Sabal Springs Breeze Staff
Taren Grom – Editor
Gerry Arenstein
Bill Hare
Donna Milbee
IMPORTANT NOTICE!
Please submit all articles, photos, and events for Sabal Springs to sabalspringsbreeze@gmail.com by the 4th of the month preceding the month of publication.
On the Cover
In Sabal Springs, there’s something for everyone. From golf and tennis to card making and arts & crafts, from Tai Chi and Aquacise to cards and Maj Jongg; from the updated library and monthly book club to comedy shows and live musical entertainment to corn hole and shuffleboard. From Sunday Funday to Bingo and little bit of everything in between. There are more activities offered than can fit on the calendar. Enjoy them all and everything Sabal Springs has to offer. Make new friends, learn a new skill, keep that body and mind sharp. Thanks to Susan Costa and other Sabal Springs’ residents for the photos used on this month’s cover.
Blowing in the Breeze:
Play along! The Breeze staff initiated a new monthly contest in September. We encourage you to search the March issue for clues to the five questions listed at the right. Please send your responses to sabalspringsbreeze@gmail. com by March 15. The winner will be selected via a random drawing.
1. What is the name of the Sabal Springs’ resident who received a Quilt of Valor?
2. What U.S. city held the first St. Patrick’s Day parade?
3. Which Sabal Springs resident leads Tai Chi lessons on Tuesdays and Thursdays?
4. What is the name of the newest member of the HOA board of directors?
5. Which two SSLGA members won the A Flight Member-Member Tournament?
Congratulations to February’s winner: Sharon Hunt!
Crossword Puzzle
Battery terminal
Nasal spray, for example
Decay
Metal refinery
Sticky stuff
Distinctive flair 23. Secluded valley
Belch 25. One less than 10 26. Dry
Puncture 28. Against
Animal companion
Invoices to pay
Flashy
Earth tone
Small piece of cloth
A cooperative unit
Jury member
Chats
Decorative case
Carry
Tatters
N N N
Kneecap
Destroy the interior of
Snobs
Blood vessel
Nerve junction
Tally
58. Color of most grasses 59. Rip up
Ointment ingredient 2. Blink of an eye
Cut grass
Mid-month days
Duration
Tapped without swinging
Pale 8. Towards the back
Addition 10. Mostly white aquatic bird 13. Breathes noisily while sleeping 14. Cease
Sporting venue
Nonreaders
19. Wading bird 22. Not one or the other 24. Fortify
26. Abbey area
27. Not hers
30. Pleads
32. Arrange (abbrev.)
33. Record company
34. Candidly
35. Discontinuing 38. Knickknack holder
39. Foretold 40. Foggy
42. Received
44. D D D
45. Thigh armor
48. Tube
49. Young woman
50. Curve
53. Driveway surface
55. Craggy peak
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 photographs on Sabal Springs’ events, Fort Myers area 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?
Are you the go-to person for the best restaurant 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.
Submit to: sabalspringsbreeze@gmail.com
Sudoku Puzzle
Five Florida Fun Facts
TAREN GROM
1. Two Capitals: During British rule, Florida had two capitals: St. Augustine and Pensacola.
2. Underwater Park: John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo was the first underwater state park in the U.S.
3. Invented Here: Suntan lotion (1944), Gatorade (1965), and the first commercial airline flight (1914) all originated in Florida.
4. Longest Sidewalk: Tampa has the world’s longest continuous sidewalk (4.5 miles) on Bayshore Blvd.
5. Smallest Post Office: Located in Ochopee, it is just 7 x 8 feet.
JOHN PENNEKAMP CORAL REEF STATE PARK INCLUDES AROUND 70 SQUARE NAUTICAL MILES OF ADJACENT ATLANTIC OCEAN WATERS. THE PARK IS ROUGHLY 25 MILES LONG AND EXTENDS THREE MILES INTO THE ATLANTIC OCEAN ALONG THE PROMINENT HAWK CHANNEL PASSAGE.
March Fun Facts
TAREN GROM
March 2026 has a bunch of holidays and observations some familiar such as St. Patrick’s Day (March 17) and the first day of Spring (March 20), and some a little wacky such as National Peanut Butter Lover’s Day (March 1), If Pets Had Thumbs Day (March 3), Pi Day (March 14), International Waffle Day (March 25), and National Crayon Day (March 31). Celebrate your way!
March 1: National Peanut Butter Lover’s Day, National Pig Day, World Compliment Day, Baby Sleep Day
March 3: If Pets Had Thumbs Day, World Wildlife Day
March 6: National Day of Unplugging (sometimes), National Dentist’s Day
March 7: National Employee Appreciation Day
March 8: International Women’s Day
March 9: Daylight Saving Time begins (U.S.)
March 10: International Day of Awesomeness, Middle Name Pride Day
March 12: Plant a Flower Day, World Kidney Day
PICK YOUR FAVORITE PIE ON NATIONAL PI DAY, MARCH 14.
March 14: Pi Day (celebrate with pie), World Sleep Day, Potato Chip Day
March 15: World Consumer Rights Day
March 16: National Panda Day, National Poultry Day.
March 17: St. Patrick’s Day
March 19: Eid al-Fitr begins (at sundown)
March 20: First Day of Spring, International Day of Happiness, World Storytelling Day
March 23: National Puppy Day, World Meteorological Day
March 25: International Waffle Day, National Physicians Week
March 27: International Scribble Day, Bitterballen Day
March 31: National Crayon Day, World Backup Day, Transgender Day of Visibility
St. Patrick’s Day
TAREN GROM
On March 17 everyone is a little bit Irish. The day commemorates the patron saint of Ireland, who died on March 17, 461, after spreading Christianity. St. Patrick was born in Roman Britain, not Ireland. At age 16, he was captured by Irish raiders and spent six years as a slave in Ireland before escaping.
Originally a quiet religious feast day, it evolved into a global celebration of Irish culture. Did you know the first parade was organized by an Irish vicar in 1601 in Saint Augustine, Fla., then in 1737 in Boston and in New York City in 1762. Historically, the color associated with St. Patrick was blue,
not green. Green became popular in the 18th century as a symbol of Irish nationalism. While it’s a good tale, the story of St. Patrick driving snakes out of Ireland is a myth; snakes never lived in Ireland.
Sláinte!
Home Sweet Home
JEANNE HILL
Is a “forever home” a good idea? When should I leave? How will I know? Where will I go?
As I begin talking about this sensitive topic, I know “home” is not only important for safety but it’s tied deeply to our needs for love and belonging. Change in this area can cause real fear and I don’t take it lightly. Still, if we can talk about it and gain knowledge about it, we may reduce the fear of it.
Am I an expert at knowing when to leave? No. It’s a highly personal decision and ultimately, only you or perhaps your loved ones will know when the time is right. Then why, you might ask, am I writing this article? Because I believe it’s important and I also believe I have a unique perspective as a financial advisor for the last 32 years and longtime local realtor. So, I thought I’d add my two cents because while the idea of selling your home and starting a new chapter can be daunting, it can also be fun. Imagine all the possibilities a fresh start can bring.
In real estate I’ve seen several cases where the people should have left their homes years before they ultimately did. I’m sure you’ve seen this too, where owners are no longer capable of taking care of themselves and their property, let alone their finances. The money that would be much needed for future care can be used unwisely and leave them in a more difficult situation. One lady I spoke to lives in an assisted living community and
hasn’t lived in her home for years. She is convinced that all is well even though the costs associated with owning her home are draining her limited resources. Many owners had no close relative to notice their decline and no legal documents to allow neighbors to help them. In a future article, I’ll cover who to reach out to and how to find them and the kinds of documents they might provide. If you know of a situation that is urgent, an elder law attorney could be a good resource for advice.
If you have a spouse, hopefully they’ll recognize when it’s time to make a move and rightsize. Some call moving out of your home downsizing, but I call it rightsizing, because you’re making a move that’s the right fit for you at this time in your life. Perhaps you have children who are in touch regularly and with whom you can discuss long-term plans for your golden years. Some people spend more time planning vacations than they do on their life plan.
“Mom, what would you like us to do if you eventually aren’t able to take care of things?” “Here’s what I would like.”
If you feel comfortable, bring your children or close relative along when you speak to an attorney. If your family isn’t geographically close to you,
know that many attorneys can hold remote and confidential meetings via Zoom where children in Washington, Louisiana, and Georgia can all be there together by computers. And while attorney fees vary, some have reasonable fees for a simple case, so don’t put off the planning process to a time when it becomes much more complicated and potentially expensive.
Having that conversation isn’t always easy, but it’s an essential way to plan ahead. It could lead to creating your “notebook” with legal documents or location of file cabinet, a list of people to call and their numbers (children, friends, CPA, attorney, financial advisor,) list of financial assets, account numbers, and passwords, so that you and others who care about you have clarity about your future—and what’s better than that? The notebook should be kept in an easy to find spot and labeled clearly. And one big thing—make sure every asset you want to be in the trust is titled in the trust or trusts’ names—it’s only in the trust if the name says so.
If you’re a single person, I urge you to speak to your neighbors on a regular basis. Talk to them about your concerns. Life can be hard, especially when you feel overwhelmed with all the details, but there are always people willing to help but may not know you need it. You can even have your
neighbors get together for lunch, where you can not only make sure you have clarity about each other’s plans, but you’re also enjoying delicious local food. I call that a win-win.
If you’re the neighbor and you sense that something isn’t right with your neighbor, this is a gentle reminder to try and reach out. If that doesn’t work, there are professionals in our local area who may be able to speak with them or check and make sure all is okay. Of course, there’s a fine line between thinking your neighbor needs help and hearing them yell at their computer because AI is asking them for the 50th time the purpose of their call!@#. That noise is only your neighbor banging their head against the computer, wistfully dreaming of when times were simpler and less filled with ChatGPT
prompts but I digress. In dire situations, there’s usually some clear evidence of trouble. I have a client who drove her car when she was no longer qualified. I noticed the dents all over her vehicle, and she said the parking places are too narrow these days. Her daughter and I compassionately intervened, I think this may have saved her life or at the very least some very expensive bills or lawsuits.
Today, a long-term dear client called and through tears told me that her sweet husband had been killed on Friday by a drunk driver. The only tiny positive was that her “notebook” is in order, which will make this agonizing time slightly easier to navigate.
So, the moral of this opening discussion is put yourself in a position of power; the power to choose, rather than someone else choosing for you. There’s nothing embarrassing about being pro-active and choosing to embrace the next chapter of your life. It might even be a chance to make new friends, (while maintaining old friendships) have new experiences, and live in a place where you can be safe and happy, a place to call home sweet home.
One resource I’ve used for general information is 11 Signs It’s Time to Move to Assisted Living – AgingCare.com.
“Quilts = Healing”
LINDA VOTTO
On Tuesday, Jan. 27, I attended a presentation of a quilting event at Lake Fairways. The Quilt of Valor Foundations originated 2003 when a veteran returned from Iraq. When he wrapped himself in a gifted quilt, he noticed how it made such a difference in his well-being. The first quilt was awarded to a wounded soldier at the Walter Reed Army Medical Center. From that point on, it became the Quilt of Valor and the foundation was established and has become one of the largest nonprofit organizations delivering handmade quilts to more than 40,000 servicemen and women and veterans.
Sabal Springs’ resident Jim Wistehuff, who lives on Schefflera Dr., was awarded a
Valor Quilt at this ceremony. The beautiful quilt was handmade by Lynn Suhr. Lynn is part of the participating group for North Fort Myers and will be part of our class. Jim’s family was in attendance for the presentation. Refreshments were served, and we were able to chat with the other nine recipients about their military careers. It was a very interesting and special day.
Sabal Spring Arts & Crafts will participate in this wonderful event, and we are looking for quilters in our community. You can either do it as a group or can make your own. We would like to be completed by January 2027. Please contact me—
LYNN SUHR AND JIM WISTEHUFF SHOWING OFF THE BEAUTIFUL QUILT. JIM AND HIS FAMILY CELEBRATING HIS RECOGNITION.
linjef1@comcast.net —if you are interested and I will forward your name to our chairman of this event. You do not have to be an Arts & Crafts member to participate. Arts & Crafts will contribute toward the costs of the quilts. We will host the ceremony here at Sabal Springs and invite anyone who is interested in coming. More information will be available later in the year.
JIM, ALONG WITH FELLOW QUILT RECIPIENTS, AT LAKE FAIRWAYS FOR THE VALOR OF QUILT PRESENTATION CEREMONY.
ULLA AND JIM WISTEHUFF AT THE VALOR OF QUILT EVENT.
Singles on the Move
JANE HANSEN
“If I was a rich man … yubby biddy biddy biddy biddy biddy dum” – from the song from Fiddler on the Roof at the Broadway Palm where 12 SunShine Singles spent a wonderful Sunday afternoon in February. This was one of the many fun activities we have enjoyed lately. Others included Honky Tonk Sunday Line Dancing, a Super Bowl party, a Palentine Party, movies, The Luau Party by the Sabal Springs Events Committee, a dinner at the M’Xuma Taco and Mexican Grill in Babcock Ranch, and many other entertainment gatherings at our clubhouse.
We expect March will be full of fun things to do as well. We are scheduling a trip to Iguanaland, and an eco-tour of Babcock Ranch, The Lee County Community Band performance and some musical events in our clubhouse. In mid-March, weather permitting, we expect to resume Sunday noon “Pool Parties.”
We will be introducing members of the SunShine Singles Club (in addition to Donna Milbee and Terri Marotta) in the months to come, starting with some members who provided the backbone for the club to thrive. This month, we’d like to honor Geri Gregorio, who came to the Cape Coral area around 2000 when her parents moved to Florda. She spent a few years flying back and forth from Rhode Island to vacation with them; she joined a singles group at the Cape Coral Yacht Club. She participated in a few activities with that group while still traveling to and from Rhode Island where she was still working. A little bit later, her parents bought a home in Sabal Springs in 2001, at which time she retired and decided to do the same. At that time, she joined a loosely formed singles group in Sabal Springs that met at the clubhouse and had regular cocktail parties. Eventually, that group faded out. Several years passed and she
heard about another singles group starting up here. Reluctantly, she joined the SunShine Singles and to her surprise, found that our group was fun! Perhaps it was Geri’s influence that helped make the group realize the importance of variety. With the group she has enjoyed outings to the Broadway Palm dinner theater, ushered at the Florida Repertoire Theater, made crafts, travelled and cruised, and had many fun nights enjoying the entertainment at our clubhouse and through it all made some wonderful friends. She loves morning water aerobics and cardio exercises and basically appreciates and enjoys all of the activities here in Sabal Springs.
Another active member of the SunShine Singles is Tish Stencel, who has been single for 24 years. She moved from a suburb of Cleveland, Ohio, to Cape Coral in 2014; she then made a change or two and bought into Sabal Springs. Tish recalls that her first outing with the SunShine Singles was a dinner at Heavenly Pizza in 2022 (pictured). Her favorite activities are attending Mighty Mussels Baseball games, going to Octagon (Wildlife Refuge) and Babcock Ranch tours, having a subscription to Broadway Palm, and going to monthly movies. With the SunShine singles her favorite things are meeting new people and having a variety of singles social events available. She said it is especially nice to go to Sabal Springs community events knowing that other singles will be there to sit with. Her hobbies include playing golf, the card game Hand, Foot, and Elbow, dancing, water aerobics, and hot tubbing. She expressed that she has played Bocce and would like to start playing it again, adding that she has bocce balls and would like to know if anyone is interested.
The SunShine Singles next meeting is Wednesday, March 18, 4:30 in the Sunrise Room at the clubhouse. If you would like to have your name added to the master e-mail list (or removed), please send your e-mail address to Jane Hansen, jhansen8052@sbcglobal.net.
FIRST SUNSHINE SINGLES’ OUTING 2026.
SUNSHINE SINGLES LINEDANCING.
Food for Thought
DONNA MILBEE
How far would you drive for your favorite food or to try something new?
I just made a 52-mile round trip for lunch to Port Charlotte. I must admit it was the halfway meeting place to dine with my friend who lives in Englewood. But the meeting place was chosen because we don’t have that one restaurant that we love near us. So, if you are out for a Sunday drive head to Chicken Salad Chick for a real treat. There are branches in Estero and Fort Myers near Ortiz, which take just as long with the traffic issues.
I first saw the restaurant advertised on billboards on the way to Tybee Island. Now that is a bit far to go for lunch! But the menu choices are amazing. Out of the 15 different chicken salad flavors my favorite is the Sassy Scotty, which is made with Ranch dressing. There are just as many side options and soup combinations as well as the best little iced cookie treat served with every meal.
There’s a lovely “down South” flavor to the décor and the atmosphere and service are charming. The sweet staff even took time to tell me there is a new shop being built in Cape Coral, which is set to open in May.
And to top it off, I ate lunch for less than $15 (if you don’t count the cost of gas). Maybe I can get my chicken salad fix for even less before long.
Their motto is “Made from Scratch, Served from the Heart,” which is perfect.
If you have a favorite restaurant near or far, please send info to sabalspringsbreeze@gmail.com.
Meet Our new Sabal Springs HOA Board of Director Jeffrey Johnson
BILL HARE
Jeff Johnson was born and raised in Dolton, Ill. As a teenager, Jeff worked at a fast-food restaurant, where he started by flipping burgers and advancing to assistant manager. Jeff saved his earnings to help pay for his future education. He is a graduate of Western Illinois University with a B.S. in Law Enforcement Administration. Initially Jeff’s major was accounting, following in his father’s footsteps, but after a few classes, he decided his future was not sit behind a desk, but to enjoy the outdoors. Subsequently, he changed his major from accounting to law enforcement and completed his college degree in three and a half years.
He is married to his high school sweetheart Donna; they are about to celebrate their 37th anniversary. Jeff and Donna have two boys who reside in Lake in the Hills, Ill. and Plainfield, Ill., and two granddaughters.
After graduating from college, Jeff was invited to take a test for the Woodridge Police Department, where he worked for nearly 30 years as a police officer. During his years on the police force, Jeff was active with the Woodridge Jaycees Organization, serving on the board of directors as well as acting as treasurer. Jeff also was an active member with the Metropolitan Alliance of Police, Local 51, where he was first elected as treasurer, followed by vice
president, and later as president. After retiring from the Woodridge Police Force, he and his wife began the search for a Florida location. His parents, like his grandparents, had moved to Florida. His parents still live in Sarasota, and they visit often.
After an intensive search, Jeff and Donna found their home at 17751 Dragonia Dr. Since moving here in 2024, Jeff has watched and learned about the Sabal Springs community. He has become immersed in several activities, including helping the Joker’s and volunteering throughout the community with storm preparedness recovery efforts. Each month, Jeff and Donna open their lanai bar on hole No. 11 for fellow golfers.
Jeff said he looks forward to continuing to learn more about our community and be a positive impact. Jeff is part of the Sabal Springs younger generation, someone with new visions and energy to serve the community as a working member of the association’s board of directors. We wish him all the best and look forward to his ideas, participation, and active leadership.
Tai Chi May Be What the Doctor Ordered
DONNA MILBEE
Tai Chi is a mind-body exercise that combines set movements with relaxation and breathing. Overall, Tai Chi is associated with lower levels of mental distress, reductions in depression, and improved quality of life, including mental health, quality of life (how patients felt and their ability to go out and socialize) and physical health quality of life (walking and ability to do daily activities).
Tai Chi is led in Sabal Springs by Madeline Brosius. She started teaching here in January 2010 with two students. During season, there now may be as many as 20 on the dance floor.
Madeline learned Tai Chi at Del Tura from a Canadian neighbor who recorded the “set” still used daily. The class starts with a flexibility warm up. Then she teaches specific moves before going on to the “set moves” done to a recording. Nothing is strenuous and participants do not need to get down on the floor. The older you are the harder it is to learn, but that is when it is needed most.
The Tai Chi that Madeline teaches was created by Master Moy Lin-shin who was a Taoist monk who devoted his life to studying the healing principles of the Taoist and martial arts in order to make them widely accessible. Master Moy immigrated to Canada in 1970 and founded the Toronto Tai Chi Association to introduce the health benefits to the public. In Taoism, the synchronous interaction of body and mind is a means to good health. A key distinguishing feature of the Taoist style of Tai Chi is its focus on maximizing the positive health effects of each movement in the form. His teaching is set out in the book: The Art of Taoist Tai Chi, Cultivating Mind and Body, which is written in parallel style in English and French with diagrams and photos of 108 distinct positions (see photo).
Madeline invites all residents to join in every Tuesday and Thursday from 9 to 10 am. No reservations are needed, but loose clothes and comfortable shoes are recommended. She encourages folks to make the commitment to continued classes. Madeline says it takes time to get comfortable with the movements but it’s worth the effort.
NCAA March Madness
TAREN GROM
March means springtime but it also means March Madness for millions of college basketball fans and even those who may not be hoops aficionados. Whether you have a favorite team or just want to be part of the party, we hope you’ll join the first ever Sabal Springs Breeze March Madness Pool—just click on the link to enter your bracket: https://picks.cbssports.com/collegebasketball/ncaa-tournament/bracket/pools/ kbxw63b2geztanbvha3tm===/invite-center
Entry fee is $20. Please email gromtaren@gmail.com (Sabal Springs Hoops in the subject line) or text at (215) 932-9775 if you have questions.
The 2026 NCAA March Madness tournament, featuring 68 teams, begins with Selection Sunday on March 15, 2026, and concludes with the Men’s Final Four at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis on April 4 and 6, 2026.
Every year, millions of people fill out a bracket for the NCAA tournament. What are the odds of having a perfect bracket? Well, astronomical: 1 in 9,223,372,036,854,775,808 (if you just guess or flip a coin) or 1 in 120.2 billion (if you know a little something about basketball).
2026 NCAA tournament schedule and dates:
• Selection Sunday: Sunday, March 15
• First Four: March 17-18
• First round: March 19-20
• Second round: March 21-22
• Sweet 16: March 26-27
• Elite Eight: March 28-29
• Final Four: April 4 at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis
• NCAA championship game: April 6 at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis
When the brackets are set, join in on the fun … Just click: https://picks.cbssports.com/ college-basketball/ncaatournament/bracket/pools/ kbxw63b2geztanbvha3tm===/ invite-center
TAREN GROM
Now We’re Cooking IRISH SODA BREAD
Irish soda bread, which can be traced back to the early 1800s, originally was made with just four ingredients: flour, baking soda, buttermilk, and salt. Since then, multitudes of variations have emerged, including dishes stemming from American immigrants who started adding things like caraway seeds and raisins to more modern twists like chocolate chip soda bread recipe. However, you serve it, be sure to plate it up warm with a dab of butter.
Here are two versions to add to your St. Patrick’s Day menu.
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons butter
½ cup raisins or dried
currants
¾ cup buttermilk
CLASSIC IRISH SODA BREAD
Prep time: 5 minutes | Cook time: 35 minutes | Servings: Four to six
Directions
1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Grease a small cookie sheet.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Cut in butter with a fork (or with your fingers) until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.* Stir in raisins and buttermilk until the dough is evenly moistened.
3. Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently until smooth. Shape into a six-inch ball, place on a cookie sheet. With a sharp knife, cut a ¼-inch deep cross on top of the dough.
4. Bake 30 to 40 minutes or until dough is just cooked through and the top is a light golden brown.
* To save a step, you can begin making the dough in a food processor. Stir in the raisins and buttermilk by hand.
Recipe and photo courtesy of Gimme Some Oven
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
½ teaspoon granulated sugar
2 ounces sharp cheddar, cut into ¼-inch cubes
2 slices bacon
2 tablespoons green onions, sliced
¾ cup buttermilk
CHEDDAR AND BACON SODA BREAD
Prep time: 14 minutes | Cook time: 25 minutes | Servings: Four
Directions
1. Set the oven temperature to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and sprinkle a small amount of flour onto the sheet where you will be placing the bread.
2. In a sauté pan set over medium heat, add the bacon and cook until crispy, about two minutes per side. Cool, chop, and reserve.
3. In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, salt, black pepper, and sugar, and whisk until combined. Add the cheddar, bacon, and green onions, and stir to combine. Add the buttermilk, mixing until combined.
4. Knead for one to two minutes, until the dough is hydrated and holds together. Form the dough into a round loaf and transfer it to the floured parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Cut a cross into the top of the dough, about ½-inch deep and two inches long.
5. Bake for 22 to 25 minutes, or until the surface is lightly browned and it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom of the loaf. If you have an instant-read thermometer, test the center of the bread for
Something from the Bar…
TAREN GROM
If you are hosting a St. Patrick’s Day party or just want to add a great Irish whiskey cocktail to your hosting arsenal, both of these recipes fit the bill.
BAILEYS ORIGINAL IRISH CREAM COFFEE
INGREDIENTS
2 ounces Baileys Original Irish Cream
6 ounces Irish Whiskey
1 dollop whipped cream
DIRECTIONS
1. Combine Baileys, coffee, and Irish Whiskey in tall glass.
2. Top with whipped cream
THE BARISTA OLD FASHIONED
INGREDIENTS
2 ounces Single Malt Irish Whiskey
0.5-ounce coffee liqueur
2 dashes Angostura bitters
INSTRUCTIONS
Combine ingredients in a mixing glass. Add ice and stir until cold. Strain into a double Old-Fashioned Glass over fresh ice. Garnish with orange peel.
Card News
WEDNESDAY BRIDGE –JANUARY
PAT HARP
Jan. 7
First: Bonnie Halberg
Second: JoAnn Degoey
Third: Sylviane Threlkeld
Jan. 14
First: Nan Shewalter
Second: Sue Jessup
Third: Elaine Goldsmidth
Jan. 21
First: Jane Rathburn
Second: Sue Jessup
Third: Greg Jessup
Jan. 28
First: Nan Shewalter
MONDAY DUPLICATE BRIDGE –JANUARY
EARL RUSSELL
Jan. 5
First: Sharon Sullivan and JoAnn Degoey
Second: Gerry Arenstein and Ulla Wistehuff
Third: Mike and Cathy Ward
Jan. 12
First: Earl Russell and Sue Bobak
Second: Roger Lundholm and Sylviane Threlkeld
Third: Mike and Cathy Ward
Jan. 19
First: Earl Russell and Sue Bobak
Second: Jane Rathburn and Nan Shewalter
Third: Gerry Arenstein and Ulla Wistehuff
Third: Chris and Dave Bennett
Jan. 26
First: Earl Russell and Sue Bobak
Second: Cheryl Taylor and Carmella Manning
Third: Chris and Dave Bennett
January Golf Winners
CHARLEY FRANTZ
LADIES’ WEDNESDAY LEAGUE
Jan. 7
A Flight – Low Gross
First: Shirley Berry
Second: Yvonne Cegelski
Low Net
First: Coleen Birmingham
Second: Janet McEachern
B Flight – Low Gross
First: Donna Blosinki
Second: Linda Pechstein
Low Net
First: Nan Shewalter
Second: Sharon Croxton
C Flight – Low Gross
First: Charley Frantz
Low Net
First: Beth Zes
Nine-Hole Players
A Flight
First: Robin Fritz
Second: Mary Weatherbee
B Flight
First: Mary Vargo
Second: (tie) Cathy Carpenter, Linda
Charlesworth, Cheryl Wilson
Jan.14 to 15 – MemberMember Tournament
See related article on page 28
Jan. 21 and 22 – Men’s Tournament
Jan. 28
Four brave souls played six holes in 32 degrees!
MEN’S THURSDAY LEAGUE
Jan. 8
White Flight
First: Ron Birmingham, Dave Fritz, Tom Miller, Mark Vargo
Second: Keith Bunch, Bruce Mack, Russ Mattson, Doug Mazurek
Gold Flight
First: Tom Goldsmith, Ken Nosek, Paul Perdue, Tom Phillips
Second: Wayne Armstrong, Gary Clapp, Don Rhodes, Lon Tastad
Closest-to-the-pin: White – Roger Frantz
Gold – Dieter Winterle
Jan. 14 and 15 – Ladies’ Tournament
Jan. 21 and 22 – MemberMember Tournament
A Flight
First: Keith Bunch and Toby Nagel
Second: Larry Cassidy and Brian Ward
B Flight
First: Ron Birmingham and Roger Frantz
Second: Doug Mazurek and Mike Webster
C Flight
First: Dave Abati and Guy
Armstrong
Second: Tedd Jamieson and Al Parchuck
D Flight
First: Don Rhodes and Dave Worthington
Second: Gary Clapp and Bill Laporte
E Flight
First: Terry Brown and Larry Holten
Second: Jeff Johnson and Tom Phillips
Jan. 29
White Flight
First: Bruce Mack
Second: Greg Muller
Gold Flight
First: (tie) Norb Brand, Gary
Clapp, John Cocca, Paul Perdue
Closest-to-the-Pin, Hole No.16
White – Guy Armstrong
Gold – Gary Clapp
COUPLES’ SATURDAY SCRAMBLE
Jan. 3
First: Arlene Roy and Leo
Pierson, Jane and Brian Ward
Second: Coleen and Ron
Birmingham, Donna and Bill Sarbo
Third: Karol and Keith
Bunch, Sharon Hunt and Bob Petty
Fourth: Anita and Carter
Johnson, Donna Ireland and Tedd Jamieson
Jan. 10
First: Linda Hood and Greg
Rood, Laurie and Bill Simkins
Second: Patsy and Scott
Clark, Janet McEachern and Dirk Dluhos
Third: Faye Cantrell and Bill
LaPorte, Dean and Gwen
Harrington
Fourth: Coleen and Ron
Birmingham, Steph and Toby Nagel
Jan. 17
First: Sue LaPlume and Tom Goldsmith, Sherry Weitner and Rich Manning
Second: Janet McEachern and Dirk Dluhos, Donna and Bill Sarbo
Third: Faye Cantrell and Bill LaPorte, Gwen and Dean
Harrington
Fourth: Donna Ireland and Tedd Jamieson, Alyson Kelly and Paul Perdue
Jan. 24
First: Kathy and Bob Carpenter, Robin and Dave Fritz
Second: Sandy and John Cocca, Barton Sala and Gavin Kirk
Third: Yvonne and Sid Cegelski, Ellie Birmingham and Jack Nelson
Fourth: Coleen and Ron
Birmingham, Steph and Toby Nagel
SSLGA Member-Member Golf Tournament
JANE WARD, SSLGA PUBLICITY CHAIR
Despite forecasts calling for very cool temperatures and rain, 50 ladies came out to play and enjoyed two great days of golf on January 14 and 15 for the SLGA MemberMember Golf Tournament.
Pictures courtesy of Judy Andrews
SSLGA Publicity Co-Chair.
A Flight
First: Jane Ward and Donna Blosinski
Second: Shirley Berry and Karol Bunch
Third: Linda Hood and Faye Cantrell
Fourth: Arlene Roy and Janet McEachern
Fifth: May Wine and Vickie Pirrello
Sixth: Donna Ireland and Loretta Gehman
Seventh: Yvonne Cegleski and Patsy Clark
Eighth: Laurie Simkins and Barton Sala
B Flight
First: Jo Decker and Sue LaPlume
Second: Liz Jurocko and Lynn Klaus
Third: Mary Lou Collins and Lorraine Rechten
Fourth: Cara Lavalley and Mary Richards
Fifth: Donna Ritchie and Sharon Croxton
Sixth: Coleen Birmingham and Judith Andrews
Seventh: Linda Pechstein and Cheri Armstrong
C Flight
First: Marcia Madison and Susan Roberts
Second: Sandy Cocca and Cathy Piper
Third: Sherry Triptow and Mary Holten
Fourth: Lydia Ryan and Charley Frantz
9-Hole
First: Ellie Birmingham and Kathy Carpenter
Second: Kathy Steel and Mary Vargo
Third: Jane Melin and Helen Parlett
Fourth: Robin Fritz and Linda Charlesworth
Fifth: Mary Weatherbee and Sheri Weitner
Sixth: Mary Maher and Moira Sibbard
Holes In One
Congratulations to Doug Pechstein for his second ace, this one in January on hole No. 4. Way to go Doug.
18-HOLE A-FLIGHT CHAMPS:
JANE WARD AND DONNA BLOSINSKI.
And a big shout out to Yvonne Cegelski for her hole in one on No. 8, also scored in January. The crowd literally went wild. Congrats Yvonne.
18-HOLE B-FLIGHT CHAMPS: SUE LAPLUME AND JO DECKER.
9-HOLE CHAMPS: ELLIE BIRMINGHAM AND KATHY CARPENTER.
Sabal Springs March And April Events
SUSAN COSTA
MARCH 3
Arts & Crafts Monthly Lunch, starts at 11:30 a.m. in the Sabal event room. Sign up on the Arts & Crafts corkboard. Lunch, craft show and tell, raffles and always fun conversation. Any questions, contact Linda Voto at 860305-0468. Hosted by the Sabal Arts & Crafts Committee.
MARCH 6
Sabal Trash & Treasures event presale for residents only from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. in the event room. Hosted by the Sabal Arts & Crafts Committee.
MARCH 7
Sabal Trash & Treasures event from 8 am to 12 pm in the event room. Open to the public. Hosted by the Sabal Arts & Crafts Committee.
MARCH 8
Nite at the Races. Event room doors open at 6:15 p.m. and show starts at 7 p.m. Tickets at $5 per person. Open seating or reserved area for groups of four to eight people. Hosted by Sabal Springs Entertainment Group.
MARCH 19
March “Ladies Who Lunch at Sabal Springs,” offered free at Susan Costa’s home at 17656
Date Palm Ct. Time: 12 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. Lunch menu: roasted pork loin, roasted potatoes and vegetable. Always cookies or desserts and assorted drinks (iced tea, soda, juice, wine). Seating for up to 50 residents will be available in the kitchen, living room, and lanai. Arrive in your golf cart (park in the yard) or park your car along Date Palm Ct. Each lunch typically includes a fun game, free raffles, and other surprises. Hosted by Susan Costa, 508-889-7592.
MARCH 28
Fashion Show and Tea Party at 1 p.m. in the event room. Raffle baskets with the net proceed benefiting Make A Wish. The Tea will include Sabal Springs models showing the latest fashions. Tea and desserts served with additional beverages also available. Dress up and wear your favorite hat for this special event. We will need raffle items so please solicit anyone you use for a donation. Any questions, contact Linda Voto at 860-305-0468. Hosted by the Sabal Arts & Crafts Committee.
APRIL 4
Sabal Springs Easter Celebration starting at 9:30 a.m. Bring the grandkids to play games, search for eggs, and free activities. Easter Bunny to make an appearance. More info to follow in HOA e-blast. Hosted by Doug and Linda Pechstein.
APRIL 7
Arts & Crafts Monthly Lunch starts at 11:30 a.m. in the Sabal event room. Sign up on the Arts & Crafts corkboard. Lunch, craft show & tell, raffles, and always fun conversation. Any questions, contact Linda Voto at 860305-0468. Hosted by the Sabal Arts & Crafts Committee.
APRIL 12
The Mentalist Mark Stone. A night of comedy and mindreading. Event room doors open at 5:15 p.m. and show starts at 6 p.m. Tickets at $15 per person. Tickets on sale April 1 and 2 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the clubhouse lobby. Open seating or reserved round tables for up to nine people. Hosted by Sabal Springs Entertainment Group.
APRIL 15
April “Ladies Who Lunch at Sabal Springs,” offered free at Susan Costa’s home at 17656 Date Palm Ct. Time: 12 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. Lunch menu: roasted chicken, mashed potatoes and vegetable. Always, cookies or desserts and assorted drinks (iced tea, soda, juice, wine). Seating for up to 50 residents will be available in the kitchen, living room, and lanai. Arrive in your golf cart (park in the yard) or park your car along Date Palm Ct. Each lunch typically includes a fun game, free raffles, and other surprises. Hosted by Susan Costa, 508-889-7592.
APRIL 25
Golf Cart Progressive Food Tasting. 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Visit the various different “host sites” around Sabal Springs to sample tastings or treats at each stop. Hosts will be serving tasting-size portions of some of their favorite recipes. Hosts will set up a table in their garage for residents to stop by (in golf carts or by car) for delicious quick tastings and/or treats. Tickets at $5 each to help cover the hosts’ cost. Sorry, as we typically always sell out, ticket sales for residents only. (Ticket sales will start in early April). Co-hosted by the various Sabal Springs residents. Sign up to host by contacting Susan Costa at 508-889-7592.
MONDAY
Sabal Springs Weekly Activities – Winter Season*
SUSAN COSTA
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. – Rummikub
1 to 3 p.m. – Knitting/Crocheting
1 p.m. – Bowling @Bowlero, Cape Coral
6 p.m. – Duplicate Bridge
6 p.m. – BINGO (Starts in Dec./Open to public) Pickleball (waiting court update)
TUESDAY
8:30 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. – Shuffleboard
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. – Hand, Foot & Elbow
1 p.m. – Social Bridge
5:30 p.m. – Men’s Poker
THURSDAY
8:30 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. – Shuffleboard
10 a.m. to 12 p.m. – Stitchery/Needlepoint/ Embroidery
12:45 p.m. – Hand, Foot & Elbow
1 to 3 p.m. – Card Making
6 p.m. – Women’s Poker
6:15 p.m. – Mahjongg (experienced) Pickleball (waiting court updating)
FRIDAY
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. – Dominoes
1 to 3 p.m. – Line Dancing (Jan. 2 to March 20)
SATURDAY
8:30 to 10 a.m. – Tennis Open Play Women
1 p.m. – Michigan Rummy/or other game
* Info updated as of Nov. 3, 2025. Activity leaders and/or members 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 March!
TAREN GROM
March birthdays fall under two zodiac signs: Pisces (March 1–20) and Aries (March 21–31). Pisces is a compassionate, intuitive water sign symbolized by fish, while Aries is a fiery, courageous ram.
March babies often have aquamarine as their primary birthstone, with bloodstone as an alternative.
According to The Old Farmer’s Almanac, the main March birth flower is the daffodil, and the secondary March birth flower is the jonquil. Daffodils are brightyellow flowers with six petals and a trumpet-shaped center. They’re good-news flowers that let us know spring has arrived. Jonquils are from the daffodil family and are similar in appearance but smell sweeter and have shorter trumpets. Both March birth flowers symbolize renewal and joy.
SUDOKU
March Star Gazing
TAREN GROM
Stargazing in Florida in March offers amazing opportunities, highlighted by a rare total lunar eclipse (blood moon) in early March, along with the peak of the dry season, which provides clearer, less humid skies. March is also “galaxy season,” when the sky is perfect for viewing Leo and Virgo. Key viewing spots include Everglades National Park, Big Cypress National Preserve, and Markham Park’s Fox Observatory. March skies feature Orion, Cancer, and the Big Dipper.
Key 2026 March Stargazing Events
• Total Lunar Eclipse (March 2-3): A “blood moon” total lunar eclipse will be visible, with the moon appearing red/orange. Totality is expected in the early morning of March 3, making it the last total lunar eclipse visible in central Florida until 2029.
• New Moon (March 18): Ideal time for viewing faint deep-sky objects, as the sky will be at its darkest.
• March Equinox (March 20): A key, stable atmospheric time of year.
2025
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: Linn Campbell* (682) 666-3923 linnsshoa1@gmail.com
*Terms expire in 2027; **Terms expire in 2026
RESOURCE
SABAL SPRINGS DIRECTORY
IMPORTANT NUMBERS
SABAL SPRINGS
Ron Czarnik, LCAM, Alliant Manager (239) 731-2191
Cyndee Viator, Alliant Administrative Assistant (239) 731-2191
Sabal Springs Golf Shop (239) 731-0101
Eagle’s Landing 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 https://leetc.com/ Taxes https://leetc.com/ Voter Registration https://www.lee.vote/Voter-Resources/ How-do-I-register-to-Vote
VA https://www.va.gov/fort-myers-vet-center/
ARC (BOD: Kathy Kwaak)
Mary Zitek (Chair)
Larry Kiger (Vice Chair)
Sandy Cocca
Ron Frailly
Taren Grom
Joe Madison
Cathy Piper
Linda Sholette
Sue Dodge (alternate)
Building Maintenance
(BOD: Jeffrey Duncan)
Steve Enders
Carter Johnson
Common Area Maintenance
(BOD: John Baas)
Jeanne Hill
Communications
(BOD: Linn Campbell)
Carol Duncan (Chair)
Gerry Arenstein
Cathy Bowen
Jeanine Clapp
Taren Grom
Tish Stencel
Compliance
(BOD: Kathy Kwaak)
Patsy Clark (Co-Chair)
Carol Duncan (Co-Chair)
RESOURCE HUB
SABAL SPRINGS COMMITTEES
Dave Gehman
Pam Handlin
Bob Hawkins
Diane Hoak
Rich Manning
Sue Mattson
Arlene Roy
Wanda Thomas
Mary Vargo
Contract Review (BOD: Jeffrey Duncan)
Gene Campbell (Chair)
Colin Brandt
Gary Clapp
Bill Hare
David Love
Skip Martin
Bernie Zitek
Decorating (BOD: Kathy Kwaak)
Carol Duncan (Chair)
Peggy Gannon
Taren Grom
Bobbi Kemp
Jeanne Hill
Robyn Minich
Document (BOD: Jeffrey Duncan)
Scott Clark (Chair)
Gerry Arenstein
Bill Hare
EPC (BOD: Kathy Kwaak)
Linda Pechstein (Co-Chair)
Sharon Hunt (Co-Chair)
Jacque Armstrong
Carmella Manning
Rich Manning
Donna Milbee
Wanda Thomas
Linda Voto
Finance (BOD: Tom Triptow)
Susan Roberts (Chair)
Gerry Arenstein
Gary Clapp
Steve Enders
Fining (BOD: Kathy Kwaak)
Patsy Clark (Chair)
Diane Bloss
Mary Lou Collins
Geri Lane
Joe Madison
Rich Manning
Sue Matteson
Joyce Rhodes
Golf (BOD: Tom Triptow)
Scott Clark (Chair)
Gene Campbell
Patsy Clark
Robin Fritz
Lorretta Gehman
Donna Ireland
Russ Mattson
Sabal Springs Golf & Racquet Club
3410 Clubview Drive
Fort Myers, Florida 33917 (239) 731-0101
www.sabalspringshoa.net
Grants (BOD: Linn Campbell)
Sandy Cocca (Co-Chair)
Cathy Piper (Co-Chair)
Library (BOD: Kathy Kwaak)
Dee Dunphy (Chair)
Marsha Hausser
Carmella Manning
Sheri Weitner
Pool (BOD: Jeffrey Duncan)
Cheryl Taylor (Chair)
Cathy Bowen
Lori Dzielski
Susan Goyer
Geri Gregorio
Lauri Mansky
Signs (BOD: John Bass)
Linn Campbell (Chair)
Greg Costa
Tennis/Pickleball
(BOD: Jeffrey Duncan)
Peter Kwaak (Chair)
Greg Costa
Visionary (BOD: Kathy Kwaak)
Heather Lobdell (Chair)
Cathy Bowen
Kathy Buncich
Greg Costa
Susan Goyer
Taren Grom
Bill Hare
Gordan Knipe
Peter Kwaak
Lauri Mansky
Donna Milbee
Marty Toper
Welcome (BOD: John Baas)
Lanier Harrison (Co-Chair)
Jeanine Clapp (Co-Chair)
Diane Galante
In February, new committee chairs and co-chairs will be named and new committee members will be selected. Please watch for information regarding sign ups to volunteer. Thank you to all the 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 was 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.