Monica Parr and Emilie Paternoster
Emilie and Monica met through mutual friends in 1990 and became partners in June, 1993. They moved from Baltimore to Rehoboth in June, 2005.
Born in Hazleton Pennsylvania, Emilie grew up in New Jersey and Central Pennsylvania and is a graduate of York College of Pennsylvania. Following graduation, Emilie moved to Baltimore to pursue her career in Health Information Management. In her early career, she worked for different healthcare providers, and in subsequent years she held sales positions for national healthcare vendors. Today, Emilie is employed by Just Associates as their Vice President of Data Integrity Services and Sales. Emilie has two sisters, three nieces, and a nephew. In her free time, she loves to be in the sun, swim in the ocean, go surf fishing, and bird watching.
Monica was born at the Naval Academy Hospital in Annapolis, MD and was raised in Annapolis. Prior to moving to Rehoboth Beach, she worked at Black & Decker in the Sales Training Department. She was a Trainer for their entry level sales professionals, as well as Manager of their on-line training system. Monica is currently employed as the Sales Assistant for Fairway Independent Mortgage. Monica’s family includes her mother, three sisters, two nieces, and two nephews. Among other pastimes Monica loves to read, particularly mysteries and thrillers.
When and why did you start volunteering at CAMP?
We started volunteering in the early ‘90s. We’ve always been inspired by the commitment that Murray and Steve have to creating a community that is welcoming and supportive to all. We enjoy volunteering because it’s a great way to give back to the community and make new friends.
What’s been your best memory volunteering here?
For both of us it’s the whole experience of Sundance. It’s amazing to see how the community comes together for this event. Murray and Steve’s commitment to raising money to fight AIDS in the early years of the epidemic, has also inspired us. While the cause that Sundance supports has broadened over the years, we were proud to be a part of that effort then and it continues today.
What does CAMP mean to you?
It means a place for comfort, shelter and community.
What events and activities have you been involved with at CAMP?
As a volunteer for Sundance and Women’s FEST. As Sponsors for Sundance (Emilie is one of the original hosts), Love, and the original Black & White Beach Ball.
If you could spend a full day with one person, who would it be? Why?
Hillary Clinton: She’s had a fascinating life and hearing about all of her adventures would make for an interesting day.
“Wouldn’t you like to be a CAMPer too?” How would you encourage someone to get involved with us?
We would invite them to attend a CAMP sponsored event so they can see the wonderful results that a commitment to volunteering at CAMP can produce. Once they experience one of these events, we believe it would inspire them to become involved.
Tell us something that very few people know about you.
Emilie’s first job out of college was as a lifeguard at an apartment complex, and Monica is half American Indian.
First thought that comes to mind when you hear the word “Rehoboth.”
Sun, beach, sand, relaxation, home.
Other than CAMP Rehoboth, of course, what else do you like to do in your spare time?
Travel!
As full-time residents, what’s your favorite thing to do in the off season?
Catch up with our friends and go to all the places we avoid in the summertime because of the crowds and parking challenges.
Where was your last vacation destination and what influenced you to go there?
We have dear friends that split their time between Lewes and Arizona. We went to Arizona to escape the winter here and visit with our friends.
Friends are coming over for dinner. What will you make?
London broil and tuna steaks or chicken on the grill.
Who’s your favorite current musician or entertainer? All-time favorite?
Adele is our current favorite, and favorite of all time is Madonna.
What’s your favorite TV show currently? All-time favorite?
Rizzoli and Isles currently. Moonlighting is our all time favorite.
People often ask me, “What’s it like living in Rehoboth year round?” I love that question. How would you respond?
The thing we love the best about living here year round is the fact that we don’t have to leave on Sunday to drive home because we’re already home. Similarly, Emilie’s favorite is being able to linger as long as she wants at the beach on a Sunday afternoon.
Would you rather go to the movies or watch one at home? Assuming you have, what was the last movie you watched?
We definitely prefer watching movies at home and the last movie we watched was The Help.
CAMP Rehoboth is very thankful for the many years of support and volunteer efforts you both have offered to this organization. As we prepare for our 25th Sundance, we also recognize that Emilie was an original Sundance Host, and we are incredibly grateful for this loyalty over the years. We look forward to sharing yet another successful end-of-summer Sundance weekend with both of you.
Know someone whose efforts should be considered for the CAMP Rehoboth Volunteer Spotlight? Email your suggestion.