In this Cary Spotlight Issue…

💭Spotlight Hook Trivia

☀️ Cary NC Weather

🔥 Daily Quote

🧭 Everest Awaits: China's Northern Path Opens Up to International Climbers

✈️ RDU's Nonstop Flights Map: Your Gateway to the World

🧭 Milestone Maverick: Jenean Neilsen Todd Charts a Course for Senior Adventure

🚢 Discover the Hidden Gems of the Mediterranean on Ponant

▶️ Ponant Le Champlain Ship Tour

😋Tasty Trend: Filet Mignon with Shrimp and Lobster Cream Sauce 😋

🏛️ Support Cary Local Businesses

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Everest Awaits: China's Northern Path Opens Up to International Climbers

China's reopening of the northern route to Mount Everest via Tibet marks a significant development for the mountaineering community, providing an alternative to the crowded Nepalese pathway.

Adrian Ballinger, an experienced climber and guide, is among those taking advantage of this opportunity, leading a group through his company.

The distribution of climbing permits is managed by the China Tibet Mountaineering Association, with a limit of 300 permits for non-Chinese climbers annually.

The process involves obtaining a separate permit for Tibet and other logistical arrangements, emphasizing the unique challenges of the northern route. This reopening could signify a shifting preference back towards the historically popular, and once considered safer, northern route.
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RDU's Nonstop Flights Map: Your Gateway to the World

RDU has released a map showcasing its extensive network of nonstop flights, catering to a broad spectrum of travel needs.

This array of destinations reflects both current and planned services, highlighting the airport's commitment to providing comprehensive air travel options.

Given the dynamic nature of flight schedules, which can change based on seasonality and other factors, travelers are advised to consult individual airline websites for the most up-to-date information regarding flight availability and schedules.

RDU NonStop Destinations

Milestone Maverick: Jenean Neilsen Todd Charts a Course for Senior Adventure

Jenean Neilsen Todd is not just a dedicated reader of "Cary Spotlight"; she's a vital force behind Cary Senior Center's (CSC) flourishing travel program, "Seniors on the Go." Celebrated as part of the “100 Milestone Mavericks,” Todd exemplifies the profound impact one individual can have on a community. Her involvement transcends regular participation, shaping the way Cary's senior residents experience adventure and companionship.

Before taking the helm as Trip Coordinator at CSC, Todd's eclectic career spanned over three decades in the museum field. From graphic artist to exhibit designer to founding director, her path has always been paved with education, entertainment, and engagement. It's this rich tapestry of experiences that she brought back to Cary, finding her niche in enriching seniors' lives through travel.

The Seniors On The Go program offers a window to the world for many of Cary's elder residents, organizing excursions from local day trips to international voyages. Under Todd's stewardship, the program has seen unprecedented growth, especially post-COVID The allure of new destinations, combined with the ease of organized travel, resonates deeply within the senior community. The program's success is a testament to Todd's vision and dedication, with trips becoming hot tickets, eagerly anticipated by residents eager to secure their spots.

In 2023, Todd led twenty-one travelers on an unforgettable journey to Tuscany. The itinerary for 2025 promises even more adventure, with trips planned to Paris and Normandy in April, followed by a Danube River Cruise and Christmas Markets in December. Each trip is meticulously planned to ensure accessibility, enjoyment, and educational value, aligning with Todd's belief in the transformative power of travel.

For those inspired by Todd's commitment and looking to embark on their own adventures, CSC's travel program offers a chance. With scholarships available to make these trips more affordable, it underscores the inclusive spirit that Todd and the Town of Cary champions. The program not only facilitates travel but fosters a sense of community and friendship among Cary's Seniors, proving that exploration knows no age limit.

As Cary's Senior population continues to grow, Todd's work with Seniors On The Go stands as a yet another example of how passion and dedication can elevate community engagement.

For more information on upcoming trips and how to participate in this vibrant travel community, residents can look forward to the release of summer trips and other senior programs, marking their calendars for the Resident Registration Day on May 1.

Participants must be 55 years and older and able to climb three steps to get into the bus for Seniors On The Go trips. But call the CSC to see if they can make arrangements or if you have specific questions.

The journey ahead, under Todd's guidance, promises new experiences, friendships, and memories for Cary's adventurous seniors.

Check out the Spring Trips here (click on Trip0001 to show more info)
Paris / Normandy trip  | Danube / Christmas Markets

Cary Senior Center
Address: 120 Maury Odell Pl, Cary, NC 27513 Get Directions
Website: https://www.carync.gov/recreation-enjoyment/facilities/senior-center
Ph: (919) 469-4081

Discover the Hidden Gems of the Mediterranean on Ponant

In an era where the quest for unique and enriching travel experiences has never been more intense, Ponant, the French luxury cruise line known for its intimate and sophisticated sailing expeditions, continues to set the standard.

The company's fleet, a collection of sleek vessels designed to offer an adults-oriented luxury experience, includes its latest additions: the six "Ponant Explorer" ships, each accommodating 184 passengers, along with four 264-passenger expedition sister ships, and the distinguished 32-passenger yacht Le Ponant. These ships are renowned not only for their elegance but also for their ability to provide guests with unparalleled access to some of the world's most coveted destinations.

A notable aspect of Ponant's offerings is its partnership with Smithsonian Journeys, which ensures that certain cruises are conducted exclusively in English. This collaboration enriches the voyages with onboard talks by world-renowned experts, one excursion in each port, and other inclusive amenities such as dining, alcohol, WiFi, and gratuities.

Travelers are spoilt for choice with over 44 unique itineraries, including a nine-day Celtic Voyage, an eight-day exploration of Japan's Cultural and Natural Treasures by Sea, and a nine-day Circumnavigation of Sicily.

The standout Sicily voyage on Le Champlain offers an immersive exploration of UNESCO sites, with departures in 2024 and 2025, and new destinations like Tunis being added to future sailings.

Learn more about Ponant’s voyages

Ponant Le Champlain Ship Tour

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Filet Mignon with Shrimp and Lobster Cream Sauce 😋

📋 Ingredients List:

• 4 (6-ounce) filet mignon steaks

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1/2 cup finely chopped shallots

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 4 ounces shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 4 ounces lobster meat, chopped

• 1/2 cup chicken broth

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

📝 Instructions:

1. Season filet mignon steaks with salt and pepper.

2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add steaks and cook to desired doneness, approximately 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare.

3. Transfer steaks to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.

4. In the same skillet, add shallots and garlic, sauté until softened, about 2 minutes.

5. Add shrimp and lobster, cook until just opaque, about 2-3 minutes.

6. Deglaze the pan with chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.

7. Stir in heavy cream and thyme, simmer until sauce has slightly thickened, about 3-4 minutes.

8. Remove from heat, stir in butter until melted and incorporated.

9. Spoon shrimp and lobster cream sauce over filet mignon and serve immediately

Notes 💡:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes

Give it a try and let us know what you think.