It’s been two years since Washingtonian Steve Ainsworth made national news when he was rescued from a blizzard on the Appalachian Trail. Thursday, he’ll share his story at Washington-Beaufort County Chamber of Commerce’s annual women’s luncheon.

For the past five years, the Chamber has kicked off the holidays with their luncheon. It’s open to any woman who’d like a little fun and inspiration to start the season right, according to Chamber Director Catherine Glover.

Past speakers have included nationally recognized humorist Jeanne Robertson and Tania Aebi, the woman who sailed around the world solo at the age of 18.

“This year, we decided to go local with Steve Ainsworth, just because there were so many people who hadn’t heard his story,” Glover said.

Ainsworth was heading into the last leg of his Appalachian Trail hike in its entirety when Hurricane Sandy was barreling up the east coast. Unbeknownst to him, expected snowfall amounts changed drastically shortly after he headed into the North Carolina mountains. Ainsworth was in one of the most remote parts of the Blue Ridge Mountains when the storm trapped him for two days. Setting out for help led to a daring helicopter rescue by the Tennessee State Highway Patrol.

Ainsworth will present his Appalachian Trail hike and rescue, through words and the many photos he took on the way from Maine to Georgia. Because of the nature of the presentation, Glover said the Chamber is knocking down the number of tickets they’re selling from the usual 150 to only 100.

“That’s why we’re keeping it small — so everyone can see and hear him and ask questions,” Glover said.

For Glover, the event, and the speakers chosen through the years, are designed to inspire so that people can start their headlong rush into the holidays on a high note.

“It’s just a time where women can just get together and have fun,” Glover said.

The women’s luncheon is sponsored by Vidant Beaufort Hospital and will begin at 11:30 a.m. at the Washington Yacht & Country Club. The $35 tickets include soup, entrée and dessert. Tickets can be purchased at the Chamber office, located at 102 Stewart Parkway, Washington, 252-946-9168.