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Children’s Beach House holds inaugural gala

CBH staff and board members posing for a pre-gala picture are (l-r) Paula Janssen, board of trustees secretary; Tom Sheridan, board of trustees president; Paula Baker, culinary director; Richard Garrett, executive director; Patrice Tosi, vice president of finance; Zaida Guajardo, senior director of development; Anthony Orman, chief operating officer; Tara Becker, vice president of advancement; Justin Nixon, director of marketing; and Jonathan Freeman-Coppadge, director of communications. DAN COOK PHOTOS
February 12, 2025

Children’s Beach House held its inaugural gala Feb. 8 at the Lighthouse Cove Event Center in Dewey Beach.

Despite the cold weather, the event drew 250 people for a night of fun, celebration, and commitment to CBH’s work supporting under-resourced children with special needs.

“Children’s Beach House doesn’t just try to eliminate risks for kids with these challenges,” said CBH Executive Director Rich Garrett as he extended thanks to sponsors, donors, and guests. “CBH builds positive, long-term relationships with these children and families so that kids grow up resilient to whatever risks and challenges they will face throughout their lives.” 

For children with communicative disabilities, getting left out socially and left behind academically can mean growing up without the supportive network of care and opportunity that all children need to thrive. “Your presence here tonight is a message to Children’s Beach House kids: ‘We are your supportive network. You will not be left behind,’” said Garrett.

Charlie Sokaitis of Coast TV served as master of ceremonies. The evening’s program included harp music by Lauren Quirk and ballet by the Gold Ballroom Dance Studio; silent and live auctions, courtesy of Tom Protack; and a performance by Kristen and the Noise. Décor was designed by Miguel Deleon and sponsored by Midway Pickleball.

For their significant and generous contributions to the success of the gala, Children’s Beach House thanks presenting sponsors Jack Lingo Realtor and JLAM, gala committee Co-chairs Erica Tull and Staci Hammonds, and the gala committee members.

Dancers from Gold Ballroom Dance Studio in Lewes entertain gala guests during dinner.
Kristen & The Noise entertains the Children’s Beach House Gala crowd and keeps attendees dancing throughout the evening.
Children’s Beach House Executive Director Richard Garrett shares how he became the nonprofit’s third executive director in 2003. Since then, he has worked to make the positive youth development theory the centerpiece of its work.
Sue McJunkin, left, and Linda Goss share smiles during the cocktail hour.
Neil Woloshin, left, and Jeff Rowe pause for a photo during the cocktail hour.
Enjoying the evening are friends (l-r) Mark and Sherri Penuel, and Lenny and Amy Pollitt.
Kristen Jones, left, and Robin Thompson take a moment for a picture during the cocktail hour.
Brian and Jenn Barrows enjoy the cocktail hour gathering.
Sonia and Harry Keswani arrive at the Children’s Beach House gala.
Dr. Zachary Roach and his wife Jesse enjoy the gala.
Bob Murray looks to bid at the silent auction.
Annette and Chris Couch enjoy the cocktail hour.
Tom Protack handles the live auction for the event.
Having an awesome time are friends (l-r) Stacy Narrow, Liz Angel, Deborah Tomasi, Helena Nash and Kathy Widas.
Sharing conversation during the cocktail hour are (l-r) Donna Shifflett, Leslie Ledogar and Mary Ann Veitch.
Sharing good company are (l-r) Marcie and Dan Urgo, and Jenkie and Bill Lingo.
Enjoying the cocktail hour are Tom Protack, gala auctioneer, and April Armstrong, gala committee member.
Gathered for a photo during the cocktail hour are (l-r) Richard Garrett, CBH executive director; Ann Lingo, gala committee member; and Jay Becker, gala sponsor.
Enjoying a cocktail and conversation are Tasha Warren, left, and Stacy Shamburger, CBH trustee.
Friends getting together for a photo are (l-r) Dr. Uday Jani, Neepa Jani, Sonia Keswani and Harry Keswani.
Performers from Gold Ballroom Dance Studio in Lewes show their grace during the dinner hour.
Kristen & The Noise entertains the gala crowd with their signature style.
Charlie Sokaitis of Coast TV serves as the event emcee.
Arriving at the gala are Patrick Beebe and Rose Furio.

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