Marie Haag
I’ve written this feature for three seasons and I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know many wonderful people better than I had before.
This issue is a bit different. It will be available over Mother’s Day and, at the suggestion of several people, along with Murray and Steve, we thought it a poignant time to recognize one of our dedicated and loyal volunteers, my lovely and incredibly supportive mother, Marie Haag.
Born and raised in Danville, PA, Marie worked at Geisinger Medical Center in Danville for 17 years while raising her sons, Chris and Chuck, as a single mother. Marie introduced Rehoboth Beach to “the boys” during their teenage years on family vacations. She obviously made a good choice.
Marie has been married to her husband Ken, a retired school teacher and Penn State alum from Montoursville, PA, since June, 1990. Marie has two grandchildren, James and Tara, children of her son, Chuck, and daughter-in-law, Melissa. Her stepdaughter, Jodi, resides in New York City. Her son, Chris, and soon to be son-in-law, Eric, reside in Rehoboth.
When/why did you start volunteering at CAMP?
Before moving to Lewes in 2006, I had volunteered for FACT Bucks County (Fighting AIDS Continuously Together) for several years, while you [Chris] were on their Board. About three years ago, I thought I’d like to help with events at CAMP Rehoboth and started volunteering here.
What’s been your best memory volunteering here?
Helping with the July 4th, Love Weekend 2010, and Sundance 2010. By helping with these events, I saw the detail that goes into them from behind the scenes…it’s amazing!
What does CAMP Rehoboth mean to you?
For me, CAMP means people helping people and having fun while helping.
What events/activities have you been involved with at CAMP?
I’ve worked with Love, Sundance Weekend, the Sundance 5K, and other fundraisers. I’ve also helped build the Christmas parade floats the last two years.
If you could spend a full day with one person, who would it be? Why?
While I know I couldn’t spend an entire day, I’d love to spend a few hours with Bill Clinton! I think he’s a pillar of strength and whenever he speaks, I feel at peace with the world. He’s very knowledgeable about worldly problems and crises and always has sound and appropriate advice. I’ve met Hillary, thanks to Chris, at a speaking engagement during her run for President, but I’d also be extremely excited to meet the former President.
Wouldn’t you like to be a CAMPer too? How would you encourage someone to get involved with us?
I’d tell them that CAMP Rehoboth is a fun and incredibly worthwhile place to volunteer your time. There’s always an event going on to be involved with.
Tell us something that very few people know about you...
I am a very “private” person and I also respect others privacy.
First thought that comes to mind when you hear the word “Rehoboth.”
Vacations!
Since you live here full-time, what’s your favorite thing to do in the off season?
Off season or in season…my husband, Ken, and I love happy hours in Rehoboth! We enjoy many of the off-season festivals…Sea Witch, Polar Bear Plunge, and the chili and gumbo contests in the local restaurants.
Friends are coming over for dinner. What signature-dish would you make?
Probably a pasta and seafood dish of some kind. Ken and I love them and I enjoy preparing them for guests.
Who’s your favorite current musician or entertainer? Who’s your all-time favorite?
Current would be Jon Bon Jovi, young or aging, he is hot! Favorite all-time musician is actually a group…the Bee Gees.
What’s the last book you’ve read? All-time favorite?
I recently finished the Gabby Gifford’s book, Gabby, A Story of Courage and Hope. All-time favorite is Living History by Hillary Rodham Clinton.
People often ask me, “What’s it like living in Rehoboth year round?” I love that question. How would you respond?
It’s great! We have fun all year round and get to know so many “locals.” There are always events, nature adventures, fundraisers, and downtown promotions in Lewes and Rehoboth…all very FUN!
Would you rather go to the movies or watch one at home? What was the last movie you watched?
We enjoy going to the movies, especially prior to the Academy Awards so I can be prepared for your Oscar Party, but I especially enjoy watching a good movie in the comforts of home. The last movie I watched was J. Edgar.
What was your last text, post or tweet? And to whom?
LOL! It was a text to you…. When do you need these questions answered?
It’s at this point where I normally conclude our Spotlight feature. This time, however, I agreed to allow my mother to add the following…
“While I still don’t think I’m worthy of being the Volunteer Spotlight, I would like to thank Chris, my forever loving son, for thinking of me!”
Yes, Mother, you are definitely worthy of this recognition. For as long as I can remember, you’ve attended, volunteered, or supported virtually every event I’ve ever been involved with. I’ve admired your loving and giving nature my entire life, but words could never truly convey the pride and gratitude I have that you are my mother! We seem to grow closer as the years pass, and both Eric and I love you, and Ken, with all our hearts. Thank you for supporting CAMP Rehoboth, and Happy Mother’s Day!
Know someone whose efforts should be considered for the CAMP Rehoboth Volunteer Spotlight? Email your suggestion. Photo: Chris Beagle, Steve Hoult, Cathin Bishop, Marie Haag.