Eskaton Village Carmichael

10/31/2025

It was a frightfully fun day at Eskaton Village Placerville's Halloween Costume Contest! 🎃👑 From spooky to silly to downright spectacular, everyone brought their A-game, but it was Cinderella (our resident Rosie) and the Queen of Hearts (our team member Jeannette) who were voted the winners! 👠♥️ Congrats to our costume royalty! 👻✨

Happy Halloween to All!

10/30/2025

👨‍🍳 Meet Chef Martin, our talented Director of Culinary Experience for the Trousdale and resident ice sculpting extraordinaire! In addition to creating delicious dishes, Chef Martin brings artistry to every celebration by carefully carving stunning ice sculptures for our special events. ❄️

This week, residents and team members gathered to watch him transform a large block of ice into a Frankenstein masterpiece for tomorrow's Halloween party, and the crowd was frozen in awe! 🧊👀 Even more special, Chef Martin’s biggest fan, his mother and Trousdale resident, was front and center cheering him on!

10/29/2025

In honor of National First Responders Day, residents of Eskaton Village Grass Valley delivered muffins to our local firefighters as a heartfelt thank-you for their courage and dedication. 💛🚒 It was a sweet way to show our appreciation for those who work tirelessly to keep our community safe!

10/28/2025

When Rivers Pugh moved into Eskaton Village Roseville earlier this year, it didn’t take long for residents and staff to discover his incredible musical talent. Almost immediately, his soulful voice and skilled piano playing filled the community’s front lobby, where he would often be found singing heartfelt gospel songs, his favorite kind of music.

Originally from Alabama, Rivers grew up in a deeply musical household. His father played piano, his mother was a singer, and all of his siblings shared in the family’s gift for music. Gospel was the soundtrack of their lives, with church serving as both a spiritual home and a stage for their shared passion.

As a young man, Rivers followed his older brother to California after he joined the service, landing in the Bay Area. The transition wasn’t easy. “I had never lived in a big city before in my life. I was always a country farmer,” Rivers recalled. “When I came here, I was totally lost.” But soon he found belonging again through music and faith when he joined the Progressive Missionary Baptist Church in Berkeley. There, Rivers sang in the choir for many years, building lifelong friendships through shared song and worship.

Rivers also built a remarkable career at PG&E in Oakland, starting with “digging holes” and working his way up to General Foreman over an impressive 51 years. Still, his faith always came first. “I can’t be working on the weekend,” he told his supervisors. “I got to go to church.”

Music continues to be Rivers’ constant companion. “I enjoy playing music. I enjoy singing,” he says. “When you’re down and out, and you’re lonesome and stuff, music makes you feel better. It lifts you up.” That joy was shared with his Eskaton neighbors last month when Rivers and members of his church performed an inspiring gospel concert for the community.

Whether behind the piano, in the choir, or simply humming to himself, Rivers brings light and warmth to those around him. As he puts it with a smile, “If I see a beautiful day, I sing a song about a beautiful day.”

10/24/2025

Residents of Eskaton Granite Bay recently enjoyed an inspiring visit to Blue Line Arts in Roseville! 🎨 After exploring the beautiful artwork on display, they rolled up their sleeves for a hands-on painting session, learning about color mixing and creating vibrant landscapes of their own. A perfect day filled with art, creativity, and smiles! 🖌️🖼️

10/22/2025

Fall flavors were in full swing at Eskaton Land Park's seasonal brunch! 🍂🥞 Chef Lin and the Culinary Team wowed everyone with buttermilk pancakes topped with caramelized apples, pumpkin bread with fresh fruit cups, maplewood bacon, crispy home fried potatoes, and eggs just the way you like them — sunny side up or scrambled. Add a warm slice of toast, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for a cozy autumn morning! 🍳🍁✨

10/20/2025

When the shimmering sound of handbells echoes through Eskaton Village Carmichael, it’s likely Vera Refnes at the helm directing her fellow residents.

Vera’s story with the Bell Choir is closely tied to the community’s history. Around 35 years ago, when Eskaton Village Carmichael was first established, a resident and former music director brought her own set of bells and started the choir. After her passing, Vera was invited to audition as the new director. “That was about 25 years ago,” she recalls. “They hired me as an outsider to come in and direct the bells. And when I became a resident two and a half years ago, I just continued.”

Music has been part of Vera’s life from the start. Raised in a very musical family, she and her three siblings practiced instruments and piano daily before school. She went on to major in music in college and continues to play both piano and trombone, as well as perform in her church orchestra.

Her introduction to handbells came about 45 years ago at a music conference in Los Angeles. “I’d never experienced handbells before,” she says. “It sounded like fun… so I went!” Inspired by that class, she returned home and helped start a bell choir at her church. It was through that group that Vera first connected with Eskaton’s Bell Choir, leading to the role she holds now as both resident and director.

This fall, Vera and the Bell Choir began rehearsing for their upcoming Christmas concert, a performance sure to ring in the season with joy and community spirit. Beyond her musical pursuits, Vera also enjoyed a long teaching career, leading choirs and drama programs while teaching students from kindergarten through middle school. “I just realized it was a gift and something that I could succeed in,” she says.

When asked what she enjoys most about leading the Bell Choir, Vera’s answer is simple: “Success. People get lost, play the wrong notes, or fall behind… but when everyone comes together and makes it through the piece, it’s great! That’s success!”

Through her lifelong love of music and teaching, Vera continues to bring people together—one note, one bell, and one joyful rehearsal at a time.

10/20/2025

When the shimmering sound of handbells echoes through Eskaton Village Carmichael, it’s likely Vera Refnes at the helm directing her fellow residents.

Vera’s story with the Bell Choir is closely tied to the community’s history. Around 35 years ago, when Eskaton Village Carmichael was first established, a resident and former music director brought her own set of bells and started the choir. After her passing, Vera was invited to audition as the new director. “That was about 25 years ago,” she recalls. “They hired me as an outsider to come in and direct the bells. And when I became a resident two and a half years ago, I just continued.”

Music has been part of Vera’s life from the start. Raised in a very musical family, she and her three siblings practiced instruments and piano daily before school. She went on to major in music in college and continues to play both piano and trombone, as well as perform in her church orchestra.

Her introduction to handbells came about 45 years ago at a music conference in Los Angeles. “I’d never experienced handbells before,” she says. “It sounded like fun… so I went!” Inspired by that class, she returned home and helped start a bell choir at her church. It was through that group that Vera first connected with Eskaton’s Bell Choir, leading to the role she holds now as both resident and director.

This fall, Vera and the Bell Choir began rehearsing for their upcoming Christmas concert, a performance sure to ring in the season with joy and community spirit. Beyond her musical pursuits, Vera also enjoyed a long teaching career, leading choirs and drama programs while teaching students from kindergarten through middle school. “I just realized it was a gift and something that I could succeed in,” she says.

When asked what she enjoys most about leading the Bell Choir, Vera’s answer is simple: “Success. People get lost, play the wrong notes, or fall behind… but when everyone comes together and makes it through the piece, it’s great! That’s success!”

Through her lifelong love of music and teaching, Vera continues to bring people together—one note, one bell, and one joyful rehearsal at a time.

10/17/2025

Residents of Eskaton Village Roseville came together this summer for our very first EVR Night Out! It was an evening filled with connection, community, and preparedness. 🌟 Representatives from the California Office of Emergency Services joined us to share valuable information on disaster readiness and local resources. It was a wonderful opportunity for residents from across our community to meet, mingle, and learn how to stay safe and prepared together. 💛

10/16/2025

Our hearts are heavy as we remember Debbi Duval, a cherished member of the Eskaton family for 25 years, who passed away over the summer. Debbi touched so many lives during her time with us, and her loss has been deeply felt throughout the Eskaton Lincoln Manor community.

In the wake of this loss, Executive Director Shannon Piexoto and the Eskaton Foundation came together to honor Debbi's memory in a beautiful way. Thanks to a generous donation of roses—Debbi's favorite flower—from Green Arces, we have created a Memorial Rose Garden in Debbi’s honor.

The Eskaton Lincoln Manor community gathered for a heartfelt dedication ceremony, where we celebrated Debbi's life, her impact on all of us, and the care she brought to Eskaton every day. Though she is gone, her spirit blooms on in this garden and in all the lives she touched.

Thank you, Debbi. You will be missed and always remembered.

10/14/2025

🍂🥨 Prost to Oktoberfest week! Eskaton Gold River has been in full festive spirit, from crafting beautiful fall flower arrangements to mastering the art of mini pretzels (with a little help from some tasty beer tasting 🍺). Laughter, creativity, and plenty of cheer filled every moment, that’s how we celebrate the season! 🍁

10/14/2025

Last week, Eskaton Village Carmichael gathered under the glow of the Harvest Moon for an evening that blended nourishment for the body and soul. The event featured a unique sound bath experience led by our very own Chelsea Callender, who in addition to being our in-house Pastry Chef, is also a certified Sound Meditation Practitioner. Residents gathered to relax, reflect, and soak in the calming tones of flute, chimes, and singing bowls through this immersive celebration of peace and renewal.

Following the Harvest Moon Celebration, Chelsea shared her personal reflections on the evening:

“This was a full-circle moment for me—20 years ago, I played flute here as a young student with my flute choir. To now return in a professional capacity and serve our community through both music and food is incredibly humbling.

We had over 50 residents attend, a beautiful mix of familiar faces and new participants. Many shared that they had never experienced anything like this before—yet left feeling peaceful, uplifted, and reconnected. Several residents even reached out afterward for music links and playlists to support their self-care practices.

As the in-house pastry chef, I already feel a strong connection to our residents—especially when I design desserts & develop recipes inspired by the flavors of their youth. In the same way that food feeds the soul, so does sound. These sessions are thoughtfully tailored to the preferences and sensory needs of our elders, with the goal that everyone leaves feeling energetically lighter and more at peace than when they arrived.

I’m grateful to Chef Matt, Culinary Director Joel, and Life Enrichment Director Catherine Graham for championing both my creative work in the kitchen and my passion for therapeutic sound. To serve others with love—through both music and baking—is a true blessing.”

10/14/2025

Last week, Eskaton Village Carmichael gathered under the glow of the Harvest Moon for an evening that blended nourishment for the body and soul. The event featured a unique sound bath experience led by our very own Chelsea Callender, who in addition to being our in-house Pastry Chef, is also a certified Sound Meditation Practitioner. Residents gathered to relax, reflect, and soak in the calming tones of flute, chimes, and singing bowls through this immersive celebration of peace and renewal.

Following the Harvest Moon Celebration, Chelsea shared her personal reflections on the evening:

“This was a full-circle moment for me—20 years ago, I played flute here as a young student with my flute choir. To now return in a professional capacity and serve our community through both music and food is incredibly humbling.

We had over 50 residents attend, a beautiful mix of familiar faces and new participants. Many shared that they had never experienced anything like this before—yet left feeling peaceful, uplifted, and reconnected. Several residents even reached out afterward for music links and playlists to support their self-care practices.

As the in-house pastry chef, I already feel a strong connection to our residents—especially when I design desserts & develop recipes inspired by the flavors of their youth. In the same way that food feeds the soul, so does sound. These sessions are thoughtfully tailored to the preferences and sensory needs of our elders, with the goal that everyone leaves feeling energetically lighter and more at peace than when they arrived.

I’m grateful to Chef Matt, Culinary Director Joel, and Life Enrichment Director Catherine Graham for championing both my creative work in the kitchen and my passion for therapeutic sound. To serve others with love—through both music and baking—is a true blessing.”

10/11/2025

All aboard! 🚂🎃 Yesterday, residents and staff of Eskaton Gold River enjoyed a beautiful fall afternoon at Bishop's Pumpkin Farm in Wheatland. From a scenic train ride through jumbo pumpkin fields, apple and walnut orchards, and a horse pasture, to plenty of laughter and smiles along the way, it was a tremendous time spent together celebrating the season! 🍂🍎🐴

09/12/2025

08/27/2025

The Woodshop at Eskaton Village Carmichael (EVC) is a place where residents come together to share skills, spark creativity, and build lasting connections. From woodworking projects to learning new techniques, it's a space that celebrates craftsmanship, collaboration, and community.

In this Eskaton Senior Portrait, resident Craig Johnson, who serves as Chair of the EVC Woodshop, brings his lifelong passion for craftsmanship and creativity to inspire and guide fellow residents.

08/19/2025

Which table would you head to first? Seven of our fantastic culinary partners came to Eskaton Village Carmichael to showcase their fresh, farm-to-fork creations. Residents were able to learn more about our local vendors, and submit votes on the top items that they’d like to see more of in the dining room. Thank you to our culinary partners for the afternoon full of flavor!

US Foods
• Cross Valley Farms Fresh Produce
• Tender By Design Steaks
• Stock Yards Beef

Acxion
• Rotella’s Bakery
• Belgioioso Cheese

Portillo
• Joseph’s Gourmet Pasta & Sauces
• Violife Plant Based Ice Cream

Core
• Boursin Cheeses
• Island Oasis Smoothies

Affinity
• Devonshire Desserts
• Hope’s Country Fresh Cookies
• Barilla Pasta

Ada Valley Farms

07/25/2025

Not many people start horseback riding at age 75. Then again, not many people are like Susan Carson, who started riding horses at 75 and then won her first Cowboy Dressage competition just two years later.

In this Eskaton Senior Portrait, Susan discusses her horseback riding journey and what led her to win top prize at her first Cowboy Dressage Finals. Now 80 years old, Susan continues to train with her beloved horse Popeye, a longtime competition horse with a shining reputation in the local dressage community. With her truly inspiring story and fearless spirit, Susan is proof that it’s never too late to saddle up and chase your dreams.

A special thank you to BJ LeMaster of Rockwood Glen Horse Farm for letting us film on location.

07/10/2025

We were joined this morning by Molly Riehl from ‪Good Day Sacramento to chat about our Creative Aging partnership with Crocker Art Museum !

As a part of the Creative Aging program, Eskaton has been hosting art courses that are inspired by works from Crocker Art Museum. Residents have explored Expressive and Landscape Painting in the spring, and are now learning about Pottery.

To round out the program, Crocker Art Museum docents have been giving art education presentations at Eskaton communities, where they explore the back stories of works found at the Crocker, the artists, and even the techniques used.

Residents also have the opportunity to take a museum excursion to visit Crocker Art Museum in person!

Thank you to our pottery instructor, Elke Gomez, and to Molly Riehl for the delightful visit today!

07/08/2025

We're going LIVE! Good Day Sacramento is visiting the Art Studio at Eskaton Village Carmichael on Wednesday morning to check out all the creative buzz around the Creative Aging program. Tune in during the 9 o’clock hour of the show!

07/01/2025

Discover the inspiring journey of dedicated caregiver Tanny Iskandar, Wellness Nurse at Eskaton Village Carmichael, whose passion and commitment make a difference in the lives of older adults every single day. This short documentary follows the story of Tanny, who began working at Eskaton as wait staff and, through hard work and a calling to serve others, advanced into her current Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) role.

Through candid moments and firsthand accounts, you’ll experience a day in the life of a caregiver—from the early morning routines to the heartfelt connections with residents. More than just a job, caregiving is an essential pillar in supporting older adults with dignity, compassion, and care. This film highlights the critical role caregivers play in enhancing the quality of life for older adults and their families.

Thank you to LeadingAge California for sponsoring this remarkable film, and thank you to Talegate4Joy for capturing Tanny's story.

Discover the inspiring journey of a dedicated caregiver whose passion and commitment make a difference every single day in the lives of older adults. This sh...

06/27/2025

06/25/2025

Residents got a true taste of wine country during our recent Chef Demo with Executive Chef Matthew Tucker (right), accompanied by Director of Culinary Experience Joel Siegel (left). 🍓👨‍🍳 Chef Matthew wowed us with his refreshing strawberry gazpacho—an elevated twist inspired by his roots in Sonoma Valley and the region’s rich, seasonal produce. It was a flavorful afternoon filled with culinary creativity and delicious memories! 🌿🍷

06/09/2025

Last week, Eskaton Village Carmichael welcomed a special visit from the Crocker Art Museum for an inspiring afternoon of creativity and culture! 🎨🖼️ Residents from our Carmichael and Placerville communities enjoyed a fascinating presentation highlighting iconic works at the Crocker and learned about the stories behind each piece. A truly enriching experience that sparked great conversation and appreciation for the arts!

Thanks to our partnership with the Crocker, this educational presentation is part of our ongoing Creative Aging program, where museum docents visit our communities and discuss the museum's latest exhibitions.