The Rainbow Gala traded in its colors Saturday for a black- and-white theme, a subdued reflection of our times. But in the magic hands of Bonnie Walker, the effect was ultra-elegant. Alternating panels of black and back-lit white drapes covered the walls and ceilings, while black and white linens and chairs circled a white dance floor. The red and yellow roses from Hepatica brought the sun into the Pittsburgh Hilton ballroom, which 650 guests packed in support of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. By evening's end more than $910,000 was in the pot of green.

A generous chunk of that came from Barbara and David Burstin, who was honored for his support of JDRF and led the Fund A Cure portion of the night. Mr. Burstin introduced his 8-year-old grandson, Jacob Lichtenstein, who described living with diabetes in straightforward and moving terms. An extensive live auction got guests in the giving mode first (including $9,000 for a doghouse that came with an irresistible goldendoodle puppy).