- By Peggy Perry -
In this season of giving, it seems appropriate to feature a couple who has given graciously and generously of themselves for more than two years here, making life more pleasant for their UVTO neighbors. Gene and Ann Motte have certainly done that since they moved into their villa in July, 2007.
A private person resisting attention to her activities, Ann is enthusiastic about the Hospitality Committee. One of the original members in February, 2008, she co-chaired the committee last year and continues to collect, package and distribute information for new UVTO residents. A welcome surprise was the offer by the local Trader Joe's manager to provide a bag of groceries for new residents. Everything is delivered with a welcoming smile, of course!
Gene has been a Building Representative, he participates in the Book Club and he has produced member profiles for the Men's Club. He has addressed the Men's Club twice, on energy, and is scheduled to speak on Saudi Arabia in March. He is also responsible for Men's Club communications, by e-mail and "stuffing" in-house mail boxes. Much of 2009 has been given to helping develop self-government at UVTO through the ad hoc Bylaws Committee and chairing the ad hoc Procedures Committee. Building on these contributions, Gene was appointed to the Resident Council in 2009.
Together, Ann and Gene participate in Marketing events, and they sang UVTO's praises at the booth during the CLU Scandinavian Festival. It's evident that this couple has seldom said "no" to an opportunity to volunteer!
The Mottes have loved cruising, two or three times a year in the past for a total of about thirty-five trips. They have four children, whose families live in Santa Barbara, La Canada, South Pasadena and Los Angeles. There are six grandkids, now ages 12 to 21, who often visit their grandparents for a week at a time. They love the facilities here, enjoying bocce ball and Wii games, swimming and playing pool - as well as hiking, visiting the Reagan Library, movies and Scrabble (Ann's an expert and taught them all). All the families gather here for holidays - Ann loves it because she doesn't have to cook!
Obviously, life is full and rewarding for this "giving" couple. Your neighbors thank you, Ann and Gene, for all you contribute to our way of life.