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Events and Travel Club (ETC)
Highlands Trip
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By Kathy Adair
For almost 16 years, ETC members have journeyed to many locations in the South, across our nation, and Europe. Also, the member-board social committee has created a multitude of fun social experiences here at home. This year, 24 members visited Highlands, NC. The weather was fantastic allowing the group to go each day for unique opportunities.
Our first evening included a group cocktail party at the wonderful Hummingbird Lounge at the Old Edwards Inn. Then, dinner was just steps away at the renowned Wild Thyme. For our other evenings, we split up and dined around at many top restaurants.
We certainly did more than dining. Many enjoyed an excursion in the Nantahala rainforest including breathtaking waterfalls. One fall, named Dry Falls, was anything but dry. We walked down many steps to enjoy the pathway around and behind the falls. Definitely a great photo op.
Others braved it with a well-trained falcon and hawk. We were stunned as we watched Pete, the Falconer, call the birds and direct them to accomplish incredible maneuvers. Four tough ETC’ers got in on the action as they each held one or both of the birds. Of course, their right hand and arm was covered with a thick glove. This was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
The highlight of our trip was connecting with Wexford members Ken and Tracy Asbury at their unique mountain house. All I need to say to have you understand how special this was, is to mention that the house sits over a waterfall… — not kidding. Our hosts provided us with such hospitality when we arrived — …unlimited wine and spirits along with a spread of delicious hors d’oeuvres from cheeses to sweets and on.
I did not forget about shopping! Highlands is a wonderful town with many delightful shops.
Don’t miss out on ETC events to come!
Arts Center Outing
ETC members enjoying a reception and behind-thescenes tour of the Arts Center and the production of the Jersey Boys. On July 30th we returned to enjoy the show!
ECO Tour
Our ETC members enjoyed a 2-hour educational ECO tour with Amber on a beautiful day in May.
