THE SOCIAL-PATH Summer was sizzling last weekend at Zach Scott‘s big benefit, Red Hot & Soul. Held on the glorious grounds of Laguna Gloria, the event featured both live and silent auctions and fabulous performances by the Eggmen and Rotel & the Hot Tomatoes. Guests included the always-glamorous Bettie Naylor (still in recovery after a particularly grueling legislative session), Zach Scott’s Artistic Director Dave Steakley and Managing Director Ann Ciccolella; Austin Woman Publisher Melinda Maine and co-owner Samantha Ostertag; Tribeza‘s Phil Hudson, and others too fabulous to mention … Then it was on to AIDS Services of Austin‘s major benefit, VIVA! Las Vegas for a high-spirited night of charity and carousing. Hosted by Mega 93‘s beautiful Miss Kitty (beautifully dressed by Giada) and KGSR‘s prodigal son Kevin Phinney (beautifully dressed by Straight Edge), the Austin Music Hall was packed, and a performance by Mr. Fabulous totally lived up to his name. The suave and handsome Mr. Fabulous (aka Dino Lee) is probably Austin’s best bandleader, and with his band Casino Royale, rendered silky performances of classic standards. Book him at 762-8262 or through his Web site
www.mrfabulousltd.com. Also performing was Austin’s own Carol Channing, and the event raised approximately $95,000 said an elated Rita Garza, as she dazzled in her black gown from Giada. Among those who made the night happen were glamorous socialites such as Rodney Ahart and Stan Young; Steven Aichlmayr and Rey Ocanas; Zach Garrison; TKO‘s James Walker; Club DeVille‘s Emily Fawcett; Vën Shoe Salon‘s Gustavo LaGrave and James Rowley; Austin Monthly‘s Lance Morgan; film producer Phillip Kincaid; Bryan Ockert; major ASA sponsor David York of Barking Hound Village; Dr. John Hogg; and photographer Brad Vassberg.
This article appears in June 27 • 2003.