Minna began her love of brush painting as a young child in China, with guidance from her mother. She went on to study Chinese language and literature during college, where she learned different styles of calligraphy and Chinese brush painting techniques. This traditional art form is steeped in history, with each piece created in your own “handwriting,” each stamped unconsciously with your own style. In China, it’s very fittingly described as “writing the picture.”

Mary Ann and her young family moved to the brand new Turtle Rock community in 1968, three years before Irvine officially became a City.  She lived in the same Turtle Rock home for 55 years … until her death.

Soon after settling in Turtle Rock, Mary Ann joined a group of actively engaged citizens helping to shape the new City of Irvine.

Just three months after the City’s incorporation in 1971, Gaido began work on the Irvine Housing Committee. In 1973, she became an appointed City Commissioner, ultimately serving a total of 20 years — spanning five decades — as an Irvine Planning Commissioner.

The former Irvine City Councilwoman and current Planning Commissioner was recently honored during the re-opening ceremony at Bommer Canyon’s Cattle Camp.

Due to her efforts, the Cattle Camp at Bommer Canyon Preserve remains a continued source of enjoyment for the public to enjoy.

Mary Ann has a long and active history with the City of Irvine. First appointed to the Planning Commission shortly after Irvine’s incorporation, she was instrumental in the approval of the General Plan.

In addition to working on both Irvine’s Planning Commission and Transportation Commission, Mary Ann served two terms as a member of the Irvine City Council.