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Councilman Dennis Zine, the West Valley Republican, typically dresses in drag to do his bit for a laugh at the annual political roast thrown by City Hall lobbyist Arnie Berghoff. On Thursday night, Zine was the politico in the hot seat. "If anyone can fill Wendy's high heels," Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa said, meaning Controller Wendy Greuel, "it's Dennis." More from Tony Castro of the Daily News:
More than 900 politicians, businesspeople, lobbyists and police officers packed a ballroom at the Beverly Hilton Hotel for the 14th annual political roast, which is expected to bring in more than $500,000 for the American Diabetes Association.Los Angeles political and civic leaders poked fun at Zine's controversial relationship with lobbyist Veronica Becerra, his penchant for motorcycle-riding, his ordinances aimed at paparazzo and his past appearances at the roast as his blond alter-ego, Denise.
"You're actually the coolest guy in the City Council," Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa told Zine. "You've worn a badge as an officer and public servant and so doing you've seen over the city's most treasured and valuable asset - our celebrities.
"You and Britney Spears have more in common than blond hair, lipstick and hotpants!"
The roast began in honor of Berghof's daughter Laura, who is now 25 and works for ESPN in New York, the DN story says.
Previously on LA Observed:
Donuts at a diabetes roast? *
Roasted Villaraigosa