War of the Roses

#RoseColoredGlasses: Thewaterfront by the Rivers Casino on the North Shore was literally blushing with guests wearing varying shades of pink while sipping multiple varieties of rose wines and cocktails during the Riverlife’s annual Party at the Pier benefit Friday night. “I have never seen this casino look so beautiful,” remarked a delighted Vivien Li, Riverlife CEO, as she viewed the amphitheater area dotted with pink tables and rosé wine stations all accentuated by the golden glow of the setting sun. This year’s theme was “War of the Roses,” presented by PNC. Everyone received a ballot to vote on their favorite bottle of rosé. The event has become a popular summer staple with 100 percent of the proceeds going to support the reinvention and restoration of Pittsburgh’s riverfronts. “This is by far our biggest and most successful fundraiser ever,” exclaimed Stephan Bontrager, director of communications. A VIP reception kicked things off followed by two Gateway Clipper cruises. The Rose Queen with her Duke and Duchess made a grand entry adding a whimsical element to the gathering. Providing a live soundtrack to an ongoing dinner buffet was the River City Brass Band. Later in the evening the DJ took over and really got the party started.

#Grapeful: Among the 905 guests at the sold-out event sampling, sipping and socializing were event chairs Lynn and Chip Desmone, board chair Peg McCormick Barron, Gateway Clipper owners Pam and Terry Wirginis with their daughter Hannah Roth and her husband Brad, Katie and Tom Lamb, Herky and Lisa Pollock, Pittsburgh City Councilman Dan Gilman with Amanda, Judy Horgan with Steve Pavsner, Ellen Mazo, Peter and Jennifer Dailey, Caryn Rubinoff and Craig Dunham, Dale Dorlin, Lucas and Renee Piatt, Allegheny County Executive Rich Fitzgerald with Cathy, Fred Egler and Kathy Buechel, Bill and Vivian Benter, Justin Matase with Dr. Elie Aoun, Barbara Logue and Betty McGillen. —