Southwest Florida (SWFL) is a haven for bald eagles, with a high concentration of nesting pairs. The region is known for its active eagle nests, including the Southwest Florida Eagle Cam nest. Florida, in general, boasts one of the highest populations of nesting bald eagles in the lower 48 states.
FUN FACTS ABOUT BALD EAGLES IN SWFL
Year-Round Residents: Most breeding bald eagles in Florida, especially in the southern part of the state, stay year-round.
Nesting Season: The nesting season typically runs from October 1 to May 15.
Nesting Habits: Eagles often reuse the same nest year after year, with some nests becoming massive structures over time.
Diet: Eagles in SWFL rely on fish from the Caloosahatchee River as a primary food source, but they will also eat small rodents.
Here in Sabal Springs, we have the privilege of seeing several eagles on a regular basis around the community and our golf course. Thanks to Phyllis Moran Zak, Gary Clapp, and Sue Ayers, who recently captured the majesty of our feathered friends.
What it Means to Live in “A Deed Restricted Community”
THE COMMUNICATIONS COMMITTEE
It is important for homeowners to understand what it means to live in a deed-restricted community such as Sabal Springs. By definition here in Florida, according to the website floridalife.com , “Deed restrictions limit what you can and cannot do to a particular property.” The article continues by listing various aspects of restrictions that can include adjacent
structures, fences, trees, obstruction of views, and color choices. Of course, most Homeowners Associations (HOAs) are deedrestricted and include multiple and varied restrictions and requirements. These are generally listed in the covenants of the community.
Though restrictions are limiting, they can also provide some benefits. The website continues by suggesting that many deed-restricted communities “come with facilities and amenities that improve the quality of life.”
Such amenities, as we have here in Sabal Springs, may include a gym, swimming pool, clubhouse, etc. In addition, property maintenance is frequently provided as well as rules to ensure properties are maintained at a certain level.
Here in Sabal Springs, our governing documents include a deed restriction. These restrictions were originated at the inception of the Sabal Springs Homeowners Association. Our HOA Articles of Incorporation is a legal document and generally describes our existence. Our Covenant, also legally recorded, set forth the
general restrictions of our community. Lastly, the Rules and Regulations provide the details of the restrictions.
Sabal Springs has various active committees, including the Compliance Committee and Architecture Review Committee, whose functions are to ensure the Covenants and the Rules and Regulations of the community are followed by homeowners. These important committees make every effort to ensure Sabal Springs remains the beautiful and well-kept community we were originally drawn to when we purchased our homes.
Homeowners are encouraged to visit the Sabal Springs HOA portal to review our governing documents. If you are unsure as to what may require compliance, please call the HOA office for assistance. As we all work together in cooperation, we can ensure our deed-restricted properties can remain in harmony. And, for that, we can surely be thankful.
New Sabal Springs Racquet Complex
BILL HARE WITH SUSAN AND GREG COSTA
At the Sabal Springs HOA Board of Directors (BOD) meeting on June 17, 2025, a motion was passed to recognize pickleball as a new amenity to the Sabal Springs Golf and Racquet Club.
Co-chair of the Tennis and Pickleball Committee, Greg Costa, presented a 12-page handout to residents and proceeded with a visual presentation to explain the details of the committee’s goals, members, and tennis and pickleball history in Sabal Springs. The presentation included the committee’s activities and recommended vendor, total cost, donations received and expected cost to the HOA. Here are a few of the highlights from the presentation.
Committee Goals
SABAL SPRINGS RACQUET COMPLEX
Sound Study
● Sound studies conducted while considering the best location for the pickleball courts and options for sound damping (noise reducing) acoustic panels.
● Distance measurements (location in feet) were made from the location of the nearest planned pickleball court to the nearby homes.
● Redesign existing tennis courts to serve the needs of both tennis and pickleball players.
● Provide two new clay courts for tennis and four new paved pickleball courts.
● Minimize sound emanating from new hard surface pickleball courts to nearby homes.
● Part of the study was to ascertain the sound during tennis play to establish a baseline.
Vendor Recommendation
● The committee recommended Sports Surfaces of West Palm Beach, Fla. Sports Surfaces was deemed the strongest
contender based on references, experience, cost vs. value, and professional understanding of the goals of our community court area to serve both tennis and pickleball players.
● The Contract Committee received all contracts related to this project and also recommended Sports Surfaces.
Racquet Complex Cost
$210,500 – Two new clay tennis courts, paving four new pickleball courts; removing four light poles; replacing all damaged and deteriorated fence posts; installing new 10-foot fence between tennis and pickleball courts; installing new 10-foot fence on east side of courts;
installing new 6-inch wide concrete divider between pickleball and tennis courts; moving the existing bleacher east; installing one new covered bleacher on the south side of the tennis courts; and installing new gates, tennis and pickleball nets, and posts. (Sports Surfaces)
$9,950 – Noise reducing acoustic panels
$3,000 – Lee County permits estimate
$1,041 – Electric – Disconnect old electric and cap (YORK)
$975 – One tree removal (Everyday Landscaping)
$225,466 – Total Cost
Sabal Springs’ Residents Answer the Call Once Again
With the wonderful donation made by Susan and Greg Costa and the resident challenge to match up to $20,000, the donations to date are about $42,675. That represents 92 checks from residents to match the challenge. The Pickleball Association’s efforts contributed another $21,000. Another donation was made in the amount of $2,500 by Doug Knox as part the match challenge. And a donation previously received two years ago in the amount of $500, brings the total to about $66,675 toward the cost of the new courts.
Cost Summarization
Total Project Cost – $225,466 Donations – $66,675
Sabal Springs HOA Funds Needed –$158,791
The HOA BOD made a motion to approve up to $160,000 funding for two new clay courts and four pickleball courts. The motion passed with all five board members in agreement.
Yet to be Accomplished
A few details need to be addressed from the vendor’s proposal, which will be incorporated into a formal contract. The project work, which was expected to get started in July, has a possible completion in December, of course weather dependent along with unknown issues. Sabal Springs can expect to have the new Racquet Complex completed and ready for play in 2026.
One Final Note
With the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Sabal Springs’ residents can expect to see a big celebration. And many thanks to the Committee Co-Chairs
Peter Kwaak and Greg Costa, to the Pickleball and Tennis Committees, the BOD, and to all of the residents who helped fund this project.
Celebrating Independence Day
BETH LOCKHART
On Friday, July 4th, The Jokers Group of Sabal Springs organized a golf cart parade. Several carts decked out in red, white, and blue left the clubhouse and drove around the neighborhood to the cheers from throngs of residents camped out in their driveways. Even the clouds and sprinkles didn’t deter the loyal patriots.
Following the parade, the Summer Fun Group –Marleen Cantabene, Jeanine Clapp, Susan Costa, Carmela Manning, Ann Pangori, and Sherri Weitner – hosted a cookout in the multi-purpose room bedecked in all things red, white, and blue.
Hotdogs, baked beans, and cookies were served. More than 200 tickets were sold for this fun event, which included raffle prizes, singing by Jim Brackin, and lots of fun.
A huge shout-out to the more than 32 volunteers who put this festive event together, as well as thanks to the Decorating Committee for bedecking the clubhouse and surrounds.
God Bless the USA!
THANKS TO THE SUMMER FUN GROUP AND THE OTHER VOLUNTEERS FOR THE GREAT PHOTOS.
SunShine Singles Can Spice Up Your Life
JANE HANSEN
Variety is the spice of life, and the Sabal Springs SunShine Singles try to think of things to do with that in mind. The group’s May/June activities included a Kentucky Derby party, a Memorial Day
party, a birthday celebration at the Three Fisherman Seafood Restaurant, a Boathouse Pool Lounge lunch party, a movie Mission Impossible, an event at the American Legion Hall featuring
Harry Chapin Food Drive
TAREN GROM
Thanks to all of Sabal Springs’ residents who made generous donations to the Harry Chapin Food Drive. The much-needed groceries will be added to the organization’s pantry. The drive, which started with one tub, quickly turned into overflowing receptacles, boxes, and bags of food. Way to go Sabal Springs—great community spirit.
According to its website, The Harry Chapin Food Bank is the largest hunger-relief nonprofit and the only Feeding America member in Southwest Florida, serving Charlotte, Collier, Glades, Hendry, and Lee counties. The organization rescues and
distributes donated food and other grocery products through its food distribution programs, feeding more than a quarter of a million people who are hungry each month.
Johnny Lambert and the Barstool Rodeo, a Mighty Mussels Baseball game (or two), a beach Day at Fort Myers Beach, an Elvis Tribute show at Cape Cabaret, Sunday afternoon (weather permitting) gatherings at the Sabal Springs pool, an Arts & Crafts event with Lorraine Harrington, planning for future theatre shows, and last but certainly not least, a few Saturday evening gatherings at our favorite big table at the Lakehouse Restaurant dancing to Bandstand – we love them.
Meetings are generally held the fourth Wednesday of each month in the Sunshine Room at the Lakehouse at 4:30 p.m. If you would like to be on the contact list for future fun events, contact Jane Hansen ( jhansen8052@sbcglobal.net). Come to a meeting and find out what might be happening in the coming weeks – bring a smile and suggestions.
Thank You Rick Stamper
DONNA MILBEE
I have had many long talks with Rick Stamper while waiting for our turn to play pickleball. He has been a spokesman and advocate for playing the sport in Sabal Springs from day one. His ability to negotiate resulted in the tennis and pickleball players sharing the courts in the spring of 2022.
Shortly after that, folks started asking him to run for the board of directors, which prompted me to help with his campaign. That’s when I found out what a true community man he was. It’s difficult to say where the court renovation would be today if not for the tireless persistence of Rick. Being elected twice shows that more residents than just the pickleball players have appreciated Rick’s dedication to Sabal Springs. Rick pushed to have the lake maintenance addressed when residents brought it to his attention. He has given tech support to those of us in the SunShine Singles as well as helping quite a few residents with the Xfinity transition. Rick also brought attention to air quality issues for people suffering from allergies and asthma. He has always been accessible to everyone. When anyone had a question, Rick would do his best to find an answer. He continues to work with the Lakehouse Restaurant management on ways to improve their fare. He has always put residents’ well-being first to improve our community. In fact, he puts our priorities above his own health, going so far as to be wheeled into one board meeting to make the tennis and pickleball court renovation presentation the day after major surgery.
THE YEARS.
Sadly, the time has come for Rick to step down and focus on his health. He and his wife Patti are looking forward to free time with their precious pup, Libby, and enjoying family time with their five children and 10 grandchildren. Rick hopes to get back to playing golf and pickleball soon.
Working for 769 homeowners isn’t an easy job and sometimes may seem “thankless.” In my many conversations with Rick he says he is grateful for all the support he has had from the community. I wish to express the appreciation of Sabal Springs’ residents for all his honesty and creative problem-solving while serving on the board and wish him a speedy recovery and continued prosperity.
THANKS TO RICK AND PATTI STAMPER FOR THEIR CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE COMMUNITY OVER
August 23, 2012 – Sabal Springs’ Independence Day
DONNA MILBEE
SABAL SPRINGS’ EARLY DAYS
James (Skip) and Ilona Martin coined the phrase – August 23, 2012 – Sabal Springs’ Independence Day – when they witnessed the transformation of Sabal Springs from an “over 40” housing development to an “Over 55 Retirement Community” in 1995, to the Homeowners’ Association (HOA) it is today.
When the Martins moved here from Connecticut in 1993, theirs was the first “custom home” built among the many variations of the original five “stock” floor plans. Skip designed his first home at 17731 Pineapple Palm, then redesigned it for his current home with a three-car garage at 3585 Sabal Springs Blvd., when the final section of the development was opened. They were enticed by the developer’s marketing strategy, a free round of golf, and a free lunch or dinner. But the Martins made the commitment because they were able to build the home they wanted for a decent price and the low monthly maintenance fee of $99.
In 2010 a retired IRS auditor Bob Pombriant became concerned about the community’s finances and an ADHOC Committee was formed to investigate. At the time the secretary Alice “did it all,” including collecting payments, overseeing contracts, and keeping the books. She was well-respected but the developer’s nephew Kareem had inserted
himself into the business and eventually admitted to $600,000 of the $1.2 million embezzlement that was uncovered. Skip is the only member of the ADHOC Committee still living here. He negotiated the final settlement via conference call. To resolve the issue faster for all parties, the developer agreed to repay $150,000 in installments and turned over $5 million in property to the homeowners. Thus, the August 23, 2012, settlement date became Sabal Springs HOA’s “Independence Day.”
Bob became the first HOA president and Skip the first vice president. Skip acted as the “go-between” for a while delivering paychecks to the maintenance workers outside the gates, as Kareem was barred
SKIP AND ILONA MARTIN OUTSIDE THEIR SABAL SPRINGS HOME.
from the community. The committee was guided in every step by the expertise of their attorney Richard Deboest. An office was set up in what was known then as the Ladies’ Card Room for the new Board of Directors (BOD) to go through the boxes that were delivered from the developer to organize the community’s business. They had to post that they were meeting every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., five days a week, to satisfy the FL 720 law. All homeowners were welcome to check out the work being done to establish the HOA.
Over the years, the Martins have taken full advantage of all the amenities, enjoying the pool, golf, bowling, ceramics, and games in the card rooms. They’ve helped with the Entertainment Committee, Coffee Hour, Bingo, and even started the softball team in 1994. Skip was the manager for 10 years – securing sponsorships and uniforms. In the 1990s, the Martins hand delivered the Sabal Sun Times door to door. Ilona says they have seen 10 different restauranteurs come and go at the clubhouse. Some good and some “not so much,” ranging from white tablecloths to sandwich/bar service. Each has had its own unique flavor.
A TRIBUTE TO SKIP’S SOFTBALL LEAGUE LEADERSHIP.
Skip and Ilona have two living sons, five grandchildren, and eight great- grandchildren, most living in close proximity. They get together here and at a cottage they own on Lake Josephine in the “old Florida” town of Sebring, a short 1.5-hour drive where they often go to relax. The Martins bought the cottage, built in 1952, two weeks before Hurricane Irma arrived in 2017 and over time have made many improvements.
As Ilona’s health has declined since 2001, so has the couple’s involvement in the community. Yet, they still keep a watchful eye on the workings of the HOA. Skip remains active on the Contracts Committee. Both of them agree that the best thing they have seen in recent years is how the community has come together to support the revitalization of the Tennis/Pickleball Complex and look forward to their grandchildren enjoying the use of it soon.
SKIP SHOWS OFF THE 1992 HOA GUIDE.
Now We’re Cooking
BETH LOCKHART
DRUNKEN BUCATINI
Lughnasadh is often known among the Pagan community as the First Harvest, as this is when many of the crops can and will be harvested and then stored carefully for the coming winter months when food will be very hard to grow. Pronounced “Loonas-ah,” this festival happens on August 1 every year. It’s a time to feast and celebrate the bounty of their hard work and earth’s gifts. Drunken Bucatini is a common recipe made to celebrate Lughnasadh.
INGREDIENTS (FOR 2 SERVINGS):
BREADCRUMB GREMOLATA
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ cup panko breadcrumbs
1 clove garlic, grated
½ bunch fresh parsley, chopped
½ lemon zest
¼ teaspoon kosher salt
DRUNKEN BUCATINI
1 pinch kosher salt, plus more for cooking pasta
½ pound spaghetti
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
3 cloves garlic, chopped
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
1¼ cups red wine, such as cabernet sauvignon
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
PREPARATION:
1. Bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a boil.
2. Make the breadcrumb gremolata: Heat the olive oil in a small pan over medium heat. Add the breadcrumbs and garlic and cook, stirring frequently, until the breadcrumbs are golden brown, 2 to 4 minutes. Transfer the breadcrumbs to a heatproof bowl.
3. Add the parsley, lemon zest, and salt – stir to combine. Set aside.
4. Make the drunken bucatini. Once the water is boiling, add the bucatini and cook until just shy of al dente, 6 to 7 minutes. Reserve ½ cup pasta cooking water, then drain.
5. While pasta is cooking, heat a large, high-walled skillet over medium heat. When the pan is hot, add the olive oil, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Cook, stirring constantly, for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in the pan and continue to stir for about 1 minute more, until the garlic starts to brown.
6. Add the red wine to the pan and cook until reduced by about 25%, 2 to 3 minutes.
7. Add the drained bucatini to the pan and toss gently with tongs. The wine will reduce more as the noodles cook through and soak up the wine, 2 to 3 minutes.
8. Add the remaining 5 tablespoons of butter, the salt, and pepper. Toss until the butter is melted and the pasta is silky, about 2 minutes.
9. Divide the pasta between two bowls and top with the breadcrumb gremolata. Serve immediately.
Something from the Bar…
TAREN GROM
GIN AND CABERNET SOUR
RECIPE AND COURTESY OF GIRL & TONIC
This cocktail is a mashup of two classics – gin and the full-bodied red wine Cabernet. The result is an unusual but sophisticated and simple drink.
PREPARATION:
INGREDIENTS:
1 1/2 oz. gin
3/4 oz. orange liqueur
3/4 oz. simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water)
3/4 oz. lemon juice, freshly squeezed
1/2 oz. Cabernet Sauvignon
Add the gin, orange liqueur, simple syrup, and lemon juice to a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake well, about 15 to 20 seconds. Strain into a small lowball glass. Float the red wine on top by slowly pouring it over the back of a bar spoon, keeping the spoon close to the surface without touching it.
Congratulations – Holes-in-One
TAREN GROM AND LORETTA GEHMAN
CONGRATULATIONS WAYNE ON YOUR FIRST HOLE IN ONE.
In early July, Wayne Armstrong had his first ace on hole No. 7. Wayne says: If you have ever played with me, you know how amazing that is. Wayne has been playing golf “full-time” since moving to the Fort Myers area three years ago from Indianapolis. He’s been a Sabal Springs resident for two years and plans to join the Men’s Golf League shortly. His hole-in-one ball is on proud display in his living room.
On Wednesday, June 11, 2025, Liz Jurocko was busy playing golf where the game of the day involved striving to get “greenies” as often as possible. A greenie occurs when a tee shot lands on the green rather than on the fairway for which you are rewarded with an automatic birdie for that hole. Hole No. 4 on our Sabal Springs golf course is a 57-yard hole making it one of the holes where a greenie is possible. Liz teed up her ball and, as reported to Loretta Gehman, she was
concentrating so hard on landing her shot onto the green that once it did in fact land on the green, she went to her cart to go collect her ball and record the birdie on her scorecard. Upon arrival at the green, her ball was not anywhere to be found until the hole was checked … and there it was. This marks the fourth hole-in-one for Liz, all of them achieved here at Sabal Springs where she began playing only after moving into the community in 2010. If you see Liz out and about, please congratulate her on this marvelous achievement.
Golf Winners for June
CHARLEY FRANTZ
WEDNESDAY LADIES’ LEAGUE
June 4
Rained out!
June 11
1st – Yvonne Cegelski, Sandy Cocca, Janet McEachern, May Wine
2nd – Liz Jurocko, Linda Pechstein, Mary Weatherbee, Beth Zes
1st – Keith Bunch, Bob Hawkins, Bill Laporte, Doug Mazurek
Gold Flight
1st – Norb Brand, John
Linehan, Don Rhodes, Lon Tastad
2nd – Tom Goldsmith, Bob Petty, Earl Russell,
Dieter Winterle
Closest-to-the-Pin
Hole No. 2
White – Bill McKesson
Gold – Tom Phillips
June 12
White Flight
1st – Keith Bunch
2nd – Guy Armstrong
Gold Flight
1st – Dieter Winterle
2nd (tie) – Norb Brand, Tom Phillips, Don Rhodes, Dave Worthington
Closest-to-the-Pin
Hole No.7
White – Bruce Mack
Gold –Tom Goldsmith
June 19
White Flight
1st – Bill McKesson
Gold Flight
1st – John Cocca
Closest-to-the-Pin Hole No. 8
White – Bill McKesson
Gold – Jay Lind
June 26
White Flight
1st – Guy Armstrong, Roger Frantz, Steve Geraci, Wayne Piper
Gold Flight
1st – Gary Clapp, John Linehan, Lon Tastad, Tom Triptow
Closest-to-the-Pin
Hole No. 9
White – Roger Frantz
Gold – Lon Tastad
SATURDAY COUPLES’ SCRAMBLE
June 7
1st – Linda Pechstein and Joe Klein, Joyce and Don Rhodes
2nd – Karol and Keith Bunch, Beth Zes and Bob Hawkins
3rd – Yvonne and Sid Cegelski, Cathy and Wayne Piper
4th – Cheri and Guy Armstrong, Sherry and Tom Triptow
Closest-to-the-Pin
Hole No. 1 – Eileen Linehan
Hole No. 7 – Guy Armstrong
June 14
1st – Yvonne and Sid Cegelski, Joyce and Don Rhodes
2nd – Sherry and Tom Triptow, Beth Zes and Bob Hawkins
3rd – Karol and Keith Bunch, Nina Dyer and Paul Perdue
4th – Sandy and John Cocca, Mary Weatherbee and Earl Russell
Closest-to-the-Pin
Hole No. 1 – Sandy Kaple
Hole No. 17– Don Rhodes
June 21
1st – Terri Carpenter and Dave Worthington, Beth Zes and Bob Hawkins
2nd – Yvonne and Sid Cegelski, Sandy and John Cocca
3rd – Karol and Keith Bunch, Sherry and Tom Triptow
4th – Cathy and Wayne Piper, Mary Weatherbee and Earl Russell
Closest-to-the-Pin
Hole No. 2 –Yvonne Cegelski
Hole No. 16 – Dave Worthington
June 28
1st – Cathy and Wayne Piper, Mary and Mark Vargo
2nd – Patsy and Scott Clark, Sherry and Tom Triptow
3rd – Karol and Keith Bunch, Yvonne and Sid Cegelski
4th – Sandy Kaplin and Wayne Armstrong, Beth Zes and Bob Hawkins
Closest-to-the-Pin
Hole No. 1 Karol Bunch and Sherry Triptow
Hole No. 17 Sid Cegelski
Arts & Crafts
LINN CAMPBELL
The Sabal Springs Arts & Crafts group held their monthly luncheon at the Sea Craft Restaurant – a good time was had by all. Great food and service make a difference.
Several crafts were shared by Mary Maher through a class in landscaping pots. Ladies – they turned out so cool thanks for sharing.
Pat, Deb, and Janet showed the pillowcases that they are working on for the nursing home for Christmas –150 more are needed to be done. There are kits ready to go in the arts & crafts room. Please stop by and pick up a kit if you would like to contribute to this worthy cause. All help is greatly appreciated as are any fabric donations.
Sonny was kind enough to share some of her sketches from around the world.
The Annual Craft Show will be Saturday, November 1. The cost is $20 per table – no food please just crafts. On Friday, October 31, from 5 to 7 p.m., residents only will have an opportunity to shop. Saturday – from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., the show will be open to all. All proceeds will go to the American Legion. Plan to come see what talented neighbors you have, and you may even find something you just can’t live without! More detailed information has been posted outside the HOA office.
Card News
WEDNESDAY BRIDGE
PAT HARP
June 4
First: Ed Hall
Second: Walt Masters
Third: Greg Jessup
June 11
First: Walt Masters
Second: Ed Hall
Third: Cheryl Taylor
June 18
First: Sue Jessup
Second: Sylviane Threlkeld
Third: Greg Jessup
MONDAY DUPLICATE BRIDGE
EARL RUSSELL
June 2
First: Earl Russell and Sue Bobak
Second: Walt and Rita Masters
Third: Jane Rathburn and Pat Harp
June 9
First: (tie) Ed Hall and Earl Russell; Walt Masters and Sylviane Threlkeld
Second: (tie) Jane Rathburn and Cheryl Taylor; Greg and Sue Jessup
June 16
First: Roger Lundholm and Earl Russell
Second: Greg Jessup and Sylviane Threlkeld
Third: Jane Rathburn and Walt Masters
June 23
First: Nan Shewalter and Earl Russell
Second: (tie) Ed Hall and Sylviane Threlkeld; Walt Masters and Sue Jessup
Third: Greg Jessup and Rita Masters
June 30
First: (tie) Sylviane Threlkeld and Walt Masters; Rita Masters and Ed Hall
Second: Nan Shewalter and Cheryl Taylor
Third: Jane Rathburn and Earl Russell
Sabal Springs Book Club
TAREN GROM AND DEE DUNPHY
Get reading! The Sabal Springs Book Club meets the second Tuesday of every month at 1 p.m. in the White Card Room in the clubhouse. The meetings last about an hour. Each month a volunteer provides a synopsis of the author, and another volunteer leads a casual discussion about the book.
The next meeting is August 12 when the group will be discussing The Atomic City Girls written by Janet
Beard. This is a best-seller in the tradition of Hidden Figures and The Wives of Los Alamos , which tells the story of the everyday people who worked on the Manhattan Project during World War II.
Need a book? Please contact Cheryl Taylor at (812) 267-2644.
Have questions? Please contact: Dee Dunphy at (630) 542-4595. Carmella Manning at (330) 323-5354 Sheri Weitner at (414) 315-1668 SUDOKU SOLUTION CROSSWORD SOLUTION
Rules Refresher
COMMUNICATIONS COMMITTEE
As part of the Communication Committee team’s endeavors to keep our residents informed, we are highlighting at least three Rules & Regulation items per 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: https://home. alliantproperty.com/community/documents/ R and R ARC Changes 3-18-25.pdf
18. Common Areas
A. No Owner may alter in any way, any portion of the Common Areas, including, but not limited to, landscaping, without obtaining the prior written consent of the ARC. No plantings or landscaping within ten (10) feet of the perimeter fences.
Property Inspections
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.
19. Absent Owner During Hurricane
An Owner who plans to be absent during the hurricane season (June 1st through November 30th) must prepare the Unit and Lot prior to departure by designating a responsible firm or individual to care for the Unit and Lot, should the Unit suffer hurricane damage. The homeowner must furnish the Association with the name(s) of such firm or individual. A form for this purpose is available on the Sabal Springs website, in the HOA office and at the Gatehouse.
August Sabal Springs Events and Activities
SUSAN COSTA
Living in Sabal Springs year-round has its advantages. A team of residents, aided by many cohosts, have offered to organize summer activities in the multipurpose room at the clubhouse for your entertainment. The “Sabal Summer Fun Team” leaders for
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ARTS & CRAFTS MONTHLY LUNCH
Sign up on the Arts & Crafts corkboard. Lunch starts at 11:30 a.m. sharp. Lunch, craft show & tell, raffles, and always fun conversation. Any questions, contact Linda Voto at (860) 3050468. Hosted by the Sabal Arts & Crafts Committee.
10
summer 2025 are: Jeanine Clapp, Susan Costa, Carmella Manning, Sheri Weitner, Ann Pangori, and Dee Dunphy. The group’s goal is to provide high fun for Sabal Springs’ summer residents at low cost ($10 and under) or free. Ticket cost cover expenses only.
“STRICTLY SINATRA” WITH MICHAEL DUTRA
Cash bar and free light desserts during intermission. Ticket $10. Sabal Multipurpose Room. Doors open at 5:15 p.m. and the show starts at 6 p.m. •
Details: A fabulous night of Frank Sinatra music with professional entertainer Michael Dutra. Hailed as one of the finest interpreters of the Sinatra sound in the world, Michael has been performing his tribute to Frank Sinatra across the nation – from Las Vegas to Miami to Boston since 2002. Hosted by the Sabal Summer Fun Team.
MONDAY
Sabal Springs Weekly Activities
7:30 to 10:30 a.m. – Tennis Open Play Men
8 to 8:45 a.m. – Norma’s Exercise
9 to 9:50 a.m. – Aquacise/Water Aerobics
9:30 to 11:30 a.m. – Quilting & Sewing
10 to 10:45 a.m. – Norma’s Exercise
12:45 p.m. – Hand, Foot & Elbow
1 to 3 p.m. – Knitting/Crocheting
TUESDAY
8 to 10 a.m. – Tennis Open Play Women
9 to 9:50 a.m. – Aquacise/Water Aerobics
9 to 10 a.m. – Tai Chi Class
10 to 10:45 a.m. – Cardio Jazz
12:45 p.m. – Mahjongg
6 p.m. – Euchre
WEDNESDAY
7:30 to 10:30 a.m. – Tennis Open Play Men
8 to 8:45 a.m. – Norma’s Exercise
9 to 9:50 a.m. – Aquacise/Water Aerobics
10 to 10:45 a.m. – Norma’s Exercise
12:45 p.m. – Rummikub
1 p.m. – Social Bridge
Note: Seasonal Only activities – BINGO, Shuffleboard, Men’s Poker, Women’s Poker – are not offered during the summer months. We will update the schedule in the fall.
THURSDAY
8 to 10 a.m. – Tennis Open Play Women
9 to 9:50 a.m. – Aquacise/Water Aerobics
9 to 10 a.m. – Tai Chi Class
10 to 10:45 a.m. – Cardio Jazz
10 a.m. to 12 p.m. – Stitchery/Needlepoint/ Embroidery
Activity leaders were contacted to validate details on the activities noted. This weekly calendar showcases events accessible to all residents, omitting closed and private groups. Resident volunteers provide most activities free of charge at the Sabal Springs Clubhouse or outdoors. Updates or corrections should be directed to Susan Costa at (508) 889-7592.
Happy Birthday – August
TAREN GROM
August is the most popular birth month, with birthdays falling under two zodiac signs: Leo, represented by the Lion and Virgo, the Maiden. Leos are born from July 23 to August 22, while Virgos are born from August 23 to September 22.
August babies have the luck to choose from three gorgeous birthstones. The first is the green peridot, which was named after the revered Madame Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of volcanos and fire who is said to have created the Hawaiian Islands. The second birthstone is the sardonyx, which is a blend of red and white bands of minerals making the stone look like candy stripes. The third birthstone is the spinel, which can look identical to a ruby.
August babies also have two of the brightest, fun, most meaningful flowers out there: the gladiolus and poppies.
In astrology, Leos are known for their confidence, leadership qualities, and a love for the spotlight. They are often described as charismatic, enthusiastic, and warm-hearted.
Virgos are known for their analytical minds, attention to detail, and practical nature. They are often seen as diligent, organized, and reliable.
The announcement of the committees was made at the April HOA meeting. Thank you to all the new chairs of all the committees and a great big thank you to everyone who signed up to assist Sabal Springs in all its community endeavors. 2025 is going to be another great year here in Sabal Springs.
These listings, which are maintained by the S.S.H.O.A. office, will be updated as the committees continue to organize. 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.
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 August Skies
TAREN GROM
August nights offer amazing stargazing opportunities, including a chance to observe the conjunction of Mars and Jupiter; these planets will be in close proximity in the constellation Taurus, with Jupiter appearing much brighter. They will be rising in the northeastern sky just before 1 a.m. Jupiter will overtake Mars in the apparent position on August 14.
August also offers the peak of the Perseid meteor shower. The Perseids are an annual meteor shower, known for their high rate of meteors –around 50 to 90 per hour under dark skies. This year, the peak is expected from August 11 to 13.
Also notable is the August full Surgeon Moon, the name given to the full moon named after the sturgeon fish, which were reportedly easily caught during this time of year in the Great Lakes by Native Americans. This month, the full Sturgeon Moon will be on August 19.
There is also the possibility of seeing the Milky Way’s core, offering a view of the galaxy’s dense star clusters, nebulae, and dust lanes during the month.
