The Clewiston Inn was built by the U.S. Sugar Corporation (then called The Southern Sugar Company) to host company executives, visiting dignitaries and even ex-presidents. The original Inn was built in 1926, and after a fire destroyed it, the classical revival style structure was rebuilt in 1938. “Although we have owned and operated the Clewiston Inn over the years, we are not in the hotel business. We are a sugar and citrus business. We are selling the Inn to a group that has been quite successful in redeveloping local properties and we are confident that they will continue to operate the Clewiston Inn in a successful manner,” said Robert Coker, Senior Vice President, Public Affairs. According to Yasir Khan, a partner in Big Lake Hotels, "We are excited about the opportunity to own such an important place in the Clewiston community. We plan to renovate the Clewiston Inn to restore it to its historical significance." Khan's partner, Floyd Salkey, said "Renovation plans include plasma televisions, a fully equipped fitness center, high speed wireless internet throughout, a state of the art business center, and a complete interior design and comfort package for all rooms and suites." The Clewiston Inn has 57 guest rooms and suites, spacious banquet facilities, and a unique courtyard dining and lounge experience. In addition, there will be the appointment of a new head chef, Lloyd Salkey, who brings with him a wealth of experience and a passion for cuisine. He has held positions as head chef in some of the finest resorts in South Florida and the Virgin Islands. “We plan to offer a delectable southern menu as well as a variety of local and regional favorites, using fresh local meats, fish, fruits and vegetables,” said Salkey. The Inn will offer breakfast, lunch and dinner daily, as well as Sunday brunches and full service catered events. “We will offer a unique affordable fine dining experience that is sure to attract diners from both the east and west coasts,” said Salkey. The Clewiston Inn is centrally located in downtown Clewiston, Florida, just one hour from West Palm Beach, Ft. Lauderdale, Ft. Myers and Miami. Billed as “America’s Sweetest Town,” Clewiston is in the heart of sugar cane country and is rich with history. Nestled on the shore of Lake Okeechobee, the Clewiston Inn provides visitors with a peaceful setting and welcoming retreat. The Inn’s Everglades Lounge is famous for its impressive 360-degree mural featuring the flora and fauna of the Florida Everglades. It was painted by the world-renowned artist J. Clinton Shepherd in the early 1940s. Shepherd, who spent many months at the Inn, majestically transferred to oil and canvas the beauty of the ‘Glades. Today, the Clewiston Inn, registered as a National Historic Site, preserves its history and offers visitors an opportunity to step back in time with genuine Old Florida hospitality. For decades, the Clewiston Inn has been a popular vacation destination and a fashionable center for social activities. Khan and Salkey are also partners in Florida’s Finest Developers, which bought and redeveloped the Clewiston Town center, formerly the K-Mart retail complex in Clewiston. The renovation of the vacant 120,000 square foot center not only improved community aesthetics, but fostered economic growth by attracting businesses such as Tractor Supply Company and State and County tenants. ### Judy Sanchez
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