SPRING
Spring Into Wellness!
As the flowers bloom and the days grow longer, spring is the perfect time to refresh your wellness goals. Research has shown that keeping your brain actively stimulated, maintaining a healthy diet, and engaging in daily physical activity can help you stay independent and vibrant for many years to come.
Here are several ways you can embrace the season and enhance your health this spring:
STAY ACTIVE
With warmer weather and fresh air, there’s no better time to get moving! Engaging in physical activity can reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer in older adults. It can also improve mood, reduce pain, enhance cognitive function, and help with weight management— enriching your overall quality of life.
Take advantage of our professionally equipped fitness studios or enjoy a walk outside while taking in the beauty of our lush, blooming gardens. Join a walking club to stay social and make new friends while soaking up the sun for your daily dose of Vitamin D. Consider fitness classes like Tai Chi, yoga, or water aerobics. You can also engage your mind by attending university lectures, exploring new skills in art classes, or participating in an on-site cooking demonstration. There’s something for everyone to enjoy this season!
EXERCISE YOUR BRAIN
Just as nature awakens in spring, your mind thrives on stimulation. As we age, brain structure changes, which can impact memory and cognitive abilities. Keep your mind sharp by doing puzzles, playing card or board games with friends, listening to music, exercising, or gardening. Consider writing a letter to a loved one, designing an art project, or reading a book. These activities not only enhance cognitive abilities but also promote mental well-being and overall brain health.
EAT A WELL-BALANCED DIET AND STAY HYDRATED
Spring brings an abundance of fresh, seasonal produce, making it a great time to focus on a wellbalanced diet. As we age, nutritional needs change, and a healthy diet can support memory, strengthen bones, maintain immunity, and improve overall wellbeing.
Strive to eat a variety of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and dairy products rich in Vitamin D and calcium. Incorporate lean meats, poultry, seafood, and eggs while limiting foods with empty calories like chips, candy, pastries, soft drinks, and alcohol.
With rising temperatures, hydration becomes even more important. Commit to drinking at least six 8 oz glasses of water daily. For a refreshing twist, add fresh fruits or vegetables like lemon slices or cucumbers. Be mindful of caffeine and alcohol intake, as they can contribute to dehydration.
Enjoying meals with others can also enhance your overall quality of life. Actively invite friends to join you, laugh, and bond over shared experiences. Social dining is just as beneficial for mental health as it is for physical health.
REDUCE YOUR RISK FOR FALLS
Spring cleaning isn’t just for your home—it’s also a great time to check in on your health! Falls are preventable and not a normal part of aging. Risk factors like medications, certain medical conditions, vision changes, and decreased mobility can increase the likelihood of falls.
If you have concerns about balance or mobility, talk to your doctor. Staying physically active can help maintain strength and stability. Our onsite physical and occupational therapists are available to provide expert advice and assist with home modifications, such as installing grab bars in bathrooms, to support your independence.
SEE YOUR DOCTOR REGULARLY
As the season of renewal begins, take the opportunity to schedule a check-up. Regular exams help maintain or improve your current health status. Preventative care may include physical exams, blood tests, health screenings, and immunizations tailored to your age, medical history, and lifestyle. These visits also provide an opportunity to review medications and address any concerns with your doctor.
Dr. Maya Angelou once said, “Every journey starts with a single step.” Let this spring be your season of growth and renewal—commit to taking that first step today. Small, consistent changes can have a remarkable impact on your overall health and well-being.
Set your intentions for a healthier, happier season!
Use this mini goal-setting activity to bring your wellness journey to life. Choose at least one goal from each category—or write your own—and check them off as you complete them
MOVE YOUR BODY
❏ Walk 15 minutes outside
❏ Try a new fitness class
❏ Join a walking, gardening club or participate in group exercise
EXERCISE YOUR MIND
❏ Complete a crossword or puzzle
❏ Attend a lecture or book club
❏ Start a creative project
Erica L. Patterson, RN Director of Clinical Compliance
EAT & HYDRATE WELL
❏ Try a new seasonal vegetable
❏ Drink 6 glasses of water in one day
❏ Share a meal with a friend
SAFETY & SELF-CARE
❏ Schedule a health check-up
❏ Check your home for fall hazards
❏ Attend an all seasons health workshop or seminar
Meet the Team Lifelong Learning
MATTHEW FORD, EXECUTIVE CHEF ALL SEASONS BIRMINGHAM
Meet Matthew Ford, the heart and soul behind the delightful meals at All Seasons Birmingham. As the Executive Chef, Matthew doesn’t just cook; he crafts experiences that bring people together.
Growing up in St. Joseph, Michigan, Matthew’s journey in the hospitality world began in 2000. By 2014, he found his true calling in senior living communities, where his culinary creations do more than satisfy appetites— they spark conversations and create memories.
When autumn rolls around, Matthew is in his element. He loves the crisp air, the vibrant tapestry of changing leaves, the excitement of football games, and the warmth of Thanksgiving gatherings. This affection for fall often inspires the seasonal dishes he lovingly prepares for residents.
Off the clock, Matthew is a passionate homebrewer. He finds joy in the meticulous process of brewing, especially when crafting Hefeweizen—a traditional German beer that’s unfiltered and boasts a rich, yeasty flavor. It’s a labor of love that mirrors his dedication in the kitchen.
Family is at the core of Matthew’s world. His favorite way to unwind? Cooking a meal and sharing it with his loved ones. He also cherishes moments spent camping and fishing with his children, embracing the simple pleasures of the great outdoors.
Two books have profoundly shaped Matthew’s life: the “New Larousse Gastronomique,” a 1930s culinary reference gifted by his first mentor, and “Ishmael” by Daniel Quinn, a thought-provoking novel that challenges perceptions. These works have influenced both his professional path and personal philosophy.
If given the chance to travel back in time, Matthew would choose ancient Egypt. The mystery of how the pyramids of Giza were constructed fascinates him, reflecting his deep appreciation for craftsmanship and history.
At the end of the day, what Matthew treasures most about his role at All Seasons Birmingham is the people—the dedicated team he collaborates with and the residents he serves. For Matthew, meals are more than just food; they’re an opportunity to foster connections, evoke cherished memories, and bring joy to those around him.
Matthew Ford isn’t just a chef; he’s a storyteller, a family man, and a craftsman who pours his heart into everything he does, making life at All Seasons Birmingham all the richer.
The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) invites older adults to ignite their curiosity. OLLI enriches the lives of adults aged 50 and better through intellectually stimulating, deeply engaging, and high-quality experiences—including lecture series, classes, travel adventures, and vibrant social events. Serving a growing and diverse community of lifelong learners, OLLI creates opportunities for meaningful connection and continued growth. Their upcoming Science Pop-Ups are a perfect example—where big ideas meet accessible insight.
Looking for something new to spark your imagination? The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) is offering two upcoming “Science Pop-Up” lectures that promise to engage, entertain, and enlighten. These events are ideal for lifelong learners who enjoy fresh perspectives and thought-provoking ideas—and we think they’re well worth checking out.
Managing
Your Emotions –So They Don’t Manage You
Speaker: Ethan Kross, Ph.D.
Professor in UM’s Psychology Department and Ross Business School
Abstract:
This talk—based on Prof. Kross’ recently published book—addresses the timeless question of how to manage our emotional lives. Whether it’s anxiety about going to the doctor, boiling rage when we’re stuck in traffic, or devastation after a painful breakup, we often face situations that send us emotionally spiraling. Are there ways to make our emotions work for us rather than against us? Based on recent research findings, this talk will dispel some common myths— e.g., that avoidance is always toxic or that we should always strive to live in the moment—and provide a framework and tools for shifting our emotions to help us be healthier and happier.
Epidemic Diseases and their Impact on Civilizations Throughout History
Speaker: Powel Kazanjian
Professor and Chief of the Division of Infectious Diseases UM
Abstract:
From antiquity to today, epidemic diseases have devastated nations and their populations. Repeatedly, they have triggered broad ranging consequences for societies—in the economic, social, cultural, religious, and governmental realms. We will use selected epidemics throughout history to illustrate the extent of this epidemic impact and reveal how civilizations not only become vulnerable to epidemics, but also refractory to human efforts to eradicate them.
If you’re someone who enjoys learning for the joy of it, these Science Pop-Ups are a great way to dive into fascinating topics with expert guides. No homework, no pressure—just ideas worth exploring. Keep an eye on the OLLI website for lifelong learning offerings for details. We think these talks are a perfect fit for the curious, engaged, and forever-young-at-heart.
Resident Spotlights
ARNOLD LEAVY
• Where are you originally from? New York City (Manhattan)
• Why did you move into All Seasons Naples? I was looking for a nice & happy place to retire and have been happy with the results so far.
• Why have you stayed at All Seasons Naples? The staff and residents have kept me here.
• What’s your favorite thing about living here? All of the wonderful people I have met!
In December 2017, All Season Naples opened its doors.
Four of our original residents share their stories...
JUDI FRANZ
• Where are you originally from? Originally Detroit, Michigan but moved to California at the age of 24.
DIANE WILLIAMS
• Where are you originally from? Detroit, Michigan
• Why did you move into All Seasons Naples? I felt it was time to move to a place like this after my husband’s declining health.
• Why have you stayed at All Seasons Naples? The security of the community. “I’m where I should be”
• What is your favorite activity/thing to do here? The various musical entertainment provided. I love music and the musical sets here for Wednesday Wine & Music have been superb.
• Tell us about a hobby or interest that you’ve discovered or pursued since moving here. Painting
• Favorite memory at All Seasons Naples? Meeting my best friend of all-time.
• What’s your favorite thing about living here? The wonderful people that live here.
• What is your favorite activity/thing to do here? Being a member of the food committee and resident Jim Jolly’s History Lectures.
• How has your life changed since living at All Seasons Naples? She said due to her minimal daily routine, she has minimal changes to her life.
• Tell us about a hobby or interest that you’ve discovered or pursued since moving here. Reading More books and playing computer solitaire.
• Favorite people here at All Seasons Naples? The original 3 residents. “Judi, Arnold, Virve”
• Why did you move into All Seasons Naples? Her husband had passed away and was left to live in her house alone 9 years after and decided there was more to life than living alone and started looking at senior facilities and decided on All Seasons Naples.
• Why have you stayed at All Seasons Naples? Compared to other senior facilities, All Seasons was the best due to the location for doctors offices and the size of the apartment.
• What’s your favorite thing about living here? Not feeling alone. She has met many wonderful friends and many activities to do.
• How has your life changed since living at All Seasons Naples? It has provided her longevity due to being active in the community.
• Tell us about a hobby or interest that you’ve discovered or pursued since moving here. She learned to paint when she first moved here and plans on going back to it.
• Favorite memory at All Seasons Naples? The summer before COVID, she met a wonderful gentleman here at All Seasons and they started dating.
• Favorite people here at All Seasons Naples? She said Julian, Sandy and Giles Schutte, Virve, Bill And Melita Vonier.
VIRVE JACKOBSON
• Where are you originally from? Estonia
• Why did you move into All Seasons Naples? Her son Marcos who is a real-estate lawyer was involved with building All Seasons.
• Why have you stayed at All Seasons Naples? She loves the people here and the friendships she’s cultivated.
• What’s your favorite thing about living here? She loves her apartment and thinks it is very nice and spacious.
• How has your life changed since living at All Seasons Naples? Her social life has improved since coming to All Seasons.
• What’s your favorite part of your daily routine?
Having breakfast, dinner with fellow residents in the dining room.
• Favorite memory at All Seasons Naples? Her son Marcos coming with his kids to spend some time with her at the facility.
• Favorite people here at All Seasons Naples? She said Bob Lull particularly but loves all Residents.
Community Event Highlights
ARTIST-IN-RESIDENCE VISIT FROM OLIVER BISHOP
All Seasons Naples -
Each year we host a new Artist-in-Residence, and this year we were lucky enough to get to know Oliver Bishop. Oliver is currently studying for his Masters at the University of Michigan, but visited All Seasons Naples to get to know residents in Independent, Assisted, and Memory Care, and share his expertise with the sax, clarinet, and musical improvisation!
HOLIDAY CHORUS CONCERT
All Seasons Ann Arbor -
This extraordinary chorus is comprised of our passionate residents who come together to create harmonies that resonate with the spirit of the holidays. They serenaded a packed auditorium of All Seasons’s residents and their families during a two-show spectacular this month.
MEN’S GROUP ROUNDTABLE
All Seasons Birmingham -
We had an inspiring and enjoyable lunch with our Men’s Group!
It was an honor to have our Executive Director, Nolan Poloney, join us for a thoughtful discussion. This gathering provided a meaningful opportunity to connect, share experiences, and engage in important conversations. A big thank you to everyone who attended and made this event so impactful! We’re already looking forward to the next one!
THANKSGIVING CELEBRATION
All Seasons Rochester Hills
We loved our “Bountiful Harvest” feast, created with love by the talented dining team. We welcomed friends and family, created beautiful Thanksgiving plates, and gave thanks for our blessings, especially for our Detroit Lions!
Recent Events
ALL SEASONS WEST BLOOMFIELD CAROLING
We were thrilled to have some very special guests from the nonprofit “Friends of the Children” caroling through our halls! For the past four years, we had been proud to partner with this wonderful organization, and we were always excited to support their mission. This year, even the Grinch couldn’t help but get into the holiday spirit!
MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY
Martin Luther King, Jr., Day honored the achievements of the Baptist minister who advocated the use of nonviolent means to end racial segregation and was instrumental in the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which outlawed discrimination in public accommodations, facilities, and employment, and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. King was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964 and was assassinated in 1968. We honored his legacy by learning more about his famous 1963 Letter from the Birmingham Jail through the TED-ED program.
INTERNATIONAL HOLOCAUST REMEMBRANCE DAY - JANUARY 27
The United Nations General Assembly designated January 27—the anniversary of the liberation of AuschwitzBirkenau—as International Holocaust Remembrance Day. On this annual day of commemoration, the UN urged every member state to honor the six million Jewish victims of the Holocaust and millions of other victims of Nazism, and to develop educational programs to help prevent future genocides. We joined an outing to the Zekelman Holocaust Center to commemorate the day.
LUNAR NEW YEAR
The Chinese Lunar New Year began on January 29th and lasted until February 2nd. It was the Year of the Snake! We built cherry blossom bouquets and lanterns, played Mahjong, enjoyed upscale Chinese cuisine, and rang in the lucky New Year!
SUPER BOWL LIX
We hosted a unique ‘tailgating’-themed event, complete with all your favorite game day bites. The game was scheduled for February 9, 2025, at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana.
Signature Events
THE PAXTON/SPANGLER BAND
THE PAXTON/SPANGLER BAND
CAPTIVATING MUSICAL DUO
BEZTAK |
RJ Spangler and Tbone Paxton, lifelong buddies, began their musical journey in 1980 with the popular Detroit band Sun Messengers. Tbone, a former Motor City Music Award-winning trombonist, has since become a notable jazz vocalist. Together, they are key members of the Planet D Nonet, earning 9 Detroit Music Awards. Their stripped-down project, featuring five musicians, released its debut CD in 2020 and their second, Joys, in 2023 to great acclaim.
MICHIGAN ARIZONA FLORIDA
• MONDAY, APRIL 7TH, 1:00 PM TO 2:00 PM
All Seasons Rochester
• TUESDAY, APRIL 8TH, 2:00PM TO 3:00PM
All Seasons Ann Arbor
• MONDAY, APRIL 14TH, 7:00PM TO 8:00PM
All Seasons West Bloomfield
• THURSDAY, APRIL 17TH, 7:00 PM TO 8:00 PM
All Season Birmingham
RJ Spangler and Tbone Paxton, lifelong buddies, began their musical journey in 1980 with the popular Detroit band Sun Messengers. Tbone, a former Motor City Music Award-winning trombonist, has since become a notable jazz vocalist. Together, they are key members of the Planet D Nonet, earning 9 Detroit Music Awards. Their stripped-down project, featuring fi ve musicians, released its debut CD in 2020 and their second, Joys, in 2023 to great acclaim.
REMEMBER: THE STORY OF ABE PRICE BASED ON A TRUE STORY
• WEDNESDAY, APRIL 16TH, FROM 3:00PM TO 4:00PM
All Seasons Naples
A new original play based on a true story, is brought to you in partnership with Gulfshore Playhouse, The Holocaust Museum and Cohen Education Center. At just 16-years-old, Abraham Piasecki’s life was uprooted by the Nazi invasion of Poland. From living in the ghetto of Kielce to imprisonment at Auschwitz-Birkenau, Remember brings to life the harrowing true story of a Holocaust survivor who escaped Nazi captivity five times.
1-Sided,
ECLECTIC SWING BAND
• TUESDAY, APRIL 29TH, 3PM TO 4PM All Seasons Oro Valley
Retro Swing 7 is a Tucson-based swing band formed in 2001, consisting of seven musicians and a vocalist. They perform a mix of classic swing, jazz standards, classic rock, and other styles like dixieland and polkas, aiming to preserve the essence of swing music while occasionally adding a contemporary twist. Their music ranges from faithful renditions of 30s and 40s swing recordings to fresh takes on jazz standards, all chosen for their high quality.
WELCOMING THE MORGENSTERN TRIO:
A Musical Experience Not to Be Missed
The community is abuzz with excitement as the world-renowned Morgenstern Trio prepares to perform in early April. Hosted by [Community Name], this highly anticipated event promises to be a standout of the season, uniting music lovers, artists, and cultural enthusiasts for an unforgettable evening.
Celebrated for their captivating performances and exceptional musical mastery, the Morgenstern Trio’s appearance marks a significant milestone for our community. Their visit underscores the importance of nurturing artistic expression and forging connections with world-class talent. With a seamless blend of classical elegance and modern flair, the trio is sure to enchant the audience with every note.
As the countdown to April continues, anticipation builds, and we look forward to an extraordinary performance that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on all who attend.
All Seasons Reads
International Book Giving Day is February 15th! To celebrate, All Seasons Ann Arbor hosted “Blind Date With a Book”, where books were wrapped to hide the cover, and listed a short synopsis with key character names or locations taken out. There were some classics along with newer titles, and both fiction and nonfiction mixed in. Everyone was able to choose a book and by asking questions, the residents were able to figure out what the books were! This fun event taught us all not to judge a book by its cover, and discover something new!
Did You Know...
Every All Seasons community has a well-stocked library and computer bar for residents to enjoy!
What We Are Reading
All Season Ann ArborGood Lord Bird by James McBride
A satirical historical novel that follows a young enslaved boy who is mistaken for a girl and swept up in the radical abolitionist John Brown’s crusade, offering a poignant and often humorous look at race, identity, and the fight for freedom in pre-Civil War America.
All Season Oro Valley1984 by George Orwell
All Season BirminghamHorse by Geraldine Brooks
A sweeping historical novel that intertwines the story of a legendary 19th-century racehorse with contemporary narratives of art, science, and racism, exploring the enduring legacy of injustice and the deep connections between past and present.
All Season NaplesSense and Sensibility by Jane Austin
Follow the contrasting romantic fortunes of the sensible Elinor and the passionate Marianne Dashwood as they navigate love, heartbreak, and societal expectations in Regency-era England.
A dystopian novel that follows Winston Smith as he rebels against a totalitarian regime that suppresses truth, freedom, and individuality through constant surveillance and oppressive control. All Season West BloomfieldThe Measure Nikki Erlick
Every adult worldwide receives a mysterious box containing a string that reveals the length of their life, compelling individuals and society to confront profound questions about fate, choice, and the essence of a meaningful existence.
“I have always imagined that Paradise will be a kind of library.”
— Jorge Luis Borges
Photo Gallery
Your Culinary Adventure Awaits...
Embark on a flavorful journey this quarter as our signature meals transport you to the culinary landscapes of Paris, Poland, and Hawaii. Each dish is thoughtfully crafted to capture the authentic tastes and traditions of these regions, offering you a delightful exploration of global cuisine. Complementing these gastronomic experiences, our Traveling Tavern presents themed selections inspired by the distinctive atmospheres of a classic dive bar, a tropical paradise, and a Middle Eastern oasis.
Enhance your culinary adventure by participating in our engaging cooking demonstrations and savoring exclusive culinary creations curated just for you. Additionally, each month features a signature cocktail designed to perfectly complement our themed meals, providing a harmonious blend of flavors to delight your palate. Join us as we celebrate the art of food and drink, bringing the world’s diverse flavors to your table. Happy Travels!
Culinary Creations
PIROGIES
Makes 4 servings
SIGNATURE DINNERS
INGREDIENTS
• 2 cups All-Purpose Flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 4 tablespoons Butter, room temperature Filling
• 1 cup warm mashed potatoes
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded To finish
• 4 tablespoons butter, cold
• 2 large shallots, diced; or one medium onion, sliced
TO MAKE THE DOUGH:
1. Mix together the flour and salt. Add the egg to the flour and combine. The dough will be quite clumpy at this stage.
APRIL - MIDDLE EASTERN OASIS
Mezza Platter, Fattoush Salad, Chicken Shawarma, Baklava
Cocktail Pairing: Date Palm Sour
MAY - DIVE BAR
Soft Pretzel Bites, Chili,
Reuben Sandwich, Jumbo Chocolate Chip Cookie
Cocktail Pairing: Whiskey Sour JUNE
JUNE - TROPICAL TAVERN
Shrimp Ceviche, Cream of Coconut
Soup, Jerk Chicken Salad, Tropical
Rice Pudding
Cocktail Pairing Piña Colada
2. Work in the sour cream and soft butter until the dough comes together in a slightly rough, slightly sticky ball.
3. Using just your fingertips, knead and fold the dough without adding additional flour until the dough becomes less sticky but still quite moist.
4. Wrap the dough well in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 to 60 minutes, or up to 48 hours.
PIEROGI FILLING:
5. Combine warm mashed potato and cheese. Stir and mash until the cheese is melted and the filling is cool to the touch. Taste and adjust the seasonings with salt and pepper.
FILLING THE PIEROGI:
6. Roll half the dough 1/8” thick. Use a 2” round cutter to cut circles of dough.
8. Place 1 1/2 teaspoons of filling on each round of dough.
9. Gently fold the dough over, forming a pocket around the filling.
10. Pinch the edges of the pierogi to seal, then seal again with the tines of a fork.
11. At this point the pierogi can be frozen for up to 4 weeks, or refrigerated overnight, or cooked in a large stockpot of boiling salted water.
12. Only cook about 10 pierogis at a time, so that they have room to float without sticking.
13. When the pierogi float, they’re done.
14. Sauté the shallots or onion in the butter in a large skillet until the onion begins to brown.
7. Repeat with the other half of the dough. Save the scraps; these can be snipped into small pieces and added to simmering soups.
15. Add the drained pierogi and cook until browned and crisped.
16. Serve hot with additional sour cream, applesauce, or other condiments.
Active Aging Spirit Awards
Sports Stories
We collected your favorite, most dramatic and more memorable sports stories!
BOBBY KUTZEN
All Seasons West Bloomfield
GEORGE SUKKAR
All Seasons Rochester Hills
Need Link for QR
In each of our communities in Michigan, we celebrated the 2024 Paris Olympics with games of our own! Residents and staff from across the state met at each community to compete in games for all abilities in the spirit of healthy competition, friendship, and wellness. Events exercised physical and mental agility, and included javelin, volleyball, pickleball, euchre and poker tournaments, trivia competitions, scavenger hunts, and bocce ball. We held Medal Ceremonies after each event, and cheered our champions on! We had a Storytelling corner where we collected residents’ most dramatic and memorable Sports Stories from their histories and compiled them into a booklet, which we also shared with their loved ones. We also welcomed Nature Educators from our local Science Center, who taught us about the vulnerable creatures in our ecosystems and the importance of the Environmental dimension of wellness. We capped the week off with a Sock Hop Dance and Classic Car Show, where residents, staff, and family members enjoyed intergenerational relationshipbuilding on the dance floor! We met new friends, burned some calories, and had a ton of fun!
All throughout high school I played sports. I loved playing basketball and tennis. I was too small and too slow for football! After high school, I played tennis all over the country in amateur teams; in Georgia, Alabama, Florida. My favorite match was against one of the private teams in Tennessee. They were giants and we crushed ‘em. I was then drafted into the Army. I played volleyball and ping pong through basic training. I kept coming back to tennis. I learned a lot from the Hawaiian tennis players. They had big, round swings, and they changed my game.
I was a baseball player. It’s how I met my wife. I was in the Army, and Elvis was stationed in Texas and Germany at the same time as I was! But he couldn’t compete with me. Elvis didn’t play baseball. I played baseball. I always liked a risk. Like, I loved the last inning of a game because I could really hit. So, I saw this beautiful woman, Maria, and took a risk and asked her to dance. That was it. We got married and had children, a family of athletes.
PEARL RISSMAN
All Seasons Birmingham
I love to play tennis and golf, and I’ve always loved trying new things. As a kid, I would jump off roofs! As an adult, I’ve gone cave snorkeling, and I loved swimming with manta rays in Mexico. One of my most daring experiences was when I was in Africa and went cliff jumping with a kite in the Tanzanian mountains. I was attached to a guide, but he wasn’t much of a reassurance, since it was his first time too. My advice for anyone who wants to cliff jump with a kite is to make sure you keep your feet moving when you hit the ground!
