Spring 2005

Summer – Fall Packages
This summer and fall we are repeating special packages that both you and your wallet will enjoy.  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.  There are 2 & 3 day packages, a bed & breakfast package, golf & fishing packages and of course a honeymoon package. Check out our web site.  There’s one just right for you.  Last year over 40 couples got married at the West Wind Inn.  If there is a wedding in your future, call us toll free at 800-824-0476 (Ext 400) and we will send you a wedding planner packet. 

Hurricane Charley Update
On December 24th the West Wind Inn was fully operational with all of our rooms back to normal – even better than before – many with new ceilings, fresh paint, new mattresses, drapes, and carpet.  The Seminole Indians have even re-erected our chickee hut where you can clean that special shell you found on the beach.  I suppose that the old adage is true that some good comes out of adversity. 

West Wind Inn Family
This quarter we feature another one of those “behind the scenes” employees that guests seldom encounter but is so essential to the smooth operation of the Inn.  Her job is to keep the administration of the Inn (the back office) running smoothly.  Those critical items like payroll, monthly taxes, paying bills, scheduling, insurance, etc fall in her domain.  She also works hard at freeing up the General Manager from being stuck at his desk.  Our Executive Secretary, Darlene Burke, has been with the Inn since 1987.  She joined us, moving over from a job at a local bank.   Prior to that she “enjoyed” those cold winters in Boyne City, Michigan.  We’re sure happy to have her 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 Antique 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.

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. Mark B of  Bow, New Hampshire.  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
Each quarter we feature a recipe from a guest (sometimes an employee) therefore send us your favorite or an interesting recipe.  The one selected gets two free West Wind Inn T-Shirts.  The recipe below was provided by Cheryl Anderson, (our Guest Relations Manager), who received it over 40 years ago.  It was in a newsletter that came with her phone bill in St. Louis: