A Night to Remember: Brews & Beats 2024
Some nights are so special they linger in your heart long after the music fades, and Brews & Beats 2024 was one of those nights. From the laughter echoing through the beautiful halls of Tenk West Bank to the joyful energy of friends, families, and supporters coming together, the evening was nothing short of magical.
Thanks to our community’s unwavering generosity, we are thrilled to share that we raised over $200,000! These funds will allow us to continue offering FREE, purposeful programming for families in Northeast Ohio. It’s because of this belief in our mission that we can keep growing, serving, and celebrating our incredible community.
The night was filled with heartfelt moments that reminded us all why GiGi’s Playhouse is more than just a space—it’s a family.
For the third consecutive year, we were honored to welcome Dave Chudowsky from WKYC Channel 3 as our emcee for the evening. Dave’s warmth and enthusiasm set the tone for a night filled with connection and celebration. With his genuine energy and heartfelt words, he made every guest feel like a part of something extraordinary. What made his presence even more special was his personal connection to our mission. Dave shared beautiful stories and cherished memories of his incredible nephew, Garrett, whose light and spirit inspire him daily. His reflections brought the mission of GiGi’s Playhouse even closer to home, reminding us all of the profound impact that love, inclusion, and support have on individuals and families. Dave’s passion and dedication as an advocate for our community shone brightly, and we are beyond grateful for his continued partnership in making Brews & Beats a truly unforgettable event.
Taylor Petitti, our Playhouse Ambassador, then took the stage and shared a heartfelt story that left everyone in the room inspired. With her courage and grace, she spoke of what it means to truly belong—a concept so central to GiGi’s Playhouse. Taylor’s words were a reminder that inclusion isn’t just about opening doors; it’s about creating spaces where everyone feels seen, valued, and celebrated. Her testimony gave us a window into the life-changing power of the Playhouse, where friendships bloom, confidence is nurtured, and every individual is embraced for who they are. She left the audience not only moved but motivated to continue supporting a community that thrives on love and connection.
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Stacey Kuehner, a proud parent to Vivi, followed and delivered a powerful testimony that resonated with every heart in the room. Through her words, she painted a vivid picture of hope, celebrating the unique gifts of her loved one with Down syndrome. Stacey’s story was a beautiful reminder of the joy and strength that our friends with “extra superpowers” bring to the world. She spoke of challenges met with resilience, milestones celebrated with pride, and the unbreakable bond of community that GiGi’s fosters. Stacey’s message was more than a testament to her own journey—it was a universal call to recognize the potential in every individual and celebrate the beauty of inclusion. Her words brought the room to tears and reminded us why we are all part of this mission.
A heartfelt moment of the evening came when Zack and Celeste Blau, our new Co-Board Presidents, took a moment to thank Emily Monteleone, our Board President Emeritus, for her years of dedication and leadership at GiGi’s Playhouse Cleveland. Emily’s unwavering commitment has helped shape the Playhouse into what it is today, and her contributions will continue to be felt for years to come. Zack and Celeste spoke with deep appreciation for her guidance and vision, expressing how her legacy will inspire the future of our mission.
As the evening continued, a moment of excitement and pride followed when Zack and Celeste announced the promotion of Lizz Maxwell to Executive Director of GiGi’s Playhouse Cleveland. The room erupted in applause as Lizz, a passionate advocate and leader within our community, took the stage. Lizz spoke from the heart, sharing the immense impact that GiGi’s Playhouse has had on her life and the lives of so many families. She highlighted the importance of the incredible support from everyone in the room, noting how each donation made that evening would continue to provide limitless free opportunities for our friends with Down syndrome.
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The magic didn’t stop there though as our Project Pulse performers took the stage and immediately lit up the room with their contagious energy and undeniable charisma. Their electric presence had everyone clapping, singing, and dancing along, transforming the evening into a true celebration of joy and connection. Each performance was a testament to their hard work, passion, and the supportive environment that GiGi’s Playhouse fosters.
None of this would have been possible without the tireless efforts of our Event Co-Chairs Zack and Celeste Blau and an amazing team of committee members—Anouska Norman, Erin Alexeff, Mary Makulinski, Carrie Litten, Lizz Maxwell, Mari Durbin, and Mary Pultz. Every detail, from the décor to the flow of the evening, was executed with love and precision.
We would also like to extend a heartfelt thank you to our auctioneer, Rick Gallo, whose passion helped us raise vital funds to support our mission.
To our incredible sponsors—thank you for believing in the power of inclusion and ensuring our programs remain accessible to all.
- Gold Sponsors: Sherwin-Williams, Biothane Coated Webbing, Vorys, Sater, Seymour and Pease LLP, Ohio Basement Authority, and the Gregory D. Seeley Memorial Sponsorship.
- Silver Sponsors: Nordson Corporation, John R. Kish, Psycho Enterprises LLC, Gina Nicola Enterprises, and Seeley, Savidge, Ebert & Gourash Co., LPA.
- Bronze Sponsors: Henkel, Bath Fitter, and First Federal Lakewood.
And to our families—you are the heart of GiGi’s Playhouse. Thank you for trusting us, for sharing your loved ones with us, and for reminding the world of the beauty of inclusion. Every story you share, every smile, and every milestone achieved inspires us to keep going.
As the night came to a close, we were left with full hearts, memories to cherish, and a renewed sense of purpose. Together, we are building a world where everyone’s potential is celebrated.
A big thank you to Markus Photography for capturing this event so perfectly!