May 2010

To our Guests, Business Partners & Many Friends

We have been busy these past months adjusting our operation to function on a reduced scale for the time being. Since the loss of our main kitchen, we are operating as a bed & breakfast, which is working out well. An awning has been installed over the small open air Amandier kitchen and beyond to provide shade and protection from the elements. We have made arrangements with many nearby restaurants to deliver meals for guests who wish to stay at the hotel rather than go out for lunch and/or dinner.

Superficial repairs to the rooms and hallways have begun. We thank all our clients for their continued patience and understanding as the workmen kick up the dust. As we move closer to the demolition of certain buildings, our engineers and architects are diligently making arrangements so as to minimize any disturbance to our guests. We have learned a lot in the meantime about construction and specifically seismic codes and standards. Our engineers, Kit Miyamoto, Hans Zennie, Patrick Elie Joseph and architect Eddie Castellon have been our attentive teachers.

Please be indulgent and forgive us if in the process we are unable to accommodate you. The minor repairs to rooms and hallways are well underway. It’s a challenge because of our occupancy but so far everyone has been extremely cooperative.

Currently, Simona Cappelli, an Italian art conservator, is hard at work saving the Dorcély Mural which was commissioned, half a century ago, by Lina W. R. Assad one of the founders of the Villa Créole and patron of the local arts. Roland Dorcély, one of her protégés, painted the mural in the living room of the main house. When its roof collapsed during the earthquake, the mural was severely damaged. As the entire building will eventually have to be demolished, Simona will, not only be able to lift the mural off the wall (in a method called “stacco”) but also restore it back to its original splendor.

Finally, the entire staff at the Villa Créole wishes to thank all of you who have so graciously and generously contributed to the Housing Fund. The bond that we have developed with our extended family of guests has continued to inspire us. Without such ties and such caring for one another, the Villa Créole would not have existed for the past sixty years, providing that special atmosphere which we all cherish. The proceeds of the fund were distributed to all the employees to help them defray repair or rebuilding costs of their homes. Deepest thanks to all.

Thank you,

Alicia Assad Bigio
Melissa Dunwell Padberg
Cassandra Dunwell
Roger Dunwell
Frantz Rimpel