Organizers of the annual River Rocks event looked to Truman Capote for inspiration for this year's event.
The theme for this year's fundraiser for the Aspinwall Riverfront Park — to take place at 7 p.m. May 23 at the Fox Chapel Golf Club — will be “It's Black and White.”
Money from this year's party will go toward creating river access at the park.
Sarah Tuthill, one of four chairwomen for the event, said the fourth annual event was inspired by Capote's black-and-white ball in 1966 to honor Washington Post publisher Katharine Graham.
“We're taking our cue from Truman Capote's infamous Party of the Century,” Tuthill said.
The night will feature a Frank Sinatra impersonator, disc jockey, dancing and raffles, including one for a $2,500 gift certificate from Henne Jewelers.
“We're hoping people wear masks, but we'll have an elaborate face painter there,” Tuthill said.
Guest will be able to purchase trees, flowers and shrubs for the park, Tuthill said.
Tickets for the event are popular even before they go on sale, said Maya Tutle, a volunteer with the park who is helping to organize the event for the first time.
“The energy from the community about the party is so exciting,” Tutle said.
Chairwoman Amanda Carvelli said that enthusiasm drives the committee that organizes the fundraiser.
“That fuels our fire,” Carvelli said.
Chairwoman Erin Leland said working to raise money for the park and to create river access is a special cause for her. She envisions her daughters and families in the area using the facility when it is complete.
“It's a very special park,” Leland said. “It's a real privilege and an honor to be a part of this.”
Tickets for the event cost $100. They are available online at www.aspinwallriverfrontpark.org.
Tom McGee is an associate editor for Trib Total Media. He can be reached at 412-856-7400, ext. 1513, or tmcgee@tribweb.com.
