by Sandra Davis | Mar 20, 2026 | News, Spotlight Residents, Uncategorized
“When my mom moved to Fox Hill Village, she had been a widow for a few years,” says Fox Hill Village resident Kathy Kenney. “She was quickly impressed with what a wonderful, warm and accepting community it was. She loved the opportunities of the intellectual programs and the opportunities to socialize. She always said the library was her ‘candy store.’ She also played bridge, loved sharing meals and taking trips with her new friends.
“Now, I have made a proactive decision to take care of myself, so my kids won’t have to worry about me. Moving to Fox Hill has given me a sense of security as well as a social network and so much in which to be involved. Like my mom, I play bridge. I also enjoy going to the symphony and the ballet, taking fitness classes, and using the beautiful pool here.
“The peace of mind I had knowing my mother was safe and happy at Fox Hill is now a gift I’m giving to my children.”
by Heidi Harrison | Jan 27, 2026 | News, Spotlight Residents, Uncategorized
Larry Coburn’s connection to Fox Hill Village dates back to the mid-1990s when his parents, Arthur and Priscilla Coburn, moved here. Health concerns prompted their move, but Larry’s parents also had long-time friends who resided at Fox Hill Village, so there were familiar faces and a sense of belonging from day one.
Larry and his wife, Gabriella, experienced a similar sense of belonging when they moved to Fox Hill Village in 2022. They, too, were welcomed by residents they knew from their past and who continue to provide a strong support network.
With family nearby and the chores and responsibilities of homeownership behind them, Larry and Gabriella are enjoying fulfilling lives on their own terms. They participate in activities both within and outside Fox Hill Village. For Larry, this includes the choir and a business lunch group.
“We really appreciate that we can be ourselves here without feeling the pressure to conform to a particular lifestyle,” says Larry.
by Sandra Davis | Dec 17, 2025 | News, Spotlight Staff, Uncategorized
After a long and distinguished career, Heather Sawitsky has retired as general counsel for Fox Hill Village. Heather played a crucial role in the founding of our community, having previously served as general counsel for Massachusetts General Hospital as the hospital developed the cooperative model for Fox Hill Village. When construction was complete in 1990, Heather joined Fox Hill Village as its general counsel and has guided the board of directors through times of change, expansion, and innovation over the past 35 years.
“Heather’s impact on Fox Hill Village is immeasurable,” said Felix Rosenwasser, Chief Executive Officer. “Her leadership and historical knowledge have been marked by compassion, vision, and a steadfast commitment to excellence.”
Throughout her tenure, Heather championed programs and initiatives that enhanced the quality of life for residents and positioned Fox Hill Village as a leader in senior living. Her guidance was particularly impactful with the additions of White Oak Cottages Memory Care in 2012 and Birch Grove Assisted Living in 2021.
As Heather eases into retirement, she’s looking forward to spending more time with her husband and family, especially her grandchildren. She also plans to enjoy more time sailing and traveling.
“We are deeply grateful for Heather’s 35 years of service,” added Robert Bettacchi, President of the Board. “Her dedication has helped create a truly special community. She will be greatly missed, and we wish her all the best in this exciting new chapter.”
by Heidi Harrison | Nov 7, 2025 | News, Spotlight Residents, Uncategorized
Fox Hill Village resident Cici Hunt has been performing music since she was a young girl. She began her career in one of the original casts of “Up With People” back in the ’60s and she’s been singing, writing, and teaching music ever since.
Cici’s voice has been heard on Sesame Street, her music sung in the General Assembly at the United Nations, and she has presented on Broadway, at the Met, Carnegie Hall, and Baltimore’s Meyerhoff Symphony Hall.
Currently the choral director at three senior living communities including Fox Hill Village, Cici is now writing a musical. So, what does this multitalented artist love about Fox Hill Village? “Life here allows me to continue my journey and express my creativity and interests,” she says. “There is so much energy, joy, and friendship here.”
We’re delighted that Cici has chosen Fox Hill Village as her home for a creative and joyful retirement. She’s our kind of people.
by Sandra Davis | Nov 6, 2025 | News, Spotlight Fox Hill VIllage, Uncategorized
Life can get stressful if you let it control your thoughts. Who hasn’t spent hours awake at night with their mind racing or struggled to stay calm in a difficult situation? How you react to stressful situations can either make matters worse or put them in perspective. That’s where mindfulness can help.
What is mindfulness?
Mindfulness is about paying attention in a particular way: on purpose, in the present moment, and nonjudgmentally. It’s the opposite of taking life for granted. It’s about stepping back and observing with kindness what’s happening in your mind and heart so you can respond thoughtfully instead of reacting automatically.
The health benefits of mindfulness.
Studies suggest that mindfulness practices may help people manage stress and navigate life’s ups and downs with resilience. Mindfulness has also been shown to produce measurable changes in the brain regions involved in memory, learning, and emotion, improving cognitive function.
Here are some of the ways mindfulness supports your brain and body:
- Lowers blood pressure. Calms the nervous system and reduces stress hormones that strain the heart and immune system.
- Reduces chronic pain. Helps shift the brain’s response to discomfort, making pain feel less overwhelming.
- Improves sleep quality. Promotes relaxation and eases racing thoughts, allowing for a deeper rest.
- Increases emotional resilience. By practicing awareness without judgment, we build the ability to bounce back more quickly from stress or setbacks.
- Enhances mood stability. Helps regulate emotions, leading to steadier moods and fewer extreme highs and lows.
- Fosters greater compassion. Helps you slow down, notice your own struggles with kindness, and extend that same understanding to others.
Putting mindfulness into practice.
Practicing mindfulness can be as simple as tuning into your breathing — the feeling of your breath coming into your body and the feeling of your breath leaving your body. When your mind wanders, keep returning to the breath. That’s all there is to it.
For more ways to cultivate mindfulness, try these tips:
- Mindful Walking – Move slowly while noticing each step and how your feet connect with the ground. Perfect for hallways, walking in place, or enjoying nature outdoors.
- Mindful Eating – Be aware of taste, textures, and flavors in each bite. Listen to when your body is hungry and when it is full.
- Body Scan – Mentally notice each part of the body without trying to change anything. Helps pain reduction and sleep.
- Three Good Things – Reflect on three positive things at the start or end of each day. Improves mood and sleep quality.
- Simple Stretching with Breath – Try gentle neck rolls, shoulder shrugs, or ankle circles while breathing deeply. Supports mobility and relaxation.
- Progressive Muscle Relaxation – Tense and release muscle groups one at a time, starting with hands and moving upward. Reduces body tension and aids sleep.
- Loving-Kindness Reflection – Think of loved ones and silently wish them well. Boosts positive emotions and reduces loneliness.
Meditation class at Fox Hill Village.
Guided meditation is a popular class at Fox Hill Village. An experienced instructor leads participants in developing mindfulness, balance, and a sense of calm. It’s often combined with gentle yoga exercises for even more holistic benefits.
Meditation classes are part of the Fox Hill 360º initiative that empowers residents to embrace well-being in every area of their lives. To learn more about our whole-person approach to wellness, visit our Living Well page.
by Heidi Harrison | Oct 28, 2025 | News, Spotlight Staff, Uncategorized
It was a bittersweet realization when Resident Services Director Bob Kelly announced his plans to retire. Sweet because of the deep affection and gratitude we all feel toward Bob and his remarkable 26 years of service to Fox Hill Village. The bittersweet part? Knowing that this community will soon have to say goodbye to someone whose loyalty, leadership, and professionalism have shaped Fox Hill Village into the warm and welcoming place it is today.
Bob’s attention to detail and his unwavering commitment to customer service have been central to making Fox Hill Village the premium community our residents are proud to call home. His legacy is one of excellence, care, and kindness — a standard that will continue to inspire us long after his well-earned retirement.
A Career Built on Hospitality
Bob’s journey to Fox Hill Village began with a degree in Hotel Management from New Hampshire College. After graduating, he began his career with the Sunday Art Flatley Corporation hotels, where he managed events, weddings, and operations at the Sheraton. He then spent six years at Glen Ellen Country Club in Millis, overseeing functions and special events.
It was a colleague from his Sheraton days who first introduced Bob to Fox Hill Village. At the time, the community was looking to bring a hospitality-driven approach to the front desk, and Bob’s background made him the perfect fit. When he toured the campus, he was struck by its beauty — and decided to take the leap into senior living.
His title of Resident Services Director has remained the same since that first day, but his responsibilities have expanded tremendously over the years.
A True Jack of All Trades
When Bob joined Fox Hill Village, his role focused on running the front desk and overseeing community activities. As the needs of the community grew, so did his responsibilities. Over time, Bob took on the housekeeping department, coordinated resident move-ins and move-outs, and managed transportation services and the team of drivers who keep residents on the move.
About five years ago, Bob even upgraded the community bus and took the Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) authorization course required by the Department of Transportation (DOT) to own/operate vehicles that require the drivers to have a CDL— a perfect example of his hands-on approach and commitment to doing things right.
No matter the task, Bob has always led with dedication and heart, ensuring that Fox Hill Village operates smoothly and that every resident feels cared for.
Life Beyond the Village
Outside of work, Bob and his wife make their home in Shrewsbury, Massachusetts. The couple has been married for 36 years and raised two daughters.
When asked about his retirement plans, Bob laughs and admits he can’t imagine not being busy. Anyone who’s seen him in action knows that’s no surprise. He hopes to spend time traveling — with his first trip to Nashville to visit his daughter already on the calendar — and possibly pick up part-time work in a local brewery, where he can enjoy good company and, in his words, “all the high-quality beer you can drink.”
“I have loved my years at Fox Hill Village,” Bob says, “and look forward to returning as a visitor — and not lifting one chair!”
Cheers to a Job Well Done
Over the decades, thousands of residents have experienced Bob’s warmth, professionalism, and tireless work ethic. His positive spirit and dedication have left an indelible mark on the Fox Hill Village community.
As we celebrate his well-deserved retirement, we extend our heartfelt thanks for all he has done to make this community thrive.
Here’s to you, Bob Kelly — for 26 years of excellence, service, and heart.
