Hybrid Prius Sedans – Elegant and “GREEN”

AAA Transportation is proud of our efforts to keep Mother Earth “GREEN” and beautiful.  For several years we have included the classy Toyota Prius hybrid (gas-electric) sedan in our fleet of modern, sleek vehicles.  We would like to help you become more familiar with one of the main operating components of the Prius – the battery – to better understand how our hybrids give you the BEST is luxury transportation while also helping the environment.

For many decades, vehicle batteries have contained lead and hydrochloric acid – both of which are highly poisonous substances.  When these batteries reach the end of their usefulness, their disposal becomes the “tricky task” of keeping these caustic materials from leaching into our drinking water, food chain, and surrounding environment.  However, new technology in vehicle batteries is producing new horizons.

The emerging hybrid-electric vehicle market is producing promising results with the nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery.  The advantages of this type of battery are:

• Excellent performance
• Long life
• Reliability
• High energy
• Low cost of ownership

How are NiMH batteries made?

Like former batteries, NiMH batteries consist of two electrodes – one positive and one negative.  The positive electrode uses nickel-hydroxide for the cathode, while the negative electrode uses metal hydride for the anode.  A polymer separates the electrodes to prevent shorting.  A potassium hydroxide mixture with a small amount of water forms the electrolyte within the battery cell.  The cell is then sealed and electrically charged to form a 1.2v electrochemical couple.  Individual cells can then be joined in series to produce batteries in various voltage ranges, with 12 volts being the typical arrangement.

What is the Life Span of these “greener” batteries?

Battery life spans are evaluated in terms of complete discharge cycles.  For example, a standard all electric-vehicle battery can be charged and discharged 1,000 times.  This is equivalent to more than 100,000 miles.  However, in hybrid gas-electric vehicles, the battery is never fully charged or discharged.  Instead, these batteries are cycled in shallow discharges hundreds of thousands of times.  This partial charge/discharge operation enables the NiMH battery to last more than 200,000 miles.

What happens when the NiMH batteries eventually lose usefulness?

These environmental friendly batteries are 100-percent recyclable.  AND … because they contain no toxic materials, they are the only rechargeable battery that can be legally disposed of in a landfill.  However, we understand that simply dumping them into a landfill doesn’t make either economically or environmentally sound sense.  The obvious solution is recycling, which most hybrid vehicle manufacturers make available.

AAA Transportation is serious about keeping our planet “GREEN”.  Our eco-friendly hybrid sedans provide businesses and individuals alike with luxurious transportation while reducing our carbon footprint.  With excellence as our standard, you are guaranteed complete satisfaction.  Make your reservations TODAY either online or by calling 866-558-0222.

“Green” Limousine Service – AAA Transportation

What is your favorite color?  Red … blue … yellow … orange?  AAA Transportation’s favorite color is “GREEN”.  Why?  We care about keeping our beautiful earth GREEN and life-giving!  We also care about helping you see more “GREEN” with our specials and packages on limousine services, airport pickups, pleasure excursions, business trips, and even keeping your non-emergency medical appointments.

Every time you decide to travel in a group instead of individually, the “GREEN” benefits add up:

1. Transportation expenses greatly decrease per person.  The direct costs for gas, oil, and vehicle operation become shared.
   • Remember the sudden surge in gas prices during 2008?  Even though 2009 gave us a little relief as prices lowered slightly, it seems climbing gas prices is here to stay.  Sharing this cost of transportation with a group helps keep Mother Earth “GREENER” while keeping more “GREEN” in your pocket.
   • Oil is a commodity that “drives” our lives in more ways than transportation … gas, energy, industry, beauty and household products … to name a few.  We must preserve this precious commodity.  A trip to your favorite spot uses the same number of roundtrip miles, gallons of gas, and pints of oil whether you travel alone or with friends.  Going in a group, however, not only splits the automotive costs; it multiplies the benefits gained from the same quantity of products.  The commodities that formerly benefited only one person now profit a group at no extra expense.
   • Other direct expenses of operating a vehicle are also lessened proportionately.  Costs such as batteries, brakes, various fluids, tires, etc., are reduced per person plus produce multiplied benefits as well.
2. Group transportation has another “GREEN” benefit that is normally not considered.  Hidden vehicular costs such as normal wear and tear, maintenance, repairs, parking fees, tags, licenses, and insurance practically disappear for you because these expenses are shared by all of our customers.
3. AAA Transportation keeps our fleet in tip-top condition, thus keeping our prices low:
   • Proper tire inflation consumes less gas and oil, provides the best mileage possible, reduces tire replacements, and eliminates repeated tire repairs.
   • Air filters are routinely changed to enhance vehicle performance and preserve precious energy.
   • Regular oil changes and tune-ups keep our fleet at its best while reducing carbon emissions.  We spend a little “green” in this area to save YOU big “GREEN”:

A.  Getting ultimate mileage from the resources used.

B.  Reduced repair expenses that help us keep prices low for you.

C.  Lower carbon emissions that help your earth.

Whether serving you for business or pleasure, AAA Transportation is on the leading-edge of taking responsibility for our planet and providing “GREEN” for you.  Our fleet of sleek hybrid vehicles, limousines, sedans, and vans provides eco-friendly transportation for ALL of your needs.  With excellence as our standard, you are guaranteed complete satisfaction.  Make your reservations TODAY either online or by calling 866-558-0222.

Ring In the New Year with Laughter and Great Food!

The Holidays continue in style at Tommy T’s Comedy Steakhouse in Pleasanton.  Tommy T’s combines both delectable dishes and nightly entertainment into evenings of comedy that keep you laughing all through the week!

Andrew Norelli will “keep the house roaring with laughter” on Tuesday and Wednesday, December 29 and 30, at 7:30 PM each night.

Voted “Most Likely to Become a Comedian” in high school, Andrew’s act was influenced by the upbeat, original style of the famous San Francisco comedy scene. After moving to Los Angeles, Andrew worked top spots including The Icehouse, The Improv, and The Comedy and Magic Club where he opened for Jay Leno.  Since then, Andrew has shared the stage with many big names in the business– Garry Shandling, Kevin Nealon, Bob Saget, Joe Rogan, Roseanne Barr, George Lopez, Louie C.K., Dave Attell, Dave Chapelle, Robin Williams … and more.

Andrew has also appeared on The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson, Comedy Central’s Live at Gotham, Comics Unleashed, Entertainment Studios with Byron Allen, and NBC’s Last Comic Driving.  Andrew wrote 131 episodes for the TV show, Comics Unleashed. You can still catch many of his jokes on re-runs of this nationally syndicated program.  After appearing at the prestigious Montreal Comedy Festival, Andrew’s performance was praised in “The Hollywood Reporter” and “Time Out New York”.

Andrew draws from his previous experience in a sales job to write part of his routine.  Understanding the confusing realities of the corporate world, spreadsheets, and quotas brings an unusual twist of reality to his side-splitting humor.  In addition, Andrew often collects facts and trivia from his clients before the show and blends them into the act with outstanding improv skills.  Therefore, each show is fresh, unique, and highly entertaining.

Andrew also enjoys bookings in which he delivers his “laugh-out-loud” speech titled “I’m So Sick of Yoga”.  Here, he explores a successful career through the importance and challenges of maintaining physical and mental health.

Tommy T’s delivers great food and memorable entertainment seven days a week.

• Catch their “Early Bird Prime Rib Special” one hour before each show.
• Enjoy “Taco Tuesdays”.
• Sign up to appear in “Open Mic” shows every Monday.
• You’ll find a taste for everyone!  Delightful dishes include appetizers; main courses of steak, fish, chicken, and pasta; sandwiches and salads; and scrumptious desserts.

AAA Transportation has been successfully serving both individuals and businesses in the Tri-Valley and Bay Areas since 2001.  Whether you need airport transportation, luxury limousine service, late-model sedan service, or van transportation for your group – we provide prompt, courteous, on-time relaxation and fun.  With excellence as our standard, you are guaranteed complete satisfaction every time.  Make your reservations TODAY either online or by calling 866-558-0222.

Saving the Earth with “Green” Transportation

While there has been much debate about the reality of global warming, everyone agrees that we need to “take care” of this planet on which we live so that it will continue to be a clean, safe, healthy place in which to raise our families.

“Global warming” refers to the increased average temperature of the air and oceans near earth’s surface that could have future dangerous results.  Our “carbon footprint” refers to the level of greenhouse gases emitted from various human activities that raise or lower our near-surface temperatures.  While many greenhouse gases are being studied, carbon dioxide emitted from vehicles using petroleum-based fuels has been named as a major cause of unsafe global warming.

The solution seems obvious – manufacture efficient, cost-effective vehicles with reduced carbon dioxide emissions.   A two-fold approach holds promise for some encouraging results.

1. Biofuels recently appeared on the market promising not only to reduce carbon emissions, but to reduce our dependence on oil.  Biofuels are derived from the sugar fermentation of plant materials such as wheat, corn, beets, sugar cane, and molasses.  Ethanol is now the most common biofuel worldwide.  Biodiesel fuel is ethanol’s “sister” so to speak, being used as an additive to diesel fuel.
2. Hybrid electric vehicles (HEV’s) are one of the other options manufacturers are taking to reduce harmful emissions.  These vehicles make a gradual transition to less harmful vehicles possible.

Simply put, a hybrid electric vehicle combines the conventional internal combustion engine with an electric propulsion system (power train).  Several types of HEV’s exist and provide these advantages:

• Some HEV’s use their internal combustion engine to generate electricity by spinning an electrical generator.  The generator then can either recharge the vehicle’s various batteries or directly power the electric drive motors.
• Other HEV’s reduce idle emissions by shutting down the internal combustion engine while the vehicle is idling, then restarting it when needed.
• Modern HEV’s often use smaller internal combustion engines, thereby automatically reducing carbon emissions.  The electric power train is then used to supply the additional needed power boost.
• Technologies such as “regenerative braking” slow the vehicle by converting the vehicle’s kinetic energy (extra energy present due to the vehicle’s forward motion alone) into electric energy that replenishes batteries instead of being wasted as heat energy.
• HEV’s provide the opportunity for software to be introduced that adjusts the balance between greater fuel efficiency and added power.  In the future, HEV owners may be able to partially control this balance as they wish.

AAA Transportation is on the leading-edge of taking responsibility for our planet.  We have been using hybrid vehicles to successfully serve both individuals and businesses in the Tri-Valley and Bay Areas since 2001.  Our fleet of sleek, late-model limousines, sedans, and vans provides luxury transportation for ALL of your personal and corporate events.  With excellence as our standard, you are guaranteed complete satisfaction.  Make your reservations TODAY either online or by calling 866-558-0222.

The Vintage Estates – Sublime and Refreshing Elegance

Romantic … Like a French Chateau … Luxuriously Relaxing …Indescribably Wonderful … Breathtakingly Beautiful …A Place with Everything

These are some of the ways people describe their visit to the Vintage Estates in the town of Yountville in Napa Valley.  Spreading over 23 acres, the Vintage Estates is almost a township of its very own.  You’ll find these delightful experiences throughout its stunningly beautiful grounds:

• The Villagio Inn – 112 guestrooms with Italian architecture and influence insure luxury takes on new meaning here.  Private patios, balconies, spacious rooms, fireplaces, down comforters, oversized sunken bathtubs, and luxurious robes await you.  Embrace a sparkling swimming pool and jacuzzi, a welcome bottle of wine, daily champagne breakfast buffet, afternoon tea, coffee and cookies, concierge and room service to round out your ultimate enjoyment and refreshment.
• The Vintage Inn – Featuring 80 elegant guestrooms infused with a French flair, this Inn welcomes you with vaulted beamed ceilings, rich French fabrics, a down comforter, a private balcony, a sunken whirlpool bathtub, and a fireplace.
• Spa Villagio – Indulgence awaits you here with Mediterranean-style.  Every care is lifted away with waterfalls, reflecting pools, and bubbling fountains.  Sixteen state-of-the-art treatment rooms and five private spa suites provide an exceptional array of soothing treatments, saunas, hydrotherapy soaking baths, and romantic seclusion.
• Business Complex – Conference service managers and modern technology insure every detail of your event is seamless.

1. Seven varied executive conference rooms inspire creativity with natural light and beautiful scenery.
2. The Historic Barrel Room is a 2,700 square foot space suitable for business meetings, conferences, and retreats.  Having once been a wine maturation cellar in the 1870’s, it is truly “Napa Valley’s Most Unique Event Space”.

• The Pavilion – This 16,000 square foot area of Vintage Estates offers unique outdoor venues for “one-of-a-kind” corporate and social events, and weddings.  In traditional California wine country garden ambience, a flowing watercourse and fountains bring charm and elegance.  Evergreen elms and flowering magnolia trees fill the air with beauty and fragrance.  Wedding receptions of up to 1,000 guests are easily accommodated as well as dining for up to 600 guests.
• The “Vintage 1870,” V Marketplace – Housed within and around the 139 year-old Groezinger Winery complex in Vintage Estates, you can enjoy the many high-end shops, galleries, restaurants, and a wine tasting cellar.  Winding cobblestone walkways and cozy picnic gardens await along with special events and entertainment year-round.

AAA Transportation has been successfully serving both individuals and businesses in the Tri-Valley and Bay Areas since 2001.  Our fleet of sleek, late-model limousines, sedans, and vans provides luxury transportation for ALL of your personal and corporate events.  With excellence as our standard, you are guaranteed complete satisfaction.  Make your reservations TODAY either online or by calling 866-558-0222.

The Claremont Hotel Club and Spa – Your Urban Paradise

Claremont Resort

Nestled in Berkeley Hills, but still convenient to the San Francisco business district and the Bay Area lies a “dream come true”.  Whether your needs are personal or for business, you will find superior elegance, sophistication, breathtaking views, deep relaxation, and world-class cuisine.  This “dream come true” is The Claremont Hotel Club & Spa – the ultimate urban paradise.

“Paradise” should have everything you could ask for – wouldn’t you agree?  The Claremont truly fits this definition.  Situated on 22 beautifully landscaped acres, this AAA Four Diamond property offers amenities sure to please everyone, including children.

Luxurious, Comfortable Guestrooms – At The Claremont, your room is truly unique.  None of their 279 guestrooms are exactly alike but each one offers “a touch of old world charm and casual California elegance”.  Choose between six styles – Classic, Memorable, Distinctive, Spa Elite, Studio Suite, or Petite Queen.

On-Site Quality Dining –

• The spacious Meritage dining room presents ever-changing menus created by Executive Chef Josh Thomsen.  Indulge your senses in dishes that are pairings of fine wines with local, fresh cuisine while gazing at panoramic views of San Francisco Bay.
• The Paragon Bar and Café offers a more casual, but lively, dining pleasure.  Featuring American Comfort Food by Chef de Cuisine Charles Crossley, the Paragon lets you relax with outdoor deck seating and live jazz three nights a week.

Spa Claremont- You’ll find it hard to choose between the treatments Spa Claremont offers – nine types of facials, five “Journeys” engulfing your body in a series of aromatic therapies, fourteen massages that include couples and pre-natal massages, detoxifying water therapies, body wraps, polishes & scrubs, acupuncture, Pilates, and yoga.  Pre-spa options like a steam room, Jacuzzi, and lounge insure your complete relaxation from head to toe.

The Club- Recreational amenities easily combine quality family time with any busy schedule.  Spend time with your family in the newly-renovated fitness complex, three pools, ten tennis courts, hiking trails, golf, concerts, art festivals, and yoga.  The Kids’ Club and a day camp insure even the youngest ones’ satisfaction.  The Bayview Café offers salads, sandwiches, hamburgers and other snack favorites poolside for your ultimate convenience.

Business Events – With professional conference managers and 30,000 square feet of flexible meeting space, your every business need is creatively assured.  Whether you desire an indoor or outdoor venue, The Claremont provides custom menus, fitness breaks, structured activities, and six customizable boardroom settings.  Wireless and hard-wired technology plus an in-house IT Department insure seamless presentations and events.

AAA Transportation will superbly complete your experiences at The Claremont.  Offering unsurpassed transportation planning and solutions, our stellar fleet and professional chauffeurs leave you relaxed and carefree from the beginning to the end of your special event.  You may make your reservations either online or by calling one of our friendly operators at 866-558-0222.

Relax – Enjoy – Indulge:  AAA Transportation is at the wheel!

The Palm Event Center – Your Corporate Getaway!

Have you ever imagined your company being the major topic of conversation between executives?  Have you thought about treating your employees or award recipient to an occasion they will be talking about years from now?

Tucked away among 120 acres of lush vineyards and gently rolling hills, lies the unsurpassed elegance of the Palm Event Center in the Vineyard.  Imagine the glances between executives, employees, or clients as they wind down the palm-lined driveway and stop in front of a luxurious wine country villa.  Whether you are hosting a conference, seminar, lecture, employee appreciation dinner, an award ceremony, or any other business functions, you are entering “the ultimate place to celebrate all of your corporation’s memorable moments”.

The Palm features state-of-the-art meeting facilities that comfortably seat between 30-450 guests.  Boasting 20,000 square feet of meeting space, including break-out rooms, the main Ballroom is ideal for daytime events as well as more formal ceremonies and holiday parties.  Equipped with acoustical tiles and first-class multi-media accommodations, every sound is crystal clear and elegantly staged.

The Palm features world-class catering centering around contemporary California cuisine.  The exclusive Estate Room lined with wine barrels, tea lights, and chandeliers is perfect for corporate functions from intimate management dinners to congratulatory ceremonies.  Full-course menus will delight everyone’s palette from mouth-watering Hors D’oeuvres to New York Strip Steak to 5-star desserts.  A full bar is also available featuring Silver, Gold, and Platinum beverage packages.

If you prefer an outdoor setting, The Palm’s lush patio overlooking Livermore Wine Country will turn cocktails and session breaks into the “talk of the corporate office”.

The Palm Event Center is also the perfect location for more private special moments such as those “once-in-a-lifetime” bar mitzvahs, proms, fundraisers, and weddings.

AAA Transportation offers superb transportation planning and solutions.  Our stellar fleet and professional chauffeurs leave you relaxed and carefree from the beginning to the end of your special event.  To make your advance reservation, our friendly operators are standing by at 866-558-0222, or go online at www.aaa-trans.com.

We reflect your professional image every mile of the way!