to water and replace batteries as recommended by vehicle manufacturers. If you do get locked out, AAA Roadside Assistance is available 24/7 to help.

Get Yourself Ready

Summer presents plenty of traffic safety concerns that, if ignored, can turn a dream ride into a nightmare.

• The period between Memorial Day and Labor Day is known as the 100 Deadliest Days because it is historically when the country sees an increase of fatal crashes among teenagers. AAA recommends that now is a good time for parents to both model safe driving behaviors and help ensure their teens practice them, too.
• Whether traveling 5 or 500 miles, every driver should carry an emergency kit with important items like a mobile phone charger, a flashlight with extra batteries, a first aid kit, drinking water, extra snacks and food, booster cables, emergency flares or reflectors, windshield wiper fluid and a basic toolkit with a tire pressure gauge and adjustable wrench.
• Sun glare can be a serious hazard. Try wearing sunglasses with polarized lenses while driving to keep your view as clear as possible. You’ll also benefit from keeping your windshield clean. Dirt and streaks are especially pronounced under strong light.
• Flip-flops are fine for the beach, but they’re not the best footwear for driving. The straps and flimsy soles can easily get caught under the pedals.
• Tying a surfboard, cooler or a week’s worth of camping supplies to your vehicle’s roof rack? Make sure you review its weight limit first, and check your route for any height restrictions.
• Avoid distractions. For parents, that can be children in the backseat. For any driver, it can be the temptation to use a cellphone behind the wheel. If you have to make a call or send a text, find a safe place to pull over.
• Turn on your headlights during twilight hours to make it easier for other drivers to see you.
• Avoid eating behind the wheel. Enjoy snacks at rest areas or stop at restaurants for meals.
• Don’t leave food or drinks inside your car on a hot day, especially canned beverages, which can explode under high temperatures. The same goes for hairspray or canned deodorant.
• When packing, distribute weight evenly in and atop your vehicle. Don’t pack items in any spot that obstructs your view, or your mirrors.

Prepare for Road Trips

Summer means road trips. And while you might want to make the best time possible, getting to your destination quickly is never worth jeopardizing safety. Crash risks for sleep-deprived drivers increase steadily compared to those who get seven or more hours of sleep. Missing just two to three hours of sleep in a 24-hour period can quadruple a driver’s crash risk, and drivers who have slept fewer than five hours have crash risks comparable to drunken drivers.

Here are some summer driving safety tips to stay alert and safe behind the wheel.

• If you find yourself starting to get drowsy while driving, find a safe place to pull over and rest. Symptoms include having trouble keeping your eyes open, drifting between lanes, not being able to remember the last few miles, yawning, missing exits or street signs and feeling irritable or restless.
• On longer drives, stop every couple of hours for a break.
• Don’t underestimate the impact of driving at night, when your body is accustomed to rest.
• Avoid eating heavy foods.
• Travel with alert passengers and take turns driving. When it’s not your turn, sit in the back seat. Riding in the front seat can lead to passive driving, inhibiting your ability to get valuable rest.
• Know your route. Today, most drivers rely on GPS to provide directions and traffic information. Like any technology, however, you should be prepared in case your device loses its signal or malfunctions. Researching your route before you leave and carrying a physical road map are two critically important summer driving tips.

EVs Need Attention, Too

If you drive an EV, there are also a few summer driving tips to remember.

• Hot weather could decrease range, so map out a charging plan ahead of long road trips.
• Although EVs don’t overheat the same way other vehicles can, the battery thermal management system can fail, causing the high-voltage battery to overheat. Keep an eye on warning gauges and if your EV has a battery cooling system, ensure that it is serviced on a regular schedule.

Share the Road

You’re not the only one enjoying the road this summer. Cyclists and motorcycle riders will be out and about, as will children on summer break. Stay alert to keep everyone around you safe.

• Cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motorists. That includes riding in traffic lanes.
• Watch for kids near obvious places, like playgrounds, but also keep an eye out for kids flocking to ice cream trucks or chasing stray balls.
• When you’re driving next to a motorcycle, it helps to envision the body of a vehicle around. That will help you maintain a safe traveling distance.

What other summer driving tips did we leave out? How do you stay safe on the road? Tell us in the comments below.

Learn more about AAA automotive services. 

AAA projects 70.9 million travelers will head 50 miles or more from home during the Independence Day holiday travel period from June 29 to July 7. For the first time, AAA looked at the entire July 4th week, plus the Saturday before and the Sunday after the holiday. This year’s projected number of travelers for that time period represents a 5% increase compared to 2023 and an 8% increase over 2019.

“Summer vacations are in full swing, and with the flexibility of remote work, more Americans are taking extended trips around Independence Day,” said Mark Schieldrop, Senior Spokesperson. “We anticipate this July 4th week will be the busiest ever with an additional 5.7 million people traveling compared to 2019.”

Modes of Travel

AAA projects a record 60.6 million people will travel by car over Independence Day week – an additional 2.8 million travelers compared to last year. This year’s number surpasses 2019 when 55.3 million people traveled by car. AAA’s car rental partner Hertz said the busiest pickup days are projected to be Friday and Saturday, June 28 and 29, and Wednesday, July 3.

The number of air travelers is also expected to set a new record. AAA projects 5.74 million people will fly to their July 4th destinations. That’s an increase of nearly 7% compared to last year and a 12% increase over 2019. With airports expected to be packed throughout the week, AAA recommends arriving two hours before your flight, reserving parking ahead of time and traveling with carry-on luggage rather than checked bags to save time and money.

More than 4.6 million people are expected to travel by other modes of transportation, including buses, cruise ships and trains. This category is seeing an increase of 9% compared to last year, but this year’s number is shy of 2019’s figure of 4.79 million.

When to Go

The worst times to travel by car on the days leading up to and including July 4th are between 2 and 7 p.m., according to transportation data and insights provider INRIX.

“Drivers in large metro areas can expect the worst traffic delays on Wednesday, July 3rd, as they leave town, and Sunday, July 7th, as they return,” said Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at INRIX. “Road trips over the holiday week could take up to 67% longer than normal. Travelers should monitor 511 services, local news stations, and traffic apps for up-to-the-minute road conditions.” 

Best and Worst Times to Travel by Car
Date	Worst Travel Time	Best Travel Time
Monday, July 1	Minimal traffic expected	N/A
Tuesday, July 2	2 – 6 p.m.	After 7 p.m.
Wednesday, July 3	2 – 7 p.m.	Before noon
Thursday, July 4	2 – 7 p.m.	Before noon
Friday, July 5	11 a.m. – 4 p.m.	Before 10 a.m.
Saturday, July 6	10:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.	Before 10 a.m.
Sunday, July 7	2 – 8 p.m.	Before 11 a.m.
Monday, July 8	1 – 5 p.m.	After 7 p.m.

Plan your summer vacation and more with the help of a knowledgeable AAA travel advisor.

How are you celebrating the 4th of July? Will you be traveling anywhere special? Let us know in the comments below.

Summer is officially here! Let’s make the most of it.

From ways to cool down and relax to classic summer games and outings, our summer bucket list has all the essentials for enjoying the lazy, hot and and fun-filled days ahead.

Watch a Sunrise/Sunset or Stargaze

Summer is the perfect time to take a minute and enjoy a natural wonder. Starting your day with a sunrise or ending it with a sunset can help you enjoy a moment of calming beauty. Stargazing can be fun any night of the year, but the clear nights of the warmer months just can’t be beat.

It’s on our summer bucket list to see a shooting star, and the Delta Aquariid meteor shower in late July and Perseids in mid August are two promising opportunities.

Go to the Beach

Days spent by the shore define summer in the Northeast. Search our beach guide and find your place on the sand.

Visit a Local Farm

Support your local growers by picking up the freshest fruits and veggies of the season at your nearest farmers market or pick-your-own. There’s nothing like freshly picked berries, peaches and tomatoes, straight from the farm to your hand.

Some of our favorite u-pick spots include Four Town Farm and Ward’s Berry Farm in Massachusetts, and Lewin Farms on Long Island. Check the availability and hours of the farm you’d like to visit ahead of time and find out whether you need to make a reservation.

Read a New Book

Settle into your beach chair and get lost in a good book. Make a summer reading list of the year’s must-reads. Barnes & Noble has a summer reading list for all ages to get you started. If you’re feeling ambitious, try a book that could lead to a new skill like playing an instrument, making a different cuisine or crafting.

Play Outside

Head to your yard, the beach or a nearby park and play a game with family or friends. It might be hard to draw yourself away from the cool confines of your air conditioned space, but the sunshine will do you good! Just remember to stay hydrated and reapply your sunscreen.

Toss around a Frisbee or ball, or set up a net for games like volleyball or badminton. Cornhole, horseshoes, croquet and Spikeball are crowd-pleasers. And kids can entertain themselves for hours in the driveway with simple sidewalk chalk, drawing and creating games like hopscotch, four square and outdoor Twister.

Plant a Garden

Although the spring and fall are prime seasons for planting, certain flowers, fruits, veggies and herbs can be planted in early summer too. See our seasonal flower chart and check your local nursery to see what’s available. Due to the heat, be sure to monitor and water your plants often.

Plan a Picnic

Picnicking is a classic summer bucket list item. Check out our backyard picnic post for recipes and inspiration.

See Something Amazing

Watch a baseball game, see your favorite performer in concert, marvel at the artwork of a master at a museum or experience the twists and turns of a roller coaster at your favorite amusement park.

No matter what event or attraction you go to this summer, you can get exclusive tickets and savings of up to 40% with AAA Tickets.

Mix a Summertime Drink

You have to stay hydrated when the weather gets hot. Squeeze lemons to make fresh lemonade, brew your own iced tea or mix the two to make Arnold Palmer. For the adults, drinks like margaritas and sangria are always a poolside hit.

Make S’mores

What dessert embodies summer more than a s’more? Make this classic summertime treat and try new flavor combinations by using different kinds of chocolate, adding peanut butter, Nutella or fruit or subbing out the graham crackers for cookies or brownie brittle. If you can’t roast over a real fire, you can use a grill or your oven, but be careful.

Have a Movie Night

Pop some popcorn, pour your favorite beverage and settle down for a movie. Re-watch a classic film or personal favorite, rent a newer movie or start marathoning a series, director, genre or other theme. Stay inside where it’s cooler or view a film under the stars with a projector in your yard.

Go on a Walk, Hike or Bike Ride

Enjoy the nice weather and get some exercise. The Northeast is home to a bunch of great biking, hiking and walking trails. If you haven’t biked or hiked in a while – or ever – take it slow, stay safe and hydrate.

For more ways to get fit while spending time outside, check out these outdoor workout ideas.

Go Camping

From backpacking to taking an RV, camping offers an escape from daily life and helps you feel closer to nature. If sleeping outside doesn’t sound like your cup of tea, consider glamping.

Camping out in your backyard with your kids can be a lot of fun, too. Avoid electronics to make the experience feel more authentic!

Enjoy a Frozen Treat

Whether it’s ice cream, frozen yogurt, gelato or Italian ice, nothing satisfies like a cold treat on a hot day. You can even try making your favorite frozen treats at home and customize them to your liking.

Create a Summer Playlist

You may want to enjoy some background music while you’re cleaning around the house, playing outside, gardening or going on a road trip. Whether you like oldies, past summer hits or songs with “summer” in the title, think about what summer means to you and make the perfect playlist.

Cool Down With Water Fun

If taking a dip in a lake, pool or ocean isn’t an option for you, there are still plenty of ways to cool off during a hot summer day. Turn on the sprinklers, fill up some water balloons or water guns and get ready for a water battle!

Clean Your Home

Though warmer weather may not be ideal for cleaning out an attic, cooler spaces like the basement, garage and any air-conditioned rooms in your home are perfect for summertime cleaning and organizing.

While you’re going through your stuff, consider selling the things you want to get rid of to make a little extra cash.

Get started on summer fun by perusing our curated shopping list below.

What’s on your summer bucket list this year? Tell us in the comments below. 

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

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IN THIS EPISODE

Ever feel lost in a maze of insurance jargon? Relax, we’ve got you covered!

AAA insurance specialists Emily Buckley and Brad Ferris are here to talk about insurance basics. From unraveling the mysteries of umbrella insurance to nailing down how much life coverage you actually need, let the pros guide you with this insurance 101 crash course.

Plus, the inside scoop on getting the best renewal rates, vehicles that are a breeze to insure and surprising truths about renters insurance for first-time renters that could save you big.

When it comes to protecting your world, knowledge is power. Listen now for information you can use!

To learn more about your coverage options with AAA, head to AAA.com/Insurance.

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KEY TAKEAWAYS

[2:41] – What is umbrella insurance and why might you need it?
[6:47] – Breaking down renters insurance for beginners.
[11:20] – What are the different types of insurance? We discuss life insurance, annuities, and common insurance myths.
[16:55] – Can you claim it? We explore why is homeowners insurance important by covering different real-world scenarios.

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TRANSCRIPT

[00:00:02]
Amanda Greene: So, my husband and I were chatting while we were cleaning up dinner the other night, and I took my rings off to wash some pots and pans that couldn’t go in the dishwasher. After I was done, I went to go put my rings back on, and I dropped my engagement ring in the sink as the water was going down the drain. My heart stopped, but thankfully I was able to grab the ring before it swirled down. It did make me wonder though, am I even covered if my ring gets lost? I think so, but not with really any confidence. That’s the thing with insurance. I have some, but I think it is time I dig a little deeper.

Welcome to Merging Into Life, where we navigate life’s milestones one episode at a time, brought to you by AAA Northeast. I’m your host, Amanda Greene. Today, we’re talking about all things insurance, umbrella, life, car, annuity. I didn’t even really know what that was until today, but I promise you this won’t be a lecture on what you should have done, or a huge downer imagining all the things that can go wrong, because this is something that can bring peace of mind when you do it right.

Now, before we dive in, we want to mention that though our guests in this episode are offering us some great expert insight, conditions vary from state to state and person to person. You should always remember to check how this advice applies to your situation with your insurance carrier.

With that being said, today, I have two guests who, when it comes to insurance, they’ve got you covered. They’re going to guide us through what we need, how to approach it, and what insurance really brings you, because it’s all about building a safety net for you and the people you love. First, I’d like you to meet Emily Buckley.

READ MORE

[00:01:50]
Emily Buckley: I am an assistant sales manager here at AAA Northeast.

[00:01:54]
Amanda Greene: So what kind of insurance do you deal with?

[00:01:56]
Emily Buckley: Car, home, umbrella, boat. Basically anything you can operate or live in, we can insure it.

[00:02:02]
Amanda Greene: So, at what point in our lives should we consider thinking about these kinds of insurance?

[00:02:08]
Emily Buckley: I like to say whenever you have something like your first car that’s strictly in your name where you are financially responsible for it, that would be I would say arguably the first time you should think about it. And then anytime you buy a home, anytime you have something that could potentially put you at risk to get sued for all your worth, is really the time to start thinking about that sort of thing.

[00:02:28]
Amanda Greene: Wow. So when do we start to amass financial value of any sort?

[00:02:32]
Emily Buckley: The thing with insurance is we buy it so that we don’t have to use it. So it’s protection in case the worst-case scenario happens.

[00:02:39]
Amanda Greene: Earlier you mentioned a few different types of insurance.

[00:02:43]
Emily Buckley: So, an umbrella, if you want to use your hands as an example, you have your auto in one hand, you have your home in your other hand, and then the umbrella will cover both of them. Just like with rain, umbrella insurance will cover everything. In case anybody tries to sue you for all your worth, it is in denominations of a million, usually the minimum is a million. And you will have that extend over a really bad car accident, somebody gets very badly injured, or if you have somebody who trips and falls on your property. I mean, there’s a plethora of reasons why people would want an umbrella policy, so yes, umbrella insurance is worth it.

[00:03:13]
Amanda Greene: Is that something that would cover you if you were injured and out of work?

[00:03:18]
Emily Buckley: No. Umbrellas are really strictly third-party liability. When we say third-party, I know it sounds scary, but all it means is other people. So it means not you personally or people.

[00:03:27]
Amanda Greene: Someone else?

[00:03:28]
Emily Buckley: Exactly.

[00:03:29]
Amanda Greene: That feels like an ultimate protection.

[00:03:32]
Emily Buckley: Oh, for sure. I know more often than not, people say if you’re a homeowner, you want to have an umbrella, but I think that anybody who owns a car should have an umbrella policy, anybody who wants to make sure that their livelihood is protected.

[00:03:44]
Amanda Greene: What sort of things do we need to think about before we meet with an agent?

[00:03:47]
Emily Buckley: First, think about net worth. If you were to have a situation where you had to forego everything  – your home, your cars, everything like that  – what is the dollar value? And that’s really what you should be insuring for liability-wise. That’s why umbrellas are more often important.

I live in New York. New York is expensive. And I live on Long Island, and it’s one of the more expensive places to live. And the average cost of a home out here is definitely north of $500,000. So, if your underlying policy’s only insuring you for that much, you want to make sure that you have that excess liability policy to protect above and beyond that. So insuring your value, that’s one of the first things you want to think about.

AAA Insurance Guide

[00:04:26]
Amanda Greene: So, that would fall under umbrella. What about auto policies?

[00:04:31]
Emily Buckley: You want to think about deductible-wise, if you get into an accident and your car gets damaged, how much do you want to pay out if something were to happen, or do you even deem this vehicle worth it to cover it for physical damage? Oftentimes, because people will say to me all the time when I’m quoting them or what have you, I’ll say, “What deductibles do you currently carry?” And they’ll say, “Oh, I don’t know. Give me what you think.” And I’m like, “Well, it’s a personal question, are you willing to pay $500? Are you willing to pay $1, 000? Do you want to self-insure a little bit more and have maybe even a $2,500 deductible?” It’s your call financially. You know at the end of the day what you can afford.

[00:05:08]
Amanda Greene: I like to take out a little bit more so that I pay less out of pocket when something, God forbid, happens.

[00:05:15]
Emily Buckley: Same here. I don’t want to have that financial burden on me, because everybody has an emergency fund, I would hope, but you don’t want to be in a position where you find out, “Oh my gosh, my emergency fund was not sufficient, and now I’m at a position that I have to save up for this loss.” I mean, this is why we purchased the insurance, so that we don’t have these oh-my-gosh moments of “I’m not covered” or “I don’t have enough coverage.”

[00:05:39]
Amanda Greene: There are so many options when it comes to choosing an insurance company. What should someone even look for when choosing an insurance carrier?

[00:05:46]
Emily Buckley: I would say that one of the main things you should look at when you’re looking to move forward with an insurance company is their financial responsibility. If something really awful were to happen, another Hurricane Sandy happens, another massive hurricane, tsunami, anything along those lines occurs, will that insurance company be solvent enough to pay out all the claims and still be above water? And the best way to do that is AM Best, it’s one of those unbiased rating companies that will determine their customer service value, their financial responsibility, their money in the bank and so on and so forth. You want to look for a company that’s usually, I would say, A-rated or higher.

[00:06:22]
Amanda Greene: What are some common things that you see people get wrong, or maybe they misunderstand when it comes to insurance?

[00:06:29]
Emily Buckley: There’s something called loss of use, technically coverage D. Loss of use covers you if, let’s say, we’ll use renters for this example, something occurs in the apartment building and you’re not able to live there and it’s a covered loss. So, there was a fire, something along those lines. They’ll give you money to go live somewhere else. Think about any situation where you move to a new location and you don’t have family and friends to fall back on. And if a fire happens in your building, where do you go? You have to all of a sudden now pay for a hotel in an area that you’re not familiar with. So, loss of use is huge, in my opinion.

[00:07:05]
Amanda Greene: And that is not something that just comes with renters insurance. That’s its own separate policy?

[00:07:10]
Emily Buckley: It comes with the renters insurance, but oftentimes people will allow for a minimum on that, because they don’t see the value in it. They see they are only getting minimum coverage on the content, let’s say $20,000, and think “I’m only going to need $4,000 for loss of use.” $4,000 is going to cover you for how long? Especially in New York City, Boston, not a lot.

[00:07:30]
Amanda Greene: The way you’re talking, I’m surprised people really even understand the policies to begin with. Actually, I lived on Long Island in New York for college, and I took out renters insurance. I couldn’t tell you what I took out, I just knew it was something I was supposed to do, so I did it. I was like, “Check it off the list.”

[00:07:46]
Emily Buckley: Oh, yeah.

[00:07:46]
Amanda Greene: … I did the renter’s insurance. Not sure what it’s going to do for me, but I bought it.”

[00:07:50]
Emily Buckley: Yep. Or the landlord requires it, or your college or whoever you’re renting from, they might say, “Oh, you need to have this.” And you’re just thinking, “This is compulsory because the landlord needs it, not because I should have it.” Right?

[00:08:02]
Amanda Greene: Right.

[00:08:02]
Emily Buckley: That’s a common misconception for sure.

[00:08:07]
Amanda Greene: How about this: Does the kind of car you drive affect your auto insurance premiums?

[00:08:12]
Emily Buckley: 100%, because at the end of the day, insurance is statistical. They don’t just look at a person, an individual, a situation and say, “Hey, we’re going to charge them that because we feel like it.” There’s a reason.

[00:08:22]
Amanda Greene: According to Emily, insurance companies set rates based on a bunch of factors. And that can include things like who’s covered, how long they’ve been driving in their driving record, the cost of repairs for your car and the type of coverage you’re looking to get.

[00:08:36]
Emily Buckley: You want to make sure that every time you shop around, you’re putting yourself in the best position to shop around. Pay your bills on time so your credit is good, make sure that you stay with the insurance companies at least three to five years so that you look like a loyal client.

[00:08:49]
Amanda Greene: I feel like I’ve seen insurance companies offer a deal if I switch before my renewal. Is that a thing, if I shop in advance?

[00:08:57]
Emily Buckley: Often insurance companies, they’ll give you something called an early shopping discount, usually about seven to eight days in advance of your renewal. It depends on the insurance company, but it’s a good thing to know about, because you don’t want to wait and think, “Oh, I’m just doing this because it’s on my to-do list, my renewal’s tomorrow.” No, give yourself a little bit of time so that they can, one, do their due diligence when it comes to shopping around, but also make sure that you are getting the right discounts, credits, everything like that on that insurance policy.

[00:09:21]
Amanda Greene: Good info. I once again have more homework to do, every conversation I have here on this podcast.

[00:09:27]
Emily Buckley: But hey, hopefully you get cheaper insurance rates next time.

[00:09:30]
Amanda Greene: Well, I hope so. It would be nice to know my things are taken care of, but what about insuring me?

[00:09:36]
Brad Ferris: So, there is this misconception that everyone has in their own little way, where life insurance is more like death insurance. So I think people tend to look at it in that negative light, which is also part of why people don’t want to talk about it in general. But it’s not death insurance, it truthfully is life insurance.

[00:09:55]
Amanda Greene: That’s Brad Ferris. He’s a life insurance and annuity agent with AAA Northeast. Okay. So Brad, you are an expert in a subject that I know nothing to very little about. And it feels like a very serious topic and an important topic to get right. So I would love to start off with what is life insurance, and what are the most common types?

[00:10:19]
Brad Ferris: There are two types of life insurance that people generally tend to go towards. There’s what’s referred to as term insurance, and then there’s permanent. Term insurance is, as the name says, is for a term, a period of time. This is really common. People will use this to cover, say the balance on their mortgages, if they have loans of some kind, if they have children that they want to put through school – those bigger face-value obligations. People can take care of those because they’re time-bound. So, if you have a mortgage that will be paid off in, say 20 years, you could have a 20-year policy for the value of your mortgage that protects it, provided obviously nothing happens to you.

And then there’s what is referred to as permanent insurance, which is a policy that is meant to last somewhat indefinitely. If you live to be 120, regardless of what age you started the policy at, it’s going to pay out. It’s also a little different from term because it’s not strictly a death benefit kind of a thing, where in the event that someone passes, it pays out. It also has a similar to a savings-account aspect to it as well. So, while it does function as insurance – that in the event someone passes, it pays out – on a tax-free basis, it aggregates cash value that accumulates over time, which you can then use pretty much at your discretion. It’s similar to an unstructured loan as opposed to say, going to the bank where you need to apply for it, they run your credit score, things like that. If you’ve amassed these funds over time, you can use them at your discretion.

[00:11:47]
Amanda Greene: So, a term life insurance is like a safety net to make sure that if something happened to the spouse, that they would be able to continue paying their mortgage, continue paying tuition and bills and keep their life maybe a little more comfortable. But the other, the permanent life insurance, is not that necessarily?

[00:12:05]
Brad Ferris: Absolutely. And safety net, I think is definitely the right phrase to use. This kind of a thing in the industry where it’s almost referred to as death insurance instead of life insurance, is because in that specific instance, yes, it is exactly to protect against those horrible events that may happen in an untimely way.

[00:12:21]
Amanda Greene: I find this all very interesting, because I love feeling the safety of being covered, and I guess investment is the wrong word, but it does feel like just a good place to put your money to feel taken care of. I hear a word all the time in the life insurance world, and I have no idea what it means: annuity. What is that?

[00:12:39]
Brad Ferris: Yes. So an annuity, in some senses, it’s a retirement vehicle. In some senses it could almost be looked at as a bond alternative, for a bank, like a certificate of deposit. So what it is, it’s a way to guarantee growth in a vehicle without having market exposure. So, there are people who, they don’t want to worry about the ups and downs of their market, they want to still have some kind of growth. So, what people will do is, they’ll take some funds from their 401( k), some funds that they just have on the side, and they say, “Well, I love the idea of being in the market, that’s where I can generate the most returns, but I don’t want to be susceptible to risk. So I can have funds that grow in a more conservative way, but protect against loss.”

[00:13:22]
Amanda Greene: And so does this fall under the life insurance umbrella?

[00:13:26]
Brad Ferris: It does.

[00:13:29]
Amanda Greene: Are there any other myths that you hear within your office that you want to debunk, something you hear a lot and you’re like, “People are getting this wrong all the time”?

[00:13:37]
Brad Ferris: Oh, yeah. There is a huge misnomer, which is that if you have insurance through your work, that that means that you are all set. People say, “Oh, I have this insurance, I have that insurance.” And all of those things are wonderful. A problem that exists with life insurance specifically is that people assume that if they leave their job, that they can keep it. That’s usually not the case. If you leave, if you’re fired, if you even retire, that does not mean that you get to take it with you. There are health insurance policies that you can take with you under laws that were made back in the ’80s that allow for that to happen, but that’s not the case with life insurance.

[00:14:12]
Amanda Greene: And the policy is probably much lower than it would be if you went out and sought it on your own?

[00:14:19]
Brad Ferris: You will always be able to get more independently. Usually, what ends up happening from what you get through your work, if it’s not your income exactly, it’s a multiple of your income, maybe two or three years of salary so to speak, approximate earnings. Or it’s a flat rate, which then is irrelevant to what you make a year. So you would then have to toe that line, be at their discretion.

[00:14:40]
Amanda Greene: So many factors that have never crossed my mind. Thank you so much, Brad. That was Brad Ferris. And before we go, it’s time for our pop quiz, and today it’s a special little game show called Can You Claim It? Let’s bring back Emily Buckley as our contestant. I’m going to give you some examples, and you can tell us whether or not this is something you can claim.

[00:15:05]
Emily Buckley: Love it.

[00:15:06]
Amanda Greene: Are you ready?

[00:15:06]
Emily Buckley: I am ready. I will give a disclaimer though, I am not a claims adjuster. So I’m giving you general responses, but technically I’m not allowed to say you are 100% covered. I will give you the yes or the no and why.

[00:15:18]
Amanda Greene: So, let’s say you’re driving one night and a deer comes out of nowhere and you hit it. You’re okay, but the car is not. Can you claim it?

[00:15:26]
Emily Buckley: Yes, if you have physical damage coverage. Specifically comprehensive coverage, which is super inexpensive because oftentimes it also comes with full glass coverage. The full glass is what would kick in if the deer hit the windshield, if it damaged the front of the car. The deer hitting the vehicle, if it’s a moving object that it’s hitting, that would be something covered by comprehensive subject to the deductible that you select.

[00:15:46]
Amanda Greene: That’s the only kind of car accident I’ve ever been in.

[00:15:49]
Emily Buckley: Really?

[00:15:49]
Amanda Greene: Me with a deer.

[00:15:50]
Emily Buckley: Oh, no. Was it late at night too?

[00:15:52]
Amanda Greene: Yeah.

[00:15:52]
Emily Buckley: That’s got to be so scary.

[00:15:52]
Amanda Greene: Well, seven o’clock, but in the winter, so it seems like it’s midnight, you know?

[00:15:57]
Emily Buckley: Yeah, for sure.

[00:15:58]
Amanda Greene: As kid, I was told a million times over, not to drive someone else’s car. Let’s say your friend grabs your car for an hour to run errands while theirs is in the shop, but they get into a fender bender. Can you claim it?

[00:16:11]
Emily Buckley: Yes, but not on your insurance policy, on your friend’s insurance policy. So there’s something called permissive use, which means that you give permission for somebody else to use your vehicle on an occasional basis. This definitely falls under that, and it would cover as if you were operating the vehicle. It’s basically you giving the okay for that person to be a temporary driver.

[00:16:29]
Amanda Greene: Okay, picture it: You wake up after a wonderful night’s sleep, and your first cup of coffee that morning is especially delicious, you are having the best day. Then you walk out the front door with a spring in your step, and your car’s been stolen. Can you claim it?

[00:16:47]
Emily Buckley: Yes, if you have comprehensive, that’s physical damage coverage, because technically, if they were to steal the vehicle, it’s subject to the deductible on the policy. So, yep.

[00:16:55]
Amanda Greene: What a feeling. Icky.

[00:16:58]
Emily Buckley: People don’t realize, these coverages are there, and you look at them and you think, “Oh goodness, I don’t need that. This car is old, I don’t care.” But if the car got stolen and you then didn’t have a vehicle to get to and from work, paying $ 500 is a lot cheaper than buying an entirely new vehicle.

[00:17:13]
Amanda Greene: Mm-hmm. Your beloved dog has a bad day and chews the neighbor’s fence. Can you claim it?

[00:17:19]
Emily Buckley: Yes, actually. So your homeowners insurance policy would extend coverage in that situation.

[00:17:24]
Amanda Greene: How about a severe storm hits while your mother-in-law is visiting, and a branch from your tree smashes her car parked in your driveway. Can you claim it?

[00:17:34]
Emily Buckley: No, technically, you wouldn’t put it through your insurance policy. She would have to file a claim through her insurance policy, and hopefully she has physical damage coverage because comprehensive would kick in there too.

[00:17:45]
Amanda Greene: That delicious-smelling candle that you spent way too much money on was knocked over on a trip to the fridge for a snack. You catch it before it gets totally out of control, but the couch and rug are ruined. Can you claim it?

[00:18:02]
Emily Buckley: So that’s a good one. And the reason why this is a good one is because homeowner policies or renters policies normally have higher deductibles than car policies. So in this case, yes, fire is a covered loss, but then you’d be subject to the deductible. So it depends on the value of the couch, depends on the value of the rug, I’d say, but yes.

[00:18:20]
Amanda Greene: And finally, you just finished a lovely meal with friends at your place, and while chatting and finishing the dishes, your wedding ring is sucked down the drain, can you claim it?

[00:18:33]
Emily Buckley: Yes, if that ring is scheduled on your homeowners insurance. So people, this is probably one of my favorite coverages to talk about. Scheduling a ring is when you call your insurance agent and say to them, “Hey, I want to cover my engagement ring. Here’s my appraisal. It’s valued at this.” Mysterious disappearance is often covered under those types of policies. And when I say mysterious disappearance, it sounds mischievous, but all it means is that you could lose it, and you would have that coverage extended. So yes, if you endorse that ring on your homeowners insurance policy, you would have the coverage to replace it.

[00:19:04]
Amanda Greene: Thank you, Emily, for coming on and sharing all of your expertise. You had a lot of hot tips.

[00:19:09]
Emily Buckley: Yeah. No, my pleasure.

[00:19:12]
Amanda Greene: Okay, after hearing all of that, there is no way my wedding ring is covered. I’ve never had it appraised, I’ve never talked to an insurance agent about it. And imagine if it had gone down the drain. I’m getting this thing insured ASAP. And until then, it’s my excuse for no dishes.

You’ve been listening to Merging Into Life, where we navigate life’s milestones one episode at a time, brought to you by AAA Northeast, with production assistance from JAR Audio. I’m your host, Amanda Greene. If you had anywhere as much fun as I did, follow us wherever you get your podcasts. And tell us what you think or leave a review. We would love to hear from you. Email podcast@aaanortheast.com. Talk to you next time.

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

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RESOURCES

Contact a AAA Insurance Agent

AAA Jewelry Insurance

AAA Insurance Guide

Understanding Umbrella Insurance

Insuring Engagement Rings and Expensive Gifts

Term vs. Whole Life Insurance: What Is the Difference?

6 Myths About Life Insurance You Probably Believe

Why Life Insurance Through Work Isn’t Enough

What Is an Income Annuity?

The Ins and Outs of Hurricane Insurance Deductibles

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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.

Although it had been around long before it was given a name, the term “soul food” was first coined in the mid-1960s when “soul” was often used to describe African American culture. Like soul music, it speaks to the hearts of those who consume it, but more than that, it is deeply rooted in tradition and history – an authenticity both soul food restaurants and home cooks strive to convey.

“Soul food/Southern cooking is the storytelling of the Black experience and one of the biggest expressions of Black cooking in America,” said chef and restaurateur Marcus Samuelsson.

Not all Southern food is soul food. Descended from enslaved Africans in the South, soul food is a distinctly African American cuisine. It is one of several traditional Black cultural cooking styles, including Cajun, Creole and low country.

The recipes passed down through generations of African American families are a connection to the resilience and resourcefulness of their ancestors. Chitterlings, fried chicken, candied yams, braised collards and other staples of the soul food repertoire were developed in the kitchens of newly emancipated cooks making the most of what they had. Homegrown crops such as okra, sweet potatoes, greens and beans – most of which were brought to the South during the trans-Atlantic slave trade, were inexpensive and easily accessible, as were game and offal.

”There are a lot of game meats that get forgotten about when it comes to soul food, and they are also a huge part of the experience,” pointed out Samuelsson, who serves classics like pan-fried catfish with black-eyed peas, shrimp and grits and fried yardbird at his restaurant Red Rooster Harlem.” The genius of using neck bones and other parts of the animal is symbolic of a great and creative cook.”

True to the metaphor, you could say that instead of making lemonade from lemons, Black communities made red drinks (a soul food essential that also plays a symbolic role in Juneteenth celebrations).

A clear indication of good soul food is the ability to taste the love that goes into it. Delight in everything from cornbread to peach cobbler at these acclaimed Northeast soul food restaurants.

Sylvia’s Restaurant  

New York

Founded by the late Sylvia Woods, “the Queen of Soul Food,” in 1962, Sylvia’s Restaurant is a Harlem institution. Sylvia’s family continues her legacy, welcoming all walks of life into the restaurant and making them feel at home. Locals, tourists, celebrities, dignitaries and even former President Barack Obama have enjoyed its famous barbecue ribs, Carolina-style fried catfish and fried chicken.

Fellow Harlemite Samuelsson is also a fan. “Since the pandemic, many amazing and historical soul food restaurants have been forced to close,” he said. “A bright example of a soul food restaurant that has survived, and notably one of my favorites, is Sylvia’s in Harlem. Sylvia’s is going on 60 years and is a staple in our community.”

Visit on Gospel Sundays for brunch or Wednesdays for live music.

Delta’s

New Brunswick, N.J.

Delta’s celebrates the food, music and spirit of the South. High ceilings, exposed brick and lounge seating set the vibe.

The menu features soul standards like smothered chicken and pork chops, barbecue ribs and oxtails, mixed in with twists like a Southern-inspired steamed dumpling starter and mac-and-cheese crab rolls. Spinach dip lovers will appreciate Delta’s version made with collard greens. And for dessert, red velvet cake, banana pudding and sweet potato pie will send you off with a smile.

On weekends, the space is amplified by live bands and DJs. Take in the lively atmosphere at night with a signature cocktail or come and relax on Sunday for brunch.

Sandra’s Next Generation

New Haven, Conn.

While you’ll find all the usual soul foods on the menu at this cozy New Haven restaurant deliciously and lovingly prepared, the fried chicken is said to be among the best in New Haven.

Chef Sandra Pittman, who owns and operates Sandra’s Next Generation with her husband Miguel and family, has perfected her mother’s signature fried chicken recipe. Marinated in spices for fully saturated flavor, crispy and served hot, Colonel Sanders can’t even compete.

Fill up with the church plate, which allows you to choose an entree and four sides. All meals are complemented with cornbread that’s baked fresh each day.

Darryl’s Corner Bar and Kitchen

Boston

Come to this neighborhood spot to meet up with friends, hang out, sip on a cocktail and enjoy live music and entertainment.

Through different names and owners, the corner of Columbus Avenue has been a landmark for soul food for over six decades. Owner and Boston native Nia Grace has seen to it that the heritage endures at Darryl’s Corner Bar and Kitchen. As co-founder of the Boston Black Hospitality Coalition, she is also a champion of Black-owned restaurants in the city.

Start with the soul food tacos filled with fried chicken or catfish. For a sampling of all your favorites, get the chicken or catfish “Bob the Chef” meal (named for the location’s original restaurant) with your choice of two sides. On Sundays the restaurant offers a fixed-price, all-you-can eat buffet (reduced price for seniors and kids 6-12).

Based on your suggestions, we also recently visited Kin Southern Table + Bar in Providence, R.I. Check out our video and recommendations.

What soul food restaurants do you love? Tell us in the comments.

On average, American drivers spend nearly one hour behind the wheel each day. If you’re going to be anywhere for that long, let alone an enclosed space, you’re going to want to make sure it smells good. That’s a big part of what makes the demand for the best car air fresheners so high and the market for them worth millions of dollars.

The humble car air freshener has a unique origin story that dates back to the 1950s. Since then, the market has grown to include numerous different models and scents. Let’s take a look at some of the best air fresheners available today.

Prefer an audio summary of this post? Click below to listen to this article.

The History of the Car Air Freshener

In 1952, a man named Julius Sämann was living in the northern New York town of Watertown. One day he was having a conversation with his milkman, who complained about the bad smell spoiled milk left in his truck when the drink spilled.

Sämann was a German-Jewish chemist who fled his homeland and settled in upstate New York. There, he spent years studying the Canadian pine forests and extracting the aromatic oils from these trees. To solve his milk truck driver’s problem, Sämann combined the fragment smells of a Canadian pine tree with specialized blotter material and the first car air freshener was born. He gave his new product the shape of its inspiration: a pine tree.

Little Trees, as they’re known today, were an immediate hit and quickly began selling across the country and around the world. The air fresheners are still made in Watertown although the product line has grown quite a bit. Originally there were just three scents: Royal Pine, Spice and Bouquet. Now, there are more than 40 including Cotton Candy, Fresh Shave and New Car Scent.

Types of Car Air Fresheners

Like most things that have been around for 70 years, car air fresheners have evolved quite a bit. There are now vent clip-ons, visor attachments, sprays, air purifiers and more.

Cardboard

Cardboard air fresheners, like Little Trees, are made of specialized blotter material that slowly releases the fragrance. They are generally meant to hang from the rearview mirror but you can put them anywhere in the vehicle.

Clip-On

As the name implies, clip-on air fresheners clip on to your car’s air vents. The air then helps circulate the fragrant oils throughout the cabin. They work as long as air is passing through them. With most clip-ons, you can adjust the amount of scent that is released.

Plug-In

Plug-in air fresheners work in much the same matter as clip-ons except they do not require your car’s air to be on. Instead you plug the device in and it releases the scent itself.

Can

These cans have a fragrant gel or wax inside them. All you have to do is twist the lid to open the built-in vents. You can control the amount of scent being released by adjusting the size of the vent openings.

Spray

These are just like your household deodorizing sprays except specifically designed for your car. They are especially useful if the odor is coming from one particular area in the cabin.

The Best Air Freshener Scents

The most common scents include some version of Apple, Coconut, Lemon, Cherry and the always popular New Car Smell.

According to Little Trees, their best-selling scents are Black Ice, New Car Scent and Caribbean Colada. The company’s more unique fragrances include Fresh Shave, with notes of talcum powder and musk, Rainshine, a mix of dewy florals and earthy greens, and Celebrate!, a blend of vanilla cake and sweet buttercream frosting.

Yankee Candle, another major producer of car air fresheners, has popular scents Red Raspberry, Clean Cotton, Lilac Blossoms and Leather in its lineup.

Do you use air fresheners in your car? What is your favorite scent? Let us know in the comments below.

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

Before I visited Aulani, Disney’s resort in Hawaii, I thought I knew what to expect. Having been to Walt Disney World and Disneyland more times than I can count, I assumed that Aulani would be similar to the Disney resort hotels in Orlando and Anaheim: Highly immersive (i.e. tons of movie theming), feeling very Disney (with hidden Mickeys everywhere) and closely tied to the theme park experience.

I couldn’t have been more wrong. Aulani surprised me at every turn.

While there’s no doubt that your Hawaii family vacation to the resort will be a magical experience, only part of the magic comes from the mouse. The rest of it comes from the island itself.

Looking to plan a more traditional Disney vacation? Listen to Episode 2 of our podcast, Merging Into Life: Theme Park Secrets.

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Aulani is on Oahu, about 20 miles from Honolulu, on the leeward side of the island. While it’s owned by Disney, there’s no theme park attached to it. (Disney also has non-park hotels in Hilton Head, S.C., and Vero Beach, Fla.).

Before I got there for my first trip in 2021, I had assumed the hotel would be a lot like Disney’s Polynesian Resort at Walt Disney World, with wafting ukulele music, “Moana”-themed rooms and a tiki bar with volcanoes that erupt when you order a certain drink. But as soon as I stepped through the doors and into the lobby, I knew Aulani was different. The lobby opens to an expansive deck overlooking the resort, the pools and palm trees giving way to the sparkling ocean beyond. It was my first taste of the enchanting majesty and singular beauty of Hawaii.

Unlike other luxury resorts in Hawaii, Aulani doesn’t give out leis or kukui nut necklaces on arrival. However, you can ask for celebration buttons, like the ones you get in Disney parks, to mark birthdays, anniversaries or any occasion. When I arrived for my most recent visit in March 2024, I took one that says, “I’m celebrating,” and in the blank space wrote, “mai tais.” I was only half kidding. As I had already learned, Aulani makes my favorite mai tai on the island.

The main attraction at Aulani is the water, from the extensive complex of pools and decorative ponds in the center of the resort to the beach just beyond. The hotel shares Ko Olina Beach with the Four Seasons next door and the Marriott a bit farther away; though it’s public like all the beaches in Hawaii, each of the hotels has an area just for hotel guests with beach loungers and umbrellas.

If you don’t splurge on an ocean-view room (which I would 100% suggest doing, if you can swing it), the beach is the best place to watch the sunrise. Given that you’ll be fighting jetlag and adjusting to the time difference, you’ll likely be awake in plenty of time to watch the sun come up. That’s actually a good thing, though. Unless you’re in Waikiki, there’s very little to do at night, so you’re much better off waking up early and enjoying every bit of daylight that you can.

While the beach is delightful, you’ll probably spend most of your time at Aulani in the pools. The resort has the best water features I’ve ever seen. A saltwater lagoon offers snorkeling and fish-feeding without having to go into the open ocean. There’s also a lazy river, an infinity pool overlooking the ocean – with a waterfall – kids’ splash pad areas and baby pools, and hot tubs, including an adult-only one.

Inside the mountain that rises in the center of the resort, there are two waterslides integrated so seamlessly that you can’t even tell they’re there until you get to the stairs. On the mountain itself and the rock features built around the lazy river, there are hidden animal carvings; instead of hidden Mickeys, look closely to spot whales, octopi and schools of fish.

Don’t worry. You will still see Mickey, and plenty of other Disney characters. They hang out in public spaces, all in resort wear, to do casual meet-and-greets. Walking from your room to the pool, or from the beach to a restaurant, you’ll likely see Moana or Stitch saying hello and greeting guests, or Donald Duck in a Hawaiian shirt.

Mickey and Minnie both make appearances throughout. In the morning, Chef Minnie hosts a character breakfast. In the afternoon, surfer Mickey and Minnie bop around and say hello. At night, the pair make an appearance at Aulani’s luau, which is more fun than any luau I’ve ever been to before. In addition to the hula-dancing mice, there are also theatrical Disney touches in the show and demonstrations on playing ukulele, mashing poi and other Hawaiian traditions.

Aside from character meals, Aulani also has several excellent dining options. Ama Ama is a locally sourced fine dining restaurant with stunning sunset views. The Olelo Room has craft cocktails and excellent sushi made with incredibly fresh ahi and albacore, which come with a little pat of Mickey-shaped wasabi and chopsticks emblazoned with a tiny mouse. All around the Olelo Room (“olelo” means “say” in Hawaiian), are carvings of objects with the Hawaiian words for them underneath. Some are practical (pua’a is a pig, kalaka is a truck), and some are a little more Disney (kalipa aniani is glass slipper, kalela is castle).

I loved the garlic shrimp tacos at Off the Hook, the poolside restaurant, so much that I ordered them for lunch almost every day with a mai tai, sometimes in a hollowed-out pineapple. The resort also has quick-service options for quintessentially Hawaiian snacks like spam musubi and shave ice, both Mickey-shaped, of course. In Hawaii, the rule is still true: Everything tastes better when it’s shaped like Mickey Mouse.

Plan your Disney Hawaii vacation with AAA Travel.

Have you ever been to Aulani? Tell us about your experience in the comments

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

The highly anticipated, overhauled 2024-2025 Free Application for Federal Student Aid or FAFSA was released in early 2024, but has run into a few snags.

Prospective college students around the country are delaying decisions as they await financial aid offers derailed by errors plaguing the new system.

The delays have put pressure on colleges as well, as many schools cannot provide complete offers to students without knowing how much aid a student may get from the federal government. Many schools have extended the deadline for making a tuition deposit from May 1 to June 1 as they continue to monitor the situation closely.

Donald Kerr, director of student lending and college services at AAA Northeast, urges families not to give up.

“The redesigned FAFSA is intended to help families who are most in need of financial assistance to make a college education possible. It increases the amount of aid available by billions of dollars,” said Kerr. “Unfortunately, the delays have added up to the point where many students are starting to give up and instead seeking employment and looking at community colleges on a part-time basis.”

Kerr offers the following guidance for students and families:

• Check the status of your FAFSA on studentaid.gov to ensure it was submitted, processed successfully and sent to colleges. If it has been sent, students should sign up for a student portal at each prospective school, which will give them access to view financial aid before award letters arrive.
• If your FAFSA form has not been processed, reach out to the Federal Student Aid office by phone or use the live chat option on studentaid.gov to determine the reason or error. While some issues are outside the control of students and families, such as a system glitch expected to be corrected by mid-April, other issues may have a simple fix.
• If needed, students can reach out to a school to request an individual extension. While many schools have already extended deadlines, students can reach out directly with concerns about their own timeline given financial aid delays.
• Know that the Department of Education and schools across the country are working hard to get all issues and delays resolved as soon as possible so students can make the very important decision on where to start their college journey.

“It may be a bumpy ride this year, but don’t give up on what could be one of the most generous financial aid seasons for those who need the help the most,” Kerr added.

Who Should Fill Out a FAFSA?

College students and/or their parents complete and submit the new FAFSA form online, which includes information about a family’s income and assets, to apply for federal financial aid for college costs. Many states and colleges also use FAFSA data to award their own financial aid.

College students and their parents should submit a FAFSA form annually. This includes those who believe they won’t qualify for aid because they make too much money. Low-interest financial aid loans are available to everyone regardless of income. Even if a student won’t use financial aid, many private scholarships want to see the results of the FAFSA form. Millions of dollars of federal student aid are left on the table each year simply because people did not fill out a FAFSA form, according to the College Board.

Normally, the FAFSA is available by Oct.1 each year. The deadline to complete the 2024-2025 form is June 30, 2025, although students and their parents should check if their colleges and states have different deadlines. After the form is processed, applicants receive a FAFSA Submission Summary (formally the Student Aid Report), outlining the amount and type of aid for which they might be eligible.

The New FAFSA Has Fewer Questions

The primary goals of the FAFSA revisions were to shorten and simplify the 128-question form and develop new formulas so more students qualify for aid. The new FAFSA has about 40 questions, and some applicants could answer as few as 28.

A simpler form could make higher education accessible to more people.

“Many families have viewed the form as too difficult to complete, which created a barrier to obtaining a college education for some,” said Kerr.

Updates to calculations that determine financial aid are projected to increase eligibility for federal student aid, including Pell Grants, for as many as 610,000 new students from low-income backgrounds.

Other Major Changes

• Instead of using data from the form to estimate the expected family contribution (EFC) to college costs, a new formula creates a student aid index (SAI). Schools plan to use the SAI to determine the extent of a student’s financial need by subtracting the SAI from the school’s total cost.
• If a student’s parents are not married, only the parent who contributes the most financial support to the student needs to be listed on the form. In the past, contributions from the parent with whom the student lives carried more weight.
• Each student and at least one parent or contributor need to create a federal ID. Users will not have access to the form until the new usernames and passwords are cleared by the Social Security Administration, according to Kerr.
• Males no longer are required to verify that they have registered for the selective service (draft) to qualify for federal financial aid, Kerr noted. (Males between the ages of 18 and 25 still must register for the draft).
• In the past, students could designate up to 10 colleges to receive their FAFSA data; now they can list 20.

Tips on How to Fill Out a FAFSA Form

• You no longer have to download your tax data into the FAFSA. All you have to do is sign an authorization form giving the IRS permission to share your information, although it is a good idea to have a copy of your return handy in case you need to refer to it.
• The form is separated into a student section and a parent section, and while the student completes their section first and then invites the parent to do their section via email, it is a good idea for families to complete the form together.

Federal aid can help finance your education, but often it is not enough on its own. Learn more about AAA Northeast’s affordable student lending products and services.

What do you think of the new FAFSA? Tell us in the comments.