Ax-Throwing Bars, Explained

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Bid farewell to the cozy cat cafes of the Obama years. In 2018, America will be all about the ax-throwing bar. That’s right, establishments that pair alcohol with leisurely hurling deadly objects at targets exist, and they’re opening up everywhere.

The practice of chucking a hatchet into wood and hoping it sticks is as old as the lumberjack, but it’s relatively new as a “sport.” Unsurprisingly, its current status as indoor recreational activity began in Canada. Torontonian Matt Wilson, inspired by the fun that occurred when presented with an ax, a tree, some beer, and boredom, founded the Backyard Axe Throwing League (BATL) in 2006. The BATL spread ax-throwing venues throughout Ontario, and in 2016, Wilson established the National Axe Throwing Federation (NATF).

And now, maybe because there’s a lot to admire about Canada these days, America is catching on. Here’s everything you should know about the trend taking over bars and warehouses, and likely coming soon to a city near you.

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Despite Industry Efforts, Americans Keep Drinking in the Sugar

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The beverage industry is falling further behind in its drive to reduce the amount of calories Americans drink, as sales of diet sodas continue to slide and people consume more fountain drinks, energy drinks and sweetened teas.

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