In its final year of production, the 2019 Ford Fusion aims to shore up its legacy as one of the top midsize sedans in recent memory. Packed with features and style that leave European models envious, the Fusion is the complete package. However, one thing it might do better the rest is its functionality as a commuter car. With a comfortable interior, loads of tech, and unbeatable driving experience, the 2019 Ford Fusion makes the drive to the office just a tad more bearable. 
- Six Engine Options to Maximize Power or Efficiency
Whether you’re looking to save money on gas or zoom your way through congestion, the 2019 Ford Fusion has a model to meet your needs. A 175-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder is the stock engine, providing up to 31 mpg on the highway.
A 245-horsepower 2.0-liter turbo-four and a 181-horsepower 1.5-liter turbo-four highlight the two four-cylinder turbocharged options, providing 29 mpg and 34 mpg on the highway respectively. For some ferocity on the pavement, an upgrade to the turbocharged 2.7-liter V-6 is a no-brainer. Available solely on the Sport trim, this monster boasts 325 horsepower, yet it doesn’t let efficiency slide, posting 26 mpg on the highway.
Two hybrid options are also available to lower your carbon footprint and maximize your driving distance. The plug-in variant features a 25-mile range on a single charge, while the regular hybrid boasts 41 mpg combined. Read the rest of this entry »
Don’t let summer pass you by without taking the time to make memories with the entire family this year. Check out some of these locations near Bloomington, Minnesota, where everyone is sure to have a good time.
Valleyfair
An amusement park is a great way to celebrate the summer season. Valleyfair’s roller coasters, such as the Delirious, Corkscrew, Excalibur, and High Roller are perfect for families with older kids who are looking for thrill-seeking excitement. Valleyfair also has plenty of smaller attractions for families with younger kids, with rides such as Planet Snoopy, Bumper Cars, and Mad Mouse. On a hot summer day, Soak City is the perfect place to cool off. Soak up the sun while you and your family enjoy the pool, water slides, and splash areas.
Check out one of the live shows at Vallyfair, including Peanuts Showplace with Snoopy and the gang and live music in the water park. Treat your taste buds to one of the many dining and drink options available in the park. Keep an eye out for a few of the upcoming summer events at Valleyfair, including the Food Truck Fest, the July 4th BBQ, Minnesota Eats, and Corn Feast. Read the rest of this entry »
The Ford F-150 remains the best-selling pickup truck in history. With powerful performance and a series of accommodating interior features, it’s no surprise that the 2019 Ford F-150 Super Duty continues with this trend. Check out a few of the best features you’re sure to enjoy with the 2019 Ford F-150.
Power
The 2019 Super Duty is powered standard by a 6.2-liter flex-fuel V-8 engine for 430 pound-feet of torque. For more power, upgrade to the available 6.7-liter Power Stroke turbo diesel engine for 450 horsepower and 935 pound-feet of torque. The 6.7-liter engine comes with a driver-activated exhaust brake that controls pressure and improves control on the steepest of declines.
Opt for the F-150 off-road package, which includes an electronic shift-on-the-fly system that lets you quickly shift to four-wheel drive. The off-road package also comes with a 360-degree camera system that helps you monitor upcoming terrains. Additional features include an electronic-locking rear differential, a hill descent control, skid plates, off-roading tuned shock absorbers, and a special FX4 off-road decal sticker.
Performance
The advanced technologies of the 2019 F-150 Super Duty make its performance among the best in its class. The terrain management system enables you to swap among seven drive modes, including Normal, Sport, Slippery, Deep Snow/Sand, Tow/Haul, Baja, and Rock Crawl. The trail control feature lets you set the cruise control feature on, even when off-roading on the most difficult of terrains.
Tow in confidence with the 2019 Super Duty with a best- Read the rest of this entry »
Perk Up Your Day at One of These Bloomington Cafes
What better way is there to start your day than with a fresh cup of coffee and a hot breakfast? Whether you’re on the go, catching up with a friend, or looking for a spot to relax and sip, these Bloomington, Minnesota, cafes are worth checking out. 
Bruegger’s Bagels Southtown
Bruegger’s Bagels Southtown is a great place to get a fresh New York-style bagel and a hot cup of morning coffee. Each bagel is kettle-cooked and then baked in a stone hearth oven so that you can enjoy the authentic New York taste. You’ll also find breakfast and lunch sandwiches, salads, soups, and desserts on the menu. A few of the must-try bagels are the cheesy hashbrown, the jalapeno cheddar, and the asiago parmesan. Make sure you try one of the flavored cream cheeses, such as the sriracha honey or the honey walnut.
Subscribe to the Bruegger’s Bagels Inner Circle for exclusive offers and discounts on your favorite menu items. As a bonus, you’ll get a free bagel and cream cheese just for signing up.
Mugshots Coffee Company
Mugshots Coffee Company is locally owned and operated and has a welcoming and relaxing atmosphere. It’s a great place to meet up with a friend for some good conversation and a delicious cup of coffee. The staff at Mugshots is committed to creating an environment that will make you feel like you’re part of the family. Mugshots often hosts special events such as family game night, open-mic night, and comedy night. Read the rest of this entry »
2019 Escape or Explorer – Which One Fills Your Bill?
The 2019 Ford Escape and Explorer are both exceptional SUV choices. Consider a few of the differences between the two to determine which Ford SUV is right for you.
Interior Features
One of the biggest differences between the 2019 Escape and Explorer is the size. The Ford Escape can comfortably seat up to five passengers with a maximum of 68 cubic feet of cargo space, while the Explorer can hold up to seven passengers with a maximum of 80.7 cubic feet of cargo space. The Explorer offers third-row power-folding seats, and the Escape has 60/40 split-fold-flat rear seat backs. Each option offers an easy load-in process with a hands-free, foot-activated liftgate.
These 2019 SUVs feature the Sync 3 driver infotainment system. You can sync your smartphone via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto for a personalized drive including hands-free text messages and phone calls. The Sync 3 also pairs with Alexa for over 30,000 Amazon skills. With the FordPass app, you can connect to your vehicle for 4G Wi-Fi. Ford Escape drivers have the option to upgrade to satellite radio for even more music streaming choices. Read the rest of this entry »
What the Wear on Your Tires Says About Your Driving
Did you know your tires say a lot about the way you drive? Next time you glance at your car’s wheels, what will you discover? By regularly checking your tires’ tread, you can keep a handle on potentially dangerous issues and expensive repairs. Let’s find out what the wear on your tires says about your driving. 
You’re Not Properly Inflating
If you notice that the outside edge of your tires is wearing away faster than the inside, your tires are underinflated. Underinflation causes stress to the sidewalls, making your tires crack and bulge.
On the other hand, overinflated tires will have a center wear pattern. Overinflating changes the shape of the wheel so your car sits only on the center of each tire, causing less tread surface to have contact with the road.
Both situations can be dangerous. To avoid uneven wear in the future, check your tire pressure often. Ensure to inflate them to the number listed in your owner’s manual or on the sticker inside your door frame. By keeping your tires at the proper pressure, they’ll last longer, and you’ll decrease the risk of damage to other essential parts. Read the rest of this entry »
You don’t need to leave the country to enjoy traditional Italian fare. From classic spaghetti and meatballs to chicken cacciatore, the perfect place to celebrate the tantalizing flavors of the Mediterranean is right here in Minnesota. Immerse yourself in a fabulous European dining experience while you tempt your taste buds at one of these four Italian restaurants in Bloomington. 
- Ciao Bella
Your first stop in Bloomington for simple, homemade Italian cuisine is Ciao Bella. Everything on the menu is made from local in-season ingredients, including vegetarian-fed, hormone-free beef and poultry and freshly flown-in fish. Even their desserts are handmade, using only the finest certified organic dairy products.
At Ciao Bella, you’re going to get that white table cloth experience you love with a selection of great wines. Sample one of Ciao Bella’s small plates, like the delectable parmesan crusted shrimp, or order the herb grilled organic salmon served with roasted heirloom potatoes.
Visit Ciao Bella at 3501 Minnesota Dr. Monday through Saturday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sundays from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.
- Piada Italian Street Food
If a white tablecloth experience isn’t on your agenda this evening, get your Italian cuisine over-the-counter at Piada Italian Street Food. This beloved chain serves up design-your-own Italian meals, from pasta and wraps to salads.
Order one of their tossed pasta bowls, like the Carbonara that features angel hair topped with grated parmesan and alfredo cheeses, pancetta, and spinach. Why not try their signature piada? This Italian-style street wrap is loaded with sliced Genoa salami, capicola, and mozzarella and is drizzled with basil aioli.
You’ll find Piada’s at 6745 York Ave S. in Edina. It’s open daily from 10:45 a.m. to 10 p.m. Read the rest of this entry »
There’s always something exciting going on in Minnesota. Right next door to the Twin Cities, Bloomington offers dozens of events each spring. From a sportsman’s expo to a course in maple sugaring, something is going on this season for everyone in the family. Here are four local springtime events you don’t want to miss. 
- Discover Maple Sugaring
Minnesota’s native people have long practiced the art of maple sugaring. You too can experience this fun and delicious craft they shared with early settlers. During this outdoor event, you’ll learn which trees to tap and how to collect the sap and boil it down. Come indoors and see how syrup transforms into sugar, and then make a paper makuk, a traditional basket, to take home. Don’t forget to sample the maple candy. It’s delicious.
The maple sugaring event takes place on March 10 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the historic Gideon Pond House at 401 E. 104th St. This drop-in program has a suggested donation of just $2 for adults and is free for the kiddos. Parking is also free.
- Get Ready for Spring Outdoor Sports
If you love hunting and fishing, you’re going to want to head to the Minneapolis Convention Center from March 21 to 24. Get ready for the outdoor season with four days filled with fun and some of the best sporting gear in the country.
Watch pro anglers demonstrate their skills in the 5,000-gallon aquarium, talk turkey with experts from the NWTF, and watch the kids work the catch-and-release pond. It’s a great way to get the next generation hooked on fishing. Read the rest of this entry »
Are you shopping for a quality full-size pickup? Check out the power and performance of the 2019 Ford F-150. It’s arguably one of the most capable trucks you’ll find on the lot this model year. Featuring a spacious and comfortable interior, a smooth ride, and versatile bed options, the F-150 is a solid value with a reasonable sticker price. Let’s take a look at a few of this truck’s top amenities. 
Class-Leading Performance
Ford equipped the new F-150 with strong engines that deliver plenty of power. In fact, they launch it to the top of the class when it comes to maximum capabilities. The adequately equipped, the 2019 variants carry a 2,309-pound payload and tow an astounding 13,200 pounds.
For work or play, the F-150 pulls heavy trailers or a full bed of gear without feeling strained. It holds its own on the highway or crowded city streets thanks to its poised handling. Take the Raptor trim off the beaten path with brand new shocks and Ford’s trail control system.
Powerful Engines
Ford offers the 2019 F-150 with a choice of six solid engine options. All produce plenty of power, including the base V-6, which is an excellent choice for your daily commute. If you plan to put your F-150 to work, opt for either the V-8 or the turbo diesel. Turn your F-150 into a monster that can outperform every truck on the lot with one of three turbocharged V-6 options. Read the rest of this entry »
Your Guide to the Brand-New 2019 Ford F-150
The Ford F-150 is known for its dependability and durability. The 2019 model is no exception to this. But the new F-150 offers more than just power and strength. Here are some of the interesting features on the new F-150. 
Ford Sync 3 App Link with Waze
With AppLink, the popular maps and navigation app Waze is conveniently placed right on the dashboard making it easier to find the way out of traffic jams. Not only does this give the driver a larger display, but it also eliminates the need to operate an additional device and reduces distraction by the driver taking their eyes off the road. All Waze settings can be configured by the touchscreen or by the voice activation system.
Ford + Alexa
AppLink works with more than just Waze. Using AppLink, the infotainment system can be paired to Alexa, the digital smart assistant. With Alexa enabled, drivers can use voice navigation, get traffic information or use any of more than 50,000 skills. Amazon Prime shopping is also available, all without having to get out of the truck. Read the rest of this entry »
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