October 22, 2026At Mt. San Antonio Gardens, our employees are an important part of what makes our community special. Their dedication, experience, and the relationships they build with residents help create a welcoming environment where people feel at home. This year, we are proud to celebrate John McCurdy, Maintenance Electrician in our Plant Engineering Department, as he marks an incredible 45 years of service at The Gardens. Throughout his career, John has become a familiar and trusted face in the community. While his work involves maintaining and repairing essential systems, he believes that what makes his job truly rewarding goes beyond the technical side of his responsibilities. “The challenges are what make my job interesting and exciting. I enjoy meeting a variety of people. It’s not just about repairing something; it’s about greeting residents, getting to know them, and building a relationship because they put a lot of confidence in us. I like talking with people and hearing their interesting stories.” Over the years, those everyday interactions have helped him develop meaningful connections with residents. Whether responding to a maintenance request or simply stopping to have a conversation, he values the opportunity to get to know the people who call The Gardens home. When asked what has kept him at The Gardens for more than four decades, his answer reflects the sense of comfort and belonging he has found within the community. “I’ve stayed because I feel comfortable here, and the residents feel comfortable with me. Working here has made life better for me. It’s a great opportunity with good benefits and good people to work with.” One particular experience left a lasting impression on him and changed the way he approaches relationships with residents. While attending a memorial for a resident who had passed away, he learned that she had grown up in his hometown and that his father had even been in her class. He realized they had shared a personal connection he never had the opportunity to discover while she was alive. That experience inspired him to make a greater effort to learn about the people he meets. “Since then, I always read the bios of new residents and try to get to know them.” For John, taking the time to learn someone’s story has become just as meaningful as the work he performs each day. His approach reflects the personal connections that make The Gardens more than just a workplace. As we celebrate this remarkable milestone, we recognize not only his 45 years of service but also the countless interactions, conversations, and relationships that have shaped his journey. Congratulations, John, on 45 years at Mt. San Antonio Gardens! Thank you for your dedication, craftsmanship, and genuine care for our residents and community. Your commitment to your work and the people around you has made a lasting impact on The Gardens. [...] Read more...
October 22, 2026At Mt. San Antonio Gardens, our employees play an important role in creating a welcoming and supportive community for residents. Their dedication, compassion, and willingness to help others are part of what makes The Gardens such a special place to live and work. This year, we are proud to celebrate Alma Aguilar, Administrative Assistant at Oak Tree Lodge, as she marks 10 years of service at The Gardens. Alma’s journey began as a Ward Clerk in Magnolia Grove before transitioning to her current role at Oak Tree Lodge. Throughout her time at The Gardens, she has embraced opportunities to learn new skills, take on different responsibilities, and support residents and colleagues in a variety of ways. Her experience includes training in resident assistance, medical transportation, and medication assistance. Having worked across different shifts, Alma has gained valuable insight into the community’s daily operations and the importance of teamwork. “I enjoy being busy and working with both the staff and residents. It’s good to learn different capacities and feel like I can support in different areas.” For Alma, one of the most rewarding parts of working at The Gardens has been the relationships she has built over the years. She especially appreciates the generosity of residents and the meaningful connections that develop through everyday interactions. Reflecting on her decade of service, Alma recalls the COVID-19 pandemic as one of the most memorable experiences of her career. During a challenging and uncertain time, she witnessed employees across the community come together to support residents and one another. “When COVID struck, everyone worked as a team. It was all hands on deck, and everyone put in a lot of hours.” That spirit of teamwork and dedication continues to be an important part of Alma’s experience at The Gardens. Her willingness to learn, adapt, and lend a helping hand reflects the commitment our employees bring to the community each day. As Alma celebrates this milestone, we recognize not only her 10 years of service but also the positive impact she has made on residents and colleagues throughout her journey. Congratulations, Alma, on 10 wonderful years at Mt. San Antonio Gardens! Thank you for your dedication, flexibility, and commitment to making The Gardens a welcoming place for everyone. [...] Read more...
September 2, 2026You couldn’t ask for a better address Nestled right between the vibrant city of Pomona and the charming college town of Claremont, where exciting, engaging activities are always just around the corner, waiting for you to explore and enjoy. The Gardens is close by: The Monthly Art Walk — every second Saturday in the Pomona Arts Colony, the Art Walk brings crowds to the streets, with galleries hosting artist receptions, shops, studios, and restaurants staying open late. The Fox Theater — this restored 1931 Art Deco landmark has been fully modernized into a live music and entertainment complex hosting nationally touring acts, film festivals, community events, and fundraisers. It’s a beautiful, historic venue right in the heart of downtown. The Cal Poly Pomona Farm Store — this one is a hidden gem. It’s a beloved local spot on the Cal Poly campus where you can shop for artisan foods, fresh produce, homemade jams, jellies, honey, and even student-made wine and ice cream. Relaxed, scenic, and unique. AMOCA — the American Museum of Ceramic Art champions the art, history, and creation of ceramics through rotating exhibitions, collections, and studio programming — a wonderful, unhurried museum experience. The Arts Colony itself — it’s a historic neighborhood dedicated to the creative arts, education, and urban living, with public art, festivals, exhibitions, performances, and diverse dining. The Claremont Packing House — a historic citrus-packing facility turned food hall and entertainment hub, right in the heart of the Village, with more than 50 artisan stores, studios, galleries, and restaurants. It hosts a weekly farmers’ and artisans’ market on Sundays and a gallery event every Friday night. California Botanic Garden — an 86-acre living museum and the largest botanic garden dedicated entirely to California native plants, with a curated collection of more than 22,000 plants, some of which are rare or endangered. There’s even a seasonal Butterfly Pavilion every spring and a gentle “Yoga in the Garden” program. The Folk Music Center — part shop, part museum, and owned by the family of Grammy-winner Ben Harper, this beloved Claremont landmark has been a gathering place for music lovers since 1958, with handmade instruments, global artifacts, live performances, and monthly open mic nights. The Claremont Village itself — a walkable college town at the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains, with over 80 restaurants, independent boutiques, day spas, and bicycle-friendly streets. Easy to explore at your own pace. Multiple art museums — the Ruth Chandler Williamson Gallery at Scripps College, the Benton Museum of Art at Pomona College, and the Claremont Museum of Art at the historic Depot, are all must-stops for art lovers. For more on the two cities, hear it from two local team members who grew up here. [...] Read more...
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April 1, 2026  A Smart Investment in Lifelong Care and Financial Security When exploring senior living options, one of the most important topics to understand is the entrance fee. At Mt. San Antonio Gardens, this is more than just a cost. It is a long-term investment in your health, lifestyle, and future peace of mind. As a financially strong Life Plan Community, Mt. San Antonio Gardens is designed to support residents through every stage of aging while providing stability. What Is an Entrance Fee? An entrance fee is a one-time payment that provides access to a full continuum of care, including independent living, assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing, at one location. This model offers predictability and security. If your needs change over time, your care can change with you without the stress of relocating. It is a proactive approach to planning for the future. How Entrance Fees Are Calculated Entrance fees are based on several key factors: · Age at entry, using actuarial data and average life expectancy · Floor plan selection, including size, location, and future improvements · Projected healthcare needs over time These calculations are not based on personal medical history, but on broader trends to ensure long-term sustainability within a financially secure Life Plan Community. Planning for Your Future and Your Legacy Choosing between Life Care and Continuing Care contracts is an important part of the process. This decision often comes down to balancing your future care needs with what you want to leave to your estate. It is also important to involve your family in these conversations. At Mt. San Antonio Gardens, we work closely with both residents and their loved ones to ensure everyone understands the investment and feels confident moving forward. How Residents Typically Pay Most residents fund their entrance fee through the sale of their home. Planning ahead can make a significant difference. Connecting with a real estate professional early helps you understand your home’s value and determine the right timing for selling. Even if your move is years away, early planning creates a smoother transition when the time comes. What Does It Cost? Entrance fees vary depending on age and residence selection. For example, a typical range for a single resident entering at age 79 may fall between approximately $113,000 and $587,000. While this may seem significant at first, it is helpful to view it as an investment in lifelong care, stability, and quality of life. Why It Matters An entrance fee is not just about today. It is about creating a plan for the future. At Mt. San Antonio Gardens, residents benefit from: · Access to a full continuum of care · Predictable healthcare costs · A maintenance-free lifestyle · The confidence of living in a financially secure Life Plan Community This approach helps reduce uncertainty and eases the future burden on family members. A Confident Step Forward Choosing Mt. San Antonio Gardens means choosing a community built for both today and tomorrow. It is a place where you can enjoy an engaging lifestyle now while knowing your future is supported. If you have questions or would like a personalized estimate, we are here to help. Contact Us [...] Read more...
January 30, 2026  As a resident since 2012, Cathie Brown initially moved into a one-bedroom apartment with her husband of 60-plus years. Fewer rooms mean less to maintain, and more energy for the things that actually matter. Cathie explains how letting go of extra space invited her to let go of extra stuff, extra stress, and expectations that no longer served her. She found simplicity, comfort, and a surprising sense of freedom, proof that smaller can still feel just right. In November, I moved from a one-bedroom apartment to a studio apartment. Moving from the apartment my husband and I shared to a smaller unit, ten years after he died, was the best idea I’ve had in a long time. My only regret is that I didn’t do it sooner. In the ten years I stewed around, I expanded my belongings from half the space to fill the whole space. More space to fill with more stuff. In moving to a studio with less space, my brain kicked in and I had to take a hard look at what I really wanted or needed. These decisions focused on clothes, books, kitchen stuff and memorabilia. If I didn’t want items I offered the best ones to my family, daughters and grandchildren. And fortunately, the helper I hired to move me knew what to do with things I no longer wanted. One of my better ideas was to select one book that meant a lot from our collection for each grandchild. A way of passing on the heritage. Another critical idea was to hire Resident Margie Beal for decorating advice. Even if you think you know what you’re doing, you don’t. Margie does. That was a great decision and wonderful to have her expertise here at the Gardens. Within the process of moving, I felt the whole Gardens community supporting my transition to a studio. One of my daughters, who has worked managing major commercial properties (including the leasing of the Wells Fargo Center on Capitol Mall in Sacramento), said she has never experienced a community responding as rapidly as they did here for my move. A Gardens staff member did a wonderful job rehanging my art collection and my family photos in my new studio home. Wow! I love my apartment. It’s perfect for me. I have more than adequate space. I love that I have everything simplified. I can find things more easily than ever. I have a “home” for everything. The only furniture I had to buy was a twin bed. I feel right at home. I entertain guests with the help of my small Lucite tables, one beside each guest and it works great. My patio contains a  table and chairs I purchased from a previous resident. I’m eager for spring and warm weather to spend more time on my patio. Life doesn’t get any better. To see Cathie’s home, call to schedule a tour at 909-399-1208. [...] Read more...
December 22, 2025Holiday letters are often a tradition to many at Mt. San Antonio Gardens. These letters can be a sentimental, personal touch greeting friends, family, and loved ones. This year, we are delighted to share some excerpts from Melanie and Harold’s holiday greetings. As residents who moved in over a year ago, their holiday letter shares deep resident insights and how they live daily at the Gardens Dear Friends and Family, As we step into 2026, we find ourselves reflecting on the remarkable year of 2025—marking eighteen months into our residence here and life in Claremont. Since moving from our apartment in Los Angeles to Mt. San Antonio Gardens in June 2024, the transition has proven to be far more transformative than we could have anticipated. It is with genuine joy and gratitude that we share our experiences and invite you to understand how this move has redefined what it means to live fully in our eighties. The paradox of our new life at the Gardens strikes us most profoundly: we have discovered that we are simultaneously more independent and more interdependent than we have ever been. The freedoms that come from relinquishing certain daily burdens—the preparation of meals, the search for medical care, the endless maintenance that a traditional household demands—have opened unexpected avenues for growth and engagement. A resident physician and a welcoming dining room have liberated us from these responsibilities, allowing us to redirect our energy toward what truly nourishes our spirits and minds. Here at the Gardens, we have established rhythms that bring us profound satisfaction. On Sunday afternoons from September through June, we make the brief drive to Disney Hall to experience concerts by the Los Angeles Philharmonic—an extraordinary gift that sits just a short 45 minutes from our residence. During the week, we audit classes at Pomona College, itself only a five-minute drive away. This past year, we enrolled in two courses that captivated us entirely: Asian Traditions, which traced the histories of China, Korea, and Japan from 700 BCE to 1600 C E, and Latin and Chicano History in the Americas, spanning from Columbus’s explorations to the Vietnam War. Both were masterfully taught, and perhaps most wonderfully, our exposure to college students has deepened our appreciation for their intellectual engagement and the genuine concerns that animate their generation. Our cottage opens onto a rose garden that demands and rewards our care, and an orchid tree that teaches us the rhythm of tending growing things. Melanie’s daily walks through the thirty acres of the Gardens have become a meditation in themselves. She moves through the grounds several times each day, collecting leaves, observing the squirrels, appreciating the azure skies and crystalline light of Southern California. We are blessed with sufficient rain to keep the lawns verdant and the air crisp; the number of days graced with clear skies, brilliant blue and free from clouds and oppressive humidity, seems improbably generous. Friendship has flourished here in ways that surprise us. We have cultivated genuine connections with many residents, and several friendships have deepened into relationships of real substance. Among our closest companions are Abe and Julia, who share our fascination with China and music. Most evenings find us dining with friends sometimes at modest local Chinese or Japanese restaurants (where a fine meal for two costs less than sixty dollars) –_or in The Gardens’ dining room.  We eat at our cottage for breakfasts where we read paper copies of the NY Times, the WSJ and the LA Times featuring baked goods from our local bakery, Crème, which rivals anything we discovered on the Rue du Bac in Paris. I have found particular joy in delivering lectures to our community on Impressionism and the ways painters like Monet and Caillebotte depicted the Paris that Baron Haussmann transformed in the 1860s—and equally important, what they chose not to paint, but what Émile Zola captured in novels such as L’Assommoir. These lectures have become interactive dialogues with residents, enriching our shared understanding and deepening our connections. As we look toward 2026, we do so with a profound sense of gratitude and possibility. We understand that growth in one’s eighties looks different than it did in our thirties or fifties—it is quieter, perhaps, and more inward-turning—but it is no less real or significant. We have discovered that joy can be found in the simplest gestures: a well-prepared meal shared with friends, the sight of a blue sky, a brilliant lecture, the presence of those we love, and the freedom to pursue understanding without the weight of excessive responsibility. We invite you to share with us how you are managing and growing as the minutes, hours, and days unfold in your own lives. We wish you the health, wisdom, and openness to find meaning and joy in whatever 2026 brings. The Gardens have taught us that life’s value is not measured by the magnitude of our activities or the extent of our possessions, but by the quality of our presence, the depth of our connections, and the willingness to embrace transformation whenever it presents itself. With deep affection and warm wishes for the year ahead, MELANIE AND HAROLD Mount San Antonio Gardens Claremont, California   [...] Read more...