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A 370-mile loop from Las Vegas through Death Valley, often called the “Death Drive,” offers a compelling road trip experience combining dramatic landscapes, historic sites, and a sense of solitude. The route includes mountains, desert basins, ghost towns, and quirky roadside attractions.

Know Before You Go

The Death Drive is easily accessible from Las Vegas and can be completed in a few days. While it’s theoretically possible to drive the loop in under six hours without stopping, a more leisurely pace is recommended to fully explore the area. Travelers should be aware that some roads are currently closed due to damage and should check the National Park Service website for current conditions before departing.

Timing is crucial for this trip. Summers in Death Valley are extremely hot, with temperatures frequently exceeding 110 and reaching 120 degrees Fahrenheit, making outdoor activities dangerous. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable conditions. Winter travel requires preparation for potential snow or icy conditions near Mount Charleston. Cell phone reception is limited in remote areas, and gas stations and restaurants are scarce, so carrying extra supplies – water, food, and a spare tire – is essential.

Expert Insight:

Stops Along the Way

Leaving Las Vegas, travelers will first encounter Red Rock Canyon. West of Las Vegas, near Pahrump, are wineries like Artesian Cellars. A quirky stop just outside Pahrump is Coffin It Up, a coffin-themed shop. The journey continues to Death Valley Junction in California.

Key stops within Death Valley include the Amargosa Opera House, Dante’s View, Zabriskie Point, and Artist’s Palette. At Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America at nearly 282 feet below sea level, visitors can explore the vast salt flats, the Natural Bridge Trail, and the Devil’s Golf Course. Overnight accommodations are available at the Oasis at Death Valley, near Zabriskie Point.

On the return trip, Daylight Pass Road leads to Ubehebe Crater, the ghost town of Leadfield, Klare Spring, and Titus Canyon. The ruins of Rhyolite – a former bank, bottle house, and train depot – offer a glimpse into the area’s mining past. Nearby, the Goldwell Open Air Museum features unique outdoor sculptures. The Amargosa Big Dune Recreation Area and Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge, home to endangered species, are also along the route. Finally, travelers can enjoy alpine scenery near Mount Charleston, with lodging available at The Retreat at Charleston Peak.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the length of the “Death Drive”?

The “Death Drive” is a 370-mile loop starting and ending in Las Vegas, extending into Death Valley.

When is the best time to take this road trip?

Spring and fall are the best times to visit, as temperatures are warm but not excessively hot. Winter travel requires preparation for potential snow or ice at higher elevations.

What should travelers bring with them?

Travelers should carry extra water, food, and a spare tire, as gas stations and restaurants are scarce in remote areas. It’s also important to check road conditions with the National Park Service before departing.

Considering the potential for extreme conditions and limited services, what level of preparedness would you recommend for a trip like the “Death Drive”?

Welsh singer Cate Le Bon recently collaborated with St. Vincent, also known as Annie Clark, on the song “Always The Same.” The track was released last week and originated during recording sessions for Le Bon’s latest album, Michelangelo Dying. Last night, Le Bon performed at Irving Plaza in New York City and invited Clark onstage to perform the duet with her.

Collaboration and Context

According to Le Bon, “Always The Same” didn’t quite fit within the structure of Michelangelo Dying, but remains closely connected to the album’s overall themes. The song came together alongside the album’s other tracks, forming a cohesive creative period.

A Personal Connection

Le Bon described the collaboration as particularly meaningful, noting her friendship with Clark. She characterized Clark as possessing “composure and gravitas,” a contrast to Le Bon’s own approach to the “dirty waters of love.”

What’s Next?

It is possible that Le Bon and Clark may perform “Always The Same” at future concerts. The song could also be included on a future compilation album or re-release. Further collaborations between the two artists are a possibility, though no such plans have been announced.

Frequently Asked Questions

What album is “Always The Same” connected to?

“Always The Same” is connected to Cate Le Bon’s album, Michelangelo Dying.

Where did the live performance take place?

The live performance featuring both artists took place at Irving Plaza in New York City.

How does Cate Le Bon describe St. Vincent?

Cate Le Bon describes St. Vincent as someone who occupies space with “composure and gravitas.”

What does it mean when artists choose to release songs outside of their primary album cycle?

The chairman of the Green Youth, Luis Bobga, has sparked controversy after a rap video surfaced in which he indirectly referred to Bavarian Minister President Markus Söder as “Hurensohn,” a highly offensive term. The video, which incorporates lyrics from the artist Haftbefehl, includes an image of Söder. The release of the video followed Söder’s proposal to consolidate some German federal states.

A spokesperson for the Green Youth confirmed the video’s authenticity to the dpa press agency. Bobga subsequently stated that he regretted the focus shifting away from the content of Söder’s proposal. He clarified that his intention was not to directly insult Söder with the language used, but apologized for the choice of song.

Bobga explained that he aims to reach young people and foster their interest in politics through social media, including utilizing popular music. He stated that German rap is a common form of expression for many young people, particularly those who feel underrepresented in mainstream political discourse.

CSU Demands Immediate Resignation

Alexander Hoffmann, leader of the CSU parliamentary group, sharply criticized Bobga in Bild, demanding an apology for the “hate speech” directed at Söder and the removal of the video. “Anyone who says something like that is no longer tenable,” Hoffmann stated, also calling on the Green party leaders Felix Banaszak and Franziska Brantner to address the situation. Banaszak responded to the dpa, stating, “Luis Bobga says he is sorry. I think that is good and right.”

CSU parliamentary group leader Klaus Holetschek and the leader of the Free Voters, Florian Streibl, also condemned the video, calling it “incredible” and demanding Bobga’s resignation and an apology to Söder.

Bobga has co-led the Green Youth alongside Henriette Held since October 2025, succeeding Nietzard after her resignation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What prompted the release of the video?

The video was released following Markus Söder’s proposal to consolidate some German federal states.

How did Luis Bobga respond to the criticism?

Bobga stated he regretted the focus shifting away from Söder’s proposal and apologized for the song choice, clarifying he did not intend to directly insult Söder.

What is the CSU’s response to the video?

The CSU is demanding Bobga’s immediate resignation and a full apology to Markus Söder, calling the video’s content “hate speech.”

Given the strong condemnation from the CSU and the internal scrutiny within the Green party, Bobga’s position as chairman of the Green Youth could be jeopardized. It is possible that further statements from Green party leadership will be forthcoming. The situation may also prompt a broader discussion about the appropriate tone and language used in political discourse, particularly when attempting to engage younger audiences.

Fort Wayne residents and visitors have the opportunity to enjoy dining specials at dozens of local restaurants through the ongoing Savor Fort Wayne event.

A Growing Tradition

The event, organized by Visit Fort Wayne, began this week and is scheduled to run through Sunday, January 25. It features a curated list of restaurants offering special food and drink deals.

According to Erin Okeson, Digital Content Manager for Visit Fort Wayne, the event’s popularity drives increased participation each year. Restaurants are actively seeking to be involved as word spreads.

Local Restaurants Benefit

Proximo, located at the Skyline Plaza on Harrison Street, is among the restaurants participating. The restaurant is offering a three-course meal for $40 per person. Jacob Franklin, General Manager at Proximo, noted that the event provides a valuable opportunity to attract diners during the typically slower winter months.

Franklin stated that Savor Fort Wayne is “a great time to bring the community together” and “gives us a chance to show off what our chefs can do.”

Savor Fort Wayne continues through January 25, with a comprehensive list of participating restaurants available across the city.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does Savor Fort Wayne end?

Savor Fort Wayne is scheduled to conclude on Sunday, January 25.

Who organizes Savor Fort Wayne?

Visit Fort Wayne is the organization behind the annual Savor Fort Wayne event.

How many restaurants are participating?

Currently, 117 restaurants are participating in Savor Fort Wayne.

Will initiatives like Savor Fort Wayne become increasingly important for supporting local businesses in the face of seasonal economic fluctuations?

China has proposed hosting the secretariat for a newly ratified treaty designed to protect the high seas. The bid, announced Friday, is seen as a move by Beijing to increase its influence over global environmental governance.

A New Treaty, A New Secretariat

According to a letter from the Chinese mission to the United Nations to Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, China has nominated the city of Xiamen to host the treaty’s secretariat. The treaty, which officially comes into force on Saturday, was ratified in September by 60 countries and aims to protect biodiversity in waters beyond national economic zones.

Currently, Belgium and Chile are also vying to host the organization. Li Shuo, director of the China Climate Hub at the Asia Society Policy Institute in Washington, described China’s bid as a “notable move” signaling “China’s intention to help shape global rules.”

Context of Shifting Global Roles

China’s announcement follows a recent decision by US President Donald Trump to withdraw the United States from 66 global organizations and treaties, including the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). The UNFCCC is the foundational treaty for all major international climate agreements, with near-universal ratification.

The new treaty aims to safeguard the oceans, which conservationists say are responsible for creating half of the globe’s oxygen supply and are vital in the fight against climate change. Once operational, the treaty’s decision-making body will need to coordinate with existing regional and global organizations, such as regional fisheries bodies and the International Seabed Authority, which currently oversee various aspects of ocean management.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of this new treaty?

The treaty aims to protect biodiverse areas in waters worldwide, extending beyond countries’ exclusive economic zones.

Which countries were previously considered to host the secretariat?

Until now, Belgium and Chile had been vying to host the future organization.

When will the host country be decided?

The host country of the eventual secretariat will be decided later this year.

As the international community moves forward with implementing this landmark treaty, will China’s bid for the secretariat prove successful, and what impact might that have on the future of ocean conservation?

A man in his 20s has been remanded in custody following allegations of non-fatal strangulation and multiple other offenses in County Donegal, Ireland. The accused appeared before a special sitting of Letterkenny District Court on Saturday, January 17, 2026.

Allegations Detail Pattern of Abuse

The charges stem from two alleged incidents. According to Garda Rachel Carlin’s testimony, a woman contacted authorities on January 15, 2026, reporting issues with her ex-boyfriend. During an encounter in the Letterkenny area, the man allegedly pushed and bit the woman, leaving visible teeth marks on her hand and marks on her neck and chest. CCTV footage of this incident has been secured.

The woman further alleged that on December 21, 2025, while visiting the man’s home, he smashed a mirror, then pulled her back into the house after she attempted to leave, threatening her with the statement: “If I kill you, I will go to jail for years. Your death will be on my hands.” She alleged he then applied pressure to her neck while holding her legs against chairs.

The man, who cannot be named for legal reasons, faces charges including intentional or reckless strangulation, damaging property with intent to endanger life, assault causing harm, damaging a hair clip, handling stolen property – specifically Dior Sauvage and Tommy Hilfiger aftershave valued at approximately €125 – and possession of cannabis. He reportedly made no reply when the charges were read to him on both January 16th and 17th.

Bail Denied Amid Safety Concerns

Sergeant Michael Devlin objected to bail, citing “great concerns” for the woman’s safety. He described the man as a regular cannabis user with “issues with alcohol” and an “extremely chaotic lifestyle.” The alleged victim herself told the court she fears for her safety, stating, “I want my safety…I need protection from him,” and noting a protection order is already in place.

Defense solicitor Mr. Rory O’Brien argued against the refusal of bail, asserting that the State had not presented sufficient “factual nexus” to justify the decision. He suggested strict conditions could be imposed to ensure the man’s compliance and prevent contact with the alleged victim.

Judge Emile Daly, however, sided with the prosecution, stating the evidence presented was sufficient to warrant denying bail. The man has been remanded in custody and will appear via video link at a future sitting of Letterkenny District Court pending directions from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

Frequently Asked Questions

What specific charges is the man facing?

The man is charged with non-fatal strangulation, damaging property with intent to endanger life, assault causing harm, damaging a hair clip, handling stolen property (aftershave), and possession of cannabis.

Did the accused man respond to the charges?

According to Garda evidence, the man made no reply when the charges were put to him on both January 16th and January 17th.

What was the judge’s reasoning for denying bail?

Judge Daly stated that the evidence presented was sufficient to refuse bail, citing the serious nature of the allegations and the potential risk to the alleged victim’s safety.

What factors might influence the DPP’s decision regarding this case and the potential path forward?

The United States has called for the release of all political prisoners in Nicaragua and an end to what it describes as the country’s cycle of repression. This demand comes as the Nicaraguan government announced the liberation of “decenas de personas,” or dozens of people, coinciding with the 19th anniversary of Daniel Ortega’s presidency.

Context of Rising Pressure

The U.S. has publicly denounced what it characterizes as the “paranoia” of the Nicaraguan government led by Murillo. The U.S. Embassy in Nicaragua had previously called for the release of individuals referred to as “presos de consciencia,” or prisoners of conscience. The recent announcement of prisoner releases appears to be a response to sustained pressure from the United States.

The releases follow a pattern of the U.S. voicing concerns over human rights and political freedoms in Nicaragua. The U.S. is seeking an end to the ongoing repression, but the extent of the releases and their long-term impact remain to be seen.

Potential Next Steps

It is possible that further releases of political prisoners could occur as a result of continued U.S. pressure. However, the Nicaraguan government may also resist further concessions. Analysts expect the U.S. to continue to monitor the situation closely and potentially consider additional measures if the releases are limited or if repression continues. A possible next step could involve increased diplomatic efforts or targeted sanctions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What prompted the release of prisoners?

The releases appear to be a response to pressure from the United States, which has demanded the liberation of all political prisoners and an end to repression in Nicaragua.

How many prisoners have been released?

The Nicaraguan government announced the release of “decenas de personas,” meaning dozens of people, but a specific number has not been provided.

What has been the U.S. response to the situation in Nicaragua?

The U.S. has denounced the Nicaraguan government’s actions, calling for the release of political prisoners and an end to the cycle of repression.

What further steps might be taken to address the political situation in Nicaragua?