Latest news with #enthusiasts
The Drive
4 days ago
- Automotive
- The Drive
This Cursed Road Near a North Dakota Oil Field Swallows Up Any Truck That Tries It
The latest car news, reviews, and features. There's a seemingly ordinary dirt road in North Dakota's Bakken oil fields that's nigh impossible to traverse when wet. Despite looking like a normal route most of the time, Williston's 'Road of Shame' is made from some of the softest, loosest soil I've ever seen, and it swallows up even the most capable off-road vehicles like they're nothing. Tacomas and Jeeps are no match for it—and heck, not even the equipment they deploy to rescue stuck trucks is safe. The old-fashioned wagon trail is a local legend of sorts, with a Facebook group dedicated to the brave but ultimately foolish souls who attempt to take on the Road of Shame, officially known as 135th Ave NW. Few of them make it out without a rescue of some sort. Admittedly, when the road is bone dry, it's not so bad; however, when it seems to be even a little bit wet, all vehicles just sink into the mud with no hope of getting out. It's tough for me to say exactly why the dirt is so soft, but it's proven that soil near oil extraction sites is subject to worsened erosion due to increased runoff. Either way, it's like quicksand when wet. Devin Davis Like with so many other obstacles featuring tough terrain, off-roaders want to take it on just because. There's a shocking number of social media and YouTube videos of this road, despite it being remotely located in the middle of North Dakota, since optimistic enthusiasts can't help but try to earn legendary status for slaying the muddy dragon. Other people just sit back, watch, and record all of the attempts, waiting for others to get stuck for some Internet gold. Unfortunately—or fortunately, depending on how you look at it—that gold mine is deep and plentiful. One local, Devin Davis, has been watching people get stuck on the Road of Shame for about 10 years. He told The Drive that he's seen over 300 cars stuck in the infamous road's mud during that time. Part of the problem is that Google and Apple Maps direct people through the road, and they follow their navigation instructions, unaware of the danger. It's hard to blame them, as it seems odd that Google would lead anyone down a random dirt road. Apple Maps even shows vehicles stuck on the road, and yet it still directs people through it. With what Davis calls the 'oil boom,' and countless newcomers driving through for work, it's a never-ending parade of stuck vehicles. @ Something blew and it wasnt good #mudding #vortexoptics #muddin #fyp #chevy #greatoutdoors #environment #great #letsgo ♬ original sound – ROAD OF SHAME However, the most common vehicles found stuck in the mud are necessary ones: UPS and FedEx trucks, semi trucks, and various other work vehicles that use the road because they have to, not because they want to. Davis has even seen tractors stuck and flipped on their sides. Although it's a dead-end road, it leads to a number of homes and businesses, so some trucks do need to use it. Another big part of the problem is how the road slopes off into sneakily deep ditches on either side. So when drivers try to avoid the deep mud puddles in the middle of the path, they slide off and either get stuck or tip over. 'Even people who know how to drive in the mud, as soon as it gets a little wet, it gets so slippery [that] people slide off the side,' Davis told me. So, whether you live in North Dakota or you're just passing through, make sure to avoid the Road of Shame at all costs. And if you think you have a rig that can handle anything, well, maybe think again. Got tips? Send 'em to tips@
Yahoo
6 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
Your Daily Couples Horoscope for May 25, 2025
Communication is key in any relationship, but sometimes things fall through the cracks. Our daily couple horoscope can help you find what's been lost and maintain that spark! You might find yourself offending or even hurting your partner with a few careless words, especially early this morning. If so, you should see an opportunity to make up for it later on. You're going to feel more and more grounded as the day goes on and will be charming and present for your partner just when they need it most. Expect to score quite a few points. You've got some good brainy energy that will keep you both smiling through the morning hours, but something is going to drop later on that will make communication difficult for a day or two. Though you're a little self-obsessed this morning, by afternoon you're going to need to check in with your partner to make sure that everything is still cool and on track for the next week or two. You are totally fired up and enthusiastic about some new project or person in your life, and it may consume your attention completely. By the end of the day, you could be obsessed. Feeling lost with your career? Guidance is one click away! You'll feel oppressed by responsibilities for most of the morning, but at some point later in the day you'll feel fantastic. Expect an evening filled with fun for both of you. Make sure you say everything you need to say this morning, because tonight you're going to be down and possibly inarticulate. The phase won't last long, but it'll make communication difficult. You might not realize what you're signing on for this morning when you say yes without thinking, but if you decide that you need to back out, you'll have the will to say so this evening. You're on top of the world this morning and should feel great all day long. Make sure that you're open and direct with your partner tonight, because confusion will grow until it's popped. Even if things are totally bewildering this morning, don't give up. The more you puzzle through it, the more you'll understand until the big epiphany comes this evening. All will go well then. Something small is going to turn into something big and wonderful this morning. You're all about business this evening, so make sure that you're free of distractions of all sorts. It's a good time for you to think outside the box. You may be facing some thorny relationship issue, but you can get great advice from the least likely places if you just think to ask. Are you meant to be? Find out with our Love Compatibility Report!
Yahoo
7 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
McDonald's Prices Went Up — Is It Still the Best Deal on Your Fast Food Menu?
When restaurants sets prices, they take several factors into consideration. First, there's the cost of goods and labor used to create their menu items and serve the food. That would also include overhead like electricity costs, property fees and employee salaries and benefits. Inflationary pressures and supply-chain challenges can also influence costs. Finally, the laws of supply and demand come into play, along with how much of a price increase the market can bear. Check Out: For You: In other words, while customers may be swallowing price increases from McDonald's and other fast-food chains, they aren't likely to pay $10 for a Happy Meal. So, unhappily as of 2025, Happy Meal pricing can fall between $4 and $8 at most locations but as much as $10 to $15 at others. Obviously for many, that is not worth the price of the toy. Given how disgruntled even loyal McDonald's enthusiasts are with price hikes, the chain will continue to evaluate customer research to ensure they still feel they are getting a good value. However, as former value menu items creep above $10, many are asking a simple question: Is McDonald's still the best deal in town? For decades, McDonald's has been synonymous with fast, affordable food. From the iconic $1 menu to the reliable combo meals, it has long been the go-to option for a quick bite on a budget. Yet recently, many customers are fit to be fried with the rising cost of food, with headlines and social media posts revealing a growing concern among consumers. Read Next: Not long ago, a few bucks could get you a satisfying meal, but today, prices at McDonald's vary widely depending on location, and in some cities, a Big Mac meal can cost as much as $18. The Dollar Menu –once a symbol of affordability — has evolved into the '$1 $2 $3 Menu' or the the 'Buy One, Get One for $1' option, which works for breakfast, lunch or dinner. You simply buy one item from the menu and can get the second for just a buck. Here are examples of some favorites you can snag for $1 when you double up: Sausage McMuffin Sausage Biscuit Sausage Burrito Hash Browns McChicken Double Cheeseburger 6-piece Chicken McNuggets Small Fries There is also the $5 Meal Deal at McDonald's, which includes a McChicken or McDouble sandwich, four chicken nuggets, fries and a drink. Inflation is certainly part of the story that is making value menus disappear faster than the middle class. Rising costs of ingredients, labor, packaging and transportation are affecting fast food chains across the board. Here are some key takeaways from what are causing these skyrocketing prices: Labor costs: With minimum wages rising in many areas, fast food workers are earning more, rightfully so. But that cost is often passed on to consumers. Inflation, tariffs and supply chain issues: Global supply chain disruptions and inflationary pressures have driven up the cost of beef, dairy, and other ingredients. Franchise model: Since most McDonald's locations are franchised, owners set their own prices. That means costs can vary significantly depending on where you are. Despite higher prices, McDonald's still offers convenience, consistency and broad availability in every state. However, when the cost of a combo meal rivals that of a sit-down lunch at a diner or a fresh meal from a local restaurant, the value proposition becomes murkier. Here are some other deals and discounts from leading competitors: Wendy's: Known for its $5 Biggie Bag combo meal which includes your choice of a Jr. Bacon Cheeseburger or Crispy Chicken Sandwich, four chicken nuggets, fries and a drink, Wendy's does know its way around a budget-friendly way to eat. Taco Bell: Still offers a Cravings Value Menu with a variety of low-cost items. There are plenty of inexpensive items (though not as inexpensive as they used to be) and the The $7 Luxe Cravings Box includes a Seasoned Beef Chalupa Supreme, a Beefy 5-Layer Burrito, a Double Stacked Taco, chips and nacho cheese sauce, and a medium fountain drink, which is a good amount of food. Burger King: For $5, you can choose between a Whopper Jr., Chicken Jr. or Bacon Cheeseburger paired with Value Fries, a four-piece Chicken Nuggets and a Value Soft Drink, because as advertised, BK lets you rule over your next order and pay less with options like the $5 Duo or $7 Trio, which is where you can mix and match your favorite BK items such as the Bacon Cheeseburger or Original Chicken Sandwiches and get two for $5 or three for $7. McDonald's is still a giant in the fast food world, but its status as the most affordable option is being challenged. While many customers will remain loyal for the convenience and comfort of the brand, others are looking elsewhere, wondering if the Golden Arches have lost a bit of their shine. The question remains — for McDonald's and other chains, as well as locally owned eateries — how much higher can prices go before restaurants start losing enough customers that it significantly damages their profitability? And who's gonna bring home the bacon (cheeseburgers)? More From GOBankingRates Surprising Items People Are Stocking Up On Before Tariff Pains Hit: Is It Smart? The 10 Most Reliable SUVs of 2025 This article originally appeared on McDonald's Prices Went Up — Is It Still the Best Deal on Your Fast Food Menu? Sign in to access your portfolio
Yahoo
7 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
McDonald's Prices Went Up — Is It Still the Best Deal on Your Fast Food Menu?
When restaurants sets prices, they take several factors into consideration. First, there's the cost of goods and labor used to create their menu items and serve the food. That would also include overhead like electricity costs, property fees and employee salaries and benefits. Inflationary pressures and supply-chain challenges can also influence costs. Finally, the laws of supply and demand come into play, along with how much of a price increase the market can bear. Check Out: For You: In other words, while customers may be swallowing price increases from McDonald's and other fast-food chains, they aren't likely to pay $10 for a Happy Meal. So, unhappily as of 2025, Happy Meal pricing can fall between $4 and $8 at most locations but as much as $10 to $15 at others. Obviously for many, that is not worth the price of the toy. Given how disgruntled even loyal McDonald's enthusiasts are with price hikes, the chain will continue to evaluate customer research to ensure they still feel they are getting a good value. However, as former value menu items creep above $10, many are asking a simple question: Is McDonald's still the best deal in town? For decades, McDonald's has been synonymous with fast, affordable food. From the iconic $1 menu to the reliable combo meals, it has long been the go-to option for a quick bite on a budget. Yet recently, many customers are fit to be fried with the rising cost of food, with headlines and social media posts revealing a growing concern among consumers. Read Next: Not long ago, a few bucks could get you a satisfying meal, but today, prices at McDonald's vary widely depending on location, and in some cities, a Big Mac meal can cost as much as $18. The Dollar Menu –once a symbol of affordability — has evolved into the '$1 $2 $3 Menu' or the the 'Buy One, Get One for $1' option, which works for breakfast, lunch or dinner. You simply buy one item from the menu and can get the second for just a buck. Here are examples of some favorites you can snag for $1 when you double up: Sausage McMuffin Sausage Biscuit Sausage Burrito Hash Browns McChicken Double Cheeseburger 6-piece Chicken McNuggets Small Fries There is also the $5 Meal Deal at McDonald's, which includes a McChicken or McDouble sandwich, four chicken nuggets, fries and a drink. Inflation is certainly part of the story that is making value menus disappear faster than the middle class. Rising costs of ingredients, labor, packaging and transportation are affecting fast food chains across the board. Here are some key takeaways from what are causing these skyrocketing prices: Labor costs: With minimum wages rising in many areas, fast food workers are earning more, rightfully so. But that cost is often passed on to consumers. Inflation, tariffs and supply chain issues: Global supply chain disruptions and inflationary pressures have driven up the cost of beef, dairy, and other ingredients. Franchise model: Since most McDonald's locations are franchised, owners set their own prices. That means costs can vary significantly depending on where you are. Despite higher prices, McDonald's still offers convenience, consistency and broad availability in every state. However, when the cost of a combo meal rivals that of a sit-down lunch at a diner or a fresh meal from a local restaurant, the value proposition becomes murkier. Here are some other deals and discounts from leading competitors: Wendy's: Known for its $5 Biggie Bag combo meal which includes your choice of a Jr. Bacon Cheeseburger or Crispy Chicken Sandwich, four chicken nuggets, fries and a drink, Wendy's does know its way around a budget-friendly way to eat. Taco Bell: Still offers a Cravings Value Menu with a variety of low-cost items. There are plenty of inexpensive items (though not as inexpensive as they used to be) and the The $7 Luxe Cravings Box includes a Seasoned Beef Chalupa Supreme, a Beefy 5-Layer Burrito, a Double Stacked Taco, chips and nacho cheese sauce, and a medium fountain drink, which is a good amount of food. Burger King: For $5, you can choose between a Whopper Jr., Chicken Jr. or Bacon Cheeseburger paired with Value Fries, a four-piece Chicken Nuggets and a Value Soft Drink, because as advertised, BK lets you rule over your next order and pay less with options like the $5 Duo or $7 Trio, which is where you can mix and match your favorite BK items such as the Bacon Cheeseburger or Original Chicken Sandwiches and get two for $5 or three for $7. McDonald's is still a giant in the fast food world, but its status as the most affordable option is being challenged. While many customers will remain loyal for the convenience and comfort of the brand, others are looking elsewhere, wondering if the Golden Arches have lost a bit of their shine. The question remains — for McDonald's and other chains, as well as locally owned eateries — how much higher can prices go before restaurants start losing enough customers that it significantly damages their profitability? And who's gonna bring home the bacon (cheeseburgers)? More From GOBankingRates Surprising Items People Are Stocking Up On Before Tariff Pains Hit: Is It Smart? The 10 Most Reliable SUVs of 2025 This article originally appeared on McDonald's Prices Went Up — Is It Still the Best Deal on Your Fast Food Menu? Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Daily Mail
19-05-2025
- Sport
- Daily Mail
I've watched rugby in every corner of the world - these are the 20 bucket list stadiums you MUST watch a game in before you die, writes CHRIS FOY
At least, here it is, a global guide to help oval-ball enthusiasts plan the best places to take in a fixture – close to home or thousands of miles away. Below is a personal top 20 list of rugby venues which this observer would recommend for a visit, subject to the availability of tickets or – in most cases – the (rising) cost of the air fares.
