Category: News

It was nearly a year ago that Fox News finally drew an editorial line in the sand when Lara Logan decided to compare Dr. Anthony Fauci to the Nazi “Angel of Death” Josef Mengele. While that was the last we ever saw of Logan on Fox (she claimed the network just hates “independent thinkers”), Newsmax decided to take a gamble and give Logan a new platform from which to spread her batsh*t conspiracy theories by inviting her on as a regular guest and commentator. And now they’re regretting it.

On Wednesday evening, as The Daily Beast reports, Logan went on a total QAnon tear while appearing as a guest on fellow former Fox New staffer Eric Bolling’s show. The topic, unfortunately, was America’s immigration laws. Which led to a consensual conversation about the completely racist “Great Replacement Theory,” which only seemed to embolden Logan, who went on to talk about the “cabal” of global leaders who are blood-drinking pedophiles:

God believes in sovereignty and national identity and the sanctity of family, and all the things that we’ve lived with from the beginning of time. And he knows that the open border is Satan’s way of taking control of the world through all of these people who are his stooges and his servants. And they may think that they’re going to become gods. That’s what they tell us… You know, the ones who want us eating insects, cockroaches and that while they dine on the blood of children? Those are the people, right? They’re not going to win. They’re not going to win.

Ummmm… say what?!?

Fortunately, that was Newsmax’s response, too. After The Daily Beast reported on Logan’s rogue racism, the network actually took pretty swift action to ban Logan — who at one time was a well-respected 60 Minutes correspondent — from ever appearing on their airwaves again. Per the network’s official statement, “Newsmax condemns in the strongest terms the reprehensible statements made by Lara Logan and her views do not reflect our network. We have no plans to interview her again.”

(Via The Daily Beast)

Unlike when I first backpacked across Asia for two years on a shoestring budget a quarter of a century ago, 2022 sees a historically unprecedented wealth of useful travel information online (hey, like the Uproxx Fall Travel Hot List!). Too often, however, these travel resources focus on where to go and what to see, but not how to best attune yourself to the life-altering experiences that flow out of engaged journeys.

My new book, The Vagabond’s Way, was designed to inspire the reader into embracing the richer textures of travel from the initial process of dreaming and planning the journey; to the act of adjusting to life (and expanding your comfort zone) on the road; to coming full circle, and seeing your home as an intriguing new destination.

Here are three key bits of travel advice, taken from the book’s pages, that can help enrich your next journey.

1. Saving Money On The Road Is A Matter Of Attitude

In his book Libyan Sands, English explorer Ralph Bagnold posited that being able to travel long-term was less a matter of wealth than of attitude. “There are two kinds of travelers,” he wrote, “the Comfortable Voyager, round whom a cloud of voracious expenses hums all the time, and the man who shifts for himself and enjoys little discomforts as a change from life’s routine. Both may enjoy themselves, but the latter sees more of the country and its people, and has the added pleasure of going where lack of comfort excludes the former.”

Nearly a century later, Bagnold’s observation still holds true, particularly since so much of what tourists pay for on the road (particularly what they pay for in advance) involves amenities and efficiencies that can insulate them from the very cultures they’re trying to experience. Indeed, for all the perks offered by luxury hotels and tourist-district restaurants, sleeping in locally-owned guesthouses and dining on street food is not just cheaper, it’s far more likely to embed travelers in the daily life of their destination.

On the road, rich journeys don’t flow from extravagant budgets. They are found in forgoing the comforts and conveniences we’ve been told we want, and using what money we have to embrace what a place offers us.

2. Looking For Local Crowds Beats “Crowdsourcing”

Some years ago while visiting the Indonesian city of Bukittinggi, I decided to seek out rendang, a local dish consisting of slow-cooked meat caramelized in coconut milk and spices. Using the Wi-Fi connection in my guesthouse, I found a TripAdvisor review with a header along the lines of, “Best rendang in Bukittinggi!!!” The place was just a five-minute walk from where I was staying, so I decided to go.

As it happened, the TripAdvisor-approved rendang restaurant was empty when I arrived. The owner opened the kitchen for me, apologetically explaining that she usually catered to the tourist bus trade and that she hadn’t expected the buses to arrive until later that evening.

Her rendang tasted okay if a bit dry. When I left, I was still her only customer. On the walk home, I noticed something I’d overlooked on the way to the TripAdvisor-sanctioned restaurant, the street that led back to my guesthouse was lined with food tents packed with local diners. Somehow, I had completely overlooked a local street-food scene that had attracted throngs of Bukittinggi locals at the very hour my internet-approved restaurant sat empty. Had I simply used my eyes and my nose (rather than an online review), I no doubt would have had a more enjoyable meal.

This experience thus taught me a simple but elegant travel lesson. If you’re going to crowdsource an eating recommendation, the virtual advice of bygone travelers counts far less than the presence of a real-life crowd.

3. Sitting Still In A Place Can Be A Great Travel Strategy

I’ve been teaching a creative writing workshop in Paris each summer since the mid-2000s, and over the years I’ve hosted dozens of American friends in the city. Though my guests always enjoy themselves, I’ve found that first-time visitors in particular suffer anxiety when they dine at the storied brasseries and cafés in the French capital. Eager to get out and see the sights of the city, they become exasperated at how unhurried the waitstaff is in taking their order, bringing out their food, and in presenting them with their bill. This lunchtime procedure, which can be accomplished in well under thirty minutes in American establishments, can stretch across hours in a place like Paris.

I’ll admit I also felt irritation at the unconcerned tempo of French dining my first few summers in Paris. What I eventually came to learn was that the leisurely pace of brasseries and cafés was a far more genuine evocation of Paris. In France, a lunch that stretched out across three hours didn’t compromise one’s ability to experience the city, it was the experience of the city.

Often in our travels, the best way to appreciate a place isn’t to hurry off on an itemized sightseeing agenda but to first slow down. It’s to sit still for a few hours and let the place reveal itself through its own rhythms and rituals.

As a long-time National Park traveler, I have seen a marked shift in the average visitor to public lands. As you read our 2022 Fall Travel Hot List, you’ll see that more travelers want to see the famed and awe-inspiring sights that come along with places like the Grand Tetons or Yosemite’s Dome Rock while also trying to understand the story of the people who lived in these magnificent places for millennia. Some travelers are (finally) seeking out the real story of the Indigenous genocide carried out on some of the most sacred lands in present-day America. There’s a sense that people are willing to understand that brutal past while building toward much-needed repair (again, finally) in hopes of finding common ground in some of the most stunning corners of the country.

It’s not enough anymore to read a couple of plaques in a visitor center telling the story of Indigenous people who “once lived here.” Besides those plaques often being outright lies, Indigenous folks are still here to tell their stories. Travelers are starting to want to hear the stories from the people who stewarded these lands. If we are going to recreate and take our selfies and sometimes even profit off of our social media followings while on Indigenous lands, especially national parks which were often among the most sacred lands of Indigenous people across this continent, we need to spend time listening to the Indigenous people themselves and start learning from them directly.

I had the opportunity to do just that in Idaho this summer through cultural tourism programs. Here is what I learned and why you should consider a similar option for your next trip.

Part 1: What is “Cultural Tourism?”

Cultural tourism is just what it sounds like, visiting a place in order to learn more about another culture or place. It’s not just visiting a new city, it’s visiting with the intention to immerse oneself in the culture and people that inhabit and have inhabited that place throughout history.

Cultural tourism is booming as travelers are looking for opportunities to travel with purpose and support local economies. While cultural tourism can be as simple as sampling Indigenous food or visiting a museum on your travels, there are increasingly much more immersive ways to learn as you travel.

It’s important to note that not all cultural tourism operators are necessarily Indigenous-owned, and doing your research on that front is crucial to responsible travel. For too long, the stories of Indigenous people — from Greenland to Sweden to California to Mexico to Argentina and beyond — have been told by second and third-hand colonizers rather than told by the people who are living the experience right now. And that only caused and continues to cause harm.

Part 2: Schitsu’umsh Nation (Coeur d’Alene)

While there are many definitions and ways to experience cultural tourism, I wanted to be fully immersed, specifically with the Coeur d’Alene and Nez Perce Nations in northwest Idaho. So I hopped on a plane for a quick ride to Spokane, Washington, to begin my trip.

I started the week on the Coeur d’Alene Indian Reservation just outside Spokane, heading toward Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. I checked in to Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort — owned by the Coeur d’Alene Nation — and immediately found myself relaxing at Spa Ssakwa’q’n, a beautifully designed spa within the resort.

Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort has stylish rooms, a championship golf course, delicious upscale dining, and a thriving cultural tourism program, including a very popular cultural dinner. I was able to experience the dinner with a visiting tour group during my trip and was captivated the entire time.

During the dinner, we ate a traditional meal while watching members of the Schitsu’umsh nation drum, dance, and tell stories of their ancestors and their lives today. It felt very generous and we all asked questions and learned from their history and stories firsthand.

After watching a gorgeous sunset over the rolling Idaho hills and a nightcap at the resort bar, I was ready for another day of immersion and learning. The next morning, I was fortunate to be able to visit the first Indigenous-owned eagle aviary in the Northwest.

The aviary is also an eagle feather repository, meaning they’re able to collect and distribute naturally shed feathers to tribal members who request them for ceremonies and traditional regalia. It was a very moving and educational experience, all with the backdrop of gorgeous Idaho hills and regal bald eagles chattering away.

Beyond the dinner and aviary, there are many ways to recreate responsibly on the land with the Coeur D’Alene cultural tourism programs through biking tours, canoeing excursions in Heyburn State Park, and tours of the rebuilt The Old Mission at Coeur d’Alene’s Old Mission State Park, which offers a glimpse into early religious colonialism in the area.

Part 3: Nimíipuu Nation (Nez Perce)

After leaving the Coeur d’Alene Indian Reservation, I headed to Lewiston, Idaho, to spend a few days immersing myself in the Nez Perce Nation.

Known as the “Jetboat Capital of the World” with the Clearwater, Snake, and Salmon Rivers all running through the area, Lewiston is the gateway to Hells Canyon, the deepest river gorge in North America. It has long been a top-rated recreation site with many tour operators. However, Nez Perce Tourism’s Hells Canyon Jet Boat tour is the only one owned and operated by Indigenous folks.

Nez Perce Tourism was founded and is operated by Stacia Morfin, a Nimíipuu citizen, and true powerhouse. Morfin founded Nez Perce Tourism in 2017 after a vision from one of her ancestors while hiking a sacred mountain with her daughter. Her elder instructed her to create a tourism business that would help to preserve Nimi’ipuu traditions and to provide a platform to share the Nimíipuu side of history with others. She conducted intense market research for years before opening in 2019 and has thrived as a cultural and economic driver in the area despite the challenges of the last few years.

The most popular offering is the Saqánpa Hell’s Canyon Jet Boat Tour, a three-hour tour on the Snake River led by Nimíipuu guides. I was fortunate to experience the tour with Morfin as our guide, who was assisted in song and stories by her uncle. As we floated over the water into the deep canyon, Morfin pointed out sites that are sacred to the Nimíipuu in such a moving and powerful way, sharing a perspective we could never have otherwise.

Dressed in full regalia, Morfin guided us to Buffalo Eddy, where she pointed out ancient Nimíipuu petroglyphs on the rocks, helping us to fully understand why this area and this water are sacred to them. We were able to enjoy a traditional dance by Morfin on the banks of the Snake River that was truly transformational and unlike anything I have experienced traveling in the United States. Our group was entirely mesmerized by the experience and filled with gratitude that we were able to visit these places with those who call them home.

Nez Perce Tourism operates several different cultural tours outside of the very popular Hells Canyon Jet Boat Tour, including cultural wine tours, sit and paint, dinner with the Nez Perce, Appaloosa horse riding, and even whitewater rafting. You can also opt to book several day experiences to fully immerse yourself into the culture.

The next day, I was happy to visit the Lewis and Clark Discovery Center in Lewiston, where Morfin led us all in a sacred smudging ceremony and explained the significance of the area to the Nimíipuu.

After a filling and delicious lunch of fry bread tacos at the Nez Perce-owned Clearwater Casino, we hopped back on the bus towards The Nez Perce National Historic Park. The historic park is managed by the National Park Service and spans over four states and 38 locations that are significant to the Nimíipuu tribe. Nez Perce Tourism offers guided trips to the park as well as Lewis and Clark Discovery Center, both led by Nimíipuu guides who will give you a much-needed perspective on those time-worn stories usually only told by the white colonizers.

At the historic park, we were able to participate in a tipi program led by a park ranger — who was also a Nimíipuu tribal member — and explore The Wetxuuwíitin’ Collection of artifacts in the museum. Throughout the day, Morfin never seemed to tire. She’s an incredible guide who’s able to recount stories from her ancestors beautifully while answering any and all questions with an honesty and warmth that is extremely admirable. Her passion for her mission is clear and she is changing the tourism landscape in Northern Idaho and within the United States as a whole.

These are stories you won’t find in history books but have been passed down through generations, and it is an honor to be able to hear them from the people who live them.

John Fetterman – who’s currently campaigning to beat Dr. Mehmet Oz in the race for Pennsylvania’s State Senate seat – has just nabbed a big endorsement from another popular Democrat with a knack for trolling his political rivals.

Friday morning, Fetterman’s campaign announced that former President Barack Obama would be cutting multiple ads supporting his Congressional run. One commercial would be a 30-second clip airing across digital platforms while the other would be a 60-second ad airing on media across the state.

“I was proud to be one of the only elected officials in western Pennsylvania to endorse President Obama in the 2008 presidential primary, and it is truly an honor for him to get behind our campaign and cut ads for us across the commonwealth,” Fetterman said of the public display of support.

In the 30-second ad, Obama can be seen enthusiastically asking voters to check Fetterman’s box on their ballot come November.

“When the fate of our democracy and a woman’s right to choose are on the line, I know John will fight for Pennsylvanians,” Obama says. “You can count on John Fetterman. Make sure he can count on you. Vote Democrat on Nov. 8.”

Fetterman’s amassed thousands of new followers on Twitter after deftly outmaneuvering his opponent on social media. He successfully trolled Oz’s out-of-touch photo opps at tailgates, supermarkets, and more before running ads reminding voters that the TV doctor once experimented on puppies. But we can’t imagine he’d turn down the extra clout of having Obama in his corner. Your move, Oz.

(Via The Hill)

You probably already know that rum is, in the simplest terms, a spirit made from fermenting and distilling sugarcane or sugarcane juice. And while that is the simple explanation, there’s so much more to this sweet, rich, spirit than that. It can be unaged, matured for months or years at a time, or flavored with spices.

Most popular in the Caribbean, but made all over the world, it’s a spirit dominated by a handful of big names. And while we won’t go into detail as to whether brands like Bacardi, Sailor Jerry, and Captain Morgan are overrated or not, we do want to shine a light on some of the lesser-known, underrated, and underappreciated rums on the market.

“I have long held the belief that rum is the most underrated category in sipping spirits,” says Fred Minnick, author and spirits expert. “So many rums are geared towards cocktails that the public doesn’t think about the category the same was as they do whiskey.”

We could have spent hours perusing the aisles at our local liquor store or scrolling through online retailers, but we decided to ask for some help from the professionals. We asked a handful of well-known spirits experts and distillers to tell us their picks for the most underrated rums to drink right now. Keep scrolling to see all of their picks.

Copalli Cacao

Frank Caiafa, author of “The Waldorf Astoria Bar Book” and creative director at Handle Bars NYC in New York City

ABV: 40%

Average Price: $29.99

Why This Rum?

Copalli Cacao Flavored Rum, one of the surprise items of the year. Natural tasting because it is. A pleasing canvas for obvious cream and dessert cocktails (Espresso Martini) but also intriguing in more savory applications as in Negroni or Manhattan-style recipes.

Diplomatico Reserva Exclusiva

Patrick Pistoles, mixologist at NIO Cocktails in Milan, Italy

ABV: 40%

Average Price: $39.99

Why This Rum?

With South American origins, its ingredients derive from those flavors we can call “dark”, such as coconut, vanilla, sugar cane, coffee, that immediately launch into the fascinating world of South America. Between the hidden craftsmanship and the carefree festivity of those places, where moments of great celebration involve political and social spheres and customs with strong flavors on the palate as well as in the soul. An underrated rum that fits all of these criteria is Diplomatico Reserva Exclusiva.

KoHana White Rum

Eric “ET” Tecosky, founder of Dirty Sue in Los Angeles

ABV: 40%

Average Price: $35

Why This Rum?

Ko Hana is my pick. When it comes to underrated rum, I think the white rum category fits the bill. Because of our love for American Whiskey, I kind of think people started reaching for darker, aged rums with the qualifier, ‘If you love Bourbon or Tennessee Whiskey, you will love this rum’. Well, what if I just love rum too? Sure, aged, dark rums are delicious, but we can’t discount the category of white rum. Truth be told, I love a well-made Piña Colada and the rum I find outstanding for that cocktail is Ko Hana white rum. I recently grabbed a bottle at a wedding in Hawaii. It has a great depth of flavor and an almost tropical fruit note that make it the perfect rum to add to my blender (which became a very popular late-night spot that weekend).

Foursquare Sovereignty

Dr. Nicola Nice, founder and CEO at Pomp & Whimsy in Los Angeles

ABV: 62%

Average Price: $99

Why This Rum?

My husband and I recently came back from a trip to Barbados and came back with a bottle of Foursquare ‘Sovereignty’, which is their 2021 release from the Exceptional Cask series and a blend of two single blended 14-year rums (one matured in ex-Bourbon barrels, the other in Bourbon/Sherry). Clearly, we’ve come late to the Foursquare party but were completely blown away by this rum. It gives some of the best Scotches and single malt whiskies a serious run for their money. Its flavors are richly soaked with sumptuous dark fruit, toasted nuts, and caramel, with a complex underbelly of tobacco and dark chocolate, and an understated overlay baking spice. A highly underrated rum.

Stiggins’ Fancy Pineapple

Melissa Katrincic, founder of Conniption Gin in Durham, North Carolina

ABV: 40%

Average Price: $35

Why This Rum?

Stiggins’ Fancy Pineapple Rum hits all the right points of a flavored rum for me. This has crème Brulee-like pineapple flavor. Authentic flavors are key (nothing artificial here) and this one covers all the bases. Is it sacrilegious to say this makes a really amazing Mai Tai? There’s no doubt that this is one of the most underrated rums on the market.

St. Lucia Chairman’s Reserve

Fred Minnick, author and spirits expert in Louisville, Kentucky

ABV: 40%

Average Price: $43

Why This Rum?

St. Lucia Chairman’s Reserve is amazing for the money. It packs a great deal of molasses, brown sugar, and fruit flavors in a complex way. Before Foursquare took off, you could see rum fans valuing the brand in much the same way rum fans do St. Lucia‘s Chairman’s Reserve. It’s only a matter of time before this brand bleeds into the bourbon and Armagnac scenes in the sipper’s rotation.

SelvaRey White Rum

Josh MIller, co-founder of Owen’s Craft Mixers in New York City

ABV: 40%

Average Price: $32

Why This Rum?

I recently tried SelvaRey Rum. The white rum is fantastic with notes of vanilla, pineapple, coconut, and light citrus flavors that work well neat or mixed into a cocktail. This is a rum more drinkers should know about. To add to that, SelvaRey also has some other unique flavor offerings like chocolate and coconut-flavored rums.

Smith & Cross Traditional Jamaican Rum

Rob Masters, head distiller at The Family Jones Spirit House in Denver

ABV: 57%

Average Price: $34.99

Why This Rum?

I’m not sure Smith & Cross Traditional Jamaican Rum is the most underrated rum brand in the world, maybe outside the bar world it is. But man, I love the consistent funk, dried fruits, vanilla, and caramel flavors in that rum. It makes the best daiquiri and will stand up in an eight-ingredient tiki drink. It’s a popular rum among the bar community but definitely deserves a little more attention from the general rum-drinking world.

Appleton Estate 8 Reserve

Nora Ganley-Roper, co-founder of Lost Lantern in Weybridge, Vermont

ABV: 43%

Average Price: $33

Why This Rum?

Appleton Estate 8 Reserve. We don’t have access to a wide range of rums in Vermont (yet) so we generally have this on hand for a wide range of cocktails. It plays well with ginger beer and it can create a really tropical frozen daiquiri. One of our favorite things to do in the summer is to throw whatever fruit is in season into a blender to make simple but special frozen daiquiris (cruise ship cliches be damned). What we like about this rum is that it has some dominant tropical fruit notes (banana, mango, etc.) while also having enough oak spice to stand up to some sweeter ingredients.

Montanya Rum Exclusiva

Jason Barrett, founder and master distiller at Black Button Distilling in Rochester, New York

ABV: 40%

Average Price: $56.99

Why This Rum?

Montanya Rum Exclusiva is highly underrated. If a whiskey drinker is going to go for a rum, it has to have all the complexity of a good sipper. What flavors make it great? It’s sweet but not too sweet, it’s oak and vanilla and cinnamon swirling around and pulling you in to take another sip. A great rum for whiskey drinkers.

McDonald’s isn’t known for taking chances. The 67 year old burger chain has been successful by being consistent, and while you can always count on McDonald’s for your Big Macs and Chicken McNuggets, if you want to try something new, this isn’t really your place. When McDonald’s dropped the BTS, Travis Scott, and J Balvin meals these past few years, they sold out and inspired wrap-around-the-block drive-thru lines without actually adding any new food to the menu — it was just simple branding and marketing and it worked. So we don’t exactly fault McDonald’s for playing it safe. “If if ain’t broke, don’t fix it,” I guess.

But most recently the brand did actually do something new. And it seems to have worked almost too well.

At the beginning of this month, McDonald’s unveiled Adult Happy Meals for the first time. Again, they didn’t add anything new to the menu, but they did offer a new set of toys for adults. No, that doesn’t mean McDonald’s started pairing burgers and nuggets with vibrators and Flesh Lights — though, give them time, in this world, nothing surprises us anymore — we’re talking about actual toys here. Little plastic figurines have proved to be so popular that not only are they sold out at all McDonald’s locations across the country, but they’re reselling on sites like eBay for thousands of dollars.

CNBC points to one listing, in particular, containing three of the four figurines unopened with an asking price of $300,000.95. No, that’s not a typo, but hey, at least the winning bidder will get to enjoy free shipping! Single figurines are selling for a much more modest price of $16.95-$10,000 which is still a lot of money for a f*cking toy.

So… you may fairly be asking yourself: why? And the answer is that streetwear drop culture, where exclusivity and rarity are the ultimate forms of cool, has finally hit the realm of fast food.

Streetwear enjoys (or is plagued by, depending on who you ask) a resale culture that allows people to flip highly desirable footwear and apparel for almost obscene prices, and for that reason, tons of big brands have tried to get in on the streetwear game. Just about every fast food joint from Popeyes to Wendy’s has attempted to drop streetwear-inspired merch to little success. Mostly because they don’t fundamentally understand drop culture. People don’t buy things because they simply exist, McDonald’s was smart enough to recognize that, which is why they teamed up with one of the hottest streetwear brands in the game to back their adult Happy Meal collection — Cactus Plant Flea Market.

Created by designer Cynthia Lu, who has worked extensively with Pharrell Williams at Billionaire Boys Club, the brand is beloved by fashionable rappers and musicians including Tyler the Creator, Frank Ocean, Travis Scott, and Playboi Carti, to name a few. Part of what makes Cactus Plant Flea Market so special is the air of mystery that surrounds the brand, their output is always colorful, fun, and surprising. You never really know what CPFM is going to do next, but when they do it, it always seems out of left field — like collaborating with McDonald’s. I guarantee you that no one saw this collaboration coming, mainly because it seems weird that CPFM would even be on McDonald’s radar in the first place!

The partnership included a new Happy Meal box designed by Cactus Plant Flea Market (the boxes alone are reselling for anywhere between $4-$8, which is a lot of money for a cardboard box), four happy meal figurines, including Grimace, the Hamburglar, Birdie, and CPFM’s own Cactus Buddy (the most desirable of the four figurines), and a merch collection of dual-branded t-shirts and hoodies. All of which have sold out. We have to give credit to CPFM for highlighting Grimace, the Hamburgular, and Birdie and wisely ignoring Ronald McDonald. No one wants a tiny clown figurine.

It’s not out of the ordinary for a Cactus Plant Flea Market drop to sell out, so this is much less about renewed interest in McDonald’s, as it is the typical fanfare that follows a CPFM drop. Still, is $300,000.95 still too much for a set of three toys? Absolutely, and it’s safe to assume that that particular listing, which has nearly 300 watchers, won’t sell at that price and was mostly a joke or an inside job to create buzz. Hey, like this article!

Still, a few people out there are sure to rake in a whole lot of cash for a cheap piece of plastic. Welcome to drop culture!

Victor Wembanyama is the runaway favorite to be selected first overall in the 2023 NBA Draft next summer, despite Scoot Henderson’s own individual greatness as a prospect. A couple weeks back, Wembanyama and Henderson faced off in Las Vegas, where Wembanyama hosted an absolute shooting clinic and dominated both games.

Now, the 7’4 Frenchman is back in Europe and continuing to make absurdly great plays. Most recently, he somehow erased a 2-on-1 fast break, where he confronted the lead ball-handler and forced a lob, only to immediate rotate himself around and meet the dunker at the rim. Spoiler: it worked out well for Wembanyama and not his challenger.

The athleticism, namely the fluidity and quick leaping ability to spin and elevate so swiftly, is special, special stuff. It’s like he knows exactly how that play is going to unfold and shuts it down with ease. My goodness, this dude is awesome and supremely fun. He’s going to continue serving as such when he reaches the NBA, but that doesn’t make what he’s doing at the moment any less enjoyable. It only further builds anticipation and excitement.

I cannot wait to keep watching him perform plays that break my concept of what’s possible for most hoopers. I simply have to imagine that got quite a few league scouts and executives out of their seat, pondering whether the playoffs or Play-In are truly worthwhile this season.

A lot of West Coast rap fans were probably disappointed to learn that the California supergroup Mount Westmore’s debut album was only available as an NFT on a frankly suspicious-looking platform (there are ways to get it if you really want it, though). The group, which consisted of rap elderstatesmen E-40, Ice Cube, Snoop Dogg, and Too Short, had released a handful of singles including “Big Subwoofer” and “Bad MF’s” teasing a truly momentous collaboration.

Thankfully, they’ve apparently decided that it won’t be a one-off and even better, their next album is not only coming soon but it’s also a more traditional release that everybody will be able to stream or purchase. It’s called Snoop, Cube, 40, Short and is dropping on December 9. Today, they released the first single, “Too Big,” featuring Bay Area rapper and producer P-Lo. The video features concert and studio footage of all four rappers, as well as some behind-the-scenes glimpses at their various endeavors outside of rap as they perform their verses in various locations including the parking lot of Snoop’s compound in LA and E-40’s winery. It’s a boastful, upbeat anthem that highlights all four stars’ legendary status in hip-hop.

You can watch the “Too Big” video above.

The Uproxx Fall Travel Hot List is finally here! And with it, some serious love for Kentucky, long known as the bourbon capital. That title is well-earned, the state draws over 2.5 million visitors per year from all over the world to its famed Bourbon Trail. With 73 (and counting) distilleries in the state, it is an obvious destination for whiskey enthusiasts. So when I told my friends I was going on a road trip through parts of northern Kentucky they all had basically the same — very excited — response: “FOR A BOURBON TOUR?”

“No,” I replied over and over, watching their faces visibly fall, “my plan is actually to hike and drink wine and find some hidden gems — preferably down a dirt road that has inspired at least one country song.”

When my friends looked at me incredulously, I was sure to add, “Okay, fine — maybe I’ll drink a little bourbon along the way.”

“Oh you’re probably visiting a new national park then?” a few tuned in friends added.

But I wasn’t doing that either. I’ve already visited — and was mesmerized by — Mammoth Cave National Park in Southern Kentucky. This time I simply wanted to see what else the state had to offer — beyond bourbon and the national park I knew it for.

So that’s just what I did. I flew into Lexington for some outdoor adventure, then road-tripped north to Louisville for some history. Here is my guide:

Day 1 — Lexington:

I started my road trip in Lexington, the horse capital of the world. It’s just about 75 miles from Louisville but had a decidedly more laid-back vibe. After picking up my rental car I was in awe of the wide open spaces and country roads that seemed to go on forever. As the second most populous city in the state, I quickly found that it has just the right combination of slower Southern charm along with adventurous activities.

I checked into the Home2Suites, which was perfectly located for the adventures I had planned. I loved having a clean and simple suite (that let’s be honest was still more spacious than my apartment back home in Boulder) to rest and relax after spending time exploring. It was perfectly clean, had great staff, a pool, and a cool lounge area outside, and despite being a chain hotel (with a terrrrrrrible name) was actually walkable to several bars, restaurants, and coffee shops. All while being near the I-75 interstate, cutting down on my driving time.

First Stop — Zip Lining at Boone Creek Outdoors

After check-in, I was quickly on to my first adventure, zip-lining. Now, intellectually, I know zip lining is perfectly safe and that thousands of people enjoy it every day. But if I’m being honest, I have been irrationally terrified of doing it for years. I have often found myself in beautiful destinations staring up at zip lines and every time I politely decline any offers. “Just not for me,” I say as calmly as I can while inside I’m screaming, “HELLLLLLL NO.”

So I hyped myself up on the drive over, reminding myself that I didn’t have to do anything I didn’t want to do, but that I also wanted to do this. I wanted to try.

“Have you ever been zip lining?” the friendly front desk attendant at Boone Creek Outdoors asked me with a comforting Kentucky drawl.

“I haven’t,” I replied.

“Are you afraid of heights?” he pressed.

My face gave me away. “I am.”

“Well, we’ll work on both of those today.”

Boy, did we. We started small and worked our way up to a nearly 1,400-foot-long zip line over the 200-foot-deep gorge. It was heart-pumping like I had imagined, but also the most fun I had had in months. Maybe longer.

Flying through the gorgeous tree canopy, taking in the incredible gorge that surrounded me, and the southern hospitality of my guides put me at ease in a way that felt like an actual life breakthrough. I felt capable and strong and ready to see more of this absolutely beautiful land that I had just flown through.

Second Stop — Talon Winery

I wanted to keep riding on the high from my successful zip-lining experience, so I looked up wineries nearby and beelined over to Talon Winery. Tucked away on 300 acres of pristine Kentucky farmland, the property is absolutely dreamy. I spent some time as the only patron in the winery for a tasting, enjoying the Kentucky hospitality (you’ll hear a lot about this) and, of course, the wine itself.

I happily bought a bottle of Moondance, a Pinot Gris with a citrus nose, to enjoy outside (and re-cork for later in the trip) and nearly cried because it was such an idyllic scene. Groups of hip younger patrons came and went (and selfied among the vines) as I sat with my book and the Kentucky sunset that just hit differently.

Third Stop — Drake’s Come Play

After I got back to my hotel I was hungry but way too tired to drive anywhere else (I also wanted to be able to uncork my bottle of Talon wine safely) so I walked the very short distance from my hotel to Drake’s Come Play. A Lexington-based regional chain restaurant, Drake’s Come Play has a wide variety of menu items (including burgers, tacos, steaks, and sushi) and a laid-back sports bar vibe.

I enjoyed the fried fish entree with a glass of rosé before heading back to my room to rest up for the big day that was ahead of me.

Day 2 — Kentucky State Parks

There are 45 state parks in Kentucky, and I knew I wanted to visit some while I was in the state. As an avid hiker and National Park traveler who spends a lot of time west of the Mississippi, Kentucky feels like a hidden gem. There are almost endless outdoor recreation opportunities in the Bluegrass State, but as my time was limited I opted for an area where two parks — Red River Gorge National Geological Area and Natural Bridges State Park — meet.

First Stop — Red River Gorge National Geological Area and Natural Bridges State Park

Just about an hour’s drive from Lexington lies the Red River Gorge National Geological area. I was excited to wake up early on my second day in Kentucky and experience this area of the Daniel Boone National Forest as it came highly recommended by the zip-lining guides. I could see why immediately.

Red River Gorge is known for rock climbing, consistently lauded as the sport climbing capital of the country, but I was most excited to see some of the 150 sandstone arches in the area, the only area east of the Rocky Mountains with as many. I went on a few short hikes and was blown away by each one.

I recommend Cloudsplitter and Gray’s Arch Trail.

Adjacent to Red River Gorge is another stunning natural wonder, Natural Bridges State Resort Park. This park has a lot to offer from hiking to natural arches, camping, a restaurant, a gondola, a history center, and lodging. You could spend much longer than a day here. During my trip, I spent time hiking the Natural Bridge and Low Gap Trails and was impressed at each turn by the landscape and tranquility.

Second Stop — Miguel’s Pizza

You can’t visit the Red River Gorge area without a stop at Miguel’s Pizza. It may look like Miguel’s Pizza is just your average roadside pizza parlor, but it’s legendary in the Red River Gorge. For the past 30 years, Miguel Ventura and his family have worked to build not just tasty pizzas, but a mecca for climbers from all over the world. You see, Miguels is also a gear shop and campground for visiting climbers, who can sometimes number in the hundreds during a busy night.

As I enjoyed a few slices of pie and a local brew, I marveled at the almost utopian feel of the grounds. The mix of tourists passing by and climbers who were resting and comparing notes made this a truly memorable roadside meal.

Day 3 — Louisville

First Stop — Kentucky Derby Museum

On my third morning in Kentucky, I checked out of my hotel in Lexington and started the short drive to Louisville. As the most populous city in the state, it’s known for bourbon and, of course, the Kentucky Derby. I admittedly don’t know much about horse racing, so I decided to drop by Churchill Downs to tour the Kentucky Derby Museum. You can take several tours from the museum, and I opted for the historic walking tour. Our guide took us out through the grandstands to the rail of the track, giving us stories and insight into what The Derby was and how it transformed into what it is today.

Then came the best part, mint juleps. I stopped by the Derby Cafe and Bourbon Bar to indulge in a famed Kentucky Derby staple before heading downtown.

Second Stop — Historic Walking Tour

I travel for a living and have experienced many guided activities throughout the country. But one thing I’d never experienced is also one of the simplest, a walking tour. I like the freedom of exploring and walking around on my own. But in a town as historic as Louisville, I wanted to get some more context and I’m so glad I did.

I booked a walking tour of Louisville’s Historic District with Louisville Historic Tours. I joined a few other visitors on a street corner on the border of “Old Louisville” to meet our guide, the impressive author David Domine. As he walked us around the neighborhood, he explained not just the history of the area, but of the architecture, the famous residents, and even urban legends in the area.

It was a beautiful way to spend an afternoon and get a little off the beaten path.

Third Stop — Check in at Moxy Hotel in Downtown Louisville

Right as I got back to my car after the walking tour it started to rain, so I was happy to go check in to my hotel downtown and relax a bit. Located right off of Louisville’s famed Main Street (Whiskey Row), the Moxy Hotel is unique and fun. Check-in is at the bar — with a welcome drink of course — and then a chalkboard-painted elevator took me to my stylish corner room.

The Moxy Hotel brand has locations all over the world and is owned by Marriott, but the experience feels high-end boutique. The hotel’s bar and restaurant — Zombie Taco — is dark and vibey with fun drinks and tasty tacos. I loved the floor-to-ceiling windows throughout my room and the playful touches throughout.

Fourth Stop — Explore Downtown Louisville

After the rain let up a bit I was excited to explore downtown Louisville. Luckily, I was situated perfectly at the Moxy to walk to all of the bars and museums I wanted to visit on Whiskey Row.

My first stop was the 21c Museum Hotel Museum and Bar, a tip from my tour guide David. While I had read about 21c Museum Hotels many times, this was my first visit and I was blown away. Based in Louisville, 21c Museum Hotels are now in several locations throughout the Midwest and South. The combination of art, museum, and boutique hotel feels fresh and inventive and I was happy to explore the grounds.

The exhibits in the 9,000-square-foot museum were contemporary and thought-provoking, and the drinks at the hotel bar and restaurant, Proof on Main (one of our favorite spots), were interesting and felt bespoke. I can’t wait to return and stay on the property longer.

After spending time at the museum and bar, I spent hours strolling along Main Street and popping into several places. I wish I had time for everything. But on a shorter trip, I wouldn’t miss the Frazier Kentucky History Museum, Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory, and the Michter’s Fort Nelson Distillery and Bar.

For dinner, I popped into Doc Crow’s Southern Smokehouse and Raw Bar where I enjoyed another mint julep and a catfish platter with hushpuppies and pickled vegetables, the most “Southern” meal I can think of which was also the most delicious of the trip.

Day 4

First Stop — Run Across the Big Four Bridge

I woke up bright and early on my last day in Kentucky to explore the riverfront, specifically the Big Four Bridge. What was once a railroad truss towering over the Ohio River, has been repurposed into a pedestrian walkway. I ran across through walkers and bikers of all ages enjoying the view and crisp morning air. The entire waterfront area is frankly impressive for a city this size. The 85-acre natural area feels like a respite but is just steps away from the hustle of Whiskey Row.

Next time, I’d love to come back for sunrise or sunset.

Second Stop — Copper & Kings Distillery Tour

While I didn’t come to Kentucky for distillery tours, I would be remiss to leave the state without going on one, right? Whatever the justification, you can’t really go wrong with any of the distilleries in Louisville.

Many of the big-name distillery tours require reservations and tickets that book up well in advance, so I looked outside the staples and found Copper & Kings Distillery, which makes American brandy instead of the ubiquitous bourbon and rye whiskey you find at all the other distilleries. First, I joined a few others on a distillery tour, learning about the traditional copper pot distillation that they use, and their method of “sonic aging” where Copper & Kings plays music from several subwoofers toward their barrels in the basement maturation cellar 24/7.

After the tour, we were able to taste several of the gins, brandy, and even absinthes that Copper & Kings produce before I headed up to the rooftop restaurant for a quick bite and a drink before heading back to the airport. It may have been against my brand to not focus on National Parks and against KY’s brand to have a tourist only visit one distillery but it was the exact trip I needed and one I’ll be recommending often!

Every once in a while the ladies of The View put politics aside to get a little… freaky. That was especially the case during Thursday’s episode when the panel tackled a woman’s claims that her house was being haunted by horny ghosts. The topic led Joy Behar to confess to not just one, but several sexy paranormal encounters. Even more shocking, Whoopi Goldberg was at a loss for words. The View co-host is never one to pull her punches, but she genuinely did not know what to do with this information.

The whole thing went down after Sara Haines jokingly asked if you can get pregnant from having sex with a ghost to which Behar responded with her personal experience. Via The A.V. Club:

Meanwhile, Behar stews for a moment before quietly stating, “I’ve had sex with a few ghosts and never got pregnant.”

Whoopi Goldberg—never missing a beat—says, “I’m just gonna let that ride. I don’t know how many of you just heard what Joy just said, but I’m going to let it ride.” There is then no further discussion on the topic, and Behar shares no details of her paranormal tryst.

Was Behar joking for the cameras? Possibly. That said, as The A.V. Club notes, Behar wouldn’t be the first celebrity to claim she’s gotten freaky with the undead. Lucy Liu once told Us Weekly about a similar encounter that was “sheer bliss.” Interestingly, Liu also did not get pregnant from ghost sex, so really, who’s to say what’s weird and what’s a foolproof angle rife for pleasure?

(Via The A.V. Club)