My family moved to Mira Mesa from El Toro, CA in 1973. My father was in the military – Go Navy ! He was stationed here in San Diego. Thank goodness he made San Diego the place to retire.
I attended Mary Chase Walker elementary school and proud to say I am part of the first class of students who are the original Wangenheimers! That’s right! 1977 Julius Wangenheim middle school opened . How cool was that to build additional friendships from other elementary schools in the area! Wow! I didn’t realize back then how many other elementary schools there were! Ericson, Hickman, Mason, Sandburg & Walker all in the Mecca!
Elementary school I got a taste of running for student council. 6th grade I ran for President , unfortunately I lost against a boy! Typical! Lol! I cried but got over it! However, I took pride in taking that first step to run against a boy and that the school allowed for girls to run for office . As I look back I have to say what a great experience and opportunity for girls (women’s) rights! But that didn’t stop me in future years! More details to follow…
As we all know transitioning from elementary school to middle school you begin to see other doors open. As for me I convinced my mom to sign up for Pop Warner cheerleader. Why not? My brother Ed was already set to play Pop Warner Football . I should be able to be a cheerleader. It happened! How exciting, how fun, and how cute were those football players to cheer for! Oh ya! Give me a R! give me an E! give me an N! give me another E! give me a G! give me an A! give me a D! give me another E! give me an S! What does that spell? RENEGADES! GO RENEGADES!!
I will never forget those fun times, great memories and traveling other places outside of Mira Mesa!
Then middle school happened… I mentioned earlier building friendships from other elementary schools this gave me another opportunity, one of my first decisions I had to make on my own. I had assumed that my mom would let me be able to participate in two activities; Pop Warner Cheerleader (again my 2nd year) and (yes, I said and…) Hula. I was torn! Mom said I could only pick one because it costs money! Do you remember your parents telling you “it costs money” ? Back in the 70’s our parents did not make as much money as we do now. Especially military, we didn’t realize it back then. Well I wanted to experience a new activity so I chose to go with hula since I had a new set of friends other then my friends from Walker elementary.
I joined Pualani’s Halau. This dance group was newly created and I have to say, also proud to be one of the original Pualani students under Auntie Barbara Finneran. We performed for the MM community and many other venues throughout San Diego. I have to admit I also missed being part of the Renegade Team but I made a decision and stuck with it but only for one year.
As time went on before heading into high school, I ran for ASB at Wangenheim and won the students votes (finally!) Sworn in as Commissioner of Publicity. I also chose to participate in many of the school clubs and the best part was going to other schools to meet their ASB , attend conventions, literally learn how the legislative branch runs and responsibilities. What I learned and gained from this I applied to my daily life.
To this day I serve as Board Member of the Down Syndrome Association of San Diego, been a board member since 2012 and recently took on the Office of Secretary term. I am also the Chairwoman of the Board for Class of ‘83 Reunion.
Other voluntary leadership roles: President of Music Boosters for my sons High School and served as Volunteer Coordinator and Den Leader for Boy Scouts of America during the time my two older sons were in Boy Scouts.
I’m a proud mommy of three sons all grown men now with my youngest son diagnosed with Down Syndrome. I take it to heart… “ The Down Syndrome Journey was not one I had planned to take but I have to say I sure loved the many tours and journeys I have taken so far and love my tour guide! Looking forward to each and every next tour that’s in store for me!”
I have a fur baby, male shih-tzu his name is Alfie. Love the men in my life!
I’ve ran 3 marathons, multiple half marathons, 15k, 10k and 5k’s. My first 5k was the Silver Strand in Coronado and came in 2nd place for my age group. Proud accomplishments!
For those who know me I have a natural high , energetic , always on the go, and don’t want to miss out on any fun events /venues! Embracing my age now as you never know if I may see tomorrow. I have incorporated Oola into my life: The 7 Oolas; Faith, Family, Field, Finance Fitness, Friends, & Fun. If you’re interested to know about Oola ask me and I will share with you.
I’m working on removing toxicity out of my life!
What activities or sports were you involved in at school?
Freshmen year – JV Track & Field / shot out & discus
Junior year – Varsity Flag Team
Senior year – Held office :Commissioner of Activities
President of Pep Club
Throughout years of high school I was part of ASB and Student council
What is your fondest memory during your time at MMHS?
Mrs Oberhaus English class . She had a huge poster of Tom Selleck , Magnum PI in classroom.
Trying to get to Senior Prom at Hotel Del Coronado was a disaster! Long story short had car troubles, my date at the time who is now my ex-husband ran late but the evening ended in a good note even though we didn’t make our dinner reservations but made it on time to be surprised that I was crowned one of the Prom Princess and had our royal court dance.
Can you name someone from MMHS that you’d like to reconnect with and why?
I actually am content. I currently connect with many of Class of ‘83 alums
Did you go to college after MMHS or join the service? If so, where did you attend or join?
Palomar College
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