First rides on Valravn to benefit foundation

Cedar Point's Valravn, the world's tallest, fastest and longest dive coaster, will debut to the general public on May 7 & 8. But guests can "dare to dive" before anyone else at the Valravn First Rider Benefit event on Thursday evening, May 5. All proceeds will go directly to The LeBron James Family Foundation, an organization that provides educational and developmental opportunities for youth in Northeast Ohio.A limited number of tickets are being sold online for this exclusive event. For $75 each, guests can attend the festivities at the park from 6 to 10 p.m. where they'll receive a commemorative souvenir, be the first to try a variety of Valravn-themed food items like the new FlavaRavn Fizz, a custom Coca-Cola freestyle beverage, Toft's Valravn Salty Caramel Fudge Truffle ice cream, The Brew Kettle's custom Valravn red IPA, Dippin' Dots Cookie Crown Crunch, and of course, have the very first opportunity to ride the most anticipated new roller coaster of the year, Valravn. Guests wanting to secure the first public front-row ride can purchase a ticket for $500."We're happy to continue our great partnership with The LeBron James Family Foundation," said Jason McClure, vice president and general manager at Cedar Point. "This event will help the Foundation continue to provide great programs and experiences to families and kids in Northeast Ohio, and we're excited to be a part of their mission."Tickets for the Valravn First Rider Benefit are now on sale and are expected to sell out. Only Valravn will be in operation. Guests can learn more about the event and purchase tickets at cedarpoint.com/events.Information provided by Cedar PointCedar Point's new roller coaster Valravn, debuting next month, will be a driving factor in bringing tourists into the local area. Lake Erie Shores & Islands, the tourism bureau for Erie and Ottawa counties, touted record numbers for lodging sales record and lodging tax receipts in 2015 thanks to the area's wealth of attractions and amenities.