The Explorer Bookstore in Aspen is one of my favorites and one of the best independent bookstores anywhere. It's in a Victorian house, filled with charm and books, many of which you won't find at your B & N superstore. A great place to pass an afternoon when you're off the slopes.

The Comedy Festival is another winner year after year. Even Cheech and Chong are there this week.

[Chong's jail sentence] led to the very first question posed by rapper Xzibit, star of MTV's "Pimp My Ride," at the St. Regis tribute, which was called "Cheech & Chong: Together Again."

"So let's get down to business. ... How do you get arrested for selling bongs, man?" Xzibit asked.

"I'd like to give you some advice: If you're going to sell bongs, don't put your face on them," answered Chong. "I had no defense. 'That's my bong, yes.'"

Chong is straight these days - he has to do random urinalysis as a part of supervised release. It hasn't changed his views, though.

While marijuana is central to Cheech and Chong's routine, they proffer no apologies for their shtick, considered taboo in some social circles.

"Getting high is a victimless crime. It doesn't hurt anyone," Chong said. "(People) asked me, 'How does it feel, you turned millions of kids onto pot? And when you think of how many kids died drinking alcohol, I've saved millions of lives."

If you can't get to Aspen in person this week, at least listen to Sam and Janeane and soak up the atmosphere.