When the air turns cool and the leaves turn gold, cyclists turn to Western North Carolina to experience the changing scenery from two wheels. Autumn group rides in the region feature options for all experience levels and highlight the gorgeous landscape while raising money for nonprofits.

Local cyclist Travis Collins says there’s much to love about cycling in the North Carolina mountains. “What I like most is the scenery, for sure. We have unbelievable cycling in our part of the world,” he says. “Our roads are in pretty good shape, and within a short drive you can be by yourself in the saddle.”

Read the full story for Mountain Xpress here.

Photo courtesy of the Tour de Pumpkin.

Over the past 3 years, my travels, instincts, and time away from classes taught me more about myself than anything I experienced before. Had I taken a gap year, I might have realized earlier where I should have been all along. One thought I’m sure of: when I cross the stage in May 2018 to receive my college degrees, I will not regret a single delay in the six-year process. Life is not on an arrival-departure schedule, and I will always be contemplating which direction to follow next.

Read the full story at Matador Network.

Amid the current cocktail revitalization, shaking up a classic or twisting familiar flavors will impress all houseguests. Like any good cocktail, there are three components to becoming a skilled bartender. Each of our selected books specializes in one of those components: stocking the bar, crafting a balanced drink and expanding on the range of recipes.

Read the full article here.

Photo courtesy of Micah LeMon.