Fun Travels Across the United States
MINNESOTA (Please note: Cities and Towns follow the NEWS in alphabetical order)
MINNEAPOLIS
Fogo de ChCo Has Opened
Minneapolis-Saint Paul diners will soon enjoy the flavors of southern Brazil with the Minnesota debut of the internationally renowned steakhouse Fogo de ChÇo. A traditional churrascaria featuring perfectly seasoned meats, authentic gaucho chefs and impeccable service, the restaurant will be a new downtown Minneapolis landmark with its blazing fire visible to passers-by. Located at 645 Hennepin Avenue in Minneapolis.
For more information, call 612-338-1344.
Freewheel Bike announces Midtown Bike Station Opened
Whether they need an extra tube or an extra shot of espresso, Twin Cities bicyclists will now have an oasis to enjoy as they ride the Midtown Greenway. Freewheel Bike in conjunction with the Midtown Greenway Coalition, City of Minneapolis, and Allina Hospitals and Clinics will operate the Midtown Bike Station along the trail’s second phase.
The Station is the fruit of a long conjunctive effort between Freewheel, the hospital, the city, and the Coalition to offer commuters and recreational riders a stop in the center of Minneapolis. “It’s a place to stop for on-the-spot repairs, bike rentals, even order a favorite drink from the barista,” said Kevin Ishaug, owner of Freewheel Bikes.
The Midtown Bike Station offers memberships and membership will have its privileges. Members get discounts on parts, repairs, accessories and valet parking. “The Station has a hundred or so parking spots for bicycles, and rather than stop and lock up your bike, you can hand it over and the staff will hang it up and watch it for you,” Ishaug said.
However, membership isn’t required, and all riders are able to use the center. Cyclists can meet for group rides, learn how to fix their bikes, and attend a spinning class. Unlike traditional bike shops, the Center will be open during peak commuting hours. Riders will find an open door early in the morning on their way in to work and, in the evening, a shop ready to help them out as they head home. “The ride home can seem like a long haul,” Ishaug said, “so why not have a comfortable stop on the way?”
The Midtown Bike Station is located next to the renovated Sears building now owned by Allina Hospitals and Clinics. The station was made possible by a federal grant plus capital investment by Freewheel Bikes, Allina Hospitals, and the Midtown Greenway Coalition.
SHAKOPE
Renegade Roller Coaster at Valleyfair
Twists, turns, speed and the Old West are top features of Renegade – a new world-class wooden roller coaster to debut at Valleyfair in 2007. Guests will experience a two minute adventurous ride including a never-before-experienced twisting first drop, a low-to-the-ground high-speed S-turn and a high-speed station fly-by.
Renegade Fact Sheet
Track Length: 3,113 feet
Lift Height: 104 feet
Ride Duration: Approximately two minutes
Maximum Speed: 52 mph
Capacity: 850 riders per hour
Total Number of Turns: 19
Total Number of Crossovers: 10
Total Number of Supports: 505
Special Features: Never before experienced twisting first drop
Low to the ground high speed S-turn
High speed station fly-by
Fun Fact: The song “Renegade” was a 1979 hit for American rock band Styx.
Cowboy Slang: Cowboy Slang that best describes Valleyfair’s new ride Renegade:
Renegade is fine as cream gravy (top notch)
Renegade is tall hog at the trough (superior, (outstanding)
For an American Coaster Enthusiast, riding Renegade is like lickin’ butter off a knife (something that’s easy)
Construction of Renegade is two whoops and a holler (not far away)
Valleyfair is located at One Valleyfair Drive, Shakopee, Minnesota 55379. For more information, call 1.800.FUN.RIDE