Deborah Susan Young (nee Coombe) (Debbie)
Marital Status:
Married 26 years as of Feb 05
Children? If so, how many?
Two children, Scott (23 on Jul 05) and Katie (8 on Nov 05) OK, so they're 15 years apart! That's what you get when your husbands retires from the military after 21 years! Katie is our special gift.
Grandchildren? If so, how many?
None
Education:
HS grade, 1 year college, US Army 4+ years, Immigration Information Officer (IIO) training at Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC). Total 25 years Federal service.
Occupation:
Immigration Information Officer, U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services, Department of Homeland Security (formally INS).
Volunteer and Professional Activities:
None currently except with schooll.
Current hobbies and interests:
Reading, camping, gardening
What percentage of your hair is visibly gray (is this a trick question?)
A VERY small percent. These are natural highlights!
If you had one year free of all responsibility and unlimited funds, what would you do?
Take a long vacation with family and friends to many places around the world.
What are the most rewarding things that you have done in your life?
Raising my children and service to my country.
What rewarding things do you plan to do in your life?
To serve my community more through volunteerism.
What are your favorite non-family related things to do in your free time?
Neighborhood get-togethers just because. It could be an impromptu cookout or join in on a street game with the kids on the block.
How would you best describe your idea of "being successful?"
Being happy with myself and able to care for my family.
What are your most vivid memories of your days in Ridgewood?
Too many. Unfortunately, there where deaths of friends that can't be forgotten, family holidays at home, church functions, getting together with friends, summer camps, family trips.
What achievement or activity are you most proud of in your life?
My son and I were living with my parents while my husband was overseas during the Gulf War. My mother became ill. I was able to help both my parents through that time and be there for them. It wasn't always sad, we were able to make my mother laugh and enjoy her time with us. She passed away in January 1993. Our daughter's middle name is after my mother, Susan. It brought my father and I closer together and he realized I wasn't such a flake! I used to be his “Jewish Princess” according to him.
What single piece of wisdom would you like to leave for the next generation?
Right, like we listened to our parents! You won't know until they grow up. Stop with the ME attitude and look to the WE.
How have you changed since high school?
A couple pounds, more creases in the face (hopefully only laugh lines!).