Just Cruisin' Along

Rent a Segway and roll down the seawall

Comments (0) Thursday, Sep 2 2004

Last year our commander in chief took one step on a Segway Human Transporter before it toppled over. According to BBC News, he "managed to leap to safety, landing on his feet," proving once and for all that Dubya is no stranger to danger. You can follow the prez's lead by renting one of these funky two-wheeled vehicles in Galveston, where entrepreneur Jim Galinsky has set up his company, A Smooth Ride Segway Rentals. These gizmos can go up to 12 miles per hour, although Galinsky recommends that you don't go over 6 miles per hour until you get the hang of it. And then it's time to terrorize seagulls on the seawall.

Joe Rocco

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This nonpolluting, Jetsons-like form of transportation produces a weird, floating feeling. You propel yourself along by shifting your weight and turn corners by gently working the handle like you would a video-game controller. Yes, you'll get to feel just like the president, moving along with minimal effort in a world of video-game fantasy. Lay off the booze beforehand. 10 a.m. to dusk. Fridays through Sundays. 902 Broadway. For information, call 877-736-8273. $30 per hour. -- Greg Barr

H-town Showdown

SUN 9/5

As far as college rivalries go, the one between UH and Rice is almost a battle of apples versus oranges. Hell, screw the fruit -- it's a battle of Cougars versus Owls. Despite a wealth of academic programs, UH is rarely given the same credence as Rice when it comes to academics. And Rice has put together a few top-notch sports teams here and there, but no one would pick a big-eyed bird over a fierce cat in a one-on-one brawl. Which brings us to the Houston versus Rice football game, a.k.a. the Bayou Bucket. UH is on the cusp of regaining national prominence for its team, and Rice, well, Rice is a really good place to study engineering. 4 p.m. Sunday, September 5. Reliant Stadium, One Reliant Park. For information, call 713-629-3700 or visit uhcougars.collegesports.com. $12 to $27. -- Keith Plocek