Spring 2004

Summer – Fall Packages
Great news!  This summer and fall we are repeating special packages that both you and your wallet will enjoy, with no rate increase over last year.  The savings season runs from May 1 through December 20, with several packages from which to choose.  Last year over 20% of our guests took advantage of these special packages and those special rates.  Take a look at our web site.  There’s one just right for you.  And if there is a wedding in your future, West Wind Inn can make it one to remember.  In 2003, thirty-three wedding parties were hosted by the West Wind Inn.  Call us at (800) 824-0476, Ext 400 for a wedding planner packet.  And for you fellow Floridians, since I understand that 41.9% of you take a leisure trip within Florida every year, why not take a short ride to Sanibel Island and the West Wind Inn?

Area to Get Hospitality Degree Program
Florida Gulf Coast University (Florida’s 10th and newest university located in the Fort Myers area) recently received a generous $5 million pledge from an area couple to initiate a new Resort & Hospitality Management Program.  It is expected that the state will match the donation, making the Florida program one of the best in the country.  Resorts, such as the West Wind Inn, will benefit as the students in the program work at hotels and restaurants, interacting with guests, as part of their training.

West Wind Inn Family
This quarter we feature one of those “behind the scenes” employees that guests seldom encounter (unless there is a problem.) Yet, he is essential to the smooth operation of the Inn.  His job is to keep the 8 structures, 104 guest rooms, 2 tennis courts, swimming pool and the 7½ acres in good working order.  Our Maintenance Manager, Larry Houser, joined the Inn 10 years ago (one of our newcomers) having operated his own cabinet installation company prior to that.  He hails from the farmlands of northern Indiana and, after a stint in the Army in Germany, he spent 12 years with Magnavox Corporation as a Senior Specifications Writer (writing the specs for components and finished products).  He moved to Florida in 1973 to enjoy the warmth.  His extensive background has come in handy as he tackles everything from a leaky faucet to a major renovation project.  We’re sure happy to have him on the team.

Want a Reunion or Group Outing?
We have a great facility for small get-togethers (comfortable for up to 50 people).  So, if you have ever thought of getting that extended family together – or perhaps that local Jaguar Auto Club – or your church group, what better place to refresh than at our beach-side resort.  Our Food & Beverage Manager will make it simple for you.  Think about it for a minute – wouldn’t that be fun?  Call Jay Halcrow, our Sales & Marketing Director at Ext 400.  She will answer any questions you might have and provide you with group rates.

Out-of State Visitors
Massachusetts came in number 1 in providing the most out-of-state guests to the West Wind Inn during 2003, followed by Ohio, New York, Illinois, New Jersey & Pennsylvania in that order.  

Sweepstakes Winner
Each quarter we select one entry from our sweepstakes contest from our web site.  The winner receives a one-week stay free at the West Wind Inn (off-season).  The last quarter’s winner was Mr. Robert M of Tamworth, Staffordshire, England.  Keep those entries coming.

Are You Seeking Adventure On Your Holiday?
For those of you who want to do more than sit on the beach or by the pool and soak up the “rays”, there is plenty to do in this area.  We have over 21 miles of bike paths on the island, where over 60% is protected conservation land (we rent bikes at the Inn).  You can even bicycle on the 5-mile drive through the J.N. “Ding” Darling Wildlife Refuge.  How about a day of kayaking through the back bays, aquatic preserves and the wildlife refuge?  If you prefer, we can arrange for you a boat excursion to the outer islands.  And if golf is your activity, the 18-hole Beachview Golf Course on Sanibel Island has special rates for West Wind Inn guests.  As you can see, there is plenty to do on this island.  Let your imagination run wild.  

Recipe of the Quarter
You’ve probably heard of cookies made from potato chips but how about fudge from mashed potatoes? – Our featured recipe of the quarter!  (Don’t forget. If we use a recipe that you send to us, we will send you two free West Wind Inn T-shirts).  An employee provided this quarter’s recipe.

Administrivia
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If you have specific questions about our resort that are not answered on our website, please contact us via email or call us toll free at 800-824-0476.