In wake of the September 11th tragedy, the American people have united to support one another and raise money for the families affected by terrorism. Always willing to help, the daytime community has shown why they are the best in the biz by organizing numerous fundraisers and benefits to support those in need. Wednesday night, October 9th was no exception as "Days of our Lives'" Peter Reckell (Bo) and his wife, Kelly Moneymaker, organized a star-studded benefit in which stars from both daytime and primetime came to recognize heroes and raise money.
Held in Hollywood, CA, the "Acoustic Americans Unplugged Tribute and Benefit" raised thousands of dollars for the America Red Cross 9.11 Disaster Relief Fund. Although the mood was somber, the stars were anything but. Masters of Ceremonies Bob Saget ("Full House") and Rob Schneider ("Saturday Night Live," "The Animal") entertained the crowd of about 150 while some of daytime's finest performed songs, danced, and read touching tributes. Days' Patrika Darbo (Nancy) and Kevin Spirtas (Craig) were a popular duo as Lady Liberty and Uncle Sam. The Young and the Restless' Lyndsy Fonseca (Colleen) performed a spirited dance routine to Fleetwood Mac's "Don't Stop (Thinking about Tomorrow)." General Hospital's Nancy Lee Grahn (Alexis), Stephen Nichols (Stefan) and Port Charles' Lynn Herring (Lucy) reminded everyone why they are so lucky to be Americans. Young and the Restless star, and United Airlines flight attendant, Kate Linder, spoke elegantly about the co-workers who perished on United Airlines Flight 93 and why it is essential for the American public to keep flying. Peter Reckell and Steve Blackwood (Bart, DAYS) also lent their extraordinary singing talents to cap off the event. Y&R upstart, Lauren Woodland (Brittany), cheered on her fellow soap celebrities, and Lisa Fox from LA's top radio station, "Star 98," likewise stopped by to show her support.
Throughout the night, numerous items were auctioned off to raise additional money for the Red Cross. Set tours, autographed guitars, and vacation getaways were all part of the plan to lure big spenders. Days of our Lives stars Kristian Alfonso (Hope), Kyle Lowder (Brady), Drake Hogestyn (John), Peter Reckell (Bo), Austin Peck (Austin), Arianne Zuker (Nicole) and Passions McKenzie Westmore (Sheridan) helped display the items up for bid. Zuker enjoyed her job the most when she helped take Kyle's shirt off as another item up for auction! Chloe, watch out . . . might there be some competition for Brady!
All in all, the evening was a tremendous success and an even greater affirmation of why we are called the United States of America.