Muriel Hogan
Adopted at the young age of nine months, Muriel was raised with three brothers (foster and adopted) in Spring Valley, NY. After graduation from high school, she went to work for a small insurance agency and has remained in the industry for the past 48 years. Muriel worked full time until last November but continues to work with The Coyle Group of New York, Inc as a Marketing Manager.
Muriel was married at the age of 21 and spent three years in Panama while her husband served in the US Army. Fast forward to 1992 when she fell in love with her partner (current) Kathy Wiz. The couple moved to Rehoboth from Wesley Hills, NY in 2008.
In addition to their dog, Riley Ann, Muriel and Kathy share five children between them (Chad Hogan, Patrick Pearsall, Meghan, Brian and Brendan Wisnieski). Spread from NY to NJ and DC, they see their kids “as often as possible.” Muriel also “loves working around our home and in the yard, reading, dining with friends and just hanging out at home with Kathy.”
When/why did you start volunteering at CAMP and what events/activities have you been involved with since?
I think I began volunteering at CAMP in a small way years ago. I was still working full time up until last November so my time was limited. I’ve worked at many events including Sundance, Starburst Gala, Black and White, bartending for events at CAMP, many Volunteer on Vacation projects, and, of course, Broadwalk on the Boardwalk.
What’s your best memory volunteering here?
I really have fun at all the events but I must say that Broadwalk on the Boardwalk is my favorite because it’s been Kathy’s dream, and it has given such peace and joy to all involved. It’s always exciting as it gets bigger and pinker every year.
What does CAMP Rehoboth mean to you?
CAMP has made a tremendous impact on our lives in Rehoboth. We’ve met so many fabulous people and made some good friends through our affiliation. There’s a true sense of community when you’re involved and active in this organization. So, in a nut shell, it means community and friendship.
First thought that comes to mind when you hear the word “Rehoboth.”
“Home”…as I said I was born and raised in NY and was always proud to be a New Yorker but we moved to Rehoboth in 2008 and I’ve never looked back. I feel that our lives are so much fuller and enriched by our relationships and activities. Rehoboth is our home…and ALL our kids love it here so that’s a big plus!
What’s your favorite thing to do in the off season?
I love the tranquility after the busy summer months. I like to go to the beach to sit and relax and enjoy the beauty of the ocean. Also love to run Riley and tire her out.
If you could spend a full day with one person, who would it be? Why?
I’d like to spend one more day with my Mom. I think I took so much for granted growing up and never really took the time to get to know the person she was. Since her passing I have gone through boxes of old pictures, commendations for her community service, and letters from family and friends dating back as far as 1931. The letters evoke so many questions but unfortunately all the players are deceased so I’m left to wonder. My mother was a remarkable woman who raised four kids as a single mom, taught elementary school for 30 years, retired and became a passionate volunteer for Planned Parenthood, NOW, Meals on Wheels, United Breakfast Program, PFLAG, RSVP, League of Women Voters and Rockland Coalition for Choice. She was a champion for education, women’s rights, and equality for all. So one day wouldn’t answer all my questions but I sure would enjoy talking with her for one day more.
Fast forward or rewind? If you could go ahead in time or back, which would you pick and why?
I’d love to go back to a time in my life where I made some less than brilliant decisions, but I realize that if I altered those everything else would’ve been different. I’m happy where I am today and would just like to move slowly forward and enjoy the next 30 years.
Lost! If you were stranded on a deserted island, what three things would you want with you (other than food and water)?
Kathy, my new iPad and plenty of ice cream or Gelato from Gelato Gal’s.
You’ve just won the lottery. What’s the first thing you’d do with your winnings?
We play this game all the time….$$$ for each kid…house by the ocean for us…travel…set up a foundation for the balance with Patrick and his partner Mitch at the helm to take care of those who truly need help….and yes, CAMP Rehoboth will be on that list.
Pet peeve(s)?
Obnoxious negative people.
What was your last New Year’s Resolution and how long did it last?
Probably something about eating right and exercising… guess how long it lasted?
One favorite food? One food you’d never eat?
Favorite…most anything chocolate….never eat oysters.
What are you most thankful for?
I’m most thankful for Kathy, my family and friends…nothing else matters…Amen!
A personal note to you, Muriel: Kathy and I are blessed to have incredibly supportive partners, and both you and Eric are, by nature, more comfortable behind the scenes than in the “spotlight.” This is precisely why it’s my pleasure to offer this feature to our readers and publicly express CAMP Rehoboth’s sincere appreciation for all you do for us! Thank you, my friend.
Know someone whose efforts should be considered for the CAMP Rehoboth Volunteer Spotlight? Email your suggestion.
