Updated news of Graceful AnnaLynne McCord Honored with the “Heart of Hope” Award at Drawing Hope Int’l Masquerade Gala sourced from the internet

Here is AnnaLynne McCord with her boyfriend arriving at the Drawing Hope International Masquerade Gala on Sunday evening. The CW’s 90210’s star AnnaLynne McCord of was honored with the “Heart of Hope” award at the Drawing Hope Int’l Celebrity Masquerade Gala at The Mark in Los Angeles last night. Also honored was Laura Slade Wiggins of the Showtime hit, Shameless with the “Point of Courage” award by the global charity organization Drawing Hope Int’l, who through art, helps survivors of rape and sexual abuse connect with their own strength, see their beauty and embrace their freedom. Host/MC of the evening was Amy Paffrath, (E! News, MSN, MTV-After Hours) with live musical performances by Jasmine V, (Justin Bieber world tour), and Mary Birdsong, (The Descendants), The dinner and hors d’oeuvres were specially prepared by celebrity chef, Kai Chase, who’s VIP clientele include the Obama’s, Mary J. Blige and the late Michael Jackson. As the celebrities approached the red carpet, they were introduced to celebrity artist and Drawing Hope co-founder, David Ilan’s whose powerful project, Points with Purpose, uses a Pointillism technique, each dot representing one sexual abuse survivor; David’s goal is that as the dots come together they will represent a survivor who feels confident, proud and beautiful. Ilan says “the dots take on a greater meaning by associating them with a real person who has been sexually abused. My art encourages sexual abuse survivors to claim their inner beauty and strength.” Honoree AnnaLynne McCord, was the gracious recipient of the Drawing Hope’s prestigious “Heart of Hope” award for inspiring tremendous hope, open-heartedly sharing her passion and time, and gracefully using her notoriety to spread awareness and encourage survivors,” stated Ilan. AnnaLynne’s personal cause is the Somaly Mam Foundation, a nonprofit committed to ending sex-trafficking around the world. McCord passionately shared with the guests about her commitment to encourage sexual abuse survivors to share, with hope, not be ashamed and to celebrate their courage. McCord, looked ever the star in a breathtaking cream, Cynthia Vincent gown and made a glamorous couple with boyfriend Dominic Purcell, (Prison Break), as they walked the Red Carpet and mingled with guests. Presenter, Ariel Winter (Modern Family) graciously presented the evening’s top honor to AnnaLynne McCord who she affectionately calls her “big sister,” after they met on set of the Sundance film, Excision. She got a bit teary eyed, and shared her admiration for AnnaLynne and her tireless efforts for so many charitable causes. Ariel brought young, fresh Hollywood to the event wearing a black strapless cocktail dress with layers of ruffled organza. Fellow actress, Rakefet Abergel presented with the “Point of Courage Award” to Honoree Laura Slade Wiggins (Showtime’s Shameless), who was quite touched and spoke about how her character Karen is perceived on Shameless and how she was honored by Drawing Hope Int’l to award her for her realistic and complicated portrayal of her character. TV Host Amy Paffrath known for E! News, MSN and MTV-After Hours was master of ceremonies keeping the mood compassionate, upbeat and fun. Acknowledging that sexual abuse is a dark and heavy subject, Amy encouraged the stellar crowd to keep the night’s mood one of hope not dread. Paffrath also caused quite a stir on the red carpet proudly showing off her stunning, new engagement ring and handsome fiancée, Drew Seely, (Another Cinderella Story), the two were got engaged just 2 days ago and this was their first outing as an engaged couple, were beaming from ear to ear. Recording artist Jasmine Villegas who is just off Justin Bieber’s World Tour, headlined with a fun, hip performance while actress, Mary Birdsong, (Oscar nominated film The Descendants), enamored the crowd with both her stylish black cocktail dress and a show stopping musical number. Additional musical performances were given by Billboard awarded singer, Michelle Chappel and duo Sultadelix. Pranaadhika Sinha, was presented with the Point of Faith award for her tireless sexual abuse awareness efforts by Shantel VanSanten, (One Tree Hill), who epitomized old Hollywood glamour as she graced the red carpet and stage in a stunning floor length, sleeveless cream Rachel Roy gown and dramatic, chin length brushed gold earrings. Proving her tireless dedication to the cause of shedding light on women’s sexual abuse issues, Pranaadhika flew all the way from India to accept her award and to lend support to Drawing Hope. Kyle Massey, (DWTS, That’s So Raven) attended with brother Chris Massey, (Zoey 101) who read an inspiration poem by the iconic Maya Angelou to the supportive crowd. A bidding war developed during the live auction between Days of Our Lives star Arianne Zucker, and the ever-hilarious SNL legend Garrett Morris and co-star of the new comedy hit 2 Broke Girls. Each were vying for an in-home personal gourmet cooking lesson and prepared meal by celebrity chef, Kai Chase, who graciously offered to donate her time and skills to both bidders thus doubling financial donation to Drawing Hope. Also enjoying the evening and lending support to Drawing Hope were Reid Ewing, (Modern Family’s Dylan), Aisha Dee, (I Hate My Teenage Daughter), Laura Linda Bradley, (Step Up 2), Marabina Jaimes, (Desperate Housewives Español), model Barbara Pergament, and Jackie Christie from VH1’s Basketball Wives who also interviewed special guests on the red carpet. Michelle Easter, co-founder of Drawing Hope thanked the evenings gracious sponsors; Izea/Staree, (a world leader in social media sponsorship), Signorello Estate, (producing premium Napa Valley limited production wines), Todidoki Beauty, (Jasmine V’s the face of the make-up and beauty line) Made In Earth, (jewelers) and Photoboothless, each who helped make the night a grand success. Renowned Hollywood make-up artist Jasmine Nordanyan painted enchanting masks using a rainbow of color on any guest who wanted to join the fun. Special thanks went out to VP Carla Domen and Gavin Keilly of GBK Productions who did an amazing job producing another stellar event. The atmosphere at the Drawing Hope Int’l Masquerade Gala was both compassionate and festive. All of the wait staff bore fun, colorful face masks and the centerpieces dripped with strings of clear crystals which caught the light beautifully setting a warm, comforting mood on the entire evening. The music was varied and upbeat, the food, a true culinary delight, the award winners, humble and gracious, the host, witting and engaging. Overall, a triumph for their first Charity Gala, Drawing Hope, the guests and most of all

Katlin Mastandrea, playing Olivia who is a close friend of Charlie Sheen’s 13-year-old daughter Emma in “Anger Management,” thinks beauty and fashion is something that tells who you are. Speaking of Charlie sheen, she said he is interacting with everyone behind the scene, and he is very professional.

Tandy was born with a heart murmur, and she thinks it’s good to have programs for people who are suffering from the heart disease.

“It’s just great to come out and support causes like this,” Tandy said. When Tandy talks about her show “Jane By Design,” an ABC family show, she said her character has to wear a lot of miniskirts, but with her long legs, those skirts can barely cover her butt half the time.

Tracy Broughton, Ms. America 2011, came with a 35,000 dollars crown on her head and a glittery cane. Before the beauty pageant, she had multiple car accident that left her on a wheelchair for 11 years. She had her first car accident in 1991that her car flipped of a mountainside.

She sustained severe injuries and was airlifted to ICU. Her doctor said she could never walk again. In 1996, her second car accident left her hemiplegic, paralyzed on the left side of her body.

“That one left me no memory, no speech. I winded up at a therapy three times a day,” Broughton said.

But in 2005, Broughton stood up for the first time, and started her modeling career. She never gives up and won her crown of Ms. America in 2011.

Broughton said winning the beauty pageant is phenomenal, “who doesn’t want a crown? People ask if I sleep with it, sometimes I said.” She wants to be an example for people who want to make a difference. She thinks beauty is inside and out, and what you are when everything is gone.

“People think it’s just about the beauty, but it’s not,” Broughton said.

Photos by Tiara Chiaramonte

Closing out the week of shows Friday night at Style Fashion Week held downtown at the Vibiana Cathedral was Go Red For Women, a charity event benefiting the American Heart Association. In front an audience that included actress Meagan Tandy from the ABC Family show Jane by Design and Ms America 2011 Tracy Broughton, an assembled cast of celebrity models walked the runway in gorgeous red evening dresses. The evening was hosted by The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills cast member Taylor Armstrong who was wearing a beautiful red, shimmery gown designed by Sarahi. Co Hosting and commentaries by the world renowned celebrity Stylist George Blodwell . The celebrity ladies graciously donating their time for the evening included Gretchen Rossi from The Real Housewives of Orange County, actress Arianne Zucker from Days of Our Lives, reality star Shayne Lamas, The Real L Word cast member Romi Klinger, and designer Lauren Elaine who walked the runway in two of her own designs. In addition to a runway show, the night also included a performance by former Pussycat Doll, Kaya Jones.

My favorite dresses of the evening belonged to actress Farah Fath from One Life to Live, whose first look was a tight, form fitting red dress designed by MILA and Romi Klinger in a red and white vintage looking dress with a full, knee length skirt. I had a chance to talk to some of the women backstage before the start of the show and asked them to describe their dresses for me. Fath described hers as, “I keep calling it my Victoria Beckham dress. It has a nice silhouette, it’s very pencil-y, gives me a nice shape, it’s very classy almost a little bit 50’s.” Klinger described hers as “it’s a little Audrey Hepburn I think. I feel like a lady but I still feel a little like rock ‘n roll with the lace and the way they did the hair and everything.” All hair was done by Big Sexy Hair and nails were done by Neihule Salon. A sponsor of the event that evening, the ladies all walked the runway in shoes by Shoedazzle.

Cutest moment of the night belongs to Shayne Lamas, who closed the show in a tulle, strapless, red and white evening gown holding baby daughter Press Dahl dressed in Ralph Lauren. Despite Shayne’s best efforts, her baby daughter chose to sleep though her runway debut! Other highlights included actress Arianne Zucker walking the runway in a one shouldered Claudia Sezerer dress she described as “a 70′s off the shoulder, one long sleeve kind of ethereal” dress, also saying ”it’s really sexy in a very simple way and I feel like a superhero.” Zucker is actually a former model who used to do runway (“175 years ago” she jokingly told me). Perhaps because of her background, Zucker’s confidence and fun personality was definitely evident as she walked the runway.

The night ended on a high note with host Taylor Armstrong and singer Kaya Jones strutting the runway hand in hand as Kaya completed her performance. Even with a little high heels trouble on the way back up the runway, Armstrong was all smiles as she finished hosting a successful event for a worthy cause.

Arianne Zucker Inspired (Days of our Lives Star)

While millions watch Arianne Zucker, the Emmy-nominated actress on Days of Her Lives, she is out inspiring the world!

While millions watch the Emmy-nominated actress, Arianne Zucker on NBC’s Days of our Lives, little did we know that after she leaves her day job, she is inspiring the world through her new documented series, LifeCHANGE.

Learn all about Arianne, her day-to-day, and her dedication to making a difference in the world in this inspiring interview!

1) Arianne, millions of viewers tune into Days of Our Lives every day. What does that feel like? Also, please share with our Lifestyle + Charity readers about your past / current achievements, and future goals in the entertainment industry.
There is too much to explain in a short sentence. However, I have and always will strive to make a difference in the lives of others through the characters I portray or through the multitude of non-profit organizations that I have donated my time to or raised funds for.

2) Actress, model, volunteer, and inspiring individual. What does one day in the life of Arianne look like?
I have a grocery list everyday of things that I need to get done; mainly people I need to call to help either, with my projects or projects that I can contribute to. I feel there are never enough hours in the day. To my mother: “Yes, you were right.”

3) Arianne, please tell our readers about your new philanthropic online docu-series called ”LifeCHANGE.”
LifeCHANGE is not only a series that we are working on getting off the ground, but it is an online community where we strive to help young adults become better leaders, bring out their leadership skills and keep them informed about where the economy is. We have given them a place where they can reach out to other young adults through our profile network and have the ability to speak with our administration about how they can physically and emotionally make a difference in their own lives by joining our bootcamp. LifeCHANGE is mainly for 18-34 year olds, but really it is anyone who wants to make a change in the world. I hate to put a limit on anything.

4) What are some things people want to change about their life?
Anything! It’s all about stepping outside your comfort zone and becoming someone you never thought you could be. We live in a world of technology, and as amazing as our Droids and our iPads are, it is too easy to hide behind the mask of an email or text. It’s about communication in the verbal sense and creating bonds while doing good for others.

5) Arianne, your dedication to making a difference in the world has made you a public voice for organizations you believe in – if someone wanted to follow in your footsteps, how do you recommend they get started?
Look in your community to the service or non-profit organizations that are near and dear to your heart. Bring a friend or family member, and turn a typical day into an amazing day of helping others. You will meet other people, create new relationships, and oh, by the way, it is really fun. Step outside your comfort zone, and see what the day can bring!

6) Some of our readers are pursuing careers in the entertainment industry, can you share any advice, challenges and how to overcome them? What quotes or lessons that continue to inspire you to stay the course?
There are challenges in any industry you choose to work in. Believe in who you are, and never give up. There is enough room in the world for your ideas, even if you try and don’t succeed the first time. Things will happen, just not always in the order you expect. Stay the course. We all have amazing qualities, and it is up to us to figure out what they are.

Life has been my lesson, and I realize that a mistake is not a failure, it is a positive step towards how to do it right the next time.

Arianne Zucker Gives Back with LifeCHANGE
LifeCHANGE is about creating a network of Giving Back. To give young adults the opportunity to challenge themselves and each other to the highest possible degree. To test their inner soul and human strength by working toward changing the lives of others, all while changing their own. The test, the challenge, the obstacle is to prove to the world that they are true leaders.

While millions watch the Emmy-nominated actress, Arianne Zucker on NBC’s Days of our Lives, little did we know that after she leaves her day job, she is inspiring the world through her new documented series, LifeCHANGE.

Learn all about Arianne, her day-to-day, and her dedication to making a difference in the world in this inspiring interview!

1) Arianne, millions of viewers tune into Days of Our Lives every day. What does that feel like? Also, please share with our Lifestyle + Charity readers about your past / current achievements, and future goals in the entertainment industry.
There is too much to explain in a short sentence. However, I have and always will strive to make a difference in the lives of others through the characters I portray or through the multitude of non-profit organizations that I have donated my time to or raised funds for.

2) Actress, model, volunteer, and inspiring individual. What does one day in the life of Arianne look like?
I have a grocery list everyday of things that I need to get done; mainly people I need to call to help either, with my projects or projects that I can contribute to. I feel there are never enough hours in the day. To my mother: “Yes, you were right.”

3) Arianne, please tell our readers about your new philanthropic online docu-series called ”LifeCHANGE.”
LifeCHANGE is not only a series that we are working on getting off the ground, but it is an online community where we strive to help young adults become better leaders, bring out their leadership skills and keep them informed about where the economy is. We have given them a place where they can reach out to other young adults through our profile network and have the ability to speak with our administration about how they can physically and emotionally make a difference in their own lives by joining our bootcamp. LifeCHANGE is mainly for 18-34 year olds, but really it is anyone who wants to make a change in the world. I hate to put a limit on anything.

4) What are some things people want to change about their life?
Anything! It’s all about stepping outside your comfort zone and becoming someone you never thought you could be. We live in a world of technology, and as amazing as our Droids and our iPads are, it is too easy to hide behind the mask of an email or text. It’s about communication in the verbal sense and creating bonds while doing good for others.

5) Arianne, your dedication to making a difference in the world has made you a public voice for organizations you believe in – if someone wanted to follow in your footsteps, how do you recommend they get started?
Look in your community to the service or non-profit organizations that are near and dear to your heart. Bring a friend or family member, and turn a typical day into an amazing day of helping others. You will meet other people, create new relationships, and oh, by the way, it is really fun. Step outside your comfort zone, and see what the day can bring!

6) Some of our readers are pursuing careers in the entertainment industry, can you share any advice, challenges and how to overcome them? What quotes or lessons that continue to inspire you to stay the course?
There are challenges in any industry you choose to work in. Believe in who you are, and never give up. There is enough room in the world for your ideas, even if you try and don’t succeed the first time. Things will happen, just not always in the order you expect. Stay the course. We all have amazing qualities, and it is up to us to figure out what they are.

Life has been my lesson, and I realize that a mistake is not a failure, it is a positive step towards how to do it right the next time.

Arianne Zucker Gives Back with LifeCHANGE
LifeCHANGE is about creating a network of Giving Back. To give young adults the opportunity to challenge themselves and each other to the highest possible degree. To test their inner soul and human strength by working toward changing the lives of others, all while changing their own. The test, the challenge, the obstacle is to prove to the world that they are true leaders.

The CW’s 90210’s star AnnaLynne McCord of was honored with the “Heart of Hope” award at the Drawing Hope Int’l Celebrity Masquerade Gala at The Mark in Los Angeles last night.  Also honored was Laura Slade Wiggins of the Showtime hit, Shameless with the “Point of Courage” award by the global charity organization Drawing Hope Int’l, who through art, helps survivors of rape and sexual abuse connect with their own strength, see their beauty and embrace their freedom. Host/MC of the evening was Amy Paffrath, (E! News, MSN, MTV-After Hours) with live musical performances by Jasmine V, (Justin Bieber world tour), and Mary Birdsong, (The Descendants), The dinner and hors d’oeuvres were specially prepared by celebrity chef, Kai Chase, who’s VIP clientele include the Obama’s, Mary J. Blige and the late Michael Jackson.

As the celebrities approached the red carpet, they were introduced to celebrity artist and Drawing Hope co-founder, David Ilan’s whose powerful project, Points with Purpose, uses a Pointillism technique, each dot representing one sexual abuse survivor; David’s goal is that as the dots come together they will represent a survivor who feels confident, proud and beautiful.

Ilan says  “the dots take on a greater meaning by associating them with a real person who has been sexually abused.  My art encourages sexual abuse survivors to claim their inner beauty and strength.” (www.pointswithpurpose.org)
Honoree AnnaLynne McCord, was the gracious recipient of the Drawing Hope’s prestigious “Heart of Hope” award for inspiring tremendous hope, open-heartedly sharing her passion and time, and gracefully using her notoriety to spread awareness and encourage survivors,” stated Ilan. AnnaLynne’s personal cause is the Somaly Mam Foundation, a nonprofit committed to ending sex-trafficking around the world. McCord passionately shared with the guests about her commitment to encourage sexual abuse survivors to share, with hope, not be ashamed and to celebrate their courage.

McCord, looked ever the star in a breathtaking cream, Cynthia Vincent gown and made a glamorous couple with boyfriend Dominic Purcell, (Prison Break), as they walked the Red Carpet and mingled with guests.

Presenter, Ariel Winter (Modern Family) graciously presented the evening’s top honor to AnnaLynne McCord who she affectionately calls her “big sister,” after they met on set of the Sundance film, Excision.  She got a bit teary eyed, and shared her admiration for AnnaLynne and her tireless efforts for so many charitable causes.  Ariel brought young, fresh Hollywood to the event wearing a black strapless cocktail dress with layers of ruffled organza.

Fellow actress, Rakefet Abergel presented with the “Point of Courage Award” to Honoree Laura Slade Wiggins (Showtime’s Shameless), who was quite touched and spoke about how her character Karen is perceived on Shameless and how she was honored by Drawing Hope Int’l to award her for her realistic and complicated portrayal of her character.

TV Host Amy Paffrath known for E! News, MSN and MTV-After Hours was master of ceremonies keeping the mood compassionate, upbeat and fun. Acknowledging that sexual abuse is a dark and heavy subject, Amy encouraged the stellar crowd to keep the night’s mood one of hope not dread. Paffrath also caused quite a stir on the red carpet proudly showing off her stunning, new engagement ring and handsome fiancée, Drew Seely, (Another Cinderella Story), the two were got engaged just 2 days ago and this was their first outing as an engaged couple, were beaming from ear to ear.

Recording artist Jasmine Villegas who is just off Justin Bieber’s World Tour, headlined with a fun, hip performance while actress, Mary Birdsong, (Oscar nominated film The Descendants), enamored the crowd with both her stylish black cocktail dress and a show stopping musical number.  Additional musical performances were given by Billboard awarded singer, Michelle Chappel and duo Sultadelix.

Pranaadhika Sinha, was presented with the Point of Faith award for her tireless sexual abuse awareness efforts by Shantel VanSanten, (One Tree Hill), who epitomized old Hollywood glamour as she graced the red carpet and stage in a stunning floor length, sleeveless cream Rachel Roy gown and dramatic, chin length brushed gold earrings.  Proving her tireless dedication to the cause of shedding light on women’s sexual abuse issues, Pranaadhika flew all the way from India to accept her award and to lend support to Drawing Hope. Kyle Massey, (DWTS, That’s So Raven) attended with brother Chris Massey, (Zoey 101) who read an inspiration poem by the iconic Maya Angelou to the supportive crowd.

A bidding war developed during the live auction between Days of Our Lives star Arianne Zucker, and the ever-hilarious SNL legend Garrett Morris and co-star of the new comedy hit 2 Broke Girls. Each were vying for an in-home personal gourmet cooking lesson and prepared meal by celebrity chef, Kai Chase, who graciously offered to donate her time and skills to both bidders thus doubling financial donation to Drawing Hope.

Also enjoying the evening and lending support to Drawing Hope were Reid Ewing, (Modern Family’s Dylan), Aisha Dee, (I Hate My Teenage Daughter), Laura Linda Bradley, (Step Up 2), Marabina Jaimes, (Desperate Housewives Español), model Barbara Pergament, and Jackie Christie from VH1’s Basketball Wives who also interviewed special guests on the red carpet. Michelle Easter, co-founder of Drawing Hope thanked the evenings gracious sponsors; Izea/Staree, (a world leader in social media sponsorship), Signorello Estate, (producing premium Napa Valley limited production wines), Todidoki Beauty, (Jasmine V’s the face of the make-up and beauty line) Made In Earth, (jewelers) and Photoboothless, each who helped make the night a grand success. Renowned Hollywood make-up artist Jasmine Nordanyan painted enchanting masks using a rainbow of color on any guest who wanted to join the fun. Special thanks went out to VP Carla Domen and Gavin Keilly of GBK Productions who did an amazing job producing another stellar event.
The atmosphere at the Drawing Hope Int’l Masquerade Gala was both compassionate and festive. All of the wait staff bore fun, colorful face masks and the centerpieces dripped with strings of clear crystals which caught the light beautifully setting a warm, comforting mood on the entire evening.  The music was varied and upbeat, the food, a true culinary delight, the award winners, humble and gracious, the host, witting and engaging.  Overall, a triumph for their first Charity Gala, Drawing Hope, the guests and most of all

Happy March Everyone,

It’s been a roller coaster balancing my day job, my other day job and my family. However, we always find a way to make it happen. Being a team is the most important thing in my home. It is the only way we function.

You know how kids just function better when they have a schedule and a planned week? Otherwise, they have a tendency to get in trouble? Well, there are some similarities to that regarding how life functions with me. We have such a great schedule that everyone seems to be happy. I don’t feel guilty that I’m gone from my family because when I am home, I mentally am home with them. When I am at work, I am working. It is great discipline to “keep order” if you will.

I bring this up because I am often asked the question of “How do you balance it all”? I know I have said this in many interviews, but my life is like a grocery list. Silly, I know, but I plan my week out on Sunday, if I can, or the day before. Number one, I don’t forget things and number two, I can just cross it off my list. I not only feel like I have tackled the day, but that I can have my time with my family without feeling like I need to do something.

Now of course, we are only human. Sometimes life gets in the way. I will have to say, a daily schedule helps when you are thrown for a loop. Taking control of your life as much as you possibly can gives you confidence and makes you feel empowered. There is no exact order or “bible” as to how to do it. You just have to do. You can start by going to the grocery store the same time every week. We make it a family thing. Write our list and go together. It teaches my daughter responsibility and we all have fun together. It suddenly isn’t a chore anymore. It’s family time!

As a special treat, I have a video of Izzy at the grocery store. I am a proud momma!

Take care and good luck on balancing your life.

-Ari