AHA Takes Young D.C.’s PULSE At Annual ‘Paint The Town Red’ Event!

NORTHWEST -- A wave or ruby red color ran through the historic walls of Meridian House on Thursday evening, as the young professionals committee, PULSE, of the American Heart Association held its signature fall fundraiser.

Cleverly titled ‘Paint The Town Red’, the crowded benefit saw hundreds of D.C.’s rising power brokers turn out in various shades of red, crimson, burgundy, and black (because it goes with everything) for a night of music, passed hors d’oeuvres, cocktails, and conversation for a cause.

This year’s gala featured ABC 7 correspondent Jennifer Donelan as its guest of honor, who herself believes wholeheartedly in the mission of the AHA, having personally suffered from a heart attack at the young age of 36.

Between the occasional heart-healthy bite (baked popchips!, chicken sandwiches, etc.) and sip (glasses of vino courtesy of Barefoot Wine & Bubbly), supporters last night were encouraged to “open their heart” by bidding on a series of silent auction items, that featured everything from a Washington Capitals skybox to autographed sports memorabilia from DeAngelo Hall and Chris Cooley to gourmet dinners about town.

The Paint The Town Red Host Committee for 2011 was chaired by Perennial Strategy Group’s Stephanie Baucus, daughter-in-law of Senate Finance Committee Chairman Max Baucus (D-Mont), who also turned-out yesterday evening to show his support.

Charged with the mission of promoting “heart health through various group activities focused on fitness and nutrition”, PULSE builds awareness and support for the AHA’s childhood obesity initiative, “Recess!”, by hosting a series of social events throughout the year.

And that deserves the District’s most heartfelt appreciation…