Sabal Springs MAY 2026

Sabal Springs Breeze Staff

Taren Grom – Editor

Gerry Arenstein

Bill Hare

Donna Milbee

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.

Sudoku Puzzle

Sudoku Puzzle Solution in this issue

2026 Sabal Springs Board Of Directors

President: Jeffrey Duncan** (414) 852-9410 jeffduncansshoa@hotmail.com

Vice President: Kathy Kwaak* (817) 291-4746 kksabal506@gmail.com

Treasurer: Tom Triptow* (954) 868-2321 tltriptow@hotmail.com

Secretary: Linn Campbell * (682-666-3923) linnsshoa1@gmail.com

Director: Jeffrey Johnson** (630) 212-0118 jeffrey17751@gmail.com

** Term expires 2028

*Term expires 2027

Blowing in the Breeze

1. When is Florence Nightingale’s birthday?

2. How many Easter Eggs were hidden for this year’s hunt?

3. Who are the SSLGA and SSMGA 2026 Golf Champions?

4. Which golfer scored two holes in one in March?

5. What type of animal picked Donna Milbee’s pocket on her recent cruise?

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

Crossword Puzzle

ACROSS 1. Foreshadowed

Grinder

Actors

Diminish

Concept

Ammunition

Circular 18. Secluded valley 19. Wild hog 20. Decadence

22. Entice

23. Camp bed

24. Forestall

26. Foot part

30. Bit of parsley

32. Like many a superhero

33. Cobweb

37. Anagram of “Need”

38. Increases 39. Designed for flight 40. Depressing 42. Electronic letter

43. Avoid 44. Soaked up some rays

45. Anagram of “Scare” 47. Mongrel

48. Bridge 49. Hairdos

56. Celtic language

57. Small island

58. Japanese verse 59. Small songbirds

60. Egyptian river

61. Imps

62. Anagram of “Sale”

63. Sharp intake of breath

64. Requires DOWN

1. Old-time poet

2. Double-reed woodwind

3. Smear

4. Europe’s highest volcano

5. Derived a conclusion

6. Strength

7. Inactive

8. Lascivious look

9. Nautical ropes

10. Overseas telegrams

11. Illicit sexual relationship

12. Intelligent

13. Ripped

21. Police officer

25. Compete

26. Frosts, as a cake

27. Nil

28. Didn’t dillydally

29. Affection

30. Backbone

31. Engine knock

33. Expressed

34. Feeble

35. A Great Lake

36. Fearless

38. Grinding of teeth

41. Night before

42. Made of clay

44. Public transit vehicle

45. Spring month

46. Hindu social division

47. Move furtively

48. Bristle

50. Largest continent

51. Misfortunes

52. Harvard rival

53. Not prerecorded

54. Managed with difficulty

55. Figure out (British)

Five Florida Fun Facts

TAREN GROM

1. No matter where you are in the state, you are never more than 60 miles from the nearest saltwater body.

2. In 1982, the Florida Keys “seceded” from the U.S. for about one minute to protest a Border Patrol roadblock, declaring themselves the Conch Republic.

3. Every year, thousands of people gather at the state line in Perdido Key for the Interstate Mullet Toss, where they throw dead fish into Alabama.

4. Florida leads other states in the U.S. in tornadoes per year.

5. Lake Okeechobee is the largest freshwater lake in Florida. It is also the third largest freshwater lake (after Lake Michigan and Alaska’s Iliamna Lake) located completely within the United States.

May Fun Facts

May, named for the Roman goddess of fertility, Maia, is the fifth month with 31 days and is strongly associated with spring, growth, and flowers.

1. The Empire State Building opened (May 1, 1931), the Golden Gate Bridge opened (May 27, 1937), and Alan Shepard became the first American in space (May 5, 1961).

2. May is the only month that never starts or ends on the same day of the week as any other month.

3. Cinco de Mayo (May 5) celebrates the Mexican army’s victory over the French at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. Mother’s Day is celebrated in the U.S. on the second Sunday of May. Memorial Day is celebrated in the U.S. on the last Monday of May to honor military personnel who died in service.

4. It was once considered bad luck to get married in May, with an old proverb stating: “Marry in May and you’ll rue the day.”

5. The emerald, which represents love and success, is May’s birthstone. The birth flower is the Lily of the Valley.

National Nurses Month

BREEZE STAFF

The American Nurses Association (ANA) is celebrating its 130th anniversary this year. There are between 4.7 million and 5.2 million registered nurses (RNs) in the United States, making it the largest healthcare profession in the country — upwards of 4.3 million are actively working as licensed RNs.

National Nurses Month is celebrated every May, including National Nurses Day on May 6, the birthday of Florence Nightingale. Recognizing their impact on patients, communities, and the overall healthcare system, this year’s theme is the “The Power of Nurses.” The Breeze is proud to honor Sabal Springs’ own nurses who have decades of experience. We asked these dedicated healthcare professionals to share with us their areas of expertise. If we have missed anyone, please send an email to sabalspringsbreeze.com by May 7 and we would be happy to update the list for online publication.

A SALUTE TO SABAL SPRINGS’ NURSES

Linn Campbell, RN, surgical, cardiac care, for five years

Pat Convery, MSTD, BSN, RN, Critical Care and Emergency Nursing, Professor of Nursing

Mary Evans, RN, CMHN (Community Mental Health Nurse) for 34-plus years for the Office of Mental Health for New York State

Alice Hayes, RN, graduated in 1962, worked as a staff and infection control nurse at a cancer hospital as well as with AIDS patients and in hospice, until retiring at 70

THANKS TO LINN CAMPBELL (PICTURED) AND SUE MATTSON FOR THE IDEA TO SHINE A LIGHT ON SABAL SPRINGS’ NURSES (GROUP PICTURE), MANY OF WHOM HAVE PROVIDED DECADES-LONG SERVICE TO PATIENTS.

Carol A. Homa, RN, BSN, Medical-Surgical Nurse ManagerTelemetry and Dialysis, Administrator Nursing Quality Improvement, Fall Prevention Initiative, 54 years active nursing,45 years for the same institution

Sharon Hunt, RN, BSN, 25 years ICU, 10 years surgery, 5 years hospice

Anita Johnson, MSN, BSN, ICU, Medical Surgical OB, RN Program Faculty

Linda Johnson Pechstein, HN (Navy Hospital Corpswave), LVN, RN, OCN (Oncology Certified Nurse) for 43 years

Dawn Klink, RN, BSN, Progressive Cardiac Care and Rehab, Birthing Center, Public Health

Kathy Kwaak, LPN, RN, Medical/Surgical ICU, Cardiac ICU, Cardiac Cath Lab, Manager ICU, CCU, Telemetry, Transplant, Director of Center of Excellence Research for Pulmonary, for 40 years

Bruce Mericle, RN, Psychiatric NSG, from 1966 through 2016

Tish Stencel, CLPN, electronic medical records analyst and homecare, 20 years

Patsy Swan-Clark, RN, BA, Psych, CD, DD, 40 years, 20 years with Illinois Dept of Public Health

Jacqui Townsend, BSN, RN, charge nurse for a telemetry/progressive care unit

Easter in Sabal Springs

BREEZE

STAFF

For the past 16 years, Sabal Springs’ employees, residents, and their families have had the opportunity to enjoy an Easter Egg Hunt, sponsored and hosted by Doug and Linda Pechstein. What started as an event with six children in the restaurant has blossomed into an annual celebration with about 50 youngsters — 12 and younger — on the hunt for 1,200 eggs this year.

Linda and Doug, along with a group of much-appreciated volunteers, place the candy-stuffed eggs in the grassy area behind the Clubhouse. There are also multiple arts and crafts tables set up for the kiddos to enjoy egg and cookie decorating. In addition, there were pony rides and a “duck” pond complete with prizes for lucky little anglers. And what would an Easter Egg Hunt be without a visit from the Easter Bunny and his missus (aka Dieter Winterle and Joyce Doherty, who have been hopping to it for more than 10 years)?

Linda says the planning for next year’s egg hunt has already begun, as she starts the day after Easter in search of goodies for the following year. Donations are always welcome, and if any of this year’s attendees still have their eggs, the Pechsteins would welcome their return.

HOA 101, Part 2

(WHAT YOU DON’T KNOW, YOU DON’T KNOW)

GERRY ARENSTEIN

Now that you’ve sampled a taste of what campaigning for a board position might be like (see the April edition of the Breeze), it’s time for you to get down to the actual governing as a member of the board of directors. Here’s where your homework starts to pay off. No one is an expert on all the various topics that come before the board, but it’s the variety of backgrounds and history of experiences of each board member that can be brought to bear when faced with the unknown. While it would seem to make sense to require potential board members to have some background to effectively deal with these governing topics, neither Chapter 720 of the Florida Statutes nor our governing documents permit such restrictions on homeowners who wish to pursue candidacy as potential board members.

What is required by Florida statute is a prescribed four-hour or eighthour course of instruction, the length of which is based upon the number of units in an association. The four-hour course must be taken by those directors whose association is less than 2,500 units.

For associations with 2,500 or more units, new directors are required to take the eight-hour course. In either case, the course must be completed within 90 days of election or appointment to the board. Although these courses are available without charge, the completion certificate earned by those attending this course must be held within the association’s records for a minimum of five years. There is no requirement that you be a board member to sit through the presentation, which is normally conducted by a law firm versed in community association law.

As you may imagine, while the items covered are quite varied, it is reasonable to recognize that the course is really a summary or survey of the many topics that can be taught in a four-hour or eight-hour course of instruction. Examples of the types of subject matter presented are the governing documents themselves and what types of information are to be found in each of them. Records storage requirements, both personnel as well as financial records, including contracts, legal filings, and demographic data for communities designated as 55-plus are also covered. Should you be interested in how to find these statutes, here is the website for all of Florida’s statutes as of the 2025 legislative session: https://www.leg.state.fl.us

• Title XXXVI is about BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS in Chapters 605-623

• Chapter 617 is about Corporations Not for Profit

• Title XL is about REAL AND PERSONAL PROPERTY in Chapters 689-723

• Chapter 712 has to do with Marketable Record Titles to Real Property

More than five years ago, the legislature took steps to help associations preserve their existence by requiring that the first board meeting following the annual member meeting (when elections normally take place) to have the Marketable Record Titles Act (MRTA) on the agenda. This requirement is designed to assure that associations do not exceed the 30-year deadline. This is to preserve the marketable record of each association and thereby prevent the extinguishment of the legal standing of any association.

Chapter 720 is specific to Homeowners Associations.

The Articles of Incorporation are exactly what is sounds like, in that this document is essentially historical where the establishment of the association is drawn up in compliance with the applicable statute, namely, Chapter 617. The Articles of Incorporation establishes the foundation, which grants the association the authority to operate for the benefit of the members (homeowners). The association’s primary responsibility is to preserve the assets of the corporation using the authority granted to it from the state. The is the key to

the fiduciary responsibility that every board member must carry by using sound financial judgment. Sabal Springs is very similar in many ways to a small town or village. This is the concept that results in the community spirit and sense of belonging that fosters a friendly, welcoming neighborhood so many transplants are looking for.

The Covenants and Restrictions specifically describe the “nuts and bolts” of what our association actually is. It begins with a definition of the terms used within the Covenants and Restrictions. It then itemizes the parts of the association and how they work together to enable the association to achieve its purpose.

The By-Laws further refine how the governance of the association is conducted, in concert with the Covenants and Restrictions. In them, you’ll find what

constitutes a quorum, what is the yardstick for the adoption of changes or amendments, how many consecutive terms are permissible by a director, how meetings are conducted along many other similar items. It is here that you will learn that while the membership votes to elect members of the board, it is the board itself that votes upon which director will hold what office, not the membership.

The Rules and Regulations provide the flexibility to further define and finetune very specific areas of concern to assist association members and the board of directors to comply with the intent of the Covenants and Restrictions.

Changes to our Covenants and Restrictions or our By-Laws require a two-thirds (2/3) majority of the members voting in order for the changes to pass. On the other hand, the Rules and Regulations can be altered at any time by a majority of the board of directors.

Key details regarding Chapter 720 include:

• Definition: Defines an HOA as a Florida corporation responsible for a community where membership is mandatory and assessments can create a lien on the parcel.

• Purpose: Protects member rights, provides operational procedures, and recognizes corporations operating residential communities.

• Scope: Governs residential communities, but generally does not apply to commercial/industrial developments or condominiums (which fall under Chapter 718).

• Key Provisions: Covers topics such as the authority of associations to approve improvements (720.3035), prohibitions against certain developer actions (720.3075), and election procedures.

SunShine Singles

JANE HANSEN

Another month, another adventure, this time to the Babcock Ranch Preserve — a 73,000acre conservation area about 30 miles from our back door. Although it was a working ranch for several decades owned by Edward V. Babcock, it was purchased by the State of Florida in 2006 and is a “self-funding” preserve through its continued agricultural and timber operations. It consists of a mosaic of pine flatwoods, dry prairies, and the Telegraph Cypress Swamp and serves as a critical habitat

for wide-ranging species such as the Florida panther (which is not black), black bears, deer, wild pigs, alligators, wading birds, etc. Eight members of the SunShine Singles boarded their Swamp Buggy and toured this amazing preserve. Although we did not see a panther or black bear, we did see the other critters mentioned in addition to “Cracker cattle,” — an American breed of cattle, which originated in Spanish Florida, and we were given the opportunity to pet a small gator. We had lunch in The Gator Shack restaurant.

THE SUNSHINE SINGLES RECENTLY MET AT THE BABCOCK RANCH PRESERVE AND ENJOYED LUNCH AT THE ON-SITE RESTAURANT.

THE BABCOCK RANCH PRESERVE FEATURES A NUMBER OF WILDLIFE CREATURES, INCLUDING WILD PIGS AND “CRACKER” CATTLE.

One of my missions is to share the stories of our SunShine Singles group. Two members who I have seen at almost every event I have attended are Sue Dodge and Lorraine Harrington. The very first invitation to attend a singles function came while I was walking my dog came from my fellow dogwalking neighbor, Sue Dodge. The event was a Christmas party being held at her house and I found there a cheerful atmosphere, very friendly people, good food, and fun games. I have been an active participant ever since. In conversing with Sue, I learned she was a California girl who worked in Silicon Valley, and came here, not to retire, but to change jobs and locations. She had a partner who had lived in Southern Florida, loved it, and wanted to move here. They heard that this was a fast-growing area, and decided it

SUE DODGE, AN ORIGINAL MEMBER OF THE SUNSHINE SINGLES, IS ALL ABOUT GETTING OUT AND ABOUT.

was the place for them. Originally, they bought a home in the countryside and Sue drove by Sabal Springs on her way to work and to the grocery store. Her partner passed, and not wanting to maintain a home on five acres, after talking with folks she knew she decided to move here. Although the group did not exist when she moved in, Sue met others interested in singles activities at the Clubhouse and together they formed the SunShine Singles. She enjoys all of the activities and the companionship offered by the group. Sue participates in other Sabal Springs activities as well, such as Aquacise,

Jazzercise, line dancing, dominoes, craft projects, etc. She also has volunteered for events and served on a variety of committees. Her motto is: “People need to get out of their houses and socialize!”

Another SunShine Singles adventurer is Lorraine Harrington who came to Florida from Vermont. She was married for nearly 60 years and when they retired, moved to North Port, Fla. After her husband passed, she made the decision to sell their home as it had a large lawn and swimming pool and was too much to take care of alone. Her daughter owned a business in this area, so she looked for a home for some time, but she said as soon as she drove through the gatehouse area, knew she wanted to live here. Lorraine liked the structure of the homes and the fact that there was a Clubhouse with a bar and restaurant — a place to meet other people. Thus, Lorraine also became part of the original group of SunShine Singles as she wanted to enjoy activities with a larger group. Lorraine was, and is still, a very active lady who is 91-plus years old. She had four children, was director of the Kids Center at a ski area in Vermont in the winter and director of a kids day camp during the summer for more than 30 years.

Additionally, she gave ski lessons and taught craft classes before and after moving here. While she did not start painting until after she retired, many people may know her through her artwork, which often depicts colorful flamingos, which are on display (and for sale) at the Eagles Landing restaurant.

SUNSHINE SINGLES LORRAINE HARRINGTON’S ZEST FOR LIFE AND FUN IS AN INSPIRATION TO US ALL.

Lorraine and Sue are often the first ones on the dance floor when there is a good beat to be heard. I have an amazing image of her recently dancing with both arms and one leg in the air while shimmying. She says she enjoys all of the activities that have been offered through the SunShine Singles, especially the nature adventures such as our recent tour of Iguanaland, Babcock Ranch Preserve, and the Octagon Wildlife Sanctuary (last year). She enthusiastically attends Aquacise, Jazzercise, line dancing lessons, and has held craft events at her home. She is active in the Arts & Crafts Committee and has hosted at stop along the Progressive Golf Cart event.

The SunShine singles engaged in a number of April activities, including pool parties on Sunday afternoons, enjoying a Sweet Adeline’s performance,

By the Pool

GERI GREGORIO

Keeping our community in great condition is a community effort. Each month, the Pool Committee will be showcasing caring Sabal Springers who go above and beyond to keep our pool in tip-top shape.

This month, the committee spotted Jody and Dan Bohnery from Fishlake, Ind. They have been renting here at Sabal Springs for the past two years. They love our friendly community and have made many new friends. In addition to loving our pool, they enjoy biking, and seeing the diverse wildlife and plants. Dan, a pickleball player, is anxious to see pickleball courts here soon.

Jody and Dan were seen covering their chairs with towels in order to protect them from fading and discoloration. Later, before leaving, they closed and tied their umbrellas to protect them from damage during the night.

Jody and Dan will be missed this summer when they go north. However, they look forward to returning again next year and for many years to come. Hurry back, Jody and Dan!!!

You might be next to be featured for exhibiting good pool behavior — stay tuned.

dancing to Michael Glean and Bandstand, attending a Lee County Community Band event, being amazed by the “The Mentalist,” having lunch at the Wisteria Tea House, partaking of HonkyTonk line dancing lessons, in addition to watching movies and attending “The Little Shop of Horrors” play at the Florida Repertory Theater in Fort Myers.

May promises to be a very active month as well. The next meeting will be May 27, 4:30 pm, in the Sunshine Room at Eagles Landing.

If you would like to have your name added to our list (or removed), please contact Jane Hansen ( jhansen8052@sbcglobal.net).

Now We’re Cooking

TAREN GROM

MEXICAN

STREET CORN FLATBREAD

Cinco de Mayo has morphed into a celebration of all the yumminess that Mexico has to offer from sweet and savory treats to all types of Margaritas.

Yields: 4 to 6 servings | Prep time: 15 mins | Total time: 35 mins

INGREDIENTS

• All-purpose flour, for dusting

• 1 lb. pizza dough, room temperature

• ½ cup sour cream

• ¼ cup mayonnaise

• 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped

• 2 tbsp. fresh lime juice

• ½ tsp. chili powder, plus more for sprinkling

• ½ tsp. kosher salt

• 1 cup corn kernels (preferably fresh)

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella

• ½ cup (or more) crumbled cotija cheese

• Chopped fresh cilantro and lime wedges, for serving

DIRECTIONS

Step 1: Arrange racks in upper and lower thirds of oven; preheat to 425°. Lightly dust two baking sheets with flour.

Step 2: On a lightly floured work surface, divide dough into two balls. Stretch or roll each ball to a rectangle of about 12 in. x 6 in. Transfer to prepared baking sheets.

Step 3: In a small bowl, stir sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic, lime juice, chili powder, and salt. Remove 1/4 cup sauce and reserve.

Step 4: Divide remaining sauce between two flatbreads. Top flatbreads with corn, mozzarella, cotija, and a sprinkle of chili powder.

Step 5: Bake, rotating sheets from top and bottom after 10 minutes, until flatbreads are crisp on the bottom and browned and bubbling on top, 15 to 20 minutes.

Step 6: Drizzle flatbreads with reserved dressing, sprinkle with cilantro and more cotija, if desired, and squeeze fresh lime juice on top.

Recipe and photo courtesy of Delish.

Something from the Bar

TAREN GROM

CLASSIC MARGARITA RECIPE

You can’t say Cinco de Mayo without saying Margarita please. There are dozens and dozens of Margarita recipes floating around the Internet, but the classic is always a surefire winner.

INSTRUCTIONS

Prep: Rub a lime wedge around the rim of a rocks glass and dip it in coarse salt. Shake: Add tequila, orange liqueur, lime juice, and sweetener (if using) to a shaker with ice. Shake for 10 to 15 seconds until chilled.

Serve: Strain into the prepared glass over fresh ice.

SUDOKU SOLUTION

• 2 oz. Tequila (Blanco or Reposado)

• 1 oz. Orange Liqueur (Cointreau or Triple Sec)

• 1 oz. Fresh Lime Juice

• 1/4 to 1/2 oz. Agave Nectar (optional, to taste)

• Garnish: Lime wheel & coarse salt

PRO TIPS

Ratio: The standard, balanced ratio is 2:1:1 (tequila:lime:liqueur).

Sweetness: If it is too tart, add 1 to 2 teaspoons of agave nectar or simple syrup.

Batching: For a pitcher, mix 1.5 cups tequila, 1 cup liqueur, 1 cup lime juice, and 1 cup water/sweetener mixture.

CROSSWORD SOLUTION

Arts & Crafts Annual Fashion Show

LINN CAMPBELL

The weekend of March 28 was the annual Sabal Springs’ Fashion Show and Tea Party put on by the Arts & Crafts committee. It was again a stellar event. Linda Voto and her dedicated team of volunteers turned the event room in the Clubhouse into an elegantly appointed tearoom — it was so beautiful for all.

BIG THANKS TO THE INCOMPARABLE LINDA VOTO WHO ORCHESTRATED THE FASHION SHOW AND TEA PARTY.

Six resident models volunteered to showcase clothes by Chico’s: Bobbi Kemp, Jeanne Hill, Kathy Kwaak, Mary Maher, Sue Mattson, Ann Pangori, and Melinda Tocci. Jeanine Clapp and Krisan Hahn provided color commentary to describe the outfits and announce the dozens of door prizes and raffle prize winners.

Net proceeds from the event were donated to Make-A-Wish Southern Florida. The event raised $10,090, which will go toward making wishes come true for many kids. Ten-year-old Make-A-Wish beneficiary Ever Young shared her moving story related to her years-long battle with a rare cancer. Her wish was to go to Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa in Hawaii with her whole family, which the foundation was able to grant because of people like Linda and all of the 175 Sabal Springs residents who attended the event.

There were 30 door prizes, 58 amazing baskets filled with wonderful gifts, and a grand prize of $300 awarded. Thank you again to all who attended, helped, and gathered donations, we could not have done it without each and every one of you.

Congratulations to all who won — enjoy!

JEANINE CLAPP GIVING THANKS TO LINDA VOTO FOR ANOTHER OUTSTANDING EVENT.

SUE MATTSON A BIG SHOUT OUT TO ALL OF THE SPONSORS FOR THEIR SUPPORT. THE 2026 MAKE-A-WISH RECIPIENT EVER YOUNG

MANY THANKS TO ALL WHO DONATED AND HELPED PUT TOGETHER NEARLY 60 RAFFLE GOODIE BASKETS.

SABAL SPRINGS’ RESIDENTS AND GUESTS ENJOYING TEA AND NIBBLES.

THIS YEAR’S SOLD-OUT EVENT RAISED MORE THAN $10,000 FOR MAKE-A-WISH.

Sabal Springs Golf Winners for March

CHARLEY FRANTZ

WEDNESDAY LADIES’ LEAGUE

Club Champion — Donna Ireland

Second Place — Sue Short

A Flight

1st Loretta Gehman

2nd Vickie Pirello Flight B1st

1st Kathy Carpenter

2nd Lynn Klaus

C Flight

1st Susan Roberts

2nd-Beth Zes

Nine-Hole Players

1st Robin Fritz

2nd Ellie Birmingham

March 18 — Fun Day Scramble

1st Kathy Bacome, Liz Jurocko, Nan Shewalter, Beth Zes

2nd Faye Cantrell, Cara LaValley, Mary Vargo

3rd Robin Fritz, Linda Pechstein, Arlene O’Donnell, Jane Ward

4th Cathy Dobson, Sue La Plume, Joy Melin, Vickie Pirello

5th Ellie Birmingham, MaryLou Collins, Shirley Green, Susan Roberts

March 25

A Flight

1st Shirley Berry

2nd Laurie Simkins

B Flight

1st Coleen Birmingham

2nd Janet McEachern

C Flight

1st Sue LaPlume

2nd Cara LaValley

D Flight

1st Lynn Klaus

2nd Judy Andrews

Nine-Hole Players

A Flight

1st Robin Fritz

2nd Joy Melin

B Flight

1st Shirley Green

2nd Linda Charlesworth

THURSDAY MEN’S LEAGUE

Club Champion — Keith Bunch

A Flight

1st Keith Bunch

2nd Wayne Piper

B Flight

1st Guy Armstrong 2nd Dave Fritz

C Flight

1st Dave Abati

2nd Russ Mattson

D Flight

1st Paul Perdue

2nd Don Rhodes

E Flight

1st Tom Phillips

2nd John Linehan

March 12

1st Wayne Armstrong, Norb Brand, Roger Frantz, Wayne Piper

2nd Gary Clapp, Jeff Duncan, Peter Kwaak, Bill Roberts

3rd Scott Clark, Tom Goldsmith, Dave Worthington

Closest-to-the-Pin

White: Keith Bunch

Gold-Dave Worthington

March 19

White Flight: Keith Bunch, Terry LaValley, Tom Miller, Wayne Piper Gold Flight: Wayne

Armstrong, Tom Goldsmith, Don Rhodes, Dave Worthington

Closest-to-the-Pin

1st Doug Mazurek

2nd Keith Bunch

March 26

White Flight

1st Greg Muller

2nd Keith Bunch

Gold Flight

1st Don Rhodes

2nd Gary Clapp

3rd Peter Kwaak

Closest-to-the-Pin Hole

No. 7: Gary Clapp

SATURDAY COUPLES’ SCRAMBLE

March 7

1st Faye Cantrell & Bill La Porte, Charley & Roger Frantz

2nd Judy & Charlie Andrews, Linda Hood & Greg Rood

3rd Donna & Bill Sarbo, Laurie & Bill Simkins

4th Barb & Larry Cassidy, Sandy & John Cocca

Closest-to-the-pin:

Beth Zes & Rich Triptow

March 14 St. Patrick’s Day Scramble

(See related article)

March 21

1st Anita & Carter Johnson, Terri & Dave Carpenter

2nd Linda Hood & Greg Rood, Laurie & Bill Simkins

3rd Liz Jurocko & Bob Connelly, Arlene Roy & Leo Pierson

4th Cathy & Wayne Piper, Sherry & Tom Triptow

Closest-to-the-Pin: Susan Roberts & Tom Triptow

March 28

1st Faye Cantrell & Bill LaPorte, Lorraine Rechten & Dick Hansen

2nd Charley & Roger Frantz, Donna Ireland & Tedd Jamieson

3rd Robin & Dave Fritz, Susan & Bill Roberts

4th Liz Jurocko & Bob Connelly, Vicki & Bob Pirello

Closest-to-the-Pin: Laurie Simkins & Dave Worthington

2026 Sabal Springs Golf Champs

The SSLGA 2026 Club Championship kicked-off with a bang, bringing beautiful weather and an impressive 25 player sign up to compete — the largest enrollment we’ve had in quite some time. The ladies arrived excited and ready to play. It’s truly a wonderful group of ladies who combine friendly fun with a great spirit of competition.

After Friday’s final day of tournament Match Play, the ladies of the SSLGA came up to greet and congratulate the winners, celebrating with cocktails and beautiful championship cake. It was a wonderful way to wrap up a successful event and recognize the following champions:

SSLGA CLUB CHAMPION

DONNA IRELAND SSLGA CLUB CHAMPIONS — GOLD - DONNA IRELAND, SILVER - SUE SHORT

A FLIGHT CHAMPS — GOLD - LORETTA GHEMAN, SILVERVICKIE PERILLO

B FLIGHT CHAMPS — GOLD - KATHY CARPENTER, SILVER – LYNN KLAUS

C FLIGHT CHAMPS — GOLD – SUSAN ROBERTS, SILVER- BETH ZES

NINE-HOLE

FLIGHT CHAMPS — GOLD –ROBIN FRITZ, SILVER – (NOT PICTURED) ELLIE

BIRMINGHAM

SSMGA CLUB CHAMPION KEITH BUNCH

St. Patrick’s Golf Outing

JANE WARD

The Annual Sabal Springs Saturday Couples

St. Patrick’s Golf Outing was big fun, despite a soggy start to the day.

A big round of applause to our wonderful host couples: Jim & Cheryl Brackin, Bob & Kathy Carpenter, Peter & Kathy Kwaak, Don & Joyce Rhodes, Leo Pierson & Arlene Roy.

What a fantastic day of golf, laughter, great food — service and community spirit. Special thanks to our friendly neighbors Taren Grom and Kathy MillerBuncich on Hole No. 8 for the delicious cinnamon rolls & Irish flag Jello shots and to Linda Sholette and her sister for the Luck of the Irish pudding shots on Hole No. 12.

FUN-FILLED DAY ON THE LINKS FOR SABAL SPRINGS COUPLES — GO GREEN!

Holes In One

During February and March, there were holes in one galore in Sabal Springs.

IN MARCH, FAYE CANTRELL HAD A HOLE IN ONE ON NO. 12 — HER SIXTH! WAY TO GO FAYE.

JANE WARD SCORED TWO HOLES IN ONE IN ONE WEEK IN MARCH! THE FIRST DURING THE ST. PATRICK’S DAY COUPLES SCRAMBLE, AND THIS ONE ON HOLE NO. 8 DURING AN ANNUAL SABAL OUTING HOSTED BY JOE DECKER AND RITA, WITH HER FOUR-SOME LOOKING ON.

ON ST. PATRICK’S DAY PROPER, DIETER WINTERLE, SCORED HIS THIRD ACE, THIS ONE ON HOLE NO. 1. LUCK OF THE GERMAN!

ON FEB. 18 ARLENE ROY STARTED THE DAY ON HOLE NO. 12 AND KICKED THINGS OFF WITH A HOLE-IN-ONE ON THE VERY FIRST HOLE OF THE ROUND.

This is her fifth year playing golf, and amazingly it’s her second hole-in-one. Her first was Feb. 14, 2025, on hole No. 7 — and that one came with a funny story. She says: “The girls and I thought the ball had rolled across the green and off the back. We searched everywhere and I figured the ball was lost. As I walked back to my cart and passed the flag, I looked down … and there it was sitting in the hole.”

This time Cathy Piper saw it drop right into the hole on No.12, and Sue Short and Arlene laughed until tears were rolling down their faces.

Golf sure gives you the best surprises. What a cool moment.

Thanks to Jane Ward and “The Scoop” for the great pictures and score details.

Tales of an unBelizeable Cruise

DONNA MILBEE

No matter how many Caribbean cruises I go on there’s always something new or old to see. Apparently, I had never been on Princess Cruise Lines ship. I thought I had tried them all. The Star Princess offers a “medallion” that you can wear on your wrist to pay for anything and unlock your stateroom door. That was very convenient. Even though it wasn’t a “mega ship” there was a lot of winding your way through cabin corridors to get to public areas. I don’t remember so much of that with other cruise lines. But the food and entertainment were worth the walk.

The ladies of neighboring Magnolia Landing have taken a group Princess cruise three years in a row, and they really know how to plan a “party.” This year they invited Sabal Springs ladies and a half dozen of us joined in the fun. Fifty-four ladies boarded a bus and headed to the Port of Fort Lauderdale wearing duck hats, duck shirts, duck P.J.s, and ducky jewelry. Yes, there was a duck theme and there was a lot of “ducking-around” on board. We even had a

“duck walk” and we crowned “Miss Duck America” thanks to a clever activity devised by Terri Marotta on Mellow Yellow Night.

A

CHEEKY MONKEY DIPPED INTO DONNA MILBEE’S POCKET DURING A VISIT TO THE MONKEY & SLOTH SANCTUARY.

Our seven-day voyage included a stop in Roatan, where we booked a private tour through Viatour to take us to areas we hadn’t been before. The itinerary included a Monkey & Sloth Sanctuary, a Rum distillery, and a chocolate factory. I couldn’t tell you which I liked best but, I recommend guarding your possessions well at the sanctuary — a clever monkey stole a pill case from my pocket without me even knowing.

In Belize we took an excursion to the Lamanai Mayan Ruins via bus wending our way through villages and lush countryside and then a pontoon up the New River to reach the 3,000-yearold site. The native tour guide told us all about the history, government, and education of the country. Surprisingly, English is the official language, but ONE OF THE CRUISERS’ ADVENTURES

natives speak an unrecognizable Spanish/ Creole dialect with their families.

I wasn’t surprised that I was the oldest person to sign the waiver to climb 110 feet to the top of the Mayan Temple, which is one of the few you are still allowed to climb. My plan was to go as far as I could to take my photo then descend. I was concerned about coming down without a handrail. However, the climbing and descending is done on a staircase, erected behind and out of sight, including handrails. So, I have some beautiful photos from the top.

Cruising never gets old. Before the bus arrived back in North Fort Myers the ladies were already looking for next year’s destination. It was such smooth sailing that I’ll be back on board for sure.

A GUIDED TOUR INCLUDED A RESTAURANT IN ROATAN WHERE THE GROUP ATE IN THE TREES OVERLOOKING THE BAY, AFTER VISITING A RUM FACTORY, A CHOCOLATE FACTORY AND JUNGLE ANIMAL SANCTUARY.

Card News

WEDNESDAY BRIDGE — MARCH

PAT HARP

March 4

1st Donna Michel

2nd Earl Russell

3rd Nan Shewalter

March 11

1st Elaine Goldsmith

2nd Donna Michel

3rd Greg Jessup

March 18

1st Dorothy Proehl

2nd Jane Rathburn

3rd Earl Russell

March 25

1st Sue Jessup

2nd Earl Russell

3rd Greg Jessup

MONDAY DUPLICATE BRIDGE – MARCH

EARL RUSSELL

March 2

1st Mike & Cathy Ward

2nd Roger Lundholm & Sylviane Threlkeld

3rd Earl Russell & Sue Bobak

March 9

1st Elaine Goldsmith & Frank DeGoey

2nd Earl Russell & Sue Bobak

3rd Mike & Cathy Ward

March 16

1st Earl Russell & Sue Bobak

2nd Mike & Cathy Ward

3rd (tied) Roger Lundholm & Sylviane Threlkeld

Jane Rathburn & Nan Shewalter

March 23

1st Mike Ward & Jan Hawley

2nd Greg & Sue Jessup

3rd Roger Lundholm & Cathy Ward

Mar. 30

1st Mike Ward & Jan Hawley

2nd Earl Russell & Sue Bobak

3rd Greg Jessup & Cathy Ward