I'm the person who spoke with Joey about our use of the common room at the lodge. To my thinking the Chestnut Room was not a solution for our group. It put us in the position of driving in the dark, partly on US28 while having consumed alcohol. Although it's a short distance it isn't a walk but more of a hike if on foot. Several people work to put this event together for us, that I had concerns in no way is meant to diminish my appreciation for their efforts.

Since the first GTG we've driven all day then returned to the Lodge parked and locked the cars for the night. That combined with our take over of the common room is why Fontana was the best location for our GTG. If we splinter into groups, meeting in cabins, outside in the parking lot or in a hotel room, the TOD's success at melding all ages, backgrounds and personalities will be lost.

This is what he shared with me: last fall he was walking by the reservation desk when a glass jar of homemade spirits (illegalmoonshine) was held up next to his head and loudly offered for sale. Joey explained the liquor license is in his name, if anything were to happen it would effect not just Fontana Village Resort but also Joey.

Joey said the XF group has become like family to the Fontana Resort. No other group had this extra perk of using the common room as we have for years. He is more than willing to work with us so long as it abides by the law/rules of the State Liquor license.

I am not a big fan of paying retail for my brew, but it's better to do that than divide the group. We can still bring and drink our own alcohol in our room. I do not believe after all these years Joey chose to "profit" off us, nor do I believe he presented options based on profit.