Marci Aguirre is director of community outreach at the Inland Empire Health Plan. Before participating in a panel on how Obamacare can reach more people in the Inland Empire, she talked about grabbing life by the horns, and why she’d be a contestant on The Amazing Race in the Zócalo green room.
What’s your biggest pet peeve?
Probably people who aren’t motivated to do anything with themselves. That really frustrates me. I don’t think everybody starts with the same opportunities, but I see certain people blame decisions they make on everyone around them, versus other people who say, I’m going to take life and grab it and make the most out of it. I like people to be empowered, and I want them to believe in themselves.
Who taught you to ride a bike, and where did you learn?
I learned at home in my front yard, and it was a culmination of probably my cousin, my dad, and my mom—lots of different people.
When did you last break a sweat?
Last night: I had too many blankets on. So I woke up sweating in the middle of the night.
What comforts you?
My sweetie. He’s my biggest supporter, and he’s my rock.
What profession would you practice in your next life?
Broadway, musical theater.
What’s your signature drink?
Vodka tonic. It has to be Grey Goose—Grey Goose and tonic.
What do you love to hate?
I hate that I love reality shows so much—they’re like my guilty pleasure.
What reality show would you be on?
The Amazing Race. Something with a big prize at the end so everything they torture you about isn’t just about you being vain and wanting to be on TV.
What’s your hidden talent?
Not so hidden: I sing.
What’s hanging on your living room walls?
We got this huge painting when we went on vacation to the Dominican Republic. It’s wall-sized, and it’s one of the most beautiful portraits I’ve seen.