Bella Vida Voice – May-June 2025

Construction Updates 

Rachel’s Corner 

Note: At a prior event, Rachel McGowan’s contact information was provided incorrectly. Please be sure to use her updated contact information:

Rachel McGowan, Personalization/Move-in Coordinator
210-641-5549 | 945-225-3302 | rmcgowan@forefrontliving.org

Dear Doing My Homework,

I love this question—and I love that you’re planning ahead!

Your MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) meeting is your opportunity to personalize certain features in your home. Some residents choose to make a few changes, while others are happy with the standard layout, and both options are perfectly fine! If you decide not to make any changes, you’ll simply sign a quick “no requested changes” waiver, and we’ll reconnect later for your finish selections. For those who are curious about what’s possible, here are a few common requests:

And just around the corner: Finishes! After MEP meetings are complete, we’ll move into the fun phase of selecting the look and feel of your new home. This is where you’ll choose cabinet colors, countertops, flooring, backsplash, and more. We can also talk through details like adding knee space at a vanity or other personalized touches to make the space truly yours.

Looking forward to creating your new home together!

Sincerely,

Rachel McGowan, Personalization/Move-in Coordinator
210-641-5549 | 945-225-3302 | rmcgowan@forefrontliving.org

Bella Vida Frequently Asked Questions

In each edition of our newsletter, we share Frequently Asked Questions that come directly from you!

All residents will have the same level of flexibility. More details on the program will be provided during small group round table meetings with our executive director as we get closer to opening.

What services are included in the standard package that all residents will receive for the first 90 days?

• 20 meals per month, per person
• Weekly housekeeping
• Local scheduled transportation
• Social, recreational, spiritual, educational, and wellness programming
• All utilities except phone, cable, and internet

Are all activities included in our monthly service fee?

Yes, all activities are included in your service fee. The only exceptions are optional experiences such as outings to events, like a Spurs game or a concert at the San Antonio Philharmonic, where ticket purchases are required.

Do unused balances carry over from month to month?

No, amounts are refreshed monthly and do not roll over.

Finishes FAQs

As we move into the exciting Finishes Phase, we’ve received a lot of questions about the process and what to expect. Here are some of the most asked questions:

What are Finishes?

Finish items will include personal choices like cabinetry colors, countertops, flooring, backsplash, lighting, and more. You can also discuss personalized touches that will make the space truly yours.

When is the Finishes Seminar?

There are four upcoming Finishes Seminars scheduled for June 3–4. You’ll meet our design consultant, Bridget Bohacz, and the finishes will be discussed. You will also receive your Standards and Upgrades Finishes Booklet at this seminar. We’ll be sending out an invite for this soon.

When do we get our Finishes Booklet?

You’ll receive our Standards and Upgrades Finishes Booklet at the Finishes Seminar on June 3-4. If you are not able to attend one of the Finishes Seminars in person, these booklets will be available in electronic and printed formats to help guide your choices.

When will we have our Personal Finishes Appointments?

Your appointment with Rachel will be scheduled based on the construction timeline. Below you will find the appointment schedule for both MEPs and Finishes for all residences.

What if I don’t want to personalize my home?

Personalization is optional and may be waived. Standard selections are available at no additional cost. You are also able to make changes after move-in if desired, at your own expense.

If we choose to make changes or upgrades, when do we get pricing information? 

Pricing details will be provided during your personal Finishes Appointment and will be based on your individual selections, square footage, location and more.

Will grab bars be provided?

There is one grab bar at every shower and bathtub. You may add more if desired, and that choice can also be made later, as backing will automatically be installed around all toilets and showers.

News From the Forefront

You Can Make Camp Erin Possible:

Whether you contribute your time and resources or simply spread the word, your support can help bring healing and hope to children who need it most. To learn more, email FaithKids@ForefrontLiving.org or contact Tierney Titus, Certified Child Life Specialist, at (214) 601-1233.

Neighborhood VIP Social: 2nd Floor

On March 20, we had the pleasure of hosting VIP guests for a special gathering filled with great conversation, laughter, and a true sense of community as everyone got to know each other in an intimate setting. The event provided the perfect opportunity for guests to connect while sharing ideas about the future second-floor activity space, with suggestions ranging from an arts area to a cozy library and even a small theater – so many creative possibilities! To top it all off, we celebrated a few birthdays, adding an extra layer of joy to an already memorable evening.

Taco ‘Bout Fiesta!

On April 29th, we welcomed VIPs with a commemorative 2025 Bella Vida Fiesta Medal and a keepsake photo to capture the event. Guests were greeted by Sally, who delighted them with freshly prepared, in-house margaritas. It was a fantastic opportunity for guests to connect, share their upcoming Fiesta plans, and experience the vibrant energy of the celebration. For some, this was their first introduction to San Antonio’s beloved Fiesta tradition, and we were honored to share this meaningful aspect of our local culture.

Petals with a Purpose

On May 5th, Bella Vida hosted a heartfelt event called Petals with a Purpose, organized by one of our thoughtful VIPs, Gayle Turner. Gayle invited fellow VIPs to join her in creating handcrafted paper flowers to brighten the day of local seniors receiving Meals on Wheels through the Bulverde/Spring Branch Senior Center. Each VIP who participated contributed their creativity and care to make the project special. Together, they made an incredible 85–90 unique flowers, just in time to bring a little extra joy for Mother’s Day. Thank you to everyone who helped make this beautiful act of kindness possible!

Bella Vida Road Trip: Exploring PVN & Outlook

On May 7th, 54 VIPs boarded a chartered bus to visit its DFW sister communities, Presbyterian Village North (PVN) and The Outlook at Windhaven (OAW), for a first-hand look at the type of vibrant senior living they can expect at Bella Vida.

At PVN, the group toured the grounds and common spaces and then joined PVN residents for a lively happy hour in the Sky Lounge. PVN resident David Driscoll offered a memorable toast to welcome the visitors and everyone enjoyed getting to know each other. The next day, the travelers headed to Plano to visit OAW. After a drive around the property, they were welcomed by Executive Director Kristen Jordan and heard from resident Joan Tormey about her personal experience customizing her OAW home. Everyone enjoyed a breakfast buffet with mimosas prepared by the talented OAW culinary team before touring common areas, model apartments and a Cottage.

Before heading back home, the BV group made a final stop at Buc-ee’s. It was a fun and informative trip that gave future residents of BV a clear picture of life in a Forefront Living community. 

Bella Vida Groundbreaking Celebration

On May 14, VIPs, Forefront Living, Greystone Leadership, and The Atkins Group gathered at the Eilan Hotel and Spa to celebrate a significant milestone: the groundbreaking of Bella Vida!

Attendees had the opportunity to commemorate the occasion by taking photos in front of the future site, holding golden shovels. Sally Casey, the Director of Sales and Marketing, kicked off the event by introducing the Bella Vida team and providing exciting construction updates that highlighted the progress already underway. Forefront Living CEO, Tim Mallad, then took the stage to express his gratitude to everyone for their dedication and vision in bringing Bella Vida to life, followed by Forefront Living Board Chair, Neil Foote, who gave a wonderful speech and toast. Future residents enjoyed a delightful afternoon featuring a pasta station, a salad bar, and a dessert station. They also had the chance to mingle with each other and meet their future neighbors.

Everyone was thrilled to celebrate the beginning of construction and the promising future ahead at Bella Vida’s community.

At Bella Vida, we believe in fostering creativity, connection, and lifelong learning—because thriving means embracing new experiences at every stage of life. Check out our Save the Dates area for more exciting Thrive Series events coming soon! Join us next time, we’d love to have you!

Bella Vida Thrive Series: Breath and Balance – How ancient practices of Yoga and Tai Chi can improve balance and strength

On March 25, we welcomed VIPs for a refreshing morning of yoga that focused on the importance of balance as we age and its role in preventing falls. Dressed in their best activewear, guests moved through a variety of customizable poses suited to all fitness levels, from beginners to seasoned yogis. The session wrapped with a calming guided meditation, leaving everyone feeling centered and refreshed. Afterwards, guests enjoyed a light and delicious meal, with the star of the meal being a beautifully smoked salmon that had everyone talking. Beyond the physical benefits, the event fostered new connections, with meaningful bonds forming among attendees.

Bella Vida Thrive Series: Transitioning to a Lifestyle of Ease with Peggy Brown and the Generations Team

On April 24, Peggy Brown joined us for two engaging seminars focused on downsizing and how her company supports individuals through the transition. Each event started off with some great (and funny) questions that set the mood:

• You might need to downsize if….If you have enough condiment packets, you could start your restaurant.
• You might need to downsize if….If you have a phone book.. At all..
• You might need to downsize if….If you have eight tracks and cassette tapes and no way to play them.
• You might need to downsize if….If you have a crib, stroller, or car seat for a grandchild who is now in college

Peggy’s professional guidance helped ease concerns and offered a clear, compassionate path forward for those considering downsizing. Based on the overwhelmingly positive feedback, we are excited to plan for her return in the near future.

Save the Dates for These Upcoming Events

Mark your calendars for these exciting events exclusively for our Bella Vida VIPs. Stay tuned for invitations with more details on each event coming soon to your inbox or mailbox!

Join board-certified attorney Peter Parenti for a thoughtful and practical presentation on one of the most overlooked aspects of estate planning: preparing for the possibility of disability. With over 50 years of experience in tax, estate planning and probate law, Peter will share insights on how to structure living trusts that not only protect you but also ensure continued care for those who rely on you.

At this seminar, you’ll meet design consultant, Bridget Bohacz, and she will discuss the finishes, her inspiration behind the choices and more. You will also receive your Standards and Upgrades Finishes Booklet at this seminar.

For those who have reserved on the 4th and 5th floors, join your neighbors for a fun and engaging afternoon! Meet your neighbors and enjoy a memorable night together, before you even become neighbors!

This unique event is one part crafting, one part giving, and a whole serving of puppy love! Join the San Antonio Pets Alive crew, along with some special furry guests, as we create blankets to keep the shelter dogs warm and cozy. There’s no need to bring anything; we’ll have all the necessary supplies here.

If you’ve reserved an apartment home on the sixth floor, this event is just for you! Join your future neighbors for a fun evening of camaraderie and connection.

Join us for an exciting book signing event featuring award-winning author, certified financial planner, and Financial Coach Pete Bosse. Guests will receive his new book, Retirement Planning That Delivers: 5 Power Strategies for Your Best Bucket-List Results, a Longer Healthspan, and More Memorable Experiences. In this book, Pete Bosse shares valuable strategies that not only enhance your approach to retirement planning but also aim to enrich your life with unforgettable experiences.