Sabal Springs Breeze Staff
Cathy
Crossword Puzzle
Roil
Inscribed pillar
A bushy hairdo
Hindu princess
Aphorism
Sticking point
Acculturate
Pitch
Compete 21. Lacquer ingredient 22. Male monarchs
23. Lands and wealth
25. Sparkle 27. “I agree”
28. Follow too closely
31. Music genre 34. Moon of Saturn
35. Roam 36. Broadcasts
Juryman
Sell
Supersonic transport
Discourage
Pantywaist
Parts of a series
Amazement
Polite
Beer makers
Astound
Sky-blue
Ignited
Fern clusters
Frenetic
Hurt
Trifling
Bobbin
61. Male deer
62. Twisty turns
63. Rear end DOWN
1. Courageous
2. Haven
3. A picture-in-picture
4. Fifty-two in Roman numerals
5. Grins
6. Fables
7. Test
8. Trial lawyer
9. An uncle
10. Temporary
11. The front of buildings
12. Sounded a bell
13. Is endebted to 18. Distributes
22. Pottery oven
24. Affirmatives
26. Teller of untruths
28. Rubber wheels
29. Sunbathes
30. Countercurrent
31. Bottom
32. A speech defect
33. Nettle rash
34. Tutorships
37. Star Wars knight
38. Scene
40. Peace bird
41. Sugary
43. Fabric stiffener
44. Sets out
46. Mesa
47. Patriarch
48. Angers
49. Flair
50. Snakes
51. Castle defense
53. Pimples
56. Type of primate
57. Chapter in history
CROSSWORD SOLUTION IN THIS ISSUE
Writers and Photographers Wanted
Do you have an interesting story to tell?
The Breeze is always looking for talented writers and photographers to submit articles and photos on Sabal Springs’ events, Fort Myers festivals, movies, books, etc. …
This is your chance to share your interests with the community. You can contribute every month, just once, or every now and then.
Do you have an interesting hobby or skill that you are passionate about?
Do you have, or did you have, an interesting career?
Are you the go-to person for the best restaurants or fun things to do?
Do you love to cook, bake, or bartend and have a favorite recipe to share?
Deadline: The 4th of the month
Florida Fun Fact
The state tree of Florida is the sabal palm (Sabal palmetto).
It is the most widely distributed palm in Florida. It grows in almost any soil and has many uses, including food, medicine, and landscaping. The 1953 Florida legislature designated the sabal palm as the state tree, and the 1970 legislature mandated that the sabal palm should replace the cocoa palm on the state seal.
Weird and Wild
Facts …
Did you know?
Dolphins have names for each other. Dolphins use whistles to identify each other, and respond when they hear their own “name.”
April Calendar of Sabal Springs Events
1
ARTS & CRAFTS MONTHLY LUNCH
Sign up on the Arts & Crafts corkboard. Lunch starts at 11:30 a.m. sharp. Lunch, Craft Show & Tell, Raffles & Fun Conversation. Any questions, contact Linda Voto at (860) 305-0468. Hosted by the Sabal Arts & Crafts Committee.
8
ARTS & CRAFTS POP-UP CLASS
Make a clothespin wreath. Sign up on the Arts & Crafts corkboard.
13 GOLF CART PROGRESSIVE TASTING
Visit the various different Host Sites around Sabal Springs from 1 to 3:30 p.m., to sample tastings at each stop. Hosts will set up a table in their garage for residents to stop by (in golf carts or by car) for delicious quick tastings, treats, and games. Tickets are $5 to help cover the hosts’ cost. (Not a fundraiser)
Ticket sales for residents only. Contact Susan Costa at (508) 889 7592.
13
NITE AT THE RACES
Hosted by the Sabal Entertainment Committee, the event – 6 to 9 p.m. – will be held in the multipurpose room. Ticket sales to be announced.
17 LADIES WHO LUNCH AT SABAL SPRINGS
Hosted by Susan Costas, 17656 Date Palm Ct. Please RSVP for Lunch No.1 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. or No. 2 from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Seating for 48. To RSVP, contact Susan at (508) 889-7592.
19 ANNUAL EASTER EGG HUNT
Easter Bunny, games and surprises for 12 & under. Activities start at 9:30 a.m., on the grassy area near the pool; egg hunt starts at 10 a.m. sharp. To RSVP, contact Doug Pechstein at (239) 204-8806.
History of Coffee Hour
JOYCE DOHERTY
Coffee hour was started many years ago by Nancy and Jerry Rainford. They used the simple format of coffee, donuts and good conversation and were successful for many years. After they moved, no one did coffee hour for a few years until Phyllis Sandler and Debbie Katz took over.
For almost 10 years this dynamic duo worked together to make coffee hour a fun, informative, social event. In fact, the format that is used today was started by them. Phyllis and Debbie retired from coffee hour when a group of ladies felt that coffee hour should continue year-round. And so, after some thought, the two decided that perhaps it was time for someone else to take over. Zoe Dolbee and Jan Lambert ran this monthly event for about a year and a half, until they too stepped away.
Coffee hour remained dormant until 2022, until Dieter Winterle and I took over. We follow the simple format started by Phyllis and Debbie. Our goal is to make coffee hour an event worth getting out of bed for. There is always plenty of coffee and goodies and information as to what is happening in the community. We also try to bring in informational guest speakers.
We are grateful for the help of Marcy and Dick Clark and Emily Raven who help collect money and sell 50/50 tickets; all the HOA Board members and committee/group leaders who keep us updated as to upcoming events; Officer Mark Sherman, our very own LCSO liaison, who stops by on a regular basis; and our residents who offer to entertain us.
Everyone is invited to coffee hour, and we encourage folks to bring their neighbors. We don’t care if they come in their pajamas!
Congratulations – Holes in One
LORETTA GEHMAN
Valentine’s Day weekend was not meant just for lovers, but also for overachievers as two gentlemen playing in the couples’ Valentine’s event on Saturday, February 15, both scored a hole in one on the course, accompanied by their special someone. Jane Ward watched as her husband Brian sank his fifth hole in one in Sabal Springs, this one on hole No. 5. Jeff and Linda Charlesworth also witnessed the milestone that day.
Later in the day during play on hole No. 12
Charley Frantz watched as her husband Roger scored his 13th hole in one, 12 of which
happened here in Sabal Springs. They were playing with Ian and Cathy Dobson. This reporter assumes the appropriate toasts were made out there on the course followed by celebratory drinks at The Lake House.
Arlene Roy was the recipient of a wonderful and surprise Valentine’s Day gift, and it wasn’t from Leo! She actually gave it to herself in the form of her first ever hole in one on the ever-tough hole No. 7. Arlene was playing with Cheri Armstrong and
BRIAN WARD RECORDS HIS FIFTH SABAL SPRINGS HOLE IN ONE.
ROGER FRANTZ’S LUCKY 13—AND HIS 12TH HOLE IN ONE IN SABAL SPRINGS.
Donna Blosinski that Friday morning. She teed up her ball, positioned her club, and swung that club as she always does. All three golfers watched as the balled crossed the green—all assuming that it ran off the back of the green. They proceeded to the area and walked back and forth searching in vain for the little yellow ball to no avail. Finally, Arlene gave up and told Donna that she would just go get another ball. As she turned to leave, she walked past the hole and saw that little yellow ball peeking out of the hole. Everyone laughed as Arlene went into shock. She has been playing for four years and four months and this was her first hole in one. If you see Arlene, be sure to congratulate her.
ARLENE ROY’S SWEETHEART SWING RESULTED IN HER FIRST HOLE IN ONE.
Sabal Springs Sunshine Singles
TERRI MAROTTA
If you are single and reside in Sabal Springs and are interested in joining our group, here is a list of what we do, who we are, and where we go:
• Dinner/dances at various venues such as Cape Cabaret, Rusty’s, Backstreets, Marinatown restaurants, rooftop dance parties, Micelli’s, and listening to and dancing to great bands.
• Fisherman’s Village and Sunseeker Resort in Punta Gorda are also regular destinations.
• During football season, we go to various sports bars to watch the games every Sunday wearing our favorite jerseys. Serious football fans only, as we watch the games and are not there to chit chat! And there’s an annual Super Bowl party at Terri Marotta’s house—all singles welcome.
• House parties during the holidays for those folks who have no families here.
• We take turns driving carpools to all events, especially lots of beach days to Venice Beach and Fort Myers Beach with a nice lunch at a seaside restaurant.
• Movie matinees, lunch dates, eco tours, and wine tastings at various places as suggestions are welcome.
• Of course, dancing to the Bandstand Band at Sabal Springs.
Please note reservations are required for the singles group for all events, to coordinate driving, dinner or lunch reservations, etc.
If you are single and reside in Sabal Springs and would like to join us, then come to our next meeting on Wednesday, April 23, in the Sunrise Room at The Lake House Restaurant at 4:30 p.m. You will be asked to provide your name, address, phone number and email at that time. This is a fun group for singles only, and we do follow a monthly agenda, discuss events and plan accordingly. It is recommended you bring a pen, paper and your calendar. Discussions and dinner are held afterward. Feel free to call Terri Marotta at (239) 785-5220 or Geri Gregorio at (239) 898-0907 with any questions or email pmonfred@comcast.net .
Karen’s Jazzercise
IN MEMORY OF KAREN JAMIESON FOR ALL SHE MEANT TO SABAL SPRINGS.
A wonderful lady left us too soon. Quite a few residents enjoyed Karen Jamieson’s Jazzercise class for many years, and we will continue to dance in tribute to her for many more. Karen will be missed by her family and friends, especially her cohorts at Sabal Springs. But her Jazzercise class lives on.
The photo is of the class here in March led by Krisan Hahn, a seasonal resident. Krisan explained that she asked Karen last summer if she would like a co-teacher to help on days she wasn’t feeling up to teaching.
Unfortunately, Karen said she wouldn’t be able to continue and gave Krisan her blessing to take over. After Karen’s passing her family gave Krisan her old aerobic notes. Krisan says, “It is like she (Karen) is still there.” And for myself who enjoyed Karen’s classes, I can sometimes hear her cheerful, beautiful voice challenging us to “push harder.”
MOVE IT, MOVE IT AND PUSH IT HARDER IN KAREN’S MEMORY.
DONNA MILBEE
Krisan Hahn has been a seasonal resident of Sabal Springs for two years. She had been an aerobics instructor in Buffalo, NY, for more than 30 years. Krisan has taught step aerobics, weightlifting and cardio jazz. She will lead Karen’s Jazzercise class for us from December to March. Nada Pajevic, who has been involved in jazzercise and taught line dancing for decades, will lead the class April through June, October and November.
INSERT VIDEO
Jazzercize video.mp4
JOIN THE FUN IN THE BI-WEEKLY JAZZERCISE CLASS.
Everyone is invited to get “in the groove” in the multipurpose room every Tuesday and Thursday from 10 to 10:45 a.m. to keep those muscles moving.
Resplendent in Red
LORETTA GEHMAN
Red was the color of the day followed closely by many shades of pink as the Saturday Couples Valentine’s Day Scramble took place on yet another bright and sunny Florida day in February.
Forty-seven couples arose early on February 15 to play on a course gaily decorated with all things Valentine’s Day inspired, including red, pink and white windsocks; red foil hearts; and the cutest little gnomes dressed in their hats of red marking new and easier tee box locations.
The committee consisting of Robin and Dave Fritz, Susan and Bill Roberts, Linda and Jeff Charlesworth and Sharon and Jim Croxton designated five specific holes to challenge the participants’ ability to aim and land closest to the actual pin placement, the windsocks or the flags for a chance to win recognition along with prize money.
The results of those contests follow:
Closest to the Pin, Hole No. 1, Men, White Tee
Players – Bob Carpenter Closest to the Windsock, Hole No. 3, Men –Don Rhodes Closest to the Windsock, Hole No. 3, Women –Coleen Birmingham
Closest to the Pin, Hole No. 8, Women – Sue Short
Closest to the Flags, Hole No. 13, Men – Terry Brown
Closest to the Flags, Hole No. 13, Women – Rose Whitehouse
Closest to the Pin, Hole No. 16, Men, Gold Tee Players –Dick Hansen
After those individual winners were announced, it was time to award the winning teams with their prize money.
The top five winners were as follows:
5th Place – Jeff & Linda Charlesworth and Brian & Jane Ward
4th Place – Greg Rood & Linda Hood and Carter & Anita Johnson
3rd Place – Larry & Barb Cassidy and Ron & Coleen Birmingham
2nd Place – Rich Triptow & Janet McEachern and Terry Brown & Donna Ireland
And … drum roll, please …
The winners with a score of 49 on a Par 60 course were Dick Hansen & MaryLou Collins and Mike & Shirley Berry.
Congratulations to all of the winners!
Team Spirit
LORETTA GEHMAN
For two days in mid-February, the golf course at Sabal Springs was teeming with women golfers in groups of four, most of them in matching attire, for the annual Sabal Springs Ladies’ Golf Association (SSLGA) Four-Person Team Tournament. The ladies gathered at 7:45 a.m. on Wednesday, February 12, under beautifully sunny skies to begin their competition. Tournament Director Linda Hucker gave the instructions for the day and the 13 teams assembled in their golf carts and set out to compete in the day one Captain’s Choice alternate shot format on the front nine holes and a Shamble on the back nine holes.
The second morning provided the same lovely weather and playing conditions were perfect for the completion of the event. Day two’s format consisted of regular golf with the two best scores in the group of four players being registered for each of the nine holes on the front portion of the golf course and a Scramble on the back nine.
Following the competition on day two, the members of the SSLGA gathered in the Sunrise Room at The Lake House Restaurant for a luncheon and meeting where the winners were announced. They were as follows:
9-HOLE WINNERS: ANITA JOHNSON, BETH ZES, KATHY CARPENTER, JOY MELIN
Nine-Hole Team
Kathy Carpenter, Anita Johnson, Joy Melin, Beth Zes
18-Hole Teams
A Flight
Lorraine Rechten, Barton Sala, Linda Sholette, Jane Ward
B Flight
Bonnie Halberg, Liz Jurocko, Donna Ritchie, Arlene Roy
C Flight
Judy Andrews, Jo Decker, Charley Frantz, Sue LaPlume
Congratulations to all of the winning teams. It has been said, “There is no I in team,” and these ladies proved that throughout the tournament in order to attain the status of winning team. A special thanks goes to Kathy Carpenter, Yvonne Cegelski and Anita Johnson, the hosts for our lunch and meeting.
If you want to join in all of the fun and camaraderie that happens within the ladies’ golf association here in Sabal Springs, contact Jane Ward, membership chairperson, at golfingawards@att.net or (239) 373-7444. We welcome all skill levels and offer a 9-hole and 18-hole group of play within our league. Please join us, we love new members.
A FLIGHT WINNERS: LINDA SHOLETTE, LORRAINE RECHTEN, JANE WARD, BARTON SALA
C FLIGHT WINNERS: JO DECKER, SUE LAPLUME, JUDY ANDREWS, CHARLEY FRANTZ
B FLIGHT WINNERS: ARLENE ROY, LIZ JUROCKO, BONNIE HALBERG (MISSING FROM PHOTO, DONNA RITCHIE).
February Golf Winners
CHARLEY FRANTZ
WEDNESDAY LADIES’ LEAGUE
Feb. 19
A Flight - 1st Place, Laurie Simkins; 2nd Place, Yvonne Cegelski
B Flight - 1st Place, Janet McEachern; 2nd Place, Coleem Birmingham
C Flight - 1st Place, Terry Clark; 2nd Place, Rose Whitehouse
9-Hole Players
A Flight - 1st Place, Ellie Birmingham
B Flight - 1st Place, Joy Melin; 2nd Place, Robin Fritz
C Flight - 1st Place, Helen Parlett; 2nd Place, Susan Roberts
Feb. 26 – Positioning Round for Club Championship Thursday Men’s League
Feb. 5 and 6 – Four-Person Team Tournament
A Flight - 1st Place, Dave Fritz, Bill McKesson, Ed Herrgard, Bill Goetsch
B Flight - 1st Place, Bob Connelly, Mike Webster, Charlie Andrews, Doug Mazurek
C Flight - 1st Place, Norb Brand, Guy Armstrong, John Linehan, Terry LaValley
Feb. 20
White Flight - 1st Place, Bill Mc Kesson; 2nd Place, Doug Mazurek
Gold Flight - 1st Place, Don Rhodes; 2nd Place, Dave Worthington, Gary Clapp Closest-to-the-Pin Hole No. 2, White – Bruce Mack, Gold – Tom Triptow
Feb. 27 – Positioning Round for Club Championship Saturday Couples’ Scramble
Feb. 1
1st Place – Linda & Jeff Charlesworth, Linda Sholette & Paul Larson
2nd Place – Sharon Hunt & Bob Petty, Laurie & Bill Simkins
Feb. 8
1st Place – Karol & Keith Bunch, Barton Sala & Gavin Kirk
2nd Place – Judy & Charlie Andrews, Robin & Dave Fritz
Feb. 22
1st Place – Shirley & Michael Berry, MaryLou Collins & Dick Hansen
2nd Place – Donna Ireland & Terrry Brown, Janet McEachern & Tom Triptow
TAREN GROM
Fun on the Fairways
As part of the new Breeze , each month we will be featuring one of Sabal Springs’ golfers who will share what their favorite hole or least favorite hole on the course is and why. This month, we kick off with Dieter Winterle of 3880 Schefflera Drive.
Dieter, who started playing golf 10 years ago, is the new president of the Joker’s Club, a Sabal Springs group of golfers who love to play, have fun and help the community. The Joker’s Club holds tournaments and raises money for worthy causes, including the Tunnel to Towers.
INSERT VIDEO
Dieter video 1.mp4
INSERT VIDEO
Dieter video 2.mp4
KRISAN HAHN
Why I Love Pickleball in Sabal Springs
I bought my home in Sabal Springs two years ago. From the minute I toured the community, I knew this was the place for me. I immediately felt at home. I don’t golf but loved the golfing landscape, enjoyed the huge pool, and was very interested in the amenities and activities. I was most excited about learning how to play pickleball and was so happy when I saw it offered here. I went to a beginner’s clinic, taught by Jim Van Kuiken, and was greeted by an abundance of kindhearted people.
Being new to a community, it can be hard to make friends, and this group welcomed me with open arms. I learned how to keep score, how to serve and how to “dink.” I didn’t and don’t have to be a “powerhouse” to be successful at the sport and learned it’s all about ball placement.
Exercise has always been a part of my life—playing basketball in high school, teaching aerobics classes, playing badminton, and ping pong but nothing is as much fun as pickleball. The thrill you get when you get a volley of
10, 20, or 30 shots is nothing short of an adrenaline rush!
Especially as I got older, and the other activities became harder—pickleball was it! It is a game for all ages. When my grandkids visit, we play. When family visits, we play. Sunup or sundown, I am down to play. The pickleball community here is wonderful—they’ve done fundraising for updated hard surface courts, created a Facebook group, encourage new people to play and form friendships.
It was a disappointment when the vote didn’t pass to upgrade the tennis and pickleball area and unfortunately, the pickleball clinic will not continue to be offered due to the poor court conditions. My hope is that this wildly popular and growing sport will find a permanent home here in our beautiful Sabal Springs community.
PICKLEBALL
Sabal Springs Committees
BETH LOCKHART
Each year in Sabal Springs, after the board elections, committees are chosen to oversee a variety of activities and issues of importance to residents. Community members are encouraged to sign up to volunteer each March for any committee they may be interested in. Caveat, signing up does not guarantee participation as the various chairs choose the members.
On February 20, the Communications Committee held an informational session, providing a lot of information about the various opportunities available.
Below is a description of the different committees and what they do.
Architectural Review Committee (ARC)
–
Mary Zitek has been chair of this committee for a few years now. Their job is to approve any outside work to your homes. There are currently eight members of the committee who oversee zones within Sabal Springs. When an ARC form is submitted to the office, whoever has your zone, will come to your home and make sure all improvements follow our rules and regulations as well as Lee County regulations. They meet once a month to review all ARCs that have been submitted.
Building Maintenance – Gary Ravin is the chair, he did not attend the meeting. This committee helps oversee maintenance of our facilities.
Common Area Maintenance – The chair is Bill Jurocko, he was not able to attend the meeting.
Communications Committee – Linn Campbell serves as chair of this committee. Their goal is to get information out to residents. They have organized several informational sessions in the last year and hope to do even more in 2025. Topics have included EPC information and how to navigate our resident portal.
Compliance Committee/Fining Committee
– Both of these are currently chaired by Patsy Clark. Every two weeks, members drive around the community to write up any violations of the rules in our deed restricted community. Residents have 30 days to correct any violations. If they are not done, recommendations are sent to the board to recommend any fines or additional violations. In 2024, approximately six to eight fines were discussed and sent to the board for further discussion.
Contracts Committee – Randy Lockhart currently chairs this committee of four. Their job is to review and negotiate vendor contracts and offer opinions and recommendations to the board before contracts are signed. In 2024, this committee saved homeowners $18,000 on the golf cart lease contract. They also helped in reviewing contracts for the new landscaping company and for the two new air conditioners at the clubhouse. They were able to add value to these contracts with additional services not originally offered.
Decorating Committee – Carol Duncan has chaired this committee since 2024. They decorate the common areas of Sabal Springs for seasons and holidays. Each year they take inventory of all decorations, and they test each string of Christmas lights in anticipation of Christmas decorating. There are currently five people on the committee, and are always looking for more help, especially tall people who are unafraid to climb ladders.
Documents Committee – Earl Russell is the current chair. He could not attend the meeting so fellow member Scott Clark presented. This committee recommends and makes changes to our documents based on changes in 720 laws or issues they believe need updating. They also review documents/contracts to ensure there are no conflicts between our bylaws, rules and regulations, and our covenants and restrictions.
Emergency Preparedness Committee (EPC) – Linn Campbell is also the chair of the EPC. The EPC helps prepare for emergencies. They offer classes on what to do during a hurricane as well as CPR and AED training. They manage the communications center at the clubhouse during emergencies and they organize the block captains for the various sections of Sabal Springs. They also run the annual toy drive in conjunction with the North Fort Myers Fire Department.
Entertainment Committee – Emily Ravin is the chair. Members are selected by invitation only. They plan entertainment events in Sabal Springs. No members presented at the meeting.
Finance Committee – Bill Hare has been chair of this committee for a year. There are four members. All members are required to sign a code of conduct. The committee provides oversight to the treasurer of the association by reviewing the budget and any financial statements. They meet monthly.
Golf Committee – currently chaired by Scott Clark and Donna Ireland. The purpose of this committee is to enhance the golf experience at Sabal Springs. This committee organized golf course tours in November that were very well received. They have plans for another one in March or April. They also hope to increase business and are currently discussing ideas on ways to do that. The flags out front have increased business so far this season, and they hope to do more.
Library Committee – The Library Committee manages the library in the clubhouse. Dee Dunphy is chair, she did not attend the meeting.
Pool Committee – Cheryl Taylor is chair of the Pool Committee. Lauri Mansky presented in her absence. The committee is currently working on getting the pool deck resurfaced. They are also looking into redoing the fences and gates, adding shade structures, and restrapping the pool furniture.
The Sabal Springs Breeze Newsletter –There are currently five members of the editorial staff. Donna Milbee presented at the meeting. As of April 1, the Breeze will be
completely online. This will allow for more vibrant content. The Breeze is currently seeking volunteers to write occasional articles and to cover various events in Sabal Springs.
Signage Committee – This committee updates signs throughout the development as needed. No representatives attended the meeting.
Tennis/Pickleball Committee – The chair is Bill Rokosz, he did not attend the meeting. This committee furthers discussions on how to move forward with tennis and pickleball in Sabal Springs.
Visionary Committee – Sabal Springs used to have a visionary committee, it has not existed for several years. The board wants to bring it back in 2025. The goals of the committee are to look ahead and help us plan for the future.
Welcome Committee – The Welcome Committee welcomes new residents to the community and provides information on rules, regulations, etc. They hold occasional orientations for new residents. Jeanine Clapp and Lanier Gray are cochairs. Neither attended this meeting.
Thanks to the committee chairs and residents who were able to attend this informative session. The Breeze will provide ongoing information from each of these committees during the year.
Board President Jeff Duncan ended the meeting by describing how these committees are actually the lifeblood of this community. He specifically recognized the Contracts Committee for all the work they have done and for how much he has personally learned from them. He encouraged everyone in attendance to sign up and get involved.
Each month, committee membership is published in the Sabal Springs Breeze. If you have an interest or talent and want to get involved, please reach out to the committee chairperson.
Sudoku Solution
Three R&Rs to Remember
As part of the communications team’s endeavors to keep our residents informed, going forward we are going to be highlighting at least three items in each Breeze issue. For lengthy R&R items, there will be abbreviated content with a notation of where the total item can be found.
Our Sabal Springs rules and regulations can be found on our community portal. You will need to log into the portal and go to documents/governing documents/ RandRARC changes 12 17 2024
1. DECORUM AND BEHAVIOR
No. 2 page 2 – All homeowners, residents, guests, and visitors will honor and adhere to the appropriate decorum expected in each activity. This includes the obligation to be respectful of others who are seeking enjoyment at the same time. It also includes adhering to the posted speed limit throughout the community. (Gentle reminder that our posted speed limit is 17 mph.)
2. PROPERTY INSPECTIONS
Subsection of Architectural Review Committee (ARC) #17- page 15/16
A. Periodic inspections are conducted to maintain the appearance of the community and to ensure compliance. All sides of the property are required to be in compliance. If a complaint is made regardless of the side of the property, there will be an inspection and if issues are discovered regardless of the side of the property, a notice describing the issue will be sent.
B. All pots and other lawn ornaments must be removed from the yard and placed in a secure area before leaving home between June 1 and November 30 (Hurricane Season).
C. Garbage and recycling containers must be stored in garage except 24 hours prior to scheduled pickup. Horticultural waste shall not be placed at the curb until 24 hours prior to scheduled pickup.
D. Planting beds are to remain free of weeds.
E. Driveways and roofs must be kept clean.
F. Plants/bushes around fire hydrants are prohibited (Ordinance 86-17) based on North Fort Myers Fire Department and Code Enforcement Officer of Lee County.
G. Plants/bushes around utility boxes shall not conceal the entrance or prevent power crews from opening boxes when necessary. Plants or figurines shall not be placed on top of utility boxes.
3. GOLF CART PATH USAGE
No. 36 page 20 – Please note the golf cart paths are only for people playing golf and are to be used only for those people who have signed up to play golf in the pro shop during regular hours of operation and for no other use.
A. Homeowners along the golf cart paths have an expectation of privacy and quiet enjoyment when the golf course is closed.
B. Pets are never allowed on the golf course or golf cart paths.
Please be mindful to advise your visitors that the golf cart path cannot be used for sightseeing at any time—during or after the course play has ended for the day.
Card News
FEBRUARY 2025 WEDNESDAY BRIDGE RESULTS
PAT HARP
Feb. 5
1. Cheryl Taylor
2. Jane Rathburn
3. Ulla Wistehuff
Feb. 12
1. Bonnie Halburg
2. Carmella Manning
3. Sylvania Threlkeld
Feb. 19
1. Carmella Manning
2. Walt Masters
3. Frank DeGoey
Feb. 26
1. Frank DeGoey
2. Elaine Goldsmidth
3. Nan Shewalter
MONDAY DUPLICATE BRIDGE
EARL RUSSELL
Feb. 5
First: Earl Russell & Sue Bobak
Second: Chris & Dave Bennett
Third: Walt Masters & Mike Ward
Third: Jane Rathburn & Nan Shewalter
Feb. 10
First: Carmella Manning & Cathy Ward
Second: Marsha Van Egeren & Gerry Arenstein
Third: Earl Russell & Sue Bobak
Third: Chris & Dave Bennett
Now We’re Cooking
BETH LOCKHART
Cookie Ingredients:
ITALIAN EASTER
2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
3 tablespoons cornstarch
1½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon baking soda
1 stick unsalted butter, at room temperature
½ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs at room temperature
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Grated zest of 1 lemon
Glaze and Sprinkles:
1¾ cups confectioners’ sugar
Juice of 1 lemon (about 4 tablespoons)
Pinch of salt
1 to 2 tablespoons of milk
Pastel colored sprinkles
Directions
1. For the cookies: whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and baking soda in medium bowl.
2. Combine the butter and sugar in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment and beat on medium speed until pale and fluffy, about 4 minutes. Reduce the speed to low and add the eggs, one at a time, mixing after
COOKIES
each addition until totally combined, about 1 minute. Add the vanilla and lemon zest and mix to combine. Turn the mixer off and scrape down the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula then add all the flour mixture. Mix on low speed until everything is well combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as necessary, making sure not to overmix. Cover and refrigerate until the dough in completely chilled, at least two hours up to overnight.
3. Position racks in the upper and lower thirds of the oven; preheat to 350 degrees. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Lightly flour a clean work surface. Scoop out 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it into a rope, about 5 to 6 inches long. Tie it into a loose knot and place on prepared baking sheet. Repeat with remaining dough. If the knots start to get warm, refrigerate until firm about 10 minutes.
4. Bake on the upper and lower racks until the tops of the cookies are dry and set and the bottoms are golden, rotating the backing sheets front to back and switching rack positions, halfway through, about 15 minutes total.
5. For the glaze and sprinkles: whisk together confectioners’ sugar, lemon juice, salt and 1
tablespoon of milk in a medium bowl until smooth. Whisk in the remaining 1 tablespoon of milk if needed – the glaze should be the consistency of heavy cream.
6. Place the sprinkles in a small shallow bowl. Once the cookies are cool enough
BETH LOCKHART
Ingredients:
1½ cups sour cream
to handle, dip the tops in the glaze, letting any excess run off, then dip in the sprinkles. Transfer the cookies, glazed side up, to a wire rack and let cool completely. The cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
LATKES WITH HORSERADISH
2 tbsp. chopped chives, plus more for garnish
1 tbsp. prepared horseradish, plus more to taste
2½ lbs. russet potatoes, peeled
1 yellow onion, peeled and halved
1½ tsp. kosher salt
2 large eggs, beaten
1/4 cup matzo meal, plus more as needed
2 cups canola oil
Flaky sea salt, for serving
Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 300°. In a small bowl, combine the sour cream, chives, and horseradish. Add extra horseradish to taste. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
2. On the large holes of a box grater, shred the potatoes and onion. Add the potatoes and onions to a strainer set over a large mixing bowl, and add the salt. Let the potato-onion mixture rest for 10 minutes, then ring out as much liquid as possible. Put the mixture in a clean dish towel and ring again to get them even drier.
3. In a separate large mixing bowl, add the eggs, matzo meal, and potato mixture. Combine thoroughly and add more matzo meal as needed to bind.
4. In a large straight-sided skillet over mediumhigh heat, heat oil until it reaches 325°. Scoop about ½ cup of mixture from the bowl, and add to the pan, flattening with a spatula. Repeat with another ½ cup scoop. Add as many latkes to the pan as you can, making sure they all have 1 inch around them to prevent any steaming. Cook, flipping once, until both sides have browned, about 2 minutes per side. If the latkes are burning reduce heat.
5. Transfer cooked latkes onto a cooling rack over a rimmed baking sheet, and keep warm in the oven. Repeat with remaining latke mixture.
6. Serve with the horseradish chive sour cream, sprinkled with more chives and flaky sea salt, if you like.
Something from the Bar…
TAREN GROM
Directions
GARIBALDI COCKTAIL
Add 2 ice cubes to a tall glass. Pour 1½ oz. Campari and orange juice to taste over ice. Garnish with an orange wedge.
TAREN GROM
MIRIAM’S CUP COCKTAIL
With its kiss of orange liqueur, Miriam’s Cup is a tribute to women’s special place at the Jewish table and in Jewish life, just as an orange is on the Passover Seder plate. Ingredients for 1 drink.
Ingredients:
¾ oz. blanco tequila
¾ oz. green chartreuse
¾ oz. Cointreau orange liqueur
¾ oz. fresh lime juice
Fresh Italian parsley for garnish Orange peel for garnish (use a carrot peeler)
Directions
In a shaker, combine all ingredients except the garnishes with a generous handful of ice and shake until the shaker is cold.
Pour into a martini glass and swirl a little parsley into the glass. Garnish with a piece of orange peel (you can rub the orange part of the peel on the rim of the glass first to flavor the rim).
The Great Facebook Debate
BETH LOCKHART
Did you know there are upwards of 15 Facebook groups and pages dedicated to various issues in Sabal Springs? Some are used regularly and have large followings. Some have not been used in years and have very few members. They serve different purposes for different people. Some love them, some hate them. Some are private and some are public. Some allow only residents of Sabal Springs to join; some allow anyone with a connection to Sabal Springs to engage; and others allow anyone who happens to find the page to join.
Why is there so much drama about our Facebook pages? There are several reasons. First a little history. Several years ago, a group was created by the Arts and Crafts group. Unfortunately, it got pretty ugly and certain residents were threatened and experienced online abuse. There was even an attempt to drive a former board member out of the community or at least off the board. Eventually that page ceased to exist. In 2021, a new resident—in all transparency me—saw a need for a group for people to get information or to sell things so I started a page called Sabal Springs Homeowners. I was told by a former board member that I should change the name because some folks might think it was an official Sabal Springs HOA page. But that didn’t quell the detractors, one former board president even sat in my living room and used words like attorney and cease and desist.
I firmly believe in freedom of speech but the daily barrage of attacks became too much and I finally gave in and deleted the group. That’s when Susan Costa reached out to me about creating one herself. I told her to go for it but that she should probably speak to the board before she did so she could get direction from them and avoid the hiccups I encountered. This is when the Sabal Springs Scoop was born.
Now as anyone on the Scoop knows, this page is for positivity only and things directly related to Sabal Springs. At the same time notices from the office and information on happenings in Sabal Springs are regularly posted here. The Scoop welcomes individuals outside of Sabal Springs to join as long as they have a connection to someone in here. Last I knew, any outside events, photographs, etc. are not allowed. Over the course of time, myself and several others were banned from the Scoop.
We then took it upon ourselves to create a new page, which is how the Sabal Springs Gnomies was born. The Gnomies site only allows residents of Sabal Springs to join. This can be challenging to manage as each request has to be verified by the resident or online directory and each year, the administrators go through the list and directories and remove anyone who no longer lives here. This is why free discussions and conversations are allowed as only residents are members. However, the admins of the page will delete conversations
and comments if they do get out of hand and will ban residents who are disrespectful or unable to behave like adults.
Sabal Springs Unfiltered is a new group that was recently formed by a newer resident. Almost anything goes here. Lots of hot topics can be discussed openly.
Other pages include Sabal Springs Pickleball Players, Sabal Springs Entertainment, Sabal Springs Tennis, The Lakehouse at Sabal Springs, Sabal Springs Golf & Raquet Club, Sabal Springs Nature Lovers, Sabal Springs Golf, Joker’s of Sabal Springs, Sabal Springs Real Estate, Sabal Springs, Sabal Springs Lifestyle and the Midwest Group at Sabal Springs.
All run by different people and groups. All types of groups for different interests. It can be a bit overwhelming. Also keep in mind, every one of these pages/groups are for entertainment purposes only. All official communication is supposed to come from Alliant and not a Facebook page.
There are no official Facebook pages for Sabal Springs homeowners, and it would be nice if one could be created. There is the ability to create a site for informational posts only. Comments and unauthorized posting could be blocked. Each committee or group could send regular updates to be posted by maybe one or two administrators only. On weekends, when the office is closed, if information needs to get out, it could still get out via the Facebook page. Right now, if anything urgent happens on a weekend, we don’t find out about it until the following week. The HOA board president used to be able to send emails and texts in emergency situations but that has gone away.
CROSSWORD SOLUTION
An official group page could be managed by one or two members of the Communications Committee if they had the technical capability to do so. For more information on how a Facebook page could be beneficial, here’s an article I found: https://www. cedarmanagementgroup. com/use-social-media-inhoa-effectively/
It’s 2025 and time to get with the times!
Happy Birthday – April
The zodiac signs for April are Aries and Taurus. Aries is the sign for people born between March 21 and April 19, and Taurus is the sign for people born between April 20 and May 20. The birthstone for April is the diamond.
The birth flowers for April are the daisy and the sweet pea.
Aries are said to be energetic, impulsive, and courageous.
• Creative: Aries are creative and imaginative and can come up with many solutions to a problem.
• Competitive: Aries are competitive and ambitious and are good at starting new projects.
• Honest: Aries are honest and straightforward, and don’t like to lie.
• Independent: Aries are independent and like to do things their own way
• Confident: Aries are confident and fearless, and are not afraid to try new things.
Taurus are known for being reliable, sensual, and stubborn. They are also known for being hardworking, patient, and nurturing.
• Hardworking: They are dedicated and put their energy into earning money.
• Patient: They are dependable and enjoy listening.
• Sensual: They love taking their time and indulging the five senses.
• Stubborn: They can be rigid, but this also helps them focus on priorities.
• Nurturing: They are known for their patience and nurturing tendencies.
• Loyal: They value stability, security, and loyalty in relationships.
• Perfectionist: They thrive on perfectionism, which can lead to stress and procrastination.
RESOURCE HUB
SABAL SPRINGS DIRECTORY
2024 SABAL SPRINGS BOARD
OF DIRECTORS
President: Jeffrey Duncan** (414) 852-9410 jeffduncansshoa@hotmail.com
Vice President: Kathy Kwaak* (817) 291-4746 kksabal506@gmail.com
Secretary: John Baas** (586) 876-1173 johnbbaas@gmail.com
Treasurer: Tom Triptow* (954) 868-2321 tltriptow@hotmail.com
Director: Rick Stamper* (330) 858-1195 rickstamperdirector@gmail.com
SABAL SPRINGS COMMITTEES
ARC (BOD: Kathy Kwaak)
Building Maintenance (BOD: Jeffrey Duncan) Compliance (BOD: Tom Triptow) Communications (BOD: Jeffrey Duncan)
Common Area Maintenance (BOD: John Baas)
Contract Review (BOD: Rick Stamper) Decorating (BOD: Kathy Kwaak) Document (BOD: Rick Stamper)
EPC (BOD: Kathy Kwaak) Finance (BOD: Tom Triptow)
Fining (BOD: Tom Triptow) Golf (BOD: Jeffrey Duncan) Library (BOD: Kathy Kwaak) Pool (BOD: John Baas) Tennis/Pickleball (BOD: Rick Stamper) Welcome (BOD: John Baas)
*Terms expire in 2027; **Terms expire in 2026
These listings are maintained by the S.S.H.O.A. office, please notify the office of any changes or corrections by email or contacting the S.S.H.O.A. office at (239) 731-2191 as well as the Breeze at sabalspringsbreeze@gmail.com
Sabal Springs Golf & Racquet Club
3410 Clubview Drive
Fort Myers, Florida 33917 (239) 731-0101
www.sabalspringshoa.net
IMPORTANT NUMBERS
SABAL SPRINGS
Ron Czarnik, LCAM, Alliant Manager (239) 731-2191
George-Ann Whitney, Alliant Administrative Assistant (239) 731-2191
Sabal Springs Golf Shop (239) 731-0101
Lake House at Sabal Springs Restaurant (239) 360-7274
Gate House (239) 731-5552
Voice server for Gate House (239) 567-4147
Office email: sabalsprings.office@alliantproperty.com
Alliant Association Management 13831 Vector Ave., Fort Myers, FL 33907 (239) 454-1101
ASSISTANCE
Emergency 911
Sheriff (non-emergency) (239) 477-1000
Cable TV Xfinity (800) 266-2278
LCEC Electric (239) 656-2300
FGUA Water & Sewer (239) 533-8845
LCU (239) 543-1005
GOVERNMENT AGENCIES
Motor Vehicle Registration
Taxes
Voter Registration
VA Social Security
Room reservations (ALL) contact the S.S.H.O.A. office at (239) 731-2191.
PLEASE NOTE THAT IF YOU ARRANGE FOR ANY EVENT THAT INVOLVES NON-RESIDENTS, YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE TO NOTIFY THE GATEHOUSE.
Star Gazing – The Visible Planets of April 2025
Astronomer Bob Berman tells us the top things to see this month from visible planets to bright stars.
• On the 1st of April at nightfall, the crescent Moon hovers just above the famous Pleiades star cluster, a major treat through binoculars.
• On the 2nd, the waxing crescent Moon meets Jupiter. Spot their approach as dusk fades to darkness. Jupiter will shine at a very bright magnitude -2.1 in the night sky.
• On the 5th, the Moon has moved on to meet Mars, passing within 2°06′ of each other. The Red Planet, still bright at magnitude 0.5, resumes its direct eastward (leftward) motion. This leaves the area
occupied by the stars Castor and Pollux, the names of the twin half-brothers in Greek mythology who represent Gemini.
• On April 12, a full Moon rises around dusk and setting at around dawn, visible most of the night.
• Are you an early worm? In the east at dawn, Venus moves higher each morning, shining at a maximum brilliance of magnitude -4.8.
• From April 19 to 30, look towards Venus at 5:30 a.m. Very low below the blazing planet are Mercury and Saturn.
• On the 25th, the waning crescent Moon joins the trio of planets—Venus, Mercury, Saturn. It hovers to the left of Saturn, and above Mercury—with Venus higher than them all.
